The statewide gas price average in Texas is $4.26 for a gallon of regular unleaded fuel, according to the AAA Texas Weekend Gas Watch. That price is three cents less than on this day last week and is $1.53 more per gallon compared to this day last year. Of the major metropolitan areas surveyed in Texas, drivers in Texarkana are paying the most on average at $4.35 per gallon while drivers in Lubbock are paying the least at $3.99 per gallon. The national average price for a gallon of regular unleaded is $4.60, which is one cent more when compared to this day last week and $1.57 more than the price per gallon at this same time last year.
After increasing for six consecutive weeks, retail gas price averages in Texas have decreased slightly as 3.2 million Texans plan to travel over the Memorial Day Weekend, according to AAA Texas data, with 2.8 million of them expected to drive. Despite dropping from record highs, fuel prices remain elevated and will likely continue to fluctuate as crude oil remains above $110 per barrel. Texas drivers will pay 56% more for fuel, on average, this Memorial Day compared to last year.
“The pain at the pump is still very apparent, but the daily record-setting for the statewide gas price average has stopped, at least for now,” said AAA Texas spokesperson Daniel Armbruster. “Higher gas prices are not deterring many from traveling, with 2.8 million Texans expected to drive to their destination this Memorial Day weekend. That is a five percent increase over last year and just below record levels set in 2019.”
AAA Tips to save money on fuel:
Bad driving isn’t just unsafe. It’s expensive. Studies have repeatedly shown that personal driving habits are the single biggest factor that affects vehicle fuel consumption. Adopting new and improved driving behaviors can contribute to significant savings at the gas pump. Here are some simple ways drivers can improve fuel efficiency:
- Slow down and drive the speed limit. Higher speeds result in more aerodynamic drag.
- Avoid “jackrabbit” starts and hard accelerations. These actions greatly increase fuel consumption.
- 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.
- Download the AAA App to find the cheapest gas prices near you.
- Maintain your car according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. Regular service will ensure optimum fuel economy.
- Make sure your tires are properly maintained and inflated to the correct level. Discount Tire, for example, offers free air checks at their shops.
- When driving in town, adjust your speed to “time” the traffic lights. This reduces repeated braking and acceleration that consume additional fuel.
- When approaching a red light or stop sign, take your foot off the gas early and allow your car to coast down to a slower speed until it is time to brake.
Drivers in Texas are paying the 13th lowest gas price average in the country, according to gasprices.aaa.com. Meanwhile drivers in California are paying the most at $6.07 on average for a gallon of regular unleaded.
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.