Gas Prices on the Rise in Arizona: What You Need to Know

Categories: Arizona Business NewsArizona State News

Gas prices at a station in Arizona as summer approaches.

News Summary

Gas prices in Arizona are on the rise as the state prepares for summer, now ranking among the top 10 most expensive in the U.S. Currently averaging $3.33 per gallon, prices are expected to increase with the transition to more costly summer fuel blends. Residents are feeling the financial strain, especially in areas like Maricopa County. Historical trends suggest a peak around Memorial Day, urging consumers to be mindful of pricing and consider filling up early.

Gas Prices on the Rise in Arizona: What You Need to Know

As we gear up for summer, it’s time to talk gas prices in Arizona. Right now, residents are feeling that familiar pinch. Arizona is sitting pretty but not too comfortably, with gas prices ranking among the top 10 most expensive in the United States. Who needs that extra cost burden, right?

Current Prices and Comparisons

Currently, the average price per gallon in Arizona is around $3.33, which is roughly 40 cents lower than it was this time last year. Just last week, according to data from AAA, prices even dipped by a single cent, which is a small win in the grand scheme of things. In contrast, the national average took a little jump with a three-cent increase, leaving many looking at their wallets with concern.

Here’s the statewide breakdown:

Phoenix: $3.49
Tucson: $3.09
Flagstaff: $3.23
Yuma: $3.07 (the most affordable in metro Arizona)

For context, California, Hawaii, and Washington show average prices over $4.00 per gallon, while Mississippi sits comfortably as the state with the lowest prices at $2.68. Definitely gives a new perspective on “cheap gas”!

What’s Driving the Price Increases?

So, why are we bracing for a spike in Arizona? It’s that time of year again when seasonal changes make their presence known. As we transition to summer, gas suppliers will switch to more expensive summer fuel blends to meet EPA standards, meaning we can expect to shell out an extra 15 to 30 cents per gallon soon. This change typically brings a gradual increase, but it hits harder in June.

Last month saw an increase of over 30 cents per gallon as refineries rolled out this pricier summer blend. This blend, while potentially more costly, is designed to aid in reducing air pollution caused by evaporation, especially during those scorching summer months.

The Local Situation

In Maricopa County, residents bear the brunt of even higher prices, thanks to a cleaner-burning gas blend used since the 1990s. But that’s not all. Increased demand during spring and heading into summer, partly due to events like spring training games and summer road trips, typically spikes prices.

Interestingly, gas prices fluctuate widely across the state. While you might find it cheaper in places like Yuma averaging about $3.12 per gallon, counties nearer to refineries, like Graham, report even better averages as low as $2.79 per gallon. As for metro Phoenix, prices vary significantly, with the Phoenix-Mesa area seeing an average of $3.57 per gallon, while the posh Scottsdale area climbs to $3.69, the highest in the region.

Looking Ahead

As for what’s next, expect to see the average already fluctuating around $3.38 per gallon, but the forecast suggests those numbers will become less pleasant soon. Current issues with gas supply, aggravated by refinery maintenance and outages—particularly in California—are further complicating the landscape. Seasonal factors are likely to keep pushing prices upwards.

Historically speaking, gas prices are notorious for peaking around Memorial Day before they start tapering off. So, as summer approaches, keep an eye on those pumps, and perhaps consider filling up when you spot a lower price. Buckle up, Arizona, it looks like we’re in for a ride!