Gasoline and diesel prices are experiencing distinct trends across Wyoming and the nation, K2 Radio reports.
While Wyoming’s gas prices have risen slightly in the past week, national averages have seen modest declines for gasoline but increases for diesel. These shifts highlight the interplay of local factors and broader market dynamics.
In Wyoming, average gasoline prices rose by 3.4 cents per gallon over the past week, now averaging $2.85 per gallon, according to GasBuddy’s survey of 494 stations. Despite this weekly increase, prices are 3.6 cents lower than last month but remain 11 cents higher than a year ago.
The disparity in prices within the state is notable. The cheapest station in Wyoming was priced at $2.25 per gallon, while the most expensive reached $3.69 per gallon, a difference of $1.44 per gallon.
Nationally, the average price of gasoline decreased by 1.1 cents per gallon in the last week, now standing at $3.02 per gallon. Compared to a month ago, prices have increased slightly by 0.9 cents per gallon, but they are 3.2 cents lower than a year ago.
Diesel prices tell a different story. The national average for diesel rose by 3.7 cents per gallon this week, reaching $3.525 per gallon. This increase is partly attributed to colder weather, which can disrupt refinery operations and raise production costs.
Historical data reveals fluctuating trends over the years. For instance:
- On January 13, 2024, Wyoming’s average gas price was $2.74 per gallon, compared to the national average of $3.05 per gallon.
- On the same date in 2023, Wyoming’s price was $3.11 per gallon, with the national average at $3.26 per gallon.
- A decade ago, in 2015, gas prices were significantly lower, with Wyoming at $2.14 per gallon and the national average at $2.11 per gallon.
Neighboring areas offer a snapshot of regional variations:
- Fort Collins, CO: Gas prices fell to $2.77 per gallon, down 4.7 cents from last week.
- Ogden, UT: Prices decreased to $2.99 per gallon, a drop of 1.3 cents.
- Billings, MT: Gas prices rose to $2.75 per gallon, up 2.2 cents from last week.
Patrick De Haan, head of petroleum analysis at GasBuddy, notes that while gasoline prices have remained relatively stable, diesel costs have risen due to colder weather and potential refinery disruptions. The ongoing increase in oil prices, spurred by new US sanctions on “dark vessels” used by nations like Iran, could further affect gas prices. Additionally, the approach of refinery maintenance season in spring, typically accompanied by reduced gasoline production, may drive prices higher.
