The statewide gas price average in Texas is $2.61 per gallon for regular unleaded fuel, according to the AAA Texas Weekend Gas Watch. That price is six cents more when compared to this day last week and is 10 cents less 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 $2.86 per gallon while drivers in the Lubbock area are paying the least at $2.43 per gallon. The national average price for a gallon of regular unleaded is $2.98, which is five cents more when compared to this day last week and 15 cents less when compared to this day last year.
The seasonal increase in gas prices is beginning to take shape as refineries transition to producing summer-blend gasoline. Summer-blend fuel contains additional components designed to reduce evaporation in warmer temperatures, but those additives also make it more expensive to produce. At the same time, gas demand is expected to rise in the coming weeks as spring break travel ramps up and more drivers hit the road for seasonal getaways.
“Now that we’re approaching spring driving season, it’s typical to see gas prices begin their annual climb,” said Daniel Armbruster, AAA Texas spokesperson. “The switch to summer-blend gasoline and the anticipated increase in travel demand are key factors pushing prices higher. There’s the potential for some additional upward movement at the pump in the weeks ahead.”
