Last Updated on July 29, 2026 2:01 pm
Gas prices in the High Country continue to climb this week, with the Boone-area low for regular unleaded at $3.69 per gallon — up 10 cents from the $3.59 low seen two weeks ago and part of a broader national trend driven by renewed conflict in the Middle East.
Multiple Speedway locations are at the local low of $3.69, including stations on East King Street, Old East King Street, and Blowing Rock Road. Circle K locations on US-421 South and NC-105 South are at $3.72. Sheetz on Chestnut Drive, Harris Teeter, and several Circle K locations are at $3.74, while the Banner Elk Speedway is at $3.75.
The national average for regular gasoline stands at approximately $4.11 per gallon, according to AAA data as of July 25 — a sharp increase from $3.79 earlier this month. AAA reported on July 23 that the national average had jumped 15 cents in a single week to $4.09, with most states now averaging $4 per gallon or higher. The spike was attributed to rising crude oil prices driven by volatility along the Strait of Hormuz and ongoing instability in the region following the collapse of the U.S.-Iran ceasefire.
The North Carolina average stands at $3.680 per gallon, according to the most recent available AAA data from July 18. That figure has likely moved higher in the days since, in line with the national trend.
Diesel prices remain elevated. The county's diesel low is $4.99 per gallon at multiple Speedway locations, Harris Teeter on Blowing Rock Road, and Circle K on Blowing Rock Road. Quality Plus on US-421 North is at $5.09, with Quality Plus on US-421 North at $5.19.
WataugaOnline publishes a weekly gas prices report. Prices are sourced from GasBuddy and AAA. Prices may vary by location and change after posting.
(Information provided by GasBuddy and AAA Carolinas)
