Arizona’s average gas price fell 15 cents this week. It remains over $1 higher than the US average. Over half of Arizona’s counties had double-digit losses in average price. Maricopa County had the biggest drop, shedding 16 cents for a total of $3.24 per gallon. As Arizona’s most populous county, Maricopa is now the state’s fourth-cheapest for gas. Pima County remains the cheapest at $2.85 per gallon.
GasBuddy analyst Patrick De Haan believes significant relief is starting for Arizona. The state mandates its own blend of gasoline. This has worsened issues when refineries shut down in Texas and New Mexico.
The average is now $3.83 per gallon, down 16 cents from last week. Prices are 53 cents lower than one month ago and $1.32 lower than one year ago. The cheapest station in the state had gas for $2.89 per gallon on Sunday. The most expensive was $5.79.
Arizona’s Historical Gas Prices
- July 2022: $5.15
- July 2021: $3.15
- July 2020: $2.17
- July 2019: $2.85
- July 2018: $2.85
- July 2017: $2.28
- July 2016: $2.19
- July 2015: $2.86
- July 2014: $3.68
- July 2013: $3.49
Arizona gets most of its gas from two pipelines: the East Line from Texas and the West Line from California refineries. Most gas used in Arizona comes from California.
Factors Influencing Gas Prices
Why are prices so high? The main culprit is the cost of oil, gas’s main ingredient. Arizona led in price increase since last week, about 20 cents.
The state requires a particular blend to meet regulations, resulting in more expensive gas. There is a shortage of pipelines, and trucking fuel from California is expensive.
High crude oil prices, supply and demand impact costs. Tips to conserve fuel include:
- Ensure tires are inflated properly
- Don’t speed
- Use cruise control
- Avoid idling
For comparison, average global prices are $1.70 per gallon. AAA Arizona said low supply and high crude oil demand cause high prices.
Natural gas deposits are on land and offshore, deep underwater. Coalbed methane is in coal deposits.
Arizona gets natural gas from two basins: San Juan in New Mexico and Permian in Texas. It’s then injected into the pipeline system for delivery.
Phoenix is named most expensive city for income spent on living and driving. Importing gasoline adds costs. Environmental regulations result in different, more expensive blends.
Most gas comes from California. Refinery problems can limit supply and spike prices.
The price of crude oil impacts gas costs, accounting for half the price per gallon. Since June, oil prices have climbed due to production cuts and increased demand.