Average gasoline prices in western states
State Now Year ago Change
Alaska $3.94 $3.97 -$0.03
California $3.72 $3.97 -$0.25
Hawaii $4.23 $4.30 -$0.07
Idaho $3.65 $3.73 -$0.08
Oregon $3.73 $3.68 +$0.05
Utah $3.49 $3.58 -$0.09
Washington $3.73 $3.73 $0.00
Sources: AAA, OPIS and Wright Express
NEW YORK — The price of a gallon of gasoline may soon start with a “2” across much the country.
Gasoline prices typically decline in autumn, and this year they are being pulled even lower by falling global oil prices. By the end of the year, up to 30 states could have an average gasoline price of less than $3 a gallon.
The average in Springfield, Mo., is already below $3, according to Tom Kloza, chief oil analyst at the Oil Price Information Service and GasBuddy.com. Several other cities are on the brink.
“And there will be more, many more,” Kloza said. Cities in high-priced states such as California and New York will not be among them, though, which will probably keep the national average above $3.