ECONOMY

U.S. Regional Gas Prices Rise Amid Seasonal Trends

PUBLISHED Feb 16, 2026, 6:36 AM ET

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Sources: 9

Center 100%

Sources: 9

United States. Regional gasoline prices moved modestly this week as national averages edged higher, according to GasBuddy and AAA surveys. Michigan averages rose to $2.98 per gallon after a 15-cent weekly increase, while Indiana averaged $2.80 and Ohio's Toledo area held at $2.74. South Carolina's state average fell to $2.55, and Wyoming counties reported mixed increases with the lowest statewide prices. The national average climbed roughly 2.6 cents to $2.84 to $2.87 per gallon, and diesel rose by one cent. Analysts cited refinery maintenance and the switch to summer blends as drivers. Based on 6 articles reviewed and supporting research.

By Neha R. | JQJO News

Timeline of Events

GasBuddy and AAA compile weekly fuel-price surveys and publish national and regional averages.
This week, national averages rose about 2.6 cents; diesel rose about one cent.
Michigan reported a 15-cent weekly increase, reaching roughly $2.98 per gallon before settling.
South Carolina’s state average fell by 3 cents to $2.55 while local county averages varied.
Several Wyoming counties and Indiana recorded modest week-over-week increases as analysts flagged refinery maintenance and summer-blend transitions.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 9
Right Leaning:: 0
Left Leaning:: 0
Neutral:: 9

Who Benefited

Refineries, fuel distributors, and oil exporters saw potential short-term benefit from modest wholesale and pump price increases driven by refinery maintenance schedules and seasonal summer-blend transitions.

Who Impacted

Drivers and consumers in affected counties experienced slightly higher retail gasoline costs, increasing routine transportation expenses for households and some local businesses.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 9
Right Leaning:: 0
Left Leaning:: 0
Neutral:: 9
Distribution:: Left 0%, Center 100%, Right 0%

Who Benefited

Who Impacted

Drivers and consumers in affected counties experienced slightly higher retail gasoline costs, increasing routine transportation expenses for households and some local businesses.