(April 12, 2022) WASHINGTON, D.C.  — The cost of gasoline has continued to slide due to falling oil prices. The global oil market has seen lower prices since the U.S. and its allies agreed to significant releases of oil reserves. Also weighing down oil prices is the fear of resurgent COVID-19 infections in China and its potential for an economic slowdown in one of the world’s largest oil-consuming nations. Domestically, the national average for a gallon of gas has fallen to $4.11.

“The average price for a gallon of gas has fallen below $4 in much of the country,” said Andrew Gross, AAA spokesperson. “And these lower prices may be a boon to drivers hitting the road more as warmer weather returns.”

According to new data from the Energy Information Administration (EIA), total domestic gasoline stocks decreased by 2 million bbl to 236.8 million bbl last week. Gasoline demand increased slightly from 8.5 million barrels a day to 8.56 million barrels a day. Although supply and demand factors would have typically supported elevated pump prices, the fluctuating oil price continues to be the main factor influencing pump prices. Pump prices will likely face downward pressure if oil prices remain below $100 per barrel.

Today’s national average for a gallon of gas is $4.11, which is seven cents less than a week ago, 22 cents less than a month ago, and $1.25 more than a year ago.

Quick stats

The nation’s top 10 largest weekly decreases: Washington, D.C. (−14 cents), Connecticut (−11 cents), Indiana (−10 cents), Ohio (−10 cents), South Carolina (−10 cents), Rhode Island (−10 cents), Georgia (−9 cents), Wisconsin (−9 cents), Florida (−9 cents) and Delaware (−9 cents).

The nation’s top 10 least expensive markets: Missouri ($3.67), Oklahoma ($3.67), Kansas ($3.67), Arkansas ($3.70), Texas ($3.71), Maryland ($3.74), South Carolina ($3.75), Georgia ($3.76), Wisconsin ($3.76) and Nebraska ($3.78).