The statewide gas price average in Missouri is $3.98 for a gallon of regular unleaded fuel, according to the AAA Missouri Weekend Gas Watch. That price is sixteen cents more compared to this day last week and is $1.24 more per gallon compared to this day last year. Of the major metropolitan areas surveyed in Missouri, drivers in St. Louis are paying the most on average at $4.10 while drivers in St. Joseph are paying the least at $3.89 per gallon. The national average price for a gallon of regular unleaded is $4.40, which is seventeen cents more compared to this day last week and $1.42 more than the price per gallon at this same time last year, according to AAA Gas Prices.
The Missouri statewide gas price average reached a new record high, Wednesday, of $3.98 per gallon for regular unleaded. This price surpassed the previous record of $3.94 set on July 16, 2008. Volatility in the global crude oil market continues to be the main driving factor behind the recent spike in gas prices. Ongoing oil supply concerns from the Russian invasion of Ukraine and increasing demand for gasoline, along with diesel and jet fuel, is propping up oil prices above $100 per barrel. Crude oil prices account for about 60% of what drivers pay at the pump.
“Volatility in the global oil market has set the stage for rollercoaster pump prices to start the summer driving season,” said AAA Spokesperson Nick Chabarria. “While there is no magic wand to wave to increase a vehicle’s fuel economy, drivers should look for ways to increase their miles per gallon like regular vehicle maintenance and defensive driving habits.”
AAA Tips to save money on fuel:
Bad driving isn’t just unsafe. It’s expensive. Studies have repeatedly shown that personal driving habits are the single biggest factor that affects vehicle fuel consumption. Adopting new and improved driving behaviors can contribute to significant savings at the gas pump. Here are some simple ways drivers can improve fuel efficiency:
- Slow down and drive the speed limit. Higher speeds result in more aerodynamic drag.
- Avoid “jackrabbit” starts and hard accelerations. These actions greatly increase fuel consumption.
- Use cruise control on the highway to help maintain a constant speed and save fuel. However, never use cruise control on slippery roads because a loss of vehicle control could result.
- Minimize your use of air conditioning.
- Avoid extended idling to warm up the engine, even in colder temperatures. It’s unnecessary and wastes fuel.
- Maintain your car according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. Regular service will ensure optimum fuel economy.
- Make sure your tires are properly maintained and inflated to the correct level.
- When driving in town, adjust your speed to “time” the traffic lights. This reduces repeated braking and acceleration that consume additional fuel.
- When approaching a red light or stop sign, take your foot off the gas early and allow your car to coast down to a slower speed until it is time to brake.
- Download the AAA App to find the cheapest gas prices near you.
Drivers in Missouri are paying the 3rd lowest gas price average in the country, according togasprices.aaa.com. Meanwhile, drivers in California are the paying the most at $5.85 on average for a gallon of regular unleaded.
Information about AAA Approved repair shops can be found at AAA.com/repair or by calling your local AAA branch.
