Michigan motorists are paying an average of $4.31 (£3.21) a gallon for regular petrol, with prices remaining elevated despite the end of the summer travel season as the Iran conflict continues to unsettle global oil markets.
Figures from AAA put Michigan’s average at $4.3116 a gallon on Sunday, September 13, compared with $4.0303 a week earlier and $3.0624 at the same point last year. The national average stood at a similar $4.3130.
The increase has been particularly sharp across the Great Lakes region. AAA data showed Michigan’s average rising by about 20 cents in a single day earlier this month, while wholesale petrol prices climbed across Michigan and neighbouring states.
Analysts have linked the pressure at the pump to rising crude costs and disruption around the Strait of Hormuz, a vital route for international oil shipments. AAA said crude had returned to the $100-a-barrel range as volatility surrounding the conflict continued.
Prices vary considerably across Michigan. The average in the Detroit metropolitan area was about $4.27 a gallon, while some counties were reporting prices above $4.40.
Diesel has also remained costly, averaging roughly $6.13 a gallon in Michigan, according to AAA, adding further pressure for hauliers and businesses reliant on road transport.
