HOUSTON – As many Texans have been enjoying lower gas prices, AAA Texas Weekend Gas Watch reports that the average price of gas is now increasing.
The statewide average for regular unleaded fuel is currently $2.75 per gallon, which is two cents higher than it was this time last week. Despite the recent uptick, this is still 51 cents less per gallon compared to this day last year, according to AAA Texas.
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A recent survey shows that drivers in the El Paso area are paying the most on average at $2.94 per gallon, while those in the Tyler area are paying the least, at $2.60 per gallon.
National gas price trends
Nationally, the average price for a gallon of regular unleaded remains steady at $3.17 — unchanged from last week, but 49 cents less than it was at this time last year.
Why the increase?
The rise in prices is being attributed to an increase in demand. As the weather improves and more people travel, prices are seeing a slight upward push.
Still, Texas’ average price of $2.75 per gallon remains significantly lower than last year’s levels. This is largely due to the lower cost of crude oil, which is currently around $62 per barrel — a noticeable drop from $82 per barrel a year ago.
“Fuel demand is starting to increase as more Texans take to the road, which is putting some upward pressure on prices,” said Daniel Armbruster, spokesperson for AAA Texas. “However, drivers are still seeing decent savings at the pump compared to this time last year, thanks in large part to lower crude oil prices.”