Chart of the Day Today, crude oil closed at over $112 per barrel. As would be expected, this has translated into high prices at the pump. How high? As today's chart illustrates, the cost of one gallon of gasoline has just surpassed the inflation-adjusted peak of 1981. Therefore, as a result of increased global demand, geopolitical tensions, and a declining US dollar we are currently experiencing record high gasoline prices even when adjusted for inflation.