Gas prices at the Hearts, Gas & Food, Phillips 66 station on 335 West 7200 South in Midvale on Wednesday, March 24, 2021. A bill in the 2023 Utah legislature would trim the gas tax by two cents per gallon, while creating a new tax for drivers of out-of-state electric vehicles. (Photo: Scott G Winterton, Deseret News)
SALT LAKE CITY — Gas prices in Utah are getting higher, and that’s not expected to stop in the Beehive or other states anytime soon.
In a report published this week, AAA said the national average for a gallon of gas has increased by 40% across the country since January 2o21.
Right now, Utah’s average cost per gallon is $3.58.
AAA said motorists can expect prices to increase by between $.20 and $.30 cents by the end of the year.
AAA cited rising demand and rising costs for crude oil to explain the higher prices.
“Robust gasoline demand and more expensive crude oil prices are pushing gas prices higher,” said Jeanette McGee, AAA spokesperson.
But a recent Business Insider report says there aren’t enough oil-tank truck drivers which is getting in the way of fuel deliveries.
Citing information from the National Tank Truck Carriers, the Business Insider report said that 20% to 25% of oil tank trucks sit idle because of the driver shortage.
Gas Buddy, an application that offers a glimpse into nearby gas prices, said the least expensive gasoline in Utah right now is selling at a West Valley City Costco for $3.29 a gallon.
The application shows that the further away from the Wasatch Front, the more expensive the gasoline price.