Idaho gas prices plummet

Idaho drivers may be noticing big changes at the pumps. 

AAA reported that the state’s average price for regular gasoline dropped 20 cents this week to $4.32 per gallon. That’s 59 cents less than a month ago, but about $1 more than a year ago.

The national average hit $4 today, which is about 16 cents less than a week ago and 37 cents less than a month ago, but 94 cents more than a year ago. Idaho ranks 10th in the nation for the most expensive fuel.

In Coeur d'Alene, a gallon of gas was as low as $3.69.

“At last, we’re stringing some wins together — a 13-cent, 15-cent, and 20-cent drop in each of the last three weeks,” said AAA Idaho public affairs director Matthew Conde. “It’s starting to add up to some real savings and some much-need relief for Idaho families.”

Today, the most expensive gas is in California at $5.74 per gallon, while the least expensive is in North Carolina at $3.25 per gallon.

The West Texas Intermediate benchmark for crude oil is currently trading near $87 per barrel, about $6 less than a month ago but more than $25 more per barrel than a year ago. Tensions in the Middle East have cooled slightly, but the crude market will likely remain uncertain until the conflict reaches a lasting resolution.

“Cheaper crude may not arrive in time to help with the price of a plane ticket, but it could make a big difference for those are who still debating whether or not they can take a Thanksgiving holiday road trip,” Conde said.

Here’s a look at Idaho gas prices as of Monday: Boise, $4.46; Franklin, $4.47; Idaho Falls, $4.26; Lewiston, $4.14; Pocatello, $4.29; Rexburg, $4.49; and Twin Falls, $4.32.