Gas Price Surge: Is Lubbock Feeling The Pinch At The Pumps?

Gas prices are creeping upward again across Texas, and drivers in Lubbock may be starting to notice the difference when filling up their tanks. That's still lower than many parts of the country, but recent increases are raising questions about how much higher they might go as spring travel season approaches.

Read More: How To Save 10% On Store-Brand Essentials At United Supermarkets

What Gas Costs Right Now in Lubbock

Recent data from the American Automobile Association (AAA) shows the average price for regular gasoline in Lubbock sitting around $2.80 to $2.90 per gallon this week.

That puts Lubbock slightly below both the Texas and national averages. However, prices have climbed compared to just a couple of weeks ago.

Mid-grade gasoline is generally selling for just over $3.10 per gallon, while premium fuel can reach $3.40 or more, depending on the station. Diesel prices are typically higher, often hovering in the $3.60 range.

Lubbock Residents Will See Higher Gas Bills This May

Read More: How Rising Energy Prices Impact Lubbock Residents' Budgets

How Are Gas Prices Compared To Last Year? Historically?

Last March, prices were lower at $2.49 and $2.63 per gallon on average. The highest gas prices have ever been is $4.52 in June of 2022. The lowest in recent history was in the 90s, when gas frequently went down to a dollar. When Amigos was built, I remember a promotion for .80 cents a gallon!

Why Prices Are Rising Again

Several factors are contributing to the latest bump in gas prices.

Seasonal demand usually increases as winter ends, and people begin traveling more in the spring. Refineries also sometimes shift production this time of year to prepare for summer gasoline blends.Oil market uncertainty can also influence prices. Global supply concerns and fluctuations in crude oil markets often trickle down to local gas stations.

Because Texas produces and refines a large amount of fuel, prices here often stay lower than in many other states, including those on the West Coast and in the Northeast. We are simply better at "absorbing" world events and market conditions in general but especially when it comes to pump prices.

What Drivers Can Expect Next

Historically, gas prices tend to rise gradually through the spring before peaking during the summer travel months.

That does not necessarily mean prices will skyrocket, but drivers in Lubbock may continue seeing small week-to-week increases.

For now, West Texas motorists still have it better than many Americans when it comes to filling up. Still, if the trend continues, that relief at the pump could shrink as we head toward summer road trip season.

My Best Advice

Use fuel discounts and rewards when you can- I use Market Street/ United rewards to save up to $1.00 per gallon on gas. Doesn't hurt that I have a hybrid, too.