HOUSTON – Texas drivers are paying more at the pump this week as rising crude oil prices continue to push gasoline prices higher, though Houston-area motorists are still seeing some of the lowest average prices in the state.
According to AAA Texas’ Weekend Gas Watch, the statewide average for a gallon of regular unleaded gasoline is $3.55, up 13 cents from last week and 76 cents higher than this time last year.
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For Houston drivers, the news is a bit better. The Houston metro area is tied with Beaumont-Port Arthur, Longview and Tyler for the lowest average gas price among Texas’ major metropolitan areas at $3.42 per gallon.
Meanwhile, drivers in El Paso are paying the highest average price in the state at $3.95 per gallon.
Nationally, the average price for regular unleaded gasoline climbed to $3.94 per gallon, an increase of 9 cents over the past week and 78 cents higher than one year ago.
Why are gas prices rising?
AAA Texas said ongoing instability around the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global shipping route for crude oil, is driving oil prices higher. Crude oil is now approaching $80 per barrel, and those higher costs are beginning to show up at gas stations across Texas.
Despite the recent increase, Texas drivers continue to pay nearly 40 cents less than the national average, and most motorists across the state are still paying under $4 per gallon.
“Texas drivers are seeing another noticeable increase at the pump as uncertainty surrounding the Strait of Hormuz pushes crude oil prices higher,” said Daniel Armbruster, spokesperson for AAA Texas. “While the statewide average remains well below $4 per gallon, continued volatility in the oil market could lead to additional fluctuations in retail gasoline prices.”
Texas metro areas with the highest and lowest gas prices
According to AAA Texas, average prices among major metro areas include:
- El Paso: $3.95 (highest)
- Texas statewide average: $3.55
- Houston: $3.42 (tied for lowest)
- Beaumont-Port Arthur: $3.42
- Longview: $3.42
- Tyler: $3.42
Drivers planning weekend travel may want to compare prices using gas price tracking apps, as costs can vary significantly from station to station, even within the same city.