COPPELL, Texas –Texas gas prices statewide averaged $2.58 for a gallon of regular unleaded fuel, according to the AAA Texas Weekend Gas Watch. That price is one cent less than on this day last week and is 12 cents less per gallon compared to this day last year. Of the major metropolitan areas surveyed in Texas, drivers in Midland are paying the most on average at $2.76 while drivers in San Antonio are paying the least at $2.41 per gallon. The national average price for a gallon of regular unleaded is $2.86, which is two cents less than this day last week and four cents less than the price per gallon at this same time last year.
Across Texas, every city surveyed by AAA now has a price average below 2018 levels. The biggest difference in the price today compared to one year ago can be found in El Paso, where drivers are paying 27 cents less for a gallon of regular unleaded. Meanwhile, motorists in some cities are seeing smaller savings, such as six cents less per gallon in the Galveston and Wichita Falls areas, compared to this day one year ago.
Market analysts note there are many factors that could quickly push up gas prices in the coming weeks, including the impact of Chinese tariffs, warmer weather, a major draw in gasoline stock levels, a spike in demand or the volume of Memorial Day weekend travel.
“Drivers in every city across Texas, surveyed by AAA, are paying less for a gallon of gasoline compared to one year ago,” said Daniel Armbruster, AAA Texas/AAA New Mexico spokesperson. “However, market analysts caution the recent drop in prices may only be temporary. A spike in demand for retail gasoline could force prices to jump higher as millions are expected to hit the road for Memorial Day weekend, among other factors.”
Gas prices are decreasing despite the Energy Information Administration’s (EIA) latest reports which show an increase in demand to summer-like levels and a decrease in gasoline stocks. The move to cheaper gas prices indicates that demand and supply are potentially leveling out. This is the first time in three months that gas prices have shown consistent signs of declining.
Prices up to date at press time using market prices posted at 3:41 a.m. Motorists can find current gas prices along their route with the free and revamped AAA App for iPhone, iPad and Android. The app can also be used to map a route and learn traffic conditions along that route, find discounts, locate parking, book a hotel and request and track AAA roadside assistance. Learn more at www.AAA.com/mobile.
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To help members and non-members identify quality auto repair shops that can assist in the maintenance and repair of their vehicles, AAA offers the Approved Auto Repair program as a free public service. AAA-approved repair facilities meet and maintain high professional standards for training, equipment, cleanliness and customer service. Motorists can look for the Approved Auto Repair sign at local auto repair facilities, or search for a nearby AAA-approved shop online at AAA.com/Repair. AAA Texas branch offices throughout the state can be found by visiting www.AAA.com. Follow AAA Texas on Twitter: @AAATexas and Facebook: www.facebook.com/AAATexas.