Phoenix Gas Prices Rose 8 Cents This Week

Local drivers are paying $4.69 per gallon as crude oil market volatility continues to push fuel costs higher.

Updated on Sept. 18, 2026 in Inflation

Bold flat-color editorial illustration in deep red and cream, depicting a stylized fuel nozzle as a metaphor for rising energy costs. — Gasoline prices in Phoenix rose to an average of $4.69 per gallon this week, marking a $1.17 increase from last year due to crude oil market volatility. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

Live Poll

Are rising gas prices making it harder to manage your household budget?

Gas prices in Phoenix climbed 8 cents this week to reach an average of $4.69 per gallon. This figure marks a significant jump of $1.17 compared to the same time last year.

Why it matters

Rising costs at the pump are being driven by increased volatility in the global crude oil market. This instability, linked to tensions in the Strait of Hormuz, has kept oil prices averaging $100 per barrel.

Local gas prices now sit at $4.69 per gallon, reflecting an 8-cent increase over the past week. This current local cost is $1.17 higher than the price observed one year ago.

The players

AAA

This federation of motor clubs provides services and safety information to motorists across North America.

The details

The price increase, observed at stations in Phoenix and Peoria, mirrors upward pressure in global energy markets. Experts point to ongoing instability in the Strait of Hormuz as the primary factor keeping crude oil costs at an average of $100 per barrel.

May 21: The national average gas price reached a record high of $4.56.
September 17: AAA released a statement regarding the state of crude oil markets.
September 18: Phoenix gas prices were observed at $4.69 per gallon.

Macro View

Current Phoenix prices at $4.69 per gallon now exceed the national record high of $4.56 previously established on May 21. This trajectory reflects a period of heightened energy costs that mirrors historical volatility cycles in global oil markets.

The 8-cent weekly increase adds further pressure to household budgets already strained by fuel costs that are $1.17 higher than last year. Residents may need to adjust their monthly transportation spending to account for these rising prices at the pump.

The takeaway

Drivers should monitor local fuel trends closely as global crude oil instability continues to influence regional prices. Practicing fuel-efficient driving habits can help mitigate the impact of these elevated costs on your personal budget.