Gas prices top $4 nationally and in Philadelphia for first time since 2022

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- The national average price for a gallon of gas has climbed above $4 for the first time in nearly four years, with Philadelphia also crossing that threshold, according to AAA.

AAA reports the national average now stands at $4.01 per gallon.

In the Philadelphia metro area, prices are above $4 as well.

Prices in New Jersey and Delaware remain below $4, but continue to rise.

Overnight, gas prices in the Philadelphia area increased by 6 cents. This marks the first time both local and national gas prices have topped $4 since 2022.

AAA says prices are up more than $1 per gallon since late February, when the war with Iran began. As a result, drivers are paying about $12 to $16 more to fill up an average tank.

As for the latest figures, gas prices are listed at $4.02 in the Philadelphia five-county metro area, $3.95 in New Jersey and $3.86 in Delaware.

Drivers who spoke to Action News were frustrated by this ongoing pain at the pump.

"It hurts to see gas prices have gone this high and just everything that's going on," said Terrence Landham of Overbrook. "I never thought I'd be expressing this in my lifetime."

"I am shocked but not surprised," said Bill Rosenbaum of Bala Cynwyd. "We have someone in the White House who doesn't care about the American people."

AAA warns that relief may not be coming anytime soon, noting that prices could continue to climb in the weeks ahead depending on how long the conflict lasts.

"Unfortunately, we can't predict how high things are going to go and how long they're going to stay this high, " said Jana Tidwell with AAA Mid-Atlantic. "If crude oil settles and starts to retreat, gas prices will slowly follow suit."

Drivers looking to cut costs are encouraged to keep up with regular vehicle maintenance, ensure tires are properly inflated and slow down to improve fuel efficiency.

"I'm praying this goes down and doesn't last long," said Ann Foster-Edmonds of West Philly. "Something has to give. This is really hard."

AAA also advises motorists to shop around for the best prices before filling up.