Gas prices inch upward

Monday's average price for a gallon of regular gas in the Gem State was $3.22, which was 3 cents more than a week ago, 17 cents more than a month ago, and 22 cents more than a year ago, according to AAA.

The national average sits at $3.16 per gallon. That’s about two cents more than a week ago and five cents more than a month ago, but 12 cents less than a year ago.

Today, Idaho ranks 11th in the country for the most expensive fuel, with regional neighbors Washington ($4.15), Nevada ($3.89) and Oregon ($3.77) paying more while drivers in Montana ($3.08), Colorado ($3.07), Utah ($3.05) and Wyoming ($2.99) are paying less.

In Boundary County, the average price for a gallon of unleaded gasoline is $3.22; in Bonner County, the price for a gallon of unleaded gas is averaging $3.25; and in Kootenai County is $3 a gallon and up. In Shoshone County, the average price of a gallon of unleaded gasoline is $3.49; and in Benewah County, the average price is $3.26.

“We’d love to see our gas prices fall in line with Utah, which supplies most of our gasoline. Hopefully, things will improve in the short term,” said AAA Idaho public affairs director Matthew Conde. “But spring weather will be here before you know it, and when it comes to winter savings, we may run out of time in the next handful of weeks.”

The West Texas Intermediate benchmark for crude oil is trading near $71 per barrel, which is $1 less than a week ago, nearly $7 less than a month ago, and $8 less than a year ago. If the cost of crude remains cheaper, it could help stabilize gas prices this week.

Here’s a look at Idaho gas prices as of Monday: Boise, $3.19; Franklin, $3.05; Idaho Falls, $3.14; and Lewiston, $3.22.