BOISE, ID — Idaho drivers saw a pause in rising gas prices this past week, but that break may be short-lived.
According to AAA Idaho, the state average for a gallon of regular gasoline remains at $2.97, unchanged from a week ago . However, escalating conflict in Iran over the weekend has pushed crude oil prices higher and could soon drive prices at the pump above the $3 mark .
AAA Idaho Public Affairs Director Matthew Conde said global supply concerns are contributing to market uncertainty.
“On one hand, the crude oil market had time to account for some financial risk in the Middle East as forces mobilized, but a supply shortage somewhere affects the global picture,” Conde said. “If tankers can’t move products through the region, there could be ripple effects” .
While the United States does not import oil from Iran, countries such as China and India do, meaning disruptions in the region can still affect global supply and pricing .
Idaho’s current average price is 12 cents higher than a month ago but 20 cents lower than a year ago . The national average sits at $2.997 per gallon, up six cents from a week ago and 12 cents from a month ago, but 10 cents less than a year ago .
Idaho ranks 14th in the nation for most expensive fuel. Among neighboring states, Washington has the highest average at $4.37 per gallon, followed by Oregon at $3.92 and Nevada at $3.70. Colorado averages $2.89, Montana $2.82, Utah $2.74 and Wyoming $2.73 .
Crude oil prices are also trending upward. West Texas Intermediate is trading near $71 per barrel after spiking to $74 in futures trading over the weekend . Higher crude prices typically translate to higher retail gas prices.
Conde added that refineries will soon begin producing the more expensive summer-blend fuel, which could add further pressure at the pump .
As of March 2, gas prices in Idaho’s larger cities include:
- Boise: $2.93
- Coeur d’Alene: $3.00
- Franklin: $2.74
- Idaho Falls: $2.87
- Lewiston: $3.07
- Pocatello: $2.97
- Rexburg: $2.94
- Twin Falls: $2.96
AAA Idaho is affiliated with AAA Oregon/Idaho, serving approximately 900,000 members in the region .
