Gas Prices Climb in Iredell County, Outpacing Last Year

IREDELL COUNTY, N.C. — Drivers across Iredell County are feeling the impact of rising gas prices in 2026, with costs at the pump significantly higher than this time last year.

While exact county-level averages fluctuate daily, Iredell County typically tracks closely with the Hickory–Lenoir–Morganton and Charlotte metro averages, both of which show sharp year-over-year increases. Current prices in the region are hovering around $4.13–$4.24 per gallon, compared to roughly $2.70–$2.90 per gallon a year ago.

That represents an increase of more than $1.20 per gallon in some cases, a jump of over 40% year-over-year.

Statewide data confirms the trend. North Carolina’s average gas price has climbed to around $3.94–$4.00 per gallon in recent weeks, up sharply from 2025 levels when prices were commonly in the low $3 range or below.

Earlier in 2025, drivers were paying closer to $3.17 per gallon nationally, with some periods in North Carolina dipping below $3.00. By contrast, 2026 prices have surged past the $4 mark, the highest levels seen since 2022.

Experts point to several factors driving the increase, including higher crude oil prices, global instability, and seasonal demand heading into the summer travel season. In early April, the national average surpassed $4 per gallon for the first time in years, reflecting broader market pressures.

Even within North Carolina, prices can vary by location, but the overall trend remains upward. Despite the increase, the state still sits slightly below the national average, offering some relative relief compared to other parts of the country.

For Iredell County residents, the rising cost is being felt in daily commutes, business operations, and household budgets. With hurricane season and peak travel months approaching, analysts warn prices could remain volatile in the weeks ahead.

The takeaway for drivers: compared to this time last year, filling up in Iredell County is costing significantly more—and there’s no clear sign of immediate relief.