Houston and Galveston drivers are now paying more than $4 a gallon as Texas gas prices hit their highest average since 2022.
HOUSTON — Houston-area drivers are now paying more than $4 a gallon for regular unleaded gas as prices continue climbing across Texas ahead of the busy Memorial Day travel season.
According to the latest AAA Texas Weekend Gas Watch released Thursday, May 7, the statewide average for regular unleaded fuel reached $4.09 per gallon — the first time Texas has crossed the $4 mark since July 2022.
AAA Texas says rising crude oil prices remain the biggest factor behind the spike.
“Elevated crude oil prices remain the main driver behind the higher prices Texas drivers are seeing at the pump,” said Daniel Armbruster, spokesperson for AAA Texas. “Ongoing geopolitical tensions and uncertainty surrounding the Strait of Hormuz continue to influence the global oil market. At the same time, warmer weather brings more people onto the roads, which typically increases fuel demand this time of year.”
Houston and Galveston drivers seeing prices rise
Drivers in the Houston area are now paying an average of $4.02 per gallon, according to the report. In the Galveston-Texas City area, the average sits slightly higher at $4.03 per gallon.
The increases mirror a broader trend happening statewide as fuel prices continue climbing entering the summer travel season.
AAA says Texas gas prices are now 48% higher than they were this time last year.
What’s causing gas prices to climb?
AAA Texas says elevated crude oil prices are continuing to push prices upward.
- Geopolitical tensions
- Uncertainty surrounding the Strait of Hormuz
- Increased seasonal travel demand
- More drivers on the roads as temperatures warm up
- The approaching Memorial Day holiday weekend
The statewide average increased 24 cents in just one week.
Where gas prices are highest and lowest in Texas
- San Angelo has the highest average gas price in Texas at $4.21 per gallon
- Lubbock has the lowest average at $3.91 per gallon
Houston and Galveston prices remain slightly below the statewide average but are still above the $4 threshold.
National prices also climbing
The national average for regular unleaded gasoline climbed to $4.56 per gallon.
- 26 cents higher than last week
- $1.41 higher than this time last year
AAA says prices could remain elevated as summer travel ramps up in the coming weeks.
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