Idaho gas prices inch higher
BOISE, Idaho – (KIFI) – Idaho gas prices are once again on the move, according to AAA.
The state average was up two cents this week, and AAA says that is the result of rising fuel demand and climbing crude oil prices.
Idaho is one of 16 states that saw prices fluctuate by a penny or two this week, while 27 state averages held steady, and Idaho currently ranks 8th in the country for most expensive fuel.
“Continued roll-out of the COVID-19 vaccine has given some folks a touch of spring fever, especially with the recent news from the CDC that fully-vaccinated persons can travel in the United States at a fairly low risk to their health,” AAA Idaho spokesman Matthew Conde said. “That optimism translates into more travel activity and more fill-ups, which puts upward pressure on gas prices.”
Today, Idaho’s state average sits at $3.09, which is two cents more than a week ago and nine cents more than a month ago.
Here’s a selection of Idaho gas prices as of Tuesday:
- Boise - $3.23
- Coeur d’Alene - $2.80
- Franklin - $3.15
- Idaho Falls - $2.99
- Lewiston - $2.87
- Pocatello - $3.06
- Twin Falls - $3.16
Meanwhile, the U.S. average is $2.87, which is a penny more than a week ago but a penny less than a month ago.
Fuel demand recently hit 8.9 million barrels per day, the highest level in more than a year.
AAA says one silver lining has been the return of increased refinery production. At 85 % of capacity, operations now match pre-pandemic levels. That should help stabilize fuel supplies, even if they start to shrink due to increased demand.
After weeks of hovering near the $60-mark, crude oil prices have now spent several days selling at $63 per barrel. Domestic crude inventories also decreased by nearly six million barrels this week. If crude prices continue to climb, drivers can expect small increases at the pump throughout April.
You can find the lowest gas prices in the area HERE.
