Gas prices are displayed at a Chevron gas station in Los Angeles, California, on March 31, 2026, as US gasoline prices reach their highest level since 2022, following a roughly 30 percent increase in recent weeks. Inflation expectations among US consumers surged in March to levels last seen around seven months ago, following rocketing energy prices due to war in the Middle East, survey data showed March 31. The report is being monitored for how American households respond to price pressures as gasoline costs jump after US-Israeli strikes on Iran plunged the region into war. California is home to the nation's highest gas prices, costing some $1.80-$1.90 higher than the US average which just crossed $4.00 per gallon. (Photo by Frederic J. BROWN / AFP via Getty Images)