Gas prices in the United States have surged to almost $4.50 a gallon in early May, a jump of more than a dollar from a year ago, as the war with Iran fuels market volatility. The New York Times is inviting readers to share how the spike is reshaping their household budgets and travel habits.

For many families the price hike compounds an already tight cost‑of‑living squeeze, prompting reduced mileage, postponed road trips and tighter grocery tabs. Analysts warn that sustained fuel inflation could depress discretionary spending, hitting retailers and service providers that depend on auto traffic. The survey aims to gauge the breadth of these consumer adjustments.

Editor Tony Romm, covering economic policy from Washington, says the Times will read every submission, verify details and seek permission before any excerpts appear. Personal data remains confined to the newsroom, and respondents may be contacted for follow‑up questions. The outreach underscores how volatile fuel markets are translating directly into household financial pressure.

Responses will feed a broader series on inflation’s real‑world impact, allowing the Times to map regional variations and identify sectors most vulnerable to sustained gasoline costs. Readers who participate help shape a data‑driven narrative that could inform policymakers and industry leaders alike and guide future regulatory debates.