AVERAGE IL GAS PRICE CLIMBS OVER $3.50 PER GALLON

Drivers across Illinois are feeling the pinch at the pump as gas prices surge. According to AAA, the state’s average cost for regular unleaded fuel now stands at $3.52 per gallon, outpacing the national average of $3.47. The increase represents a steep jump of more than 46 cents in just one week. Cook County leads the way with even higher prices, reaching $3.74 per gallon as of Monday. Analysts attribute the rise to seasonal demand and fluctuations in oil markets, raising concerns about the impact on household budgets and summer travel plans across the region.