Idaho gas prices tick upward

Idaho’s average gas price increased by 2 cents this week, though the price jump was more pronounced in some areas of the state. 

According to AAA, Monday’s average price for a gallon of regular was $3.61, which was about 3 cents more than a month ago, but 30 cents less than a year ago.

Meanwhile, the national average currently sits at $3.52 per gallon, which is 2 cents more than a week ago and 7 cents more than a month ago, but 5 cents cheaper than a year ago. Idaho moved up one spot this week, and now ranks 11th in the country for most expensive fuel, a press release said.

In Bonner County, the average price for a gallon of unleaded gasoline is $3.64.9 while in Boundary County, the average cost for a gallon of unleaded gasoline is $3.51.9. In Coeur d’Alene, prices for a gallon of gas range from the low $3.30s to as high as $3.89.

“Not surprisingly, gas prices in more populated areas where demand is higher, such as the Treasure Valley and the Magic Valley, increased more than the state average did this week, jumping by about 6 cents and 4 cents, respectively,” said AAA Idaho public affairs director Matthew Conde.

According to the most recent report by the Energy Information Administration, gasoline demand dipped slightly to 9.4 million barrels per day from the previous week. However, that number is about 700,000 b/d higher than a year ago.

Refineries across the country continue to perform well, with production at over 95% of capacity both nationally and across the Rockies region.

The West Texas Intermediate benchmark for crude oil is currently trading near $82 per barrel, which is the same as a week ago, $4 more than a month ago, and $7 more than a year ago. If gasoline demand and crude oil prices remain elevated this week, drivers can expect to pay more at the pump.

Here’s a look at Idaho gas prices as of Monday: Boise, $3.65; Franklin, $3.55; Idaho Falls, $3.48; Lewiston, $3.60; Pocatello, $3.56; and Rexburg, $3.5