Key Highlights

Idaho gas prices increased 9 cents in a week, averaging $3.19 per gallon.
The state ranks 12th for the most expensive gas in the U.S.
Crude oil prices have dropped to $72.50 per barrel, down from last month.
Some Idaho stations still offer gas under $3 per gallon.

As many are already aware, there has been a jump at the pump in the price for a gallon of gas. This despite the cost of crude oil decreasing.

According to AAA Idaho, the average price for a gallon of gas in the state is up 9 cents since last week, 12 cents higher than last month and 27 cents more than this time last year. It currently sits at around $3.19 per gallon, approximately 5 cents more than the national average.

The Gem State currently ranks 12th in the country for the most expensive gas, while Colorado, Montana, Utah and Wyoming are paying less at $3.05, $3.02, $3.05 and $2.98 respectively. And Oregon, Nevada and Washington are paying more at $3.67, $3.77 and $4.04 respectively.

AAA Idaho reported that the West Texas Intermediate benchmark for crude oil was trading around $72.50 per barrel as of Feb. 10, $1 less than last week and $4 less than last month and last year at the same time. The agency stated that the cost of crude oil makes up half the cost of gasoline.

“The cost of crude oil has dropped substantially in the last month or so.  We’re hoping that the cold weather and favorable crude prices will put spiking gas prices in the deep freeze for a while,” said Matthew Conde, AAA Idaho public affairs director. “Try to conserve fuel wherever possible and bundle your trips to stretch your fuel budget.”

Beyond crude cost, other factors such as demand, refining and taxes can drive up the cost.

Though most places throughout Idaho saw gas prices above the $3-per-gallon mark, Gasbuddy.com listed several places where it is still available for under $3.

A Chevron station in Lewiston, Walmart on Overland and Walmart on Fairview in Meridian all listed the cost of a gallon at $2.88 as of Feb. 11. Costco in Meridian and the location in Boise, along with Walmart locations in Nampa, listed $2.89 for a gallon. A Conoco station in Lewiston also posted the price at $2.89 per gallon.