Idaho’s average gas price rose by 2 cents this week, with some areas seeing more significant increases. According to AAA, the average price for regular gasoline on Monday was $3.61 per gallon, up 3 cents from a month ago but down 30 cents from a year earlier. Nationally, the average stands at $3.52 per gallon, a 2-cent increase from last week and 7 cents higher than a month ago, yet 5 cents cheaper than a year ago.
Idaho moved up to the 11th spot nationally for highest fuel prices this week, according to a press release. In Bonner County, the average price for unleaded gasoline is $3.64.9 per gallon, while in Boundary County, it’s $3.51.9 per gallon. Prices in Coeur d’Alene range from the low $3.30s to as high as $3.89 per gallon.
Matthew Conde, AAA Idaho’s public affairs director, noted that gas prices in more populated areas like the Treasure Valley and the Magic Valley increased by approximately 6 cents and 4 cents, respectively, exceeding the state average.
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The Energy Information Administration reported a slight dip in gasoline demand to 9.4 million barrels per day from the previous week, though this figure remains about 700,000 barrels per day higher than a year ago. Refineries across the country are operating well, with production at more than 95% capacity both nationally and in the Rockies region.
The West Texas Intermediate crude oil benchmark is trading around $82 per barrel, unchanged from last week, up $4 from last month, and $7 higher than a year ago. If demand for gasoline and crude oil prices stay elevated this week, drivers should expect to pay more at the pump.
Here are the current gas prices in Idaho as of Monday: Boise, $3.65; Franklin, $3.55; Idaho Falls, $3.48; Lewiston, $3.60; Pocatello, $3.56; and Rexburg, $3.50 per gallon.