Hawaii drivers are paying more at the pump as gas prices rise for the fourth consecutive week, driven by higher crude oil prices, global supply disruptions, and ongoing geopolitical tensions related to the conflict involving the U.S., Israel, and Iran, according to the AAA Hawaii Weekend Gas Watch.
Today’s statewide average for regular unleaded is $5.33 per gallon, up 26 cents from last week, 93 cents higher over the past month, and 81 cents above last year. The national average is $3.98 per gallon, up 10 cents week over week, $1 higher than a month ago, and 83 cents above last year.
Crude oil prices remain elevated as the Iran conflict nears the four-week mark. The national average could reach $4 per gallon in the coming days for the first time since August 2022. Rising gasoline demand during spring break is also contributing to higher pump prices.
Hawaii continues to rank among the states with the highest gas prices in the nation, with rates varying across the islands.
In Honolulu, the average price for regular unleaded is $5.20 per gallon, up 26 cents from last week and 76 cents higher than a year ago. In Hilo, drivers are paying $5.49 per gallon, up 23 cents from last week and 85 cents above last year. Kahului’s average is $5.46 per gallon, up 32 cents from last week and 95 cents higher than a year ago. In Lihue, the average is $5.70 per gallon, up 29 cents from last week and 59 cents higher than a year ago.
“With global tensions and high crude oil costs pushing pump prices higher, drivers are feeling the squeeze and looking for ways to save,” said Kandace Redd, AAA Hawaii spokesperson. “To help manage expenses, we encourage residents to shop around for the best deals, use tools like the free AAA mobile app to locate the cheapest gas nearby, and drive efficiently—avoiding speeding and aggressive driving—to stretch every gallon further.”
The Weekend Gas Watch monitors the average price of gasoline. As of 9 a.m. on March 26, averages are:
AAA Hawaii recommends these tips for drivers to save money on fuel:
- Optimize your fuel economy with steady speeds, no hard braking, and no “jackrabbit starts.”
- Don't haul extra weight in the passenger compartment or trunk, which reduces fuel economy.
- Properly maintain your vehicle and keep tires properly inflated according to the pressure listed in your owner’s manual, which will optimize fuel economy.
- Use the recommended fuel for your vehicle, and don’t use mid-grade or premium unless it is specifically recommended in your owner’s manual. AAA research shows the higher-grade fuel offers no extra benefit for vehicles that aren’t required to use it.
- Look into discounts. AAA members who sign up for the Shell Fuel Rewards Program at AAA.com/Shell can save 30 cents a gallon on their first fill-up, and five cents a gallon on all other fill-ups. Other retailers such as grocery stores also offer fuel discount programs, and some credit cards offer gas discounts.
- If your household has more than one vehicle, use the most fuel-efficient one as much as possible.
- Consolidate errands to reduce mileage and avoid driving during peak hours when traffic congestion will reduce your fuel efficiency.