High gas prices impact food delivery drivers, farmers

CBS News
March 26, 2026
3 min read

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The Bottom Line

Gasoline prices have risen over 30 cents nationally in one month amid Iran tensions, squeezing gig workers and farmers.

How This Affects You

Food delivery drivers, farmers, and consumers face higher transportation costs that erode driver income and increase food prices at checkout.

AI Summary

Gasoline prices have risen more than 30 cents nationally over the past month amid the Iran war, squeezing the finances of gig economy workers and agricultural producers. A DoorDash driver near Dallas reported to CBS News that the fuel costs are eroding his family's income despite working extra hours. The price surge is cascading through the economy, affecting not just delivery drivers and farmers but also consumers who ultimately bear higher food costs. Gig workers operating on thin margins face the sharpest immediate impact, as fuel represents a direct reduction in take-home pay. The broader consequence is pressure on food supply chains and household budgets as transportation costs ripple across the delivery and agricultural sectors.

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