Motorists across Idaho faced another increase at the pump this week as the statewide average for regular gasoline rose to $4.86 per gallon, according to data from AAA.
The seven-cent jump brings Idaho’s prices 37 cents higher than they were a month ago and $1.34 above the levels recorded one year prior. Lewiston drivers saw the local average reach $4.63 on Monday, Sept. 21, placing the Lewis-Clark Valley below the state mean but still well above last year’s figures.
Global Conflict Drives Volatility
AAA attributed the recent price instability to ongoing geopolitical conflicts involving Russia, Ukraine, and the Middle East. These tensions have kept crude oil markets volatile, with West Texas Intermediate crude trading at approximately $95 per barrel on Monday. That figure follows a peak of nearly $106 mid-last week.
Matthew Conde, AAA Idaho Public Affairs Director, noted that while the current weekly increase was smaller than previous surges, the overall situation remains unfavorable for consumers.
“In a season of unusually large spikes, this week was a bit calmer, but the results still aren’t good,” Conde said.
Conde warned that Idaho’s average price could approach $5 per gallon before market conditions stabilize. He indicated there is little reason to expect relief in the crude oil market until the international conflicts ease.
National and State Rankings
Idaho currently ranks ninth in the nation for the most expensive gasoline. Only California, Washington, Hawaii, Nevada, Oregon, Alaska, Michigan, and Illinois reported higher average prices.
The national average for regular gasoline stood at $4.47 per gallon on Sept. 21, an increase of 16 cents from the previous week. Like Idaho, the national average is up 37 cents from a month ago and $1.29 from a year ago.
Diesel prices in Idaho have seen even steeper increases over the past year. The state’s average diesel price was approximately $6.47 per gallon, compared to $3.83 one year ago.
Regional Price Breakdown
Gas prices varied across Idaho cities on Sept. 21, with southern and central locations generally seeing higher averages than northern communities.
- Twin Falls: $4.95
- Boise: $4.87
- Pocatello: $4.86
- Idaho Falls: $4.84
- Rexburg: $4.83
- Franklin: $4.78
- Lewiston: $4.63
- Coeur d’Alene: $4.63
The disparity highlights how regional supply dynamics and local competition influence final pump prices, even as statewide averages climb due to broader market forces.