Memorial Day 2026 Gas Prices: $4.55 National Average, 45M Travelers, Worst Times to Drive and How to Save $80

# Memorial Day 2026 Gas Prices: $4.55 National Average, 45M Travelers, Worst Times to Drive and How to Save $80

> **Quick answer:** The national gas average hit $4.56 per gallon this Memorial Day 2026 — the highest in four years — with 90% of the premium directly tied to Iran war disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz. AAA expects 45 million Americans to travel this weekend. The worst times to drive are Thursday and Friday midday through evening. Drivers can realistically save $60-$80 on a typical road trip through a combination of price-finding apps, timing fuel stops strategically, and basic efficiency habits.

Memorial Day 2026 gas prices are hitting American wallets harder than any holiday weekend since 2022. With the national average sitting at $4.56 per gallon — up $1.38 from this time last year — the 45 million Americans planning to travel this weekend are collectively spending billions more at the pump than they did in 2025. Here is everything you need to know to drive smarter and save more.

> **This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Consult a qualified financial advisor for personal financial decisions.**

## Memorial Day Gas Prices 2026: The Numbers You Need to Know

The national average for regular unleaded gasoline reached $4.564 per gallon as of May 21, 2026, according to AAA — up from $4.022 a month ago and $3.183 a year ago. That is a 43.4% year-over-year increase and the steepest Memorial Day gas price since 2022, when prices peaked at $5.02 per gallon in June.