Gas Prices Hit Record High for August Amid Ongoing Conflict and Crude Oil Volatility

The national average price for regular gasoline has surpassed $4.10 per gallon as of August 21, setting a record high for this date and potentially making August 2026 the most expensive month on record.

This increase marks a 3-cent rise from the previous week and exceeds the previous August record of $3.97 set in 2022, according to AAA data cited by WRNJ Radio.

The surge is attributed to higher crude oil prices, which have remained elevated despite declining gasoline demand typical for this time of year.

West Texas Intermediate crude oil rose to $85.83 per barrel on August 21, and Brent crude has been about 30% higher than a year ago, according to The Guardian.