BEDFORD — Hoosier drivers saw a rare moment of relief at the pump this week as gasoline prices in Indiana fell by 10.1 cents per gallon. According to a GasBuddy survey of 3,271 stations, the state average currently sits at $3.89 per gallon.
Despite the weekly decline, the long-term trend remains steep. Prices in Indiana are still 46.2 cents higher than just one month ago and 63.8 cents higher than this time last year.
Lawrence County Snapshot
In Lawrence County, prices are mirroring the state average but remain highly sensitive to local competition. As of April 6, 2026, regular unleaded in the Bedford and Mitchell areas is averaging between $3.76 and $3.89 per gallon.
- Lowest Reported (Bedford): $3.76/g
- Lawrence County Diesel Average: $5.35/g
Statewide, the price gap remains significant, with the cheapest station in Indiana reported at $3.12/g and the most expensive at $4.95/g.
Regional Comparisons
While Lawrence County fluctuates, neighboring metro areas are seeing similar downward adjustments:
- Indianapolis: $3.84/g (Down 15.8¢)
- Bloomington: $4.14/g (Remains among the highest in the state)
- Cincinnati: $3.76/g (Down 0.7¢)
The National Outlook: Diesel at Near-Record Highs
While Indiana saw a dip, the national average for gasoline rose 11.8 cents this week to $4.06/g. The real pressure, however, is on the diesel market. The national average price of diesel surged 20.7 cents in the last seven days, landing at $5.576 per gallon—just 25 cents shy of a record.
Expert Warning: A “Sharp Increase” Ahead
Patrick De Haan, head of petroleum analysis at GasBuddy, warns that the current dip in Indiana may be short-lived. He points to rising wholesale costs and international tensions as primary drivers for a potential “jolt” in the coming days.
“The national average could rise by double digits, potentially reaching the $4.20 to $4.35 range in the days ahead,” De Haan stated. “Recent escalations between the U.S. and Iran have further intensified concerns about prolonged disruptions to global oil flows. Until the Strait of Hormuz reopens, the risk of further increases remains firmly in place.”
Historical Context: April 6 Prices (Indiana vs. U.S.)
Today’s prices represent some of the highest levels seen in recent years, eclipsed only by the 2022 energy crisis.
| Date | Indiana Average | U.S. Average |
| April 6, 2026 | $3.89 | $4.06 |
| April 6, 2025 | $3.25 | $3.21 |
| April 6, 2024 | $3.70 | $3.59 |
| April 6, 2023 | $3.56 | $3.55 |
| April 6, 2022 | $4.04 | $4.15 |
| April 6, 2021 | $2.79 | $2.87 |
Local officials continue to monitor fuel costs as they impact county department budgets and the cost of essential services. Drivers are encouraged to use price-tracking tools to find the most competitive rates in Lawrence County before the next projected spike.
