Diesel costs up again, squeezing logistics budgets

The national U.S. average diesel price per gallon of $3.75 in September was up from $3.74 in August. In addition to the increase in price month-over-month, the average price is also higher than the September 2024 price per gallon of $3.56. This is the second consecutive year-over-year (y/y) increase after the 29-month streak of y/y decreases.
The fourth quarter of 2024 offers fairly soft comparisons in fuel prices per gallon, with monthly averages ranging from $3.49 to $3.59. Unless there is a decrease in fuel prices of 4-7% or more, fuel prices will continue to show y/y gains for the remainder of 2025. This is especially pertinent for those managing to a y/y budget, as it creates headwinds in the fourth quarter.
National U.S. average diesel price per gallon