Gas prices inch upward

SANDPOINT — As more than 42 million Americans — including 241,000 Idahoans — head out for Memorial Day weekend, filling up the gas tank won’t be nearly as painful as last year.

According to AAA, Idaho’s average price for a gallon of regular is $3.76 — 2 cents more than a week ago and 12 cents more than a month ago, but 87 cents less than a year ago.

The national average is currently at $3.54 per gallon, which is the same as a week ago, 13 cents less than a month ago and $1.05 less than a year ago.

In the Sandpoint area, gas prices for a gallon of regular unleaded ranges from $3.89 to $3.94. In Coeur d'Alene, prices range from about $3.45 to $3.75.

Of those who are traveling this weekend, 37 million will go by car, an increase of two million from a year ago.

The Gem State ranks 10th in the U.S. for most expensive fuel behind California ($4.81), Hawaii ($4.75), Arizona ($4.62), Washington ($4.61), Nevada ($4.24), Oregon ($4.17), Utah ($4.10), Illinois ($3.93) and Alaska ($3.93).

At $2.98 per gallon, today’s cheapest fuel is in Mississippi.

“Last year, the cost of crude oil skyrocketed as the market reeled from Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, and gasoline prices followed. But it will be easier for families to make a trip this year,” said AAA Idaho public affairs director Matthew Conde.

Today, the West Texas Intermediate benchmark for crude oil is trading near $72 per barrel, which is $1 more than a week ago, but $6 less than a month ago and $38 less than a year ago.

Here’s a look at gas prices from around the Gem State: Boise, $3.88; Franklin, $4.15; Idaho Falls, $3.51; Lewiston, $3.63; Pocatello, $3.59 and Twin Falls, $3.72.'