Midwest Gas Prices Climb for Second Straight Week, Nearing $2.70 per Gallon
Gasoline prices across the Midwest continued their upward trend this week, marking the second consecutive weekly increase and pushing the average cost for a gallon of regular unleaded to $2.69 on Monday. The latest data from the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) shows a four-cent jump from the previous week's average of $2.65.
The recent climb adds to a broader monthly increase of approximately nine cents. While current prices remain significantly lower than the $2.95 per gallon average recorded a year ago—a roughly 9% decrease—the recent weekly gains have begun to draw attention from consumers and analysts alike. Over the past year, Midwest prices have fluctuated between a low of $2.58 in early January 2026 and a peak of $3.10 in April 2025.
"This is a classic seasonal pattern meeting underlying market tensions," said energy market analyst, Dr. Anya Sharma. "Refinery maintenance schedules and the gradual switch to summer-blend fuels often apply upward pressure in the spring. However, we're also watching crude oil inventory levels and geopolitical factors that could amplify the usual trend."
Despite the increase, Midwest drivers are still paying less than the national average. The U.S. average price last week was $2.85 per gallon, making fuel in the Midwest region about 5.6% cheaper. The national average itself saw an increase from $2.81 the prior week.
The EIA's Midwest region comprises fifteen states: Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Tennessee, and Wisconsin. Price variations within these states can be significant.
>> TRACK LOCAL TRENDS: Explore how gas prices in your community have shifted over time with our interactive tool at data.news-leader.com.
Reader Reactions
Michael R., a rideshare driver from Indianapolis: "Every penny counts when you're on the road all day. This steady creep is worrying. It eats directly into my daily earnings, and if it keeps going, I'll have to seriously reconsider some of my longer trips."
Linda Chen, a small business owner in Des Moines: "For our delivery fleet, fuel is a major line item. A few cents here and there adds up fast across multiple vehicles. We budget for fluctuations, but prolonged increases could force us to adjust delivery fees, which nobody wants."
David P., a commuter from suburban Detroit: "It's pure greed. Oil companies post record profits every quarter, and we're just supposed to accept these constant hikes? The administration talks about energy costs but nothing changes. At this rate, my drive to work is becoming a luxury I can't afford."
Sarah Johnson, a budget-conscious parent in Kansas City: "I'm grateful prices are lower than last year, honestly. It gives us a little breathing room for groceries and other essentials. I just hope this weekly increase is a blip and not the start of another expensive summer."
This story is based on data from the U.S. Energy Information Administration and is part of a nationwide reporting initiative by USA TODAY Co. For feedback or corrections, please contact us here.