Gas prices jump upward

After a few calm weeks at the pump, Idaho drivers saw gas prices jump this week. And, with warmer temperatures on the way, they could go up again. 

According to AAA, the average price for a gallon of regular in the Gem State is $3.25, which is seven cents more than a week ago and five cents more than a month ago.  For those taking a glass-half-full approach, the current average is still 27 cents cheaper than a year ago, AAA Idaho public affairs director Matthew Conde said.

In Bonner County, the average price for a gallon of unleaded gasoline is $3.28 while in Boundary County, the average price for a gallon of unleaded, the cost averaged $3.26. In Kootenai County, the average price for a gallon of unleaded is $3.11, in Shoshone County it is $3.49 and in Benewah County, $3.25.

The national average sits at $3.13 per gallon — a nickel more than a week ago, about a penny less than a month ago, and nearly 40 cents less than a year ago. 

“Things on the supply side, such as crude oil and refinery activity, have been fairly smooth this winter. Most of the turbulence right now is on the demand side,” Conde said. “Once kids are back in school after Spring Break, we could see a calming effect at the pump, but sunny weather can move the needle on fuel demand at any time.” 

Today, Idaho ranks ninth in the country for the most expensive fuel, up from 11th place. The most expensive fuel is in California at $4.65 per gallon, while the least expensive gas is found in Mississippi at $2.67 per gallon. 

The West Texas Intermediate benchmark for crude oil is currently trading near $69 per barrel, about $1.50 more than a week ago and the same price as a month ago. Crude oil stability has helped keep pump prices from climbing further. 

Gas prices elsewhere in the state were Boise, $3.26; Franklin, $3.13; Idaho Falls, $3.16; Lewiston, $3.17; Pocatello, $3.21; Rexburg, $3.32; and Twin Falls, $3.27.