April 13, 2026 — U.S. Gas Prices Hold at $4.13 National Average as Ceasefire Uncertainty Persists.
Pump Prices Stabilizing But Risk Remains
The U.S. national average for regular gasoline stands at $4.125 per gallon as of April 13, 2026, according to AAA — holding steady as the ceasefire between the U.S. and Iran enters its second week. The price represents the highest sustained national average since June 2022, driven by crude oil prices that remain elevated above $95 per barrel despite the temporary truce.
The ceasefire has provided modest relief at the pump compared to the peak of $4.16 reached on April 8. However, the failed Islamabad talks and Trump's naval blockade announcement threaten to reverse these gains. If crude oil surges past $110 when markets open Monday, gas prices could climb toward $4.50-4.75 within two to three weeks as higher crude costs flow through refining margins to retail stations.
State-by-State Picture
California remains the most expensive state at $5.89 per gallon, followed by Washington ($5.39), Hawaii ($5.64), and Nevada ($4.98). The cheapest gas is found in Oklahoma at $3.44, followed by Kansas ($3.49), Arkansas ($3.64), and Missouri ($3.67). Texas, home to the nation's largest refining complex along the Gulf Coast, sits at $3.81.
Regional disparities reflect both tax differences and proximity to refining capacity. Gulf Coast states benefit from direct access to refineries, while West Coast states face higher costs due to stricter fuel blend requirements, longer supply chains, and higher state taxes.
Outlook
The direction of gas prices over the next two weeks depends almost entirely on the fate of the ceasefire. If it holds and is extended, analysts project prices could ease toward $3.80-3.90 by early May. If it collapses and crude surges, $5.00+ gasoline becomes a realistic possibility for the national average — a level not seen since the post-pandemic price spike of 2022.