Texans celebrate lower gas prices as 4th of July travel could break records

Fireworks and American flag.

SAN ANTONIO (KTSA News) — If you are one of the 5.7 million Texans hitting the road for the 4th of July weekend, you will not be alone.

In San Antonio, the average price for a gallon of regular unleaded is $2.65, and that is a drop of 16 cents week-over-week.

The statewide gas price average in Texas is $2.72 per gallon for regular unleaded fuel, according to the AAA Texas Weekend Gas Watch. That price is ten cents less when compared to this day last week and is 38 cents less per gallon compared to this day last year.

“This drop in fuel prices couldn’t come at a better time,” said Daniel Armbruster, spokesperson for AAA Texas. “More Texans than ever are planning road trips this Independence Day, and lower gas prices may make travel more affordable and accessible for families looking to celebrate the holiday away from home.”

Of the major metropolitan areas surveyed in Texas, drivers in El Paso are paying the most on average at $2.85 per gallon while drivers in the McAllen area are paying the least at $2.51 per gallon. The national average price for a gallon of regular unleaded is $3.16, which is six cents less when compared to this day last week and 35 cents less per gallon when compared to this day last year.

As tensions in the Middle East ease, crude oil prices have fallen below $70 per barrel—contributing to a welcomed drop in gas prices just in time for what’s expected to be another record-setting Independence Day travel period.

According to AAA Texas, 5.7 million Texans will travel 50 miles or more for the holiday, with the vast majority—about 85%—choosing to drive to their destinations. Statewide gas prices are now at their lowest point for the July 4th holiday since 2021.

Despite the recent dip, AAA reminds drivers that gas prices can still fluctuate due to global supply and demand factors. Motorists are encouraged to plan ahead, ensure their vehicles are road trip ready, and use tools like the AAA Mobile App to find the lowest fuel prices along their route.

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