The statewide gas price average in Texas is $3.22 for a gallon of regular unleaded fuel, according to the AAA Texas Weekend Gas Watch. That price is seven cents more than from this day last week and is 99 cents more per gallon compared to this day last year. Of the major metropolitan areas surveyed in Texas, drivers in El Paso are paying the most on average at $3.51 per gallon while drivers in Amarillo are paying the least at $3.09 per gallon. The national average price for a gallon of regular unleaded is $3.52, which is four cents more when compared to this day last week and 98 cents more than the price per gallon at this same time last year.
According to the latest data from the Energy Information Administration, demand for gasoline in the U.S. dropped week-to-week by 6%. However, demand remains strong as weekly regional fuel supply is decreasing along with Gulf Coast refinery utilization. The main culprit pushing pump prices up is the high cost of crude oil. Recent spikes in demand for gasoline and other crude oil products in addition to geopolitical tensions continue to keep crude above $90 per barrel.
“Strong demand, tightening supplies and crude oil remaining above $90 per barrel will not alleviate the pain Texas drivers are feeling at the gas pump,” said AAA Texas spokesperson Daniel Armbruster. “The cost to fill up an average tank is approximately $45, which is about $14 more than a year ago.”
One development market watchers will continue to monitor is the possibility of the end of sanctions on Iran. If those sanctions were lifted, analysts anticipate that Iran could quickly bring 500,000 barrels per day of crude oil to market, which could decrease oil prices, or at least slow consistent gains.
Drivers in Texas are paying the 6th lowest gas price average in the country, according to gasprices.aaa.com. Meanwhile drivers in California are paying the most at $4.72 on average for a gallon over regular unleaded.
AAA Tips to save money on fuel:
- Make sure your tires are properly maintained and inflated to the correct level.
- Maintain your car according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. Regular service will ensure optimum fuel economy.
- Avoid “jackrabbit” starts and hard accelerations. These actions greatly increase fuel consumption.
- Slow down and drive the speed limit. Higher speeds result in more aerodynamic drag.
- Use cruise control on the highway to help maintain a constant speed and save fuel. However, never use cruise control on slippery roads because a loss of vehicle control could result.
- Minimize your use of air conditioning.
- Avoid extended idling to warm up the engine, even in colder temperatures. It’s unnecessary and wastes fuel.
- Remove unnecessary and bulky items from your car.
- Minimize your use of roof racks and remove special carriers when not in use.
- Download the AAA App to find the cheapest gas prices near you.





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.
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.