The statewide gas price average in Texas is $3.19 for a gallon of regular unleaded fuel, according to the AAA Texas Weekend Gas Watch. That price is six cents more than on this day last week and is 98 cents less per gallon compared to this day last year. Of the major metropolitan areas surveyed in Texas, drivers in El Paso are paying the most on average at $3.54 per gallon while drivers in San Angelo are paying the least at $2.92 per gallon. The national average price for a gallon of regular unleaded is $3.55, which is two cents more when compared to this day last week and $1.08 less than the price per gallon at this same time last year.
The latest round of economic data has sent market crude prices higher over the past few days. The higher cost of oil, plus summer-like demand coupled with decreasing regional supplies has led to slightly higher prices at the pump for most in the state. Whether interest rates go up or if there are more signs of an economic slowdown will shape how pump prices look for the rest of the summer.
“Retail gas prices are climbing for many drivers after a very busy Independence Day holiday along with increasing crude oil prices after Saudi Arabia’s move to cut production output to the global market,” said AAA Texas spokesperson Daniel Armbruster. “Crude oil makes up nearly half the cost of each gallon of retail gasoline. Keeping up with vehicle maintenance as well as safe driving habits will improve your fuel economy.”
Drivers in Texas are paying the seventh lowest gas price average in the country, according to gasprices.aaa.com. Meanwhile, drivers in Washington are paying the most at $4.95 on average for a gallon of regular unleaded.
Prices up to date at press time using market prices posted at 3:41 a.m. Motorists can find current gas prices along their route with the free and revamped AAA App for iPhone, iPad and Android. The app can also be used to map a route and learn traffic conditions along that route, find discounts, locate parking, book a hotel and request and track AAA roadside assistance. Learn more at www.AAA.com/mobile.