Average N.M. gas price rises 6 cents from last week

The statewide gas price average in New Mexico is $2.42 for a gallon of regular unleaded fuel, according to the AAA New Mexico Weekend Gas Watch. That price is 6 cents more than last week and 22 cents more per gallon than this day last year.

Of the major metropolitan areas surveyed in New Mexico, drivers in Farmington are paying the most on average at $2.57 per gallon, while drivers in Santa Fe are paying the least at $2.36 per gallon. The national average price for a gallon of regular unleaded is $2.59, which is 3 cents more than last week and 31 cents more than the price per gallon on this day last year.

“Higher than normal consumer gasoline demand mixed with rising crude oil prices are causing most New Mexico drivers to pay more when they fill up their tanks,” said Daniel Armbruster, AAA Texas/AAA New Mexico senior public affairs specialist. “Drivers should maintain fuel efficiency by following the recommended maintenance schedule in their owner’s manual. Keeping tires properly inflated, moving parts adequately lubricated and emissions systems in good operating condition will help to maximize fuel efficiency.”

Gas prices in the Rocky Mountain region, which includes New Mexico, decreased in two states and increased in two states. Colorado drivers saw the largest increase this week, with the statewide average rising by 4 cents.