Millions of Labor Day travelers facing higher gas prices and airfare

Millions of Americans are facing higher gas prices this Labor Day weekend, with the average price of regular gas reaching $4.14 per gallon, nearly a dollar higher than last year and well above the previous record of $3.82 from 2012. The price hike is attributed to disruptions caused by the Iran War, which began in February, and resulting shortages in crude oil traffic through the key Strait of Hormuz. This has led to increased transportation costs being passed on to consumers, affecting not just gas prices but also package delivery services and grocery bills. Diesel prices have reached an all-time high of $5.90 per gallon. The higher gasoline prices are also impacting President Donald Trump's economic approval ratings, as the inflation and affordability concerns continue to affect the country. Despite the increases, gas prices are not yet nearing the all-time highs set in 2022 amid the worst inflation wave in generations. Energy Secretary Chris Wright has acknowledged that prices are higher now than Labor Day 2025 but offered few specifics on when drivers might see relief at the pump.