Long Island gas prices spike as Iran conflict over Straight of Hormuz reignites
Regular unleaded gas prices a month ago at an OK Petroleum Station in Centereach were under $4 a gallon. Credit: Newsday/Thomas A. Ferrara
Long Islanders planning to hit the road or take the boat out this week may do a double take at the pump: AAA Northeast said gas prices across the country are once again climbing after weeks of decline.
An AAA Northeast survey on Monday found that the average price of gas per gallon on Long Island, $3.92, is up three cents from one week ago, following the war resuming between the United States and Iran, and despite a decrease in demand.
"Oil prices — and gas prices in turn — remain reactive to developments in the war with Iran, and markets are responding to escalating strikes and increased uncertainty regarding the Strait of Hormuz," AAA Northeast spokesperson Robert Sinclair said in a statement.
As of Monday, New York City averages at $4.02 per gallon, which is up five cents in the last week. Connecticut is up also five cents from last week to $3.94 per gallon.
The survey found New Jersey saw the largest local increase, with average gas prices rising nine cents to $3.93 per gallon.
Indiana and Texas have the lowest prices in the nation at $3.23 and $3.42, respectively, while Hawaii and California hold the highest prices at $5.44 and $5.38, respectively.
Gas prices skyrocketed across the U.S. following the war in Iran in February, eventually surging past $4 per gallon for the first time since 2022.
The national average at the start of the war was $2.98 per gallon, AAA Northeast said.
On Long Island and in the metropolitan area, Newsday reported prices climbed 47% compared to a year ago.
From drivers, to boaters, to food trucks, the spikes have been felt by consumers across Long Island.
Following President Donald Trump's announcement of an indefinite ceasefire, the average U.S. price for a gallon of gas fell below $4 in June, providing a bit of relief to consumers.
AAA Northeast also said the price hikes come despite a drop in gasoline demand, which decreased in the lead up to Independence Day weekend from 9.13 million barrels a day to 8.84 million, according to the latest figures from the Energy Information Administration.
That demand is 314,000 barrels a day lower than the same week last year, AAA Northeast said.
