Gas Prices Surge Across Illinois and Indiana
Regional Breakdown
Average regular gas price in Illinois: $4.85 per gallon (up $0.19 from Thursday)
Average regular gas price in Indiana: $4.79 per gallon (up $0.38 from Thursday)
Average price in Chicago: approximately $5.17 per gallon
Chicago prices rose $0.47 in the past week alone.
GasBuddy reports national average prices at their highest level in nearly four years.
What Caused the Spike?
Two key factors are driving the increase:
- Weekend power loss at BP's Whiting, Indiana refinery on April 26, 2026
- War in Iran keeping shipping lanes closed
The Human Toll
Drivers across the region are feeling the pinch:
- Aaron Duggins (bricklayer): fuel costs described as "killing me."
- Jackie Torres (hospital employee): SUV fill-up cost increased from $70 to nearly $100.
- David Adenekan (cab driver): fuel costs doubled, requiring longer work hours.
Ripple Effects on the Economy
The pain extends beyond the pump:
Potash Markets reports grocery costs increasing, with tomatoes doubling in price due to a combination of tariffs, weather, and high gas prices. Vendors are now adding fuel surcharges.
PLAY toy store is facing rising shipping costs and uncertainty in pricing.
"The longer that this continues, the more painful it's going to be for consumers and for producers, too."
— Julían Díaz, Loyola University economist
Expert Tips for Saving Fuel
- Avoid hard acceleration and braking
- Sign up for loyalty programs
- Maintain proper tire pressure
BP's Response
"We do not speculate on market pricing, nor do we set oil prices."
Regarding the power loss at the Whiting Refinery:
"On the night of April 26, 2026, some units within the Whiting Refinery experienced a brief loss of electric power. Power to those units was quickly restored and operations were returned to normal. The power interruption was electrical system-related and not the result of operator actions."
Political Context
Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker is resisting calls to suspend the gas tax increase scheduled for summer.