This Is Why Gas Prices Are Surging In Illinois

The start of 2025 has brought us a gift nobody wants: higher gas prices. What is causing this surge in the dead of winter in Illinois? And is there any relief in sight with the new administration taking office?

There are always circumstances nobody can predict like natural disasters but with what experts know and what President Trump has promised to deliver some relief could be coming this year.

Gas Prices Forecast For 2025

President Donald Trump promised that he would lower energy costs.  That very could happen in 2025.

U.S. oil production is already near peak levels producing nearly 20% of the world's oil.

Potential energy secretary Chris Wright said that if confirmed, his first task will be to "unleash American energy at home and abroad to restore energy dominance."

"To compete globally, we must expand energy production," said Wright.

Experts predict the price of crude could fall from an average of $80 in 2024 to $65 in 2025.  Those prices will help what we pay at the pump.  But till then, what is causing the surge now?

Why Gas Prices Have Been Rising In Illinois

The average price of gas in Illinois is $3.27, and in Chicago, it's $3.49. This is an increase of about 10% from this time last year, making Illinois the state with the 8th highest average gas price in the country.

Andrew Gross, an AAA spokesperson, says, “Global oil prices have surged due to strong winter heating fuel demand and new U.S. sanctions against Russia’s energy sector. Oil costs account for 56% of what you pay at the pump. So, more expensive oil leads to more expensive gas."

Another factor is the cold.  Diesel prices have jumped, driven by cold weather that has boosted heating oil demand.

Patrick De Haan, the head of petroleum analysis at GasBuddy, said. “In addition, with President Trump’s inauguration, there could be price impacts depending on the executive orders he is preparing to sign. We’ll be closely monitoring potential impacts from any orders, while the threat of tariffs and possible retribution from Canada remain top of mind."

So while natural factors could impact our price at the pump, what is happening in Washington D.C. will probably be the biggest factor to fill up for less.