Gas prices drop in region

SANDPOINT — The average price for a gallon of regular in the Gem State on Wednesday was  $3.69, which is 6 cents less than a week ago, 25 cents less than a month ago and 49 cents less than a year ago, according to AAA.

Meanwhile, the national sits at $3.28 per gallon, which is 7 cents less than a week ago, 27 cents less than a month ago and 36 cents less than a year ago.

In Bonner County, gas prices range from the mid-$3.50s, while in Boundary County, gas prices are in the $3.60s. Kootenai County prices have dipped into the $3.50s, with most stations charging around $3.65.

“The seasonal drop was slow to arrive, but now that it’s happening, hanging on to some hard-earned money over the holidays gives new meaning to the idea of leftovers,” AAA Idaho Public Affairs Director Matthew Conde said. “Barring the unexpected, the trend may continue through the end of the year.”

Idaho ranks seventh in the country for most expensive fuel behind California ($4.94), Hawaii ($4.74), Washington ($4.42), Nevada ($4.23), Oregon ($4.08) and Alaska ($3.99). Twelve states are under the $3 mark, with Texas leading the way at $2.75 per gallon.

“Without question, we would all like pump prices to be cheaper than they are right now,” Conde said. “But with an additional 1 million people expected on the roads this holiday weekend, more opportunities appear to be opening up for families to celebrate the season together.”

Per AAA, 55.4 million Americans traveled 50 miles or more for Thanksgiving. Wednesday afternoon was busy, both on the roads and at the airport. Travelers can anticipate longer commutes and TSA screening lines at times throughout the holiday season.