Just as the economy seems to be showing sustained signs of growth, will high gas prices put the kibosh on economic recovery? A recent Gallup poll asked Americans how high the cost of gasoline would have to rise to significantly impact their lifestyles and spending. On average, gas prices of $5.30 to $5.35 per gallon were cited as the "tipping point." National average gas prices now stand at nearly $3.90 a gallon, but in many areas, that's been well over $4 for a while.