Maine Gas Prices Up 46 Cents in a Month, 22 Cents in a Week

Drivers across Maine are seeing a sharp jump in gas prices, with costs climbing significantly over the past week.

According to GasBuddy, the average price of a gallon of gas in Maine has increased by 22 cents in just one week, bringing the statewide average to $4.41 per gallon. That’s about 46 cents higher than a month ago and a full $1.42 more than this time last year.

The trend isn’t limited to Maine. Nationally, gas prices rose even faster, jumping 38 cents per gallon over the past week to an average of $4.42. Diesel prices are also on the rise, up more than 21 cents and now averaging $5.62 per gallon across the country.

Within Maine, prices vary widely depending on location. As of Sunday, the cheapest gas in the state was listed at $4.09 per gallon, while the highest reached $4.75.

GasBuddy analyst Patrick DeHaan says global tensions are a major factor behind the spike. He points to rising oil prices tied to concerns over a potential disruption in the Strait of Hormuz, a key shipping route for the world’s oil supply.

DeHaan says the possibility of an extended blockade has pushed oil prices back above $100 per barrel, which is quickly translating to higher prices at the pump.

Seasonal changes are also playing a role. The switch to summer gasoline blends, which are more expensive to produce, typically drives prices higher this time of year.

As a result, Americans are now spending roughly $520 million more on gasoline each day compared to early March, according to GasBuddy.