Gas prices in Texas are on the rise again after dropping below the $3 mark for several months.
Overall, the average state gas price is $3.22 per gallon for regular, with premium nearing $4 at $3.962; diesel is $3.641.
Amarillo has current average at $3.053 per gallon; a month ago it was $2.904; Lubbock has a current average at $3.069; a month ago it was $2.845; and Dimmitt has an average of $3.17.
Historically, gas tends to be cheapest in the winter when driving activity is lower and the country is using winter-grade gasoline. In the spring, demand for gas picks up as warmer weather arrives, and prices are also impacted as refineries switch to the more expensive summer blend.
Patrick De Haan, head of petroleum analysis at GasBuddy, said in a report that refinery maintenance usually peaks in March, “impacting how much gasoline can be produced as we make the changeover to the summer blends. This always crimps supply, leading to further gas price increases.”
On a more positive note, gas prices are lower than they were at this time in 2022 and 2023. In some states, the average is still below $3 per gallon, including Mississippi ($2.88), Colorado ($2.93) and Texas ($2.93), according to AAA.
Citing increased U.S. refi nery capacity, the Energy Information Administration forecasts that gas prices will be lower overall in 2024, averaging $3.31 per gallon, compared to $3.52 last year.