PORTLAND, Ore. — (The video accompanying this story is from August, 2018, three tips on paying less for gas.)
At almost $3.19 a gallon as a statewide average on Tuesday, Oregon has the 4th most expensive regular grade gasoline in the United States, according to the American Automobile Association.
The national average is $2.74 a gallon.
At the state level, Multnomah, Clatsop, Curry, Josephine, Jackson, Lake and Grant counties had the most expensive gas, from $3.25 to $3.35 a gallon. Adjacent to Multnomah County, gas prices Clark, Washington and Clackamas counties were 10 to 15 cents cheaper per gallon.
The least expensive gas was in Malheur, Baker, Union, Umatilla, Morrow, Gilliam and Lincoln counties. A gallon in Malheur County Tuesday sold for an average of $2.66.
The 3 states with the least expensive gas in the U.S. were Mississippi, Alabama and Arkansas at $2.44 a gallon.
Hawaii has the second most expensive gas, followed by 3rd place Washington. Nevada was 5th.
Of the top 10 states for most expensive gasoline, all but three are in the western U.S., reports AAA.
Several factors are driving the increase, according to AAA, including ongoing maintenance at California refineries that reduced stock levels on the West Coast, coupled with rising oil prices.
AAA predicted oil prices could rise even more this week as OPEC’s production reduction agreement remains in place until June and the U.S. tightens crude oil export sanctions against Iran and Venezuela.
Meanwhile, gas prices are nearing $4 a gallon in California, which has the most expensive gas in the nation. If the Golden State does hit $4, it would be the first time the state hit that rate since July 27, 2014.
Average prices in California are currently at $3.83, which was the peak price last year.
The highest national average for a gallon of gas was on July 3, 2008 at $4.11.