Iran war has cost Americans $1,000 per household, economist estimates

The Iran war has cost Americans roughly $1,000 per household in higher fuel, food and other expenses since the start of the conflict in February, according to an estimate shared last week by Moody's Analytics chief economist Mark Zandi. Zandi's analysis comes as government data shows inflation in May hit its highest level in three years, and with the U.S. and Iran yet to broker a lasting peace deal. The two countries exchanged military strikes over the weekend, threatening a fragile ceasefire. The sides will continue talks to end the conflict in Qatar on Tuesday, President Trump said on Monday. What are Americans paying for? According to Zandi, the biggest war-related expense for Americans has been gasoline, which peaked at $4.56 a gallon on May 21 before dipping back below $4 a gallon earlier this month. Since the war began on Feb. 28, Americans have shelled out an additional $300 on average to fill up their tanks, he found, an estimate that only factors in the higher cost of regular gas. Higher diesel costs have also increased the cost of transporting products from farms, factories and seaports, leading to higher retail costs, Zandi said. He estimates the typical U.S. household has spent an extra $200 on groceries due to higher fuel costs since the start of the war. Other war-related costs facing American households since the conflict started in February, according to Zandi: Higher interest rates — an estimated $150 on average in added costs. …