Diesel Prices Rise to $3.809 in Latest Weekly EIA Report

The Diesel Price Edges Up in Weekly EIA Fuel Snapshot

Diesel prices increased in the latest weekly fuel report released by the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA). The agency reported that the national average on-highway diesel price reached $3.809 per gallon for the week ending February 23, 2026, up 9.8 cents from the prior week. Gasoline prices also moved higher during the same period. The national average price for regular gasoline rose to $2.937 per gallon, reflecting a 1.3-cent weekly increase.

Because fuel remains a major operating expense for trucking fleets and owner-operators, weekly price movements continue to play a key role in cost planning and freight economics.

Diesel Prices By Region Show Weekly Increases

The EIA data shows diesel prices rose across most U.S. regions, although the magnitude of increases varied.

Regional diesel prices — Feb. 23, 2026

• United States: $3.809 (+9.8¢)
• East Coast: $3.843 (+8.0¢)
• New England: $4.201 (-1.4¢)
• Central Atlantic: $4.104 (+7.4¢)
• Lower Atlantic: $3.708 (+9.6¢)
• Midwest: $3.798 (+13.4¢)
• Gulf Coast: $3.489 (+7.7¢)
• Rocky Mountain: $3.683 (+7.6¢)
• West Coast: $4.465 (+8.2¢)
• West Coast, less California: $4.050 (+8.0¢)
• California: $4.944 (+8.4¢)

The Midwest recorded the largest weekly increase, while New England saw a slight decline.

Gasoline Prices Also Move Higher

Gasoline prices showed smaller changes compared with diesel, but still reflected market movement.

Regional gasoline prices — Feb. 23, 2026

• United States: $2.937 (+1.3¢)
• East Coast: $2.834 (+0.1¢)
• New England: $2.852 (+1.7¢)
• Central Atlantic: $2.962 (-0.5¢)
• Lower Atlantic: $2.748 (no change)
• Midwest: $2.675 (-0.8¢)
• Gulf Coast: $2.532 (+5.0¢)
• Rocky Mountain: $2.662 (-7.5¢)
• West Coast: $4.111 (+6.6¢)
• West Coast, less California: $3.723 (+11.5¢)

The West Coast continued to post the highest gasoline prices, while the Gulf Coast remained the lowest-cost region.

Why West Coast Diesel Prices Remain Elevated

The EIA explains that diesel prices on the West Coast, particularly in California, tend to remain higher and more volatile than in other regions.

Several factors contribute to this pattern.

Higher taxes
California has significantly higher state diesel taxes than the national average, contributing to elevated retail prices.

Regional supply isolation
The West Coast fuel market relies heavily on local refinery production and has limited pipeline connectivity to other regions. This reduces supply flexibility.

Refinery outage sensitivity
When refinery disruptions occur, transporting fuel from outside the region can be costly, which may lead to sharper price increases.

Key Drivers Behind Diesel Prices Nationwide

The EIA identifies multiple factors influencing diesel prices across U.S. fuel markets.

Crude oil prices
Crude oil represents the largest component of diesel fuel cost, meaning global oil price changes can directly affect retail diesel prices.

Refinery production and maintenance
Refinery shutdowns or maintenance can tighten diesel supply and push prices higher.

Seasonal demand
Freight activity, agriculture, and heating oil demand all influence diesel consumption patterns.

Distribution and logistics costs
Fuel transportation, storage, and infrastructure constraints can contribute to regional price differences.

Taxes and regulations
Federal and state tax policies and environmental requirements also shape diesel pricing.

Trucking Industry Impact Of Diesel Prices

Operating costs
Fuel remains one of the largest expenses for carriers and independent drivers. Weekly increases can raise total trip costs.

Fuel surcharge adjustments
Many freight contracts use fuel surcharge formulas tied to weekly diesel averages, meaning price changes can affect carrier revenue.

Fuel purchasing strategies
Regional price gaps may influence where carriers choose to fuel.

Freight rate pressure
Higher diesel prices can create margin pressure when freight demand is weak or contract rates remain fixed.

Outlook For Diesel Prices

Future movement in diesel prices will likely depend on crude oil markets, refinery utilization, and seasonal demand trends. Regional supply constraints, especially on the West Coast, may continue to drive price variability.

Gasoline prices are expected to follow similar market influences, although seasonal travel demand and refinery blending requirements may create differences between fuels.

Because fuel markets remain sensitive to global energy developments and domestic refinery activity, weekly price fluctuations are expected to continue.

Key Takeaway On Diesel Prices

The latest EIA report shows diesel prices rising nationwide, with most regions posting weekly increases. Gasoline prices also moved higher, although changes were more moderate.

West Coast diesel prices remain the highest due to taxes and supply constraints, while national averages reflect broader energy market dynamics.

Diesel prices will likely continue responding to crude oil costs, refinery output, and regional supply conditions in the coming weeks.