Friday, March 29, 2024
37.0°F

Idaho gas prices falling

by PRESS STAFF
| August 4, 2022 1:00 AM

COEUR d'ALENE — Idaho drivers are seeing relief at the pump as the state’s average gas price is below the $5 mark and has been falling for the past few weeks.

But with crude oil still above $90 per barrel, an increase in fuel demand or a disruption in the supply chain could quickly reverse the trend, according to AAA.

Idaho’s average price for a gallon of regular is $4.91, which is 11 cents less than a week ago and 34 cents less than a month ago.

A gallon of unleaded gas could be had for about $4.60 in Coeur d'Alene, while in the Columbia Falls, Mont., area, it was as low as $4.34 on Tuesday.

Meanwhile, the national average currently sits at $4.21 per gallon, which is 14 cents less than a week ago and 63 cents less than a month ago.

The Gem State ranks seventh in the country for most expensive fuel behind California ($5.61), Hawaii ($5.44), Alaska ($5.09), Nevada ($5.08), Oregon ($5.07), and Washington ($5.01).

At $3.71 per gallon, the cheapest fuel in the U.S. can be found in Texas.

“We may see a cyclical pattern in the run-up to Labor Day, where falling gas prices prompt an occasional surge in fuel demand, followed by upward pressure on crude oil and gas prices that curbs that demand,” said AAA Idaho public affairs director Matthew Conde.

In a new AAA survey, 64% of U.S. adults say that they’ve changed their driving habits since March — when gas prices skyrocketed — with 23% making “major changes.”

The top three adjustments are driving less (88%), combining errands (74%), and reducing shopping or dining out (56%).

About 30% say that they’ve delayed major purchases or postponed vacations due to higher pump prices.

“Gas is now below $4 per gallon at nearly half of the gas stations around the country,” Conde said.

“That may entice some people who were previously undecided to make one last push to complete summer travel plans.”

Here’s a look at Idaho gas prices: Boise, $5; Franklin, $4.87; Idaho Falls, $4.94; Lewiston, $4.45; and Twin Falls — $4.94.