The latest diesel prices data shows a sharp nationwide increase, while gasoline prices moved up only slightly. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), the national average on-highway diesel price rose 10 cents to $3.809 for the week ending February 23. In contrast, the national average gasoline price increased by just 1 cent to $2.937. For trucking fleets and owner-operators, the diesel spike represents a more significant cost pressure compared to gasoline, which remains relatively stable. Regional Diesel Price Breakdown Diesel prices increased across every major region of the country. However, the size of the increases varied. Here are this week’s diesel price highlights: Midwest: Up 13 cents to $3.798 — the largest regional increase. West Coast: Up 8 cents to $4.465. Without California: Up 8 cents to $4.050. East Coast: Up 8 cents to $3.843. Gulf Coast: Up 8 cents to $3.489. Rocky Mountain: Up 8 cents to $3.683. While diesel prices rose uniformly, the Midwest experienced the steepest jump. Meanwhile, the West Coast continues to post the highest overall diesel averages. AAA reported a slightly lower national diesel average at $3.727. That figure is 8 cents below the EIA estimate but 5 cents higher than the same week last year. Gasoline Prices Show Smaller Changes In comparison, gasoline prices increased only modestly nationwide. The EIA reported the national average at $2.937, up just 1 cent from the previous week. Regionally, gasoline price movements were more mixed: West Coast: Up 7 cents to $4.111. Without California: Up 12 cents to $3.723. Gulf Coast: Up 5 cents to $2.532. East Coast: Up 0.1 cents to $2.834. Midwest: Down 1 cent to $2.675. Rocky Mountain: Down 8 cents to $2.662. Unlike diesel, some regions saw gasoline prices decline, particularly in the Rockies and Midwest. AAA lists the current national gasoline average at $2.951, which is 19 cents lower than this time last year. Therefore, despite slight weekly increases, gas prices remain historically moderate for late winter. Seasonal and Market Factors According to AAA, fuel prices may begin climbing seasonally as spring approaches and refineries transition to summer-blend gasoline. Additionally, geopolitical tensions — particularly involving U.S.-Iran relations — could influence crude oil prices in the coming weeks. For trucking fleets, the sharper rise in diesel prices remains the primary concern, as fuel represents one of the largest operational expenses. While… [TheTopNews] Read More.
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