The average price of regular unleaded gasoline in Arkansas fell five cents this week to $3.88 per gallon, according to the latest report from AAA. While the drop offers some relief at the pump, prices are still $1.24 higher per gallon than at the same time last year.
AAA’s survey of major metropolitan areas in the state shows Jonesboro drivers paid an average of $3.79 per gallon this week, a nine-cent decrease compared to last week. West Memphis reported the highest average at $3.95 per gallon.
The national average also fell, dropping six cents to $4.27 per gallon. Arkansas currently ranks as the 10th least expensive state in the U.S. for gasoline, AAA noted.
AAA attributed the price drop to the seasonal shift to winter-blend gasoline, which is cheaper to produce. However, high crude oil prices—approaching $100 per barrel—are limiting larger decreases.
“This month is poised to set a record as the most expensive October ever for gas prices, following similar records set in August and September of this year,” AAA commented in its report.
Arkansas drivers appear to be benefiting from the state’s comparatively moderate prices despite the ongoing strain of elevated fuel costs at the national level.