Idaho motorists faced another sharp increase at the pump this week, with regular gasoline prices climbing 13 cents per gallon compared to the previous week. According to data from AAA released on September 28, the average price for a gallon of regular fuel in Idaho reached $4.99.
The weekly jump pushes Idaho’s gas prices significantly higher than they were just a month ago and a year ago. Over the last 30 days, Idaho drivers have seen their costs rise by 43 cents per gallon. Looking back twelve months, the price increase totals $1.50 per gallon.
Statewide Price Variations
Fuel costs vary across the state, with Twin Falls recording the highest average at $5.08 per gallon. Pocatello drivers paid an average of $5.07, while Boise averaged $5.06 and Rexburg $5.05. Idaho Falls saw prices hit $5.00, and Franklin reached $4.95.
In northern Idaho, Coeur d’Alene and Lewiston both reported lower averages of $4.62 per gallon. Despite these regional differences, all listed cities remain well above the national average of $4.47 per gallon for regular gasoline.
National Context
Idaho currently ranks seventh in the nation for the most expensive fuel. The national average has also climbed, rising 39 cents over the last month and $1.34 over the past year.
California continues to hold the title for the highest gas prices in the country, with an average of $6.36 per gallon. At the other end of the spectrum, Indiana offers the lowest prices nationally at $3.88 per gallon.
Global Markets Drive Costs
The surge in fuel costs is driven by volatility in global energy markets. West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude oil is currently trading at $93 per barrel. This represents a significant increase from recent periods, with prices up $10 compared to last month and $30 higher than they were one year ago.
Geopolitical instability remains a primary factor in these market pressures. Conflicts in the Russia-Ukraine war and across the Middle East continue to disrupt supply chains and drive up commodity costs.
“Things are still rough out there, both in the Russia-Ukraine war and across the Middle East,” said Matthew Conde, noting the ongoing impact of international tensions on domestic fuel prices.
Impact on Households
The steady rise in energy costs is placing additional strain on family budgets across Idaho. As fuel prices climb, consumers are facing higher transportation expenses that affect daily commutes and broader household spending.
“Family budgets are increasingly going into survival mode,” Conde said, highlighting the financial pressure on households dealing with persistent inflation and rising essential costs.
With crude oil prices remaining elevated and no immediate resolution to global conflicts in sight, Idaho drivers may continue to face high fuel prices in the coming weeks. The gap between Idaho’s average price and the national average remains wide, leaving state residents paying a premium compared to many other regions of the country.