Idaho gas prices dip as Middle East tension continues

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

BOISE – Idaho drivers are seeing a slight improvement in gas prices this week. According to AAA, the average price for a gallon of regular in the Gem State is $4.95, which is four cents less than a week ago, but 33 cents more than a month ago and $1.48 more than a year ago.

The national average currently sits at $4.36 per gallon, which is 11 cents less than a week ago, but 22 cents more than a month ago and $1.23 more than a year ago. Once again, Idaho ranks 7th in the country for the most expensive fuel, with California leading the way at $6.39 for a gallon of regular gasoline and the cheapest gas in Indiana at $3.74 per gallon.

“With so much uncertainty in the world, it’s tough to get excited about saving a few cents,” says AAA Idaho public affairs director Matthew Conde. “Today, there are reports of additional attacks on refineries in Saudi Arabia, and Ukraine and Russia continue to attack each other’s energy infrastructure. It will be interesting to see if we can piece together another calm week.”

The West Texas Intermediate benchmark for crude oil is currently trading near $90 per barrel, down from a peak of $105 per barrel in mid-September. However, the current cost of crude is still about $30 per barrel more than a year ago.

While pump prices tend to ease after Labor Day, this year, continued fears over crude oil availability continue to apply upward pressure on crude prices and gas prices.

Drivers can use the AAA mobile app to find the location of the cheapest fuel near them, as well as the location of EV charging stations. AAA recommends checking with your credit card companies for the best discounts and rewards on fuel purchases.

Here’s a look at Idaho gas prices as of October 5:

Boise – $5.03
Coeur d’Alene – $4.55
Franklin – $4.90
Idaho Falls – $4.92
Lewiston – $4.56
Pocatello – $5.04
Rexburg – $5.02
Twin Falls – $5.05