(May 5, 2023) WASHINGTON, D.C. — While the power of the Force should never be underestimated, it is the fear of a global economic recession leading to falling pump prices. The price for oil has dropped nearly $20 per barrel recently to the upper $60s, which has spurred the retreat for gas prices. The national average for a gallon of regular gasoline fell six cents since last week to hit $3.57.

“The oil market volatility is leading to lower prices,” said Andrew Gross, AAA spokesperson. “And we are also in a pre-summer driving season lull regarding domestic demand. These two factors should keep pump prices drifting lower for now.”

According to new data from the Energy Information Administration (EIA), gas demand decreased significantly from 9.51 to 8.62 million b/d last week. The drop in demand is more in line with what market observers expected last week.

The estimate could be revised when EIA releases final demand measurements for May. Meanwhile, total domestic gasoline stocks increased by 1.8 million barrels to 222.9 million barrels. Lower demand, alongside an increase in stocks, has contributed to pushing pump prices lower. If demand remains low, drivers will likely continue to see pump prices decline.

Today’s national average of $3.57 is seven cents more than a month ago but 65 cents less than a year ago.

Quick Stats

Since last Thursday, these 10 states have seen the largest decreases in their averages: Texas (−12 cents), Ohio (−11 cents), Michigan (−11 cents), Delaware (−11 cents), Tennessee (−10 cents), Indiana (−10 cents), Maryland (−9 cents), Iowa (−8 cents), Florida (−8 cents) and North Carolina (−8 cents).

The nation’s top 10 least expensive markets: Mississippi ($3.05), Texas ($3.11), Louisiana ($3.15), Alabama ($3.16), Arkansas ($3.16), Tennessee ($3.17), South Carolina ($3.21), Oklahoma ($3.26), Georgia ($3.28) and Missouri ($3.29).