U.S. diesel prices hit record high

The average price of diesel in the United States climbed to over $6 per gallon on Friday for the first time in history, according to data from the American Automobile Association, or AAA. Diesel fuel powers freight trucks, trains, agricultural equipment, and construction machinery, so higher supply chain costs will worm their way into the price of groceries, household goods, and deliveries, noted GasBuddy in a statement about the milestone. Diesel costs were up around $2.30 from a year ago, GasBuddy added.

What’s behind the price hike? Diesel prices have risen as the wars in Ukraine and Iran have disrupted global oil supplies. Russia’s oil exports have hit record lows, and Russia blocked exports of diesel through the end of September. In the Middle East, Iran has repeatedly blocked shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, a vital trade conduit, in response to attacks by the United States and Israel. About 20% of the world’s oil supply flowed through the strait in 2025, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration.

Crude oil, the main ingredient in refined fuel like diesel, surpassed $100 per barrel earlier this week, although it has since fallen back below triple digits.

Meanwhile, how much is gasoline nationwide? The national average price of gas was $4.30, up 15 cents since last week, according to AAA. California recorded the highest gas prices, at $5.93 a gallon. Indiana had the lowest price at $3.58.