Gem State gas prices down 3 cents

COEUR d'ALENE — Idaho gas prices are among the most expensive in the nation, but drivers here got some good news this week.

According to AAA, Gem State prices dropped 3 cents, the biggest decrease in the country. Idaho also moved from 8th to 9th place for most expensive fuel on the week, trading places with Utah.

A gallon of unleaded in Kootenai County was going from a range of about $2.15 to $2.35.

“It’s pretty unusual for Idaho prices to be cheaper than they are in Utah, where most of our finished gasoline comes from, but we’ll take it,” said AAA Idaho spokesman Matthew Conde. “Any savings provides some much-needed relief and makes a fall weekend getaway or even the daily commute a little easier on the family budget.”

Today, Idaho’s average price for regular is $2.40, which is 7 cents less than a month ago, and 36 cents cheaper than a year ago. Meanwhile, the U.S. average held steady on the week at $2.19, 3 cents less than a month ago and 45 cents less than a year ago.

While Idaho prices dropped this week, other states saw large increases, including Florida (plus 9 cents), Delaware (plus 6 cents), and West Virginia (plus 4 cents). Thirty of the 50 states saw price fluctuations of just a penny or two.

“As states ease COVID-19 restrictions, there may be areas where gas demand jumps, and prices along with it,” Conde said. “A surge in infections will have the opposite effect. That’s why we think prices in each state could teeter-totter a bit, depending on how things go in the coming weeks.”