Metro Phoenix has the most expensive gas prices in Arizona, eclipsing $5 a gallon

PHOENIX — Prices at the pump continue to be high across Arizona and metro Phoenix totals are the most expensive in the state, surpassing $5 a gallon.

The average cost for a gallon of gas in the Valley was $5.01 as of Thursday, AAA spokesman Julian Paredes told KTAR News 92.3 FM.

“There’s refinery issues along with transportation issues,” Paredes said. “Those are a big part of the reason gas prices are so high right now.”

The statewide average was $4.68 on Thursday. Only California ($4.90) and Hawaii ($4.78) had higher statewide means.

Arizona’s bloated average was also a dollar higher than the nationwide average of $3.68.

The Grand Canyon State was one of only seven with an average price of at least $4 as of Thursday.

AAA said oil prices tumbled to the upper $70s per barrel recently, signaling the possibility that lower gas prices could be on the way.

It would be a welcome development for drivers in the state, who were paying an average of $3.98 for a gallon of gas a month ago.

The highest recorded average price in Arizona history was $5.38, which was set in June last year.

KTAR News 92.3 FM’s Balin Overstolz-McNair contributed to this report.

Related

Here's why gas prices are rising in metro Phoenix, across ArizonaArizona man accused of luring minors for sexual exploitationPhoenix heat reaches record high Sunday with extreme heat expected through TuesdayMesa industrial property sells for $5.25 millionSen. Mark Kelly believes Trump would hit ‘reset button’ on Iran war if he could, offers solution3 dead, 1 injured following Gilbert stabbing and officer-involved shooting