Thanksgiving Travelers in Yakima Benefit from Stable Gas Prices

Yakima drivers will find little change at the pump as the average gasoline price remains steady this week at $3.62 per gallon, according to a survey conducted by GasBuddy, which monitors prices at 91 stations in the area. This current price marks a decline of 4.5 cents per gallon compared to a month ago and an impressive drop of 21.6 cents per gallon when compared to this time last year.

ARE YOU DRIVING THIS WEEK?

For those hitting the road for the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday, these prices provide some relief as the demand for fuel traditionally rises during this time. Statewide, Washington is seeing an uptick in average gas prices, with regular unleaded hitting $3.99 per gallon, up slightly from $3.97 just a few days prior.

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WE KNOW WHERE TO FIND THE CHEAPEST GAS IN THE VALLEY

Meanwhile, Yakima drivers can find cheaper gas. The lowest price can be found at Wheelers Kountry Korner in Wapato, where fuel was priced at $2.98 per gallon on Sunday. Ahtanum Fuel Stop, a Sinclair station in Union Gap, offers gas at $3.05 per gallon, while Costco was selling it for $3.15 per gallon on Sunday.

POLITICAL TENSIONS HAVE IMPACTED GAS PRICES

Patrick De Haan, head of petroleum analysis at GasBuddy, attributes the current pricing changes to recent geopolitical tensions. "Last week, Russia's threats following Ukraine's use of long-range U.S. missiles pushed oil prices back above $70 per barrel. However, promotional pricing ahead of Thanksgiving is helping to keep gas prices in check, even amidst elevated oil prices."

CLOSE TO A MILESTONE?

De Haan noted that the country is close to hitting a milestone, with the national average poised to drop to $2.99 per gallon, but cautioned that it may fall short for the third consecutive year. "As Americans prepare to travel for Thanksgiving, we're seeing the lowest national gasoline prices since 2021, which is a welcome relief for travelers and reflects an overall improved economic situation compared to when fuel prices were last this low.”  At the national level, the average gasoline price has decreased by 1.4 cents per gallon over the past week, now sitting at $3.01 per gallon.