More Americans are working from home due to elevated gas prices, according to a new poll released by AmericanMuscle.com.
The poll, conducted by the online aftermarket parts retailer, found that 12% of Americans have started working remotely more often in the wake of escalating U.S. gas prices. Among Gen Z — those born roughly between 1997 and 2012 — that number climbs to 16%.
The poll also found 6% of Americans have searched for a job closer to home due to elevated gas prices, and 15% plan to switch to an electric vehicle or a hybrid.
“Fuel costs have always been part of the ownership experience, but in 2026, they’re hitting harder than ever for American drivers,” AmericanMuscle said. “Rising prices are changing the way drivers think, spend, and hit the road.”
As of Monday, April 20, the national average price of gas was $4.04 per gallon — down from $4.12 one week earlier, but up from $3.91 one month ago.
How High Gas Prices Are Changing Driver Behavior
Ninety-six percent of poll respondents said gas prices are a financial burden so far in 2026. The effects are widespread:
- 69% have cut back on their overall driving
- Nearly 50% have trimmed spending on travel, dining out, and other non-essential expenses
- 37% have delayed or canceled a road trip
- 22% have postponed vehicle maintenance — such as oil changes and new tires
- 11% plan to sell their gas-powered car within the next five years
The states with the highest gas-price anxiety, based on per capita online searches, are Nevada, Colorado, and California.
Which States Have the Highest Gas Prices?
Here are the five states with the highest average gas prices as of April 20, 2026:
- California: $5.84/gallon
- Hawaii: $5.67/gallon
- Washington: $5.39/gallon
- Oregon: $4.99/gallon
- Nevada: $4.94/gallon
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY. Reporting by Keith Laing, USA TODAY / USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect.
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