The New York Times reported that recent gasoline price surges are hitting lower-income Americans the hardest. Research shows a “K-shaped” consumption divide: higher-income households are barely affected, while lower-income families face significantly higher transportation and living costs.

According to NPR, US gasoline prices have risen more than 30 cents per gallon in the past week, and are expected to continue climbing as the Strait of Hormuz remains closed amid the Iran conflict.

Reasons for the Price Surge

The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world most critical oil transit routes. Since the Iran conflict began, shipping security in the waterway has been severely threatened. Multiple commercial vessels in the area have reported attacks, disrupting international crude oil supply chains.

Fox News reported that the national average gas price has reached a new high. Fuel prices have been on a general upward trend since early March when the Iran conflict began.

Regional Differences

The price increase is not uniform across the country. USA TODAY reported that Californians have been paying nearly 6 dollars per gallon, well above the national average. Meanwhile, more than 20 states have seen some decline in gasoline and diesel prices.

Impact on Consumers

The surge in gas prices directly increases travel costs for American households and freight transportation expenses. Analysts expect that if tensions in the Strait of Hormuz persist, energy costs will further push up overall inflation levels.

In multiple regions, drivers have begun looking for ways to save on fuel costs, including reducing unnecessary travel and choosing more economical driving routes.

Sources: NPR, Fox News, USA TODAY