Gas prices keep going up

Jump another 12 cents in a week in Idaho

COEUR d’ALENE — After a turbulent week at the pump, Idaho gas prices jumped another 12 cents despite leading the nation with a 16-cent increase just the week before.

As COVID-19 restrictions ease in the Gem State and around the country, more people are getting behind the wheel, which continues to apply upward pressure on gas prices.

“It’s a bit of a double-edged sword,” said AAA Idaho Public Affairs Director Matthew Conde. “On one hand, you have more people commuting to work and patronizing brick-and-mortar businesses, which increases the traffic volume. On the other hand, those who are staying closer to home are getting more involved in e-commerce, which raises the miles traveled by delivery vehicles.

“Demand is pushing gas prices higher, and the trend is likely to continue this week.”

At $2.14 per gallon, Idaho has the 12th highest price in the country for regular fuel. With an average price of $1.58 per gallon, the cheapest gas in the country can be purchased in Mississippi.

Today, Gem State drivers are paying 29 cents more than a month ago, but still $1.06 cheaper than a year ago. Meanwhile, the current U.S. average is $1.96, which is 18 cents less than a month ago and 87 cents cheaper than a year ago. The national average could hit the $2 mark as early as this week.

In Kootenai County, gas prices topped $1.80 for a gallon of unleaded and were in the $2.25 range in Boise and most other areas of southern Idaho.