Another quiet week at the pumps

The following is a news release from AAA Idaho.

BOISE – Idaho gas prices didn’t fluctuate much this week. According to AAA, the average price for a gallon of regular in the Gem State is around $3.30, about a penny less than a week ago and four cents less than a month ago, but 63 cents cheaper than a year ago.

The national average currently sits at $3.14 per gallon, which is half a penny less than a week ago, a penny less than a month ago and 51 cents cheaper than a year ago.

Idaho still ranks 10th in the nation for the most expensive fuel behind California ($4.79), Hawaii ($4.50), Washington ($4.28), Oregon ($3.91), Nevada ($3.85), Alaska ($3.63), Illinois ($3.42), Arizona ($3.34), and Pennsylvania ($3.34).

One of the biggest contributors to lower gas prices has been the falling cost of crude oil. The West Texas Intermediate benchmark for crude is currently trading near $62 per barrel. That’s about 50 cents per barrel less than a week ago, $7 less than a month ago and about $20 less than a year ago.

“We’re in a lull right now, but Memorial Day will be here before you know it – the unofficial start of road trip season,” says AAA Idaho public affairs director Matthew Conde. “If fuel demand surges, it will apply upward pressure on crude oil and gas prices. For now, we’ll continue to pocket all the savings we can, which will hopefully help the family travel budget later in the year.”

AAA reminds drivers to keep up on vehicle maintenance to further improve fuel efficiency.

Here’s a look at Idaho gas prices, as of April 28:

Boise – $3.24
Coeur d’Alene – $3.32
Franklin – $3.25
Idaho Falls – $3.24
Lewiston – $3.36
Pocatello – $3.26
Rexburg – $3.26
Twin Falls – $3.34