OHIO — Rising global oil prices are expected to drive gasoline costs higher across the United States, with impacts already being felt in Ohio.
Oil prices jumped Sunday after President Donald Trump announced a potential blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, a key global oil shipping route. The move has raised concerns about supply disruptions and sent crude prices sharply higher.
Brent crude climbed 8% to about $102 per barrel, while U.S. crude rose 8% to $104. Financial markets also reacted, with major stock futures falling amid fears of prolonged instability.
“We’re not going to let Iran make money on selling oil to people that they like and not people that they don’t like, or whatever it is. It’s going to be all or none,” Trump said on Fox News’ “Sunday Morning Futures.”
Analysts say higher oil prices typically lead to increased gasoline prices, as crude costs are the main driver behind what consumers pay at the pump. Recent geopolitical tensions and stalled ceasefire efforts have pushed oil prices above early April levels, signaling more increases could be ahead.
According to AAA data, the national average for gas stands at about $4.12 per gallon, reflecting already elevated prices nationwide. In Ohio, drivers are currently paying an average of $3.869 per gallon for regular gasoline, as of April 12, 2026.
That marks a noticeable increase compared to recent weeks. Just one month ago, Ohio’s average was around $3.433 per gallon, showing a sharp upward trend as global oil prices have climbed.
Metro areas across the state are seeing similar patterns. Prices in cities like Akron and Columbus are hovering near or just below $3.90 per gallon, while some areas are already approaching or exceeding that mark.
Nationwide, gas prices have already surpassed $4 per gallon for much of April, and experts warn they could remain high for months as tensions in the Middle East continue to disrupt oil supplies.
For Ohio drivers, the latest surge in oil prices could translate into even higher costs in the coming days, adding pressure to household budgets as the summer travel season approaches.
