Gasoline prices in the United States have risen sharply in early 2026, significantly increasing ownership costs for traditional gasoline-powered vehicles while having only a limited impact on electric vehicles, according to a new study by iSeeCars.
The study found average gasoline prices increased nearly 46% between January and April, climbing from $2.81 to $4.10 per gallon. By May 24, national average prices had risen further to $4.52 for regular gasoline, $5.01 for mid-grade, $5.39 for premium and $5.62 for diesel fuel.
Based on the January-to-April period examined in the report, annual fuel costs for traditional gasoline-powered vehicles increased by an average of $706, while annual charging costs for electric vehicles rose by only $11.
The findings were based on an analysis of more than 2.1 million three-year-old used vehicles sold in 2025. Researchers combined average annual mileage data with fuel-price trends to estimate changes in annual operating costs over the four-month period.
According to the study, internal combustion engine vehicles experienced the largest increase in operating expenses, with annual fuel costs rising from $1,533 to $2,240 on average.
Hybrid vehicles recorded a smaller increase of $486 annually, while plug-in hybrid models saw average increases of $291.
Electric vehicles experienced the smallest change, with annual charging costs increasing from $714 to $725.
The report said mileage levels played a major role in total cost increases in addition to vehicle efficiency.
Minivans recorded the largest segment-wide increase in annual fuel expenses, rising by $1,139 to an average of $3,610 per year. Trucks followed closely behind, with annual fuel costs increasing by $992.
Among individual models, the Toyota Sequoia recorded the highest increase in annual fuel costs at $1,623, followed by the Chevrolet Suburban at $1,542 and the Nissan Armada at $1,513.
The findings come as hybrid vehicles continue gaining market share in the United States, offering lower fuel consumption without some of the charging and infrastructure concerns that continue to influence some consumers’ EV purchasing decisions.
