The statewide gas price average in Texas is $2.18 for a gallon of regular unleaded fuel, according to the AAA Texas Weekend Gas Watch. That price is six cents more than this day last week and is 10 cents less per gallon compared to this day last year. Of the major metropolitan areas surveyed in Texas, drivers in Midland are paying the most on average at $2.42 while drivers in Amarillo and Lubbock are paying the least at $2.11 per gallon. The national average price for a gallon of regular unleaded is $2.41, which is three cents more than this day last week and 13 cents less than the price per gallon at this same time last year.
Texas is among the 40 states seeing gas price averages increase on the week. At a national level, motorists can fill up for $2.50 or less at four in five gas stations. Pump prices have increased around the country as refineries gear up for spring gasoline production and maintenance season, as well as due to rising crude oil prices.
“While Texas drivers have seen the price of gas rise since the start the year, motorists are still paying 10 cents less per gallon of gas, on average, compared to one year ago,”said Daniel Armbruster, AAA Texas/AAA New Mexico spokesperson. “Drivers looking to save at the pump should avoid quick accelerations, keep their vehicle properly maintained and remove any unnecessary items in their vehicle to help lighten the load and improve fuel efficiency.”
According to the Energy Information Administration, crude oil prices, which make up a majority of the price drivers pay at the pump, have been fluctuating since December. While crude prices have increased in recent weeks, West Texas Intermediate’s (WTI) price remains below levels seen at this time last year. It’s likely that the southern region of the U.S. will see gasoline supplies fluctuate through April as regional refineries begin planned maintenance, which means the instability in stock levels is likely to push gas prices more expensive in the spring.
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.
