Gas, Tomato, Beef Prices Hit Records Amid Iran War

Inflation accelerated in April 2026, with gas prices topping $4 per gallon and tomato and beef prices hitting new records, driven by the Iran war and tariffs. Key facts: Gas prices jumped 42 cents month-over-month to $4.14 nationally, and $6.00 in Fullerton.

Tomato prices leaped 19% to $2.00 per pound, a 50% year-over-year increase. Ground beef reached $6.92 per pound, the highest on record, due to low cattle inventory and import suspensions.

Electricity costs hit an all-time high of over 19 cents per kilowatt-hour. The Iran war has disrupted oil shipments through the Strait of Hormuz, pushing crude above $100 a barrel and raising transportation costs across the economy.