Idaho pump prices stall

This week’s average price for a gallon of regular in the Gem State is $3.58, which is half a penny more than a week ago, but 3 cents less than a month ago and 57 cents less than a year ago, according to AAA.

Meanwhile, the national average sits at $3.21 per gallon, which is 6 cents less than a week ago, 22 cents less than a month ago and 66 cents less than a year ago.

Idaho currently ranks eighth in the country for most expensive fuel behind California ($4.78), Hawaii ($4.61), Washington ($4.15), Nevada ($4.00), Oregon ($3.75), Alaska ($3.70) and Utah ($3.61).

Kootenai County prices range from the low $3.20s to about $3.45 for a gallon of gas.

“Gas prices dipped slightly across the Treasure Valley and up in the Panhandle but shot up 15 cents in Franklin. People enjoying the last warm weather near Bear Lake may be propping up demand in the area,” said AAA Idaho public affairs director Matthew Conde. “We anticipate that the state average will soon begin the seasonal slide that’s underway in other parts of the country.”

The West Texas Intermediate benchmark for crude oil is currently trading near $70 per barrel and has remained at or below that mark for the past 10 days. Today’s price is $7 less per barrel than a month ago and $20 less than a year ago. The cost of crude makes up half the price of gasoline.

Here’s a look at Idaho gas prices: Boise, $3.59; Coeur d’Alene, $3.39; Franklin, $3.69; Idaho Falls, $3.54; and Lewiston, $3.46.