Folks Want to Know When Diesel Prices Will Go Down

Gas and diesel prices are on the rise, and people want to know when to expect lower prices. The rise in diesel prices is concerning for the economy because farmers, truckers, and cargo shipping companies all rely on diesel fuel. Prices rose after Donald Trump began an illegal war with Iran in a joint effort with Israel on Feb. 28, 2026.

Gas prices have increased by 47 cents per gallon (or 16 percent), and diesel prices have soared with an 84-cent increase, which is a 22 percent rise per gallon, per CNN. According to Tom Kloza, an oil analyst and advisor to Gulf Oil, diesel prices are increasing so quickly because it was in short supply, and he is predicting that the price could reach $5 a gallon within weeks. Diesel fuel is currently $4.60 per gallon. So, when will the diesel prices go down?

The harsh winter in the U.S. has resulted in demand for more heating oil in the Northeast region as residents heat their homes, and diesel fuel and heating oil are nearly identical. Higher costs for heat equal higher diesel costs, but it's the cost of transporting goods that truly raises the price.

Trucking companies, cargo shipping companies, and farmers have all had to add a surcharge to deal with the rising costs, which is passed on to the consumer.

This is a critical time of year for farmers, who need diesel to power tractors, deliver the fertilizer for crop growing, and transport food to market. Prices for wheat, soybeans, and corn have already risen amid the diesel fuel spike. The U.S. Department of Energy Secretary, Chris Wright, said that the price spike could last weeks. Trump's attack on Iran has led to reduced shipping and production slowdowns, per The Guardian.

"The U.S. is targeting zero energy infrastructure,” he said. "In the worst case, this is a weeks, this is not a months thing."

"We want it back below $3 a gallon," he continued. "And it will be again before too long."

The Department of Energy Secretary added that Iran has to "build up their capabilities" for diesel prices to be regulated.

"Iran has continued to build up their capabilities," he said. "First, a massive expansion of their missile program, so that they can shield the completion of their nuclear program.”

"We’re nowhere near normal traffic right now," he added. "And that’ll take some time. But, again, worst case, that’s a few weeks. That’s not months."

Farmers say that they can't wait for diesel fuel prices to decrease. Kansas farmer Curt Hoobler said that farmers need diesel fuel the most at this time of year.

"Now’s when we need it the most," he said. "It’s going to make it a lot tougher for a farmer to make it through this year."

Curt also said that the rising cost of fertilizer, which is supplied from the Middle East, also makes things worse for farmers.