U.S. gas prices hit $4 — could Idaho be next?

The following is a news release from the American Automobile Association in Idaho.

BOISE – Idaho drivers may be noticing big changes at the pumps. AAA reports that the state’s average price for regular gasoline dropped 20 cents this week to $4.32 per gallon. That’s 59 cents less than a month ago, but about $1 more than a year ago.

The national average hit $4 today, which is about 16 cents less than a week ago and 37 cents less than a month ago, but 94 cents more than a year ago. Idaho ranks 10th in the nation for the most expensive fuel.

“At last, we’re stringing some wins together – a 13-cent, 15-cent, and 20-cent drop in each of the last three weeks,” says AAA Idaho public affairs director Matthew Conde. “It’s starting to add up to some real savings and some much-need relief for Idaho families.”

Today’s most expensive gas can be found in California at $5.74 per gallon, with the least expensive in North Carolina at $3.25 per gallon.

The West Texas Intermediate benchmark for crude oil is currently trading near $87 per barrel, which is about $6 less than a month ago, but more than $25 more per barrel than a year ago. Tensions in the Middle East have cooled slightly, but the crude market will likely remain uncertain until a lasting resolution to the conflict can be achieved.

“Cheaper crude may not arrive in time to help with the price of a plane ticket, but it could make a big difference for those are who still debating whether or not they can take a Thanksgiving holiday road trip,” Conde said.

Here’s a look at Idaho gas prices as Nov. 9:

Boise – $4.46
Coeur d’Alene – $3.88
Franklin – $4.47
Idaho Falls – $4.26
Lewiston – $4.14
Pocatello – $4.29
Rexburg – $4.49
Twin Falls – $4.32