SANDPOINT — Gas prices are moving in the right direction, AAA officials said on the organization’s website.

Monday, the  average price for a gallon of regular in Idaho was at $3.83, which is seven cents less than a week ago, 26 cents less than a month ago, and 53 cents cheaper than a year ago, officials said. 

At local gas stations, Bonner County is averaging $3.88 per gallon, Boundary County is averaging $3.89 per gallon, and Kootenai County is averaging $3.92 per gallon.

Meanwhile, the national average currently sits at $3.42 per gallon, which is eight cents less than a week ago, 32 cents less than a month ago, and 38 cents less than a year ago.

Idaho currently ranks eighth in the country for most expensive fuel behind California at $5.15, Hawaii at $4.74, Washington at $4.61, Nevada at $4.49, Oregon at $4.27, Alaska at $4.16 and Arizona at $3.86.

Today, six states are under the $3 mark, with Texas leading the way at $2.88 per gallon.

“Fuel demand dipped slightly this week, but the bigger source of savings was lower crude oil prices,” Matthew Conde, AAA Idaho public affairs director, said. “Unfortunately, given the current instability in the Middle East, it’s difficult to predict how the cost of crude will look from week-to-week or even from day-to-day. But one thing is certain — the lower crude and gas prices go, the better our starting point will be next year.”

The West Texas Intermediate benchmark for crude oil is currently trading near $82 per barrel after soaring to nearly $90 per barrel just two weeks ago. Continued market volatility could affect the cost of crude in coming weeks, which makes up more than half the price of finished gasoline.

“As you make your Thanksgiving shopping lists, consider buying turkey day snacks and groceries at stores that offer fuel rewards points,” Conde suggested. “Every little bit helps, and you may be able to keep a few more of your hard-earned dollars in your pocket the next time you fill up.”