Minnesota gas prices rise; still lower than national average

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(The Center Square) – Minnesota’s gas prices rose slightly over the past week, as the state ranks one of the cheapest nationally.

The current statewide average for regular unleaded sits at $3.71 per gallon, up from $3.69 last week. Prices have edged down from $3.72 yesterday.

Though lower than many states, and the national average of $4.11, Minnesota drivers are still paying nearly 60 cents more per gallon compared to this time last year, when the average was $3.46.

Mid-grade fuel is averaging $4.14 per gallon, while premium stands at $4.63. Diesel, which has seen some of the sharpest increases in recent months, is currently averaging $5.10 per gallon—a 47% increase from the diesel average of $3.49 a year ago.

Prices vary across Minnesota. The highest county average is Dodge at $3.90, while the lowest is Crow Wing at $3.42.

This is all according to AAA.

Global tensions are affecting what every driver is paying at the pump. Operation Epic Fury, launched in Iran in late February, has contributed to volatility in global oil markets and raised concerns about supply disruptions.

Nationally, the average price for regular unleaded is now $4.11 per gallon, recently reaching its highest level since August 2022. That is well above Minnesota’s current average.

Analysts say that while Minnesota has seen slight price stability in recent days, broader geopolitical uncertainty could reverse that trend.

“This discount at the pump comes after price drops in both crude oil and gasoline futures last week,” said AAA spokesperson Mark Jenkins. “It’s unclear how long this downward trend can last. Continued uncertainty surrounding the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz is already pushing oil prices higher, which could put upward pressure on gas prices again.”

Uncertainty escalated further as an American blockade on Iranian ports took effect Monday following unsuccessful peace talks. That has added to concerns about the potential impacts on the nation’s gas supplies.

“Motorists should prepare for another round of price increases,” said Patrick De Haan, head of petroleum analysis at GasBuddy. “The move toward a full blockade of the Strait of Hormuz is compounding global supply concerns and risks further disrupting flows.”