Why Are Gas Prices Going Up? (Daily Price Drivers & Trends)
Retail gas prices fluctuate daily based on crude oil benchmarks, refinery output, global supply corridors, and state taxes. Here is today's breakdown of the key market drivers moving pump prices across the United States.
Last updated with U.S. EIA & AAA benchmarks: September 22, 2026
U.S. Regular Gasoline Today
$4.47
Source: AAA, 2026-09-22
EIA Weekly Retail Series
$4.48
Source: EIA, week of 2026-09-21
+15.9¢ WoW
Crude Oil Share of Gallon
51.4%
Source: U.S. EIA 2025 Average
U.S. Regular Gasoline Trend (Last 52 Weeks)
52-week range: Low $2.78 · High $4.50. Source: EIA, week of 2026-09-21.
What Makes Up the Price of a Gallon of Gas?
According to official U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) price component breakdowns, four main costs determine what you pay at the pump:
51.4%
Crude Oil
Global spot prices (Brent & WTI) dictated by OPEC+ production quotas and global demand.
20.1%
Refining Costs
Refinery processing, crack spreads, seasonal summer/winter blend shifts, and maintenance turnarounds.
14.8%
Distribution & Retail
Pipeline freight, tanker transport, station overhead, credit card processing fees, and local margin.
13.7%
Taxes
Federal excise tax (18.4¢/gal) plus state excise taxes ranging from 9¢/gal to over 68¢/gal (e.g. California & Pennsylvania).