LUBBOCK, Texas (KCBD) – Lubbock drivers are feeling a noticeable hit at the pump. The average price per gallon has climbed from $2.33 to $3.07 in just 30 days, a jump that AAA Texas says is far from typical.
“The market average today according to AAA is $3.07 in Lubbock. A month ago, it was $2.33 that is a significant one-month increase. You don’t see that often,” said Daniel Armbruster, AAA Texas spokesperson.
Despite the increase, Texas drivers are still paying less than most Americans. The state typically ranks among the five cheapest for fuel, though it has slipped to around 13th nationally as prices shift across the country.
Armbruster says the change is being largely driven by global factors.
“You have to remember crude oil is a globally trade commodity. That means when there’s a short fall in one part of the world it affects us, including here in the United States. Even though we don’t get our oil from Iran,” Armbruster said.
AAA points to tensions involving Iran as a source of uncertainty in the global oil market. A similar dynamic played out when Russia invaded Ukraine, sending prices higher worldwide. Spring break travel demand is also contributing to the seasonal uptick.
Lubbock drivers saw gas approach $4.70 per gallon in 2022. Current prices remain well below that benchmark, though AAA says the next few weeks will depend heavily on how crude oil markets respond.
“We’re not anywhere close to record numbers yet but we’ll have to wait and see what happens. Of course, when prices would start to come back down again that’s really going to be determined by the price of crude oil and how markets react for the next few weeks,” Armbruster said.
For drivers heading out this spring break, small adjustments behind the wheel can make a difference.
“When you’re driving, we know that driver behavior is the number one factor when it comes to fuel efficiency. Slow down, drive the speed limit, don’t have quick acceleration. Little things like that add up,” Armbruster said.
AAA also recommends using gas price tracking apps to compare fuel costs before longer trips.
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