Idaho’s state average for gas now under the $3 mark

COEUR d'ALENE — Idaho’s average price for a gallon of regular was $2.98 Monday, which was 4 cents less than a week ago, 20 cents less than a month ago and 38 cents less than a year ago, according to AAA.

The national average sits at $3.02 per gallon, where it has lingered for the past week. The U.S. average is about 5 cents per gallon cheaper than a month ago and a year ago. Monday, Idaho ranked 20th in the country for the most expensive fuel, joining 31 other states below the $3 mark.

Gas prices dipped into the $2.60s at some stations in Coeur d'Alene.

“We continue to save at the pump, which will hopefully make holiday shopping just a little more budget-friendly these days,” said AAA Idaho public affairs director Matthew Conde. “As always, bundling your errands is another way to save.”

The West Texas Intermediate benchmark for crude oil was trading near $71 per barrel, which is $3 more than a week ago, $4 more than a month ago, but about the same price as a year ago. With just a few exceptions, crude prices have stayed below $70 since mid-November.

According to the most recent report by the Energy Information Administration, gasoline demand increased slightly to 8.8 million barrels per day. However, stock levels also increased by 5 million barrels for the week, helping to keep prices in check.

Here’s a look at Idaho gas prices as of Monday: Boise, $2.96; Franklin, $2.93; Idaho Falls, $2.85; and Lewiston, $3.21.