Idaho gas hits $4 a gallon again

COEUR d'ALENE — Idaho’s average price for a gallon of regular is $3.97, which is 8 cents more than a week ago and 22 cents more than a month ago, according to AAA.

The national average sits at $3.59 per gallon, a 4-cent jump from a week ago and a nickel more than a month ago.

The Gem State ranks 10th in the country for most expensive fuel, with the leaders being California ($4.90), Washington ($4.81) and Hawaii ($4.74).

Coeur d'Alene prices ranged from the low $3.80s to $3.99 for a gallon of regular unleaded. Many North Idaho stations are charging more than $4 a gallon.

Idaho also had the 10th largest change in pump prices this week.

“Idahoans are definitely feeling the effects of more-expensive fill-ups, but on the bright side, they’re nowhere near the $5.10 per gallon that we paid a year ago,” said Matthew Conde, AAA Idaho public affairs director

AAA says that last year, the Idaho state average topped out at $5.25 per gallon on July 1. Barring unforeseen changes to current conditions, pump prices are expected to remain well below that mark this year.

According to the Energy Information Administration, gasoline demand rose by more than 100,000 barrels to 9.2 million per day, and supplies decreased by 2.7 million barrels. If demand increases this week or if supplies tighten, fuel prices could continue to climb.

Today, average gas prices in the Treasure Valley, the Panhandle, and in the Franklin/Bear Lake areas are already above the $4 mark.

While Pocatello, Lewiston, and Rexburg are close behind, drivers in Idaho Falls and Twin Falls are faring slightly better.