For many Americans, soaring gas prices are making it more painful economically to fill up the tank. Prices are spiking across the country with no relief in sight.

The average price for a gallon of regular gasoline costs 48 cents more this February than last. As gas prices are winding up, some predict the country is heading for $5 a gallon.

On average, Californians are paying the most--at $3.40 a gallon. In New York, a gallon of regular costs an average of $3.37, and Florida is about $3.12.

However, Wyoming is one of a handful of states with an average price under $3.00, with motorists paying $2.88.

Other Americans have already started making changes to conserve gas, while many others have left the option open for electric cars.

"My truck it's a big truck and it's diesel. It cost like $100 to fill it. I'm on the motorcycle almost every day unless it's raining," said one motorist.

Typically this is the time of year gas prices are at their lowest. With spring and summer approaching, analysts fear pain at the pump will continue to plague motorists for many months if not years to come.

If gas prices stay on the current path, Americans could see $5 a gallon by the end of 2012.

As the political turmoil in Egypt and other countries in the Middle East continues, the resulting economic uncertainty can have a big impact on what Americans pay for gas at home.