While Idaho drivers anticipated gas prices would continue to drop after Labor Day, regional supply chain issues have pushed prices in the opposite direction.
According to the American Automobile Association, today’s average price for a gallon of regular in the Gem State is $3.51, which is about five cents more than a week ago, but still a penny less than a month ago and seven cents less than a year ago.
The national average currently sits at $3.18 per gallon, about two cents less than a week ago, two cents more than a month ago, and three cents less than a year ago.
As a result of recent pipeline and refinery issues, Washington is now ranked #1 in the country for the most expensive gasoline at $4.66 per gallon – Oregon’s in 4th place, while Idaho remains in 8th place.
Matthew Conde with AAA-Idaho says “the upcoming switch to winter-blend fuel, which is cheaper to make than summer-blend, may bring additional savings in the coming weeks.” He added that hopefully, cheaper supply and lower demand will drive down pump prices and help people save up for the holiday season.
North Idaho saw the biggest jump in the price of gasoline, with motorists in Coeur d’Alene paying the state’s highest average price per gallon at $3.56, while Lewiston has the second-highest price at $3.54 – up 13 cents since last week. Motorists in Franklin are paying the lowest price in Idaho at $3.28.
