Jonesboro, AR – Jonesboro Right Now – Prices at the pump are steadily climbing across much of Arkansas including Craighead County, mirroring a nationwide jump driven by high crude oil costs and international volatility.
AAA reports that the average prices for all fuel types in Craighead County are all above $4. In Jonesboro, the average price for a gallon of regular unleaded reached $4.09 this week. That’s a 15-cent increase from one week ago and a 51-cent jump over the past month. At this time last year, drivers were only paying $2.83 a gallon.
Craighead County Average Prices This Week:
- Regular: $4.09
- Mid-Grade: $4.48
- Premium: $4.91
- Diesel: $6.23
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According to a news release from AAA sent Sept. 17, the nationwide average is also up 16 cents this week, now sitting at $4.43.
Analysts attribute the surge to crude oil prices holding around $100 per barrel, fueled by ongoing volatility in the Strait of Hormuz. Additionally, new data from the Energy Information Administration shows an uptick in domestic gasoline demand, adding further pressure to the prices.
Despite recent hikes, Arkansas remains one of the more affordable prices to fill the tank. The state is currently ranked among AAA’s top 10 least expensive gasoline markets, with a statewide average of $4.08 for regular unleaded.
However, while gas-powered vehicles are finding some relief in Arkansas compared to the coasts, electric vehicle owners are seeing a different trend. AAA reports that Arkansas is currently in the top 10 most expensive states for public EV charging, averaging 44 cents per kilowatt-hour.
The latest gas prices can be found on AAA’s website.
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