Statewide Gas Price Average Slips Below $4

The statewide gas price average in Texas is $3.95 for a gallon of regular unleaded fuel, according to the AAA Texas Weekend Gas Watch. That price is 19 cents less than on this day last week and is $1.12 more per gallon compared to this day last year. Of the major metropolitan areas surveyed in Texas, drivers in College Station are paying the most on average at $4.08 per gallon while drivers in Laredo are paying the least at $3.59 per gallon. The national average price for a gallon of regular unleaded is $4.44, which is 16 cents less when compared to this day last week and $1.28 more than the price per gallon at this same time last year.

Gas prices across the state fell as economic slowdown concerns, due to rising interest rates and inflation, outweigh crude oil supply worries as the war in Ukraine continues. The potential for declining crude oil demand, as it relates to possible reduced economic activity, could lead prices to follow suit. However, crude oil prices remain sensitive to headlines – trading in wild swings somedays, and July is still a leading month for travel demand; therefore, it is unclear how long downward pressure will remain on the price at the pump.

“The statewide retail price for a gallon of regular unleaded on average fell below $4 for the first time since the second week of May,” said AAA Texas spokesperson Joshua Zuber. “With gas prices continuing to decline, more people may be encouraged to make last minute decisions to travel.”

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.