Gasoline Prices Vary Across States: Analyzing the Best and Worst Days to Buy Fuel in the United States

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ICARO Media Group
Politics
03/12/2023 21h02

Gasoline prices in the United States continue to fluctuate, and it appears that the day of the week can make a difference in terms of affordability. According to data from the American Automobile Association (AAA), the average price per gallon of fuel across the country dropped to $3.243 on December 3, a decrease compared to the average of $3.448 recorded a month ago.

However, it is important to note that gasoline prices differ from state to state. Texas, for example, currently boasts an average price of $2.745 per gallon, significantly lower than California's steep average of $4.815 per gallon. Interestingly, specific days of the week have been identified as offering more favorable fuel prices.

According to GasBuddy, an app designed to assist drivers in locating cheaper gas prices, Monday has consistently emerged as the most affordable day to purchase gasoline. The app's analysis spanning from January 1 to December 16, 2021, identified Monday as the day with the lowest average gasoline price in 17 states. Surprisingly, GasBuddy's studies conducted from 2017 to 2019 also revealed Monday as the day with the lowest gas prices.

Conversely, when it comes to the worst day to buy gasoline, historical data suggests that Saturdays have typically been unfavorable. However, GasBuddy's recent analysis indicates that Thursdays were the most expensive day to purchase gasoline in 2021. Across 28 states, the data showcases Thursday as the day with the highest average gasoline price.

Explaining the variations in gasoline prices across states, several factors come into play. Access to oil refineries, geographic barriers, and governmental policies and taxes all contribute to the discrepancy. Regions with greater access to refineries, such as the Gulf Coast, often exhibit lower gas prices compared to areas like the West Coast. The Rocky Mountains, with their topographical barriers, restrict the number of gas pipelines connecting western states to the rest of the country, leading to higher gas prices on the West Coast. Furthermore, governmental policies and taxes also play a significant role in fuel prices.

As of December 2, data from the American Automobile Association highlights the 10 states with the cheapest gasoline. These states include *please provide the data*.

In conclusion, gasoline prices in the United States fluctuate not only between states but also based on specific days of the week. While Monday offers the most affordable fuel prices, Thursdays tend to be the least favorable. Understanding the factors influencing these variations can help drivers make informed decisions on when and where to purchase gasoline.

The views expressed in this article do not reflect the opinion of ICARO, or any of its affiliates.

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