Prices at gas pumps across the Lone Star State are trending lower as October ends, with drivers in Austin and San Antonio seeing some of the steepest declines.
The statewide average for regular unleaded fuel sat at $2.59 per gallon Thursday, according to the AAA Texas Weekend Gas Watch. That figure amounts to three cents less than last week and 10 cents lower than a year ago.
In the Austin–San Marcos area, prices fell 10 cents over the past week to an average of $2.56 per gallon, while San Antonio drivers saw an even larger drop of 14 cents, landing at $2.52. In Houston, prices remained relatively stable, down just two cents to $2.56 per gallon.
At the higher end, El Paso and San Angelo posted the state’s most expensive fuel, both averaging $2.81 per gallon. Amarillo continues to have the cheapest gas in Texas at $2.48 per gallon.
Nationally, the average price for regular unleaded is $3.04, also three cents down from last week.
AAA Texas spokesperson Daniel Armbruster said the easing prices are typical for this time of year.
“Gas prices often remain steady or dip during the fall, and this year is no exception,” Armbruster said. “With crude oil prices holding relatively low and demand easing, drivers may continue to see some relief at the pump heading into the upcoming busy holiday travel period.”
Fuel costs have been sliding throughout October as crude oil prices stay low amid ample supply and soft demand. With those trends expected to continue, AAA says motorists could see prices drift even lower into November — potentially keeping fuel costs manageable for Thanksgiving travelers.