Idaho gas prices plummet

Idaho gas prices declined at the second-fasted pace among the states last week and in the past 30 days, AAA said Tuesday.

Despite this, the Gem State’s gas prices have been higher than the national average since the first week in September.

“For the most part, low demand and high inventories have helped push pump prices lower,” said AAA Idaho spokesman Dave Carlson.

Idaho’s average price Tuesday was $3.39, down 33 cents from a month ago. That’s still 6 cents higher than the national $3.33 average, which has dropped 11 cents in that same period. A year ago, Idaho’s average price was $3.30, and the U.S. mark was $3.28, AAA said.

Although Americans’ demand for gasoline may increase slightly as motorists travel to visit family for the holidays, demand should remain fairly muted to begin the new year, keeping prices in check.

“Lower prices are providing positive relief for Idaho motorists who were paying as much as $3.88 on average in September and who are now looking for ways to manage their holiday budgets,” Carlson said.