Utahns will have to wait to enjoy the rest of the country’s overall downward trend in gasoline prices.
AAA reports Tuesday’s national average of $3.47 per gallon is 18 cents lower than last month. Utah’s price is only 4 cents lower. Randy Shumway is the economic advisor to Zions Bank. He says aside from any major unforeseen global political or economic events, the state will follow its long history of lagging as fuel prices fall nationally.
“So if you want to know what’s going to happen with gasoline prices in the state of Utah, all you have to do is look at the national trend and know that we’re going to follow 4 to 6 weeks behind,” says Shumway.
Rolayne Fairclough of AAA says you can still find savings at the pump by trying to time your fill-ups right before a holiday weekend.
“And so there’s a sweet spot and you try to find that sweet spot. Also, just try to do everything you can to maximize your efficiency, in your fuel efficiency,” says Fairclough.
Fairclough says checking your tire pressure; reducing stops and starts, and reducing your speed can all greatly reduce fuel consumption.
AAA reports today's national average price is the lowest it's been on this date since 2011. Hawaii has the highest gas prices in the U.S. while South Carolina has the lowest.