Gas Prices Increase As Millions Prepare For Holiday Travel

SAN ANGELO, TX – Texas drivers are seeing an increase in gas prices as millions prepare for holiday travel, according to the AAA Texas Weekend Gas Watch.

The statewide average for regular unleaded fuel reached $2.67 per gallon on Dec. 19, up nine cents from last week and seven cents higher than this time last year.

In San Angelo, the average gas price stands at $2.75 per gallon, marking a 23-cent rise over the previous week and 16 cents more than a year ago. El Paso drivers face the highest costs in Texas at $2.87 per gallon, while Lubbock has the lowest at $2.46.

The convergence of increasing demand and reduced supplies is driving up fuel costs at the pump. This trend coincides with millions of Texans and Americans preparing for holiday travel.

According to AAA Texas, an estimated 9.1 million Texans will journey 50 miles or more during the year-end holiday period, with 90 percent traveling by automobile. This surge in travel is expected to further put pressure on demand and potentially elevate fuel prices as 2024 concludes, AAA reports. 

“As anticipated, gas prices are on the rise as we approach the end of 2024,” stated Daniel Armbruster, spokesperson for AAA Texas. “With record-breaking holiday travel volumes projected, the increased demand for fuel is likely to result in higher prices in the coming days.”