ST. LOUIS — The statewide gas price average in Missouri is $1.85 for a gallon of regular unleaded fuel, according to the AAA Gas Prices.
That price is one cent more than this day last week and is 56 cents less per gallon compared to this day last year. Of the major metropolitan areas surveyed in Missouri, drivers in Kansas City are paying the most on average at $1.96 while drivers in Joplin are paying the least at $1.77 per gallon.
The national average price for a gallon of regular unleaded is $2.11, which is three cents more compared to this day last week and 56 cents less than the price per gallon at this same time last year.
Missouri’s statewide gas price average ticked up one cent week-to-week – a minimal change compared to the previous week’s 16-cent surge. The slow rise is partially due to regional gasoline stocks and refinery utilization both showing slight increases on the week from 54 to 54.5 million bbl and 75% to 76%, respectively, according to the latest EIA data.
“As Missouri drivers return to the roads more regularly, prices will continue to follow increased demand.” Nick Chabarria, AAA spokesperson said. “But motorists can still look forward to the cost to fill up staying well below typical summer amounts.”
That’s because demand won’t be sufficient enough to drive down stocks levels. National gasoline stocks sit at a significant surplus of nearly 24 million bbl year-over-year. Currently, about one-third of state averages are $1.99 per gallon or less and the majority of those are states in the South and Southeast.
Prices up to date at press time using market prices posted at 3:41 a.m. Motorists can find current gas prices along their route with the free AAA app for iOS and Android. The app can also be used to map a route and learn traffic conditions along that route, find discounts, locate parking, book a hotel and request and track AAA roadside assistance. Learn more at www.AAA.com/mobile.
To help members and non-members identify quality auto repair shops that can assist in the maintenance and repair of their vehicles, AAA offers the Approved Auto Repair program as a free public service. AAA-approved repair facilities meet and maintain high professional standards for training, equipment, cleanliness and customer service. Motorists can look for the Approved Auto Repair sign at local auto repair facilities, or search for a nearby AAA-approved shop online at AAA.com/Repair. AAA branch offices throughout the state can be found by visiting www.AAA.com. Follow AAA Missouri on Twitter: @AAAMissouri and Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AAAMissouri.