CONSUMERS

Why did gas prices go up in Arizona? Here's what drivers need to know

Corina Vanek
Arizona Republic

Arizona saw the fifth-largest increase in average gas prices nationwide since the past week, according to new data released by AAA.

Arizona’s average price was about 20 cents higher than the national average on Friday with Arizonans paying about $3.64 per gallon. The national average for Friday was $3.44.

Arizona was also the 8th most expensive market for gas in the nation, according to AAA data released Friday.

The price of a barrel of oil, one of the leading drivers of gas prices, has surpassed $80, according to AAA. Warmer weather on the way may also cause prices to continue rising.

“This is the time of year we normally see pump prices start to rise,” said Andrew Gross, a spokesperson for AAA. “And while prices have been rather pokey so far, they should begin to accelerate and move higher very soon.”

As weather warms, states shift to a more expensive blend of gas, he added. Demand for gas across the country rises around spring as more people go on vacation causing the price to rise.

According to the AAA data released Friday, the national average price for gas has increased by 16 cents from February but is 5 cents below the national average from 2023.

How to save money on gas

Here are some ways you can save some money at the pump:

  • Gasbuddy.com shows local gas station prices online or on its app and tells you where to find the cheapest.
  • Geico.com is another source, with their search for "local gas prices." You can take advantage of this service whether or not you're a customer of the insurer.
  • You can also search local gas prices on Google Maps and Waze, which also offers tips on carpooling.
  •  Mapquest has a gasoline icon that you can tap to see prices in your area.
  • Driving habits like going slower on highways, using cruise control if you have it and accelerating and braking gradually can improve fuel economy.
  • Keeping your tires properly inflated, replacing dirty air filters, removing excess cargo from your vehicle, making sure the gasoline cap is on tight and reducing idling, if possible, can all help you save some gas.
  • Use gas rewards programs. Circle K Easy Pay, grocery store discount programs, or using a GasBuddy gas savings card are some of the most popular options. Fry's Food Store customers can redeem points at Fry’s or participating Shell gas stations. A similar program is offered at Albertsons and Safeway stores in Arizona, where rewards can be redeemed for savings at Safeway, Chevron and Texaco gas stations.

Reporter Kayla Jackson contributed to this article

Reach the reporter at cvanek@arizonarepublic.com. Follow her on X, formerly Twitter: @CorinaVanek