Gas prices across Hawaii rose for the third consecutive week, driven by ongoing tensions in the Middle East and higher crude oil costs, according to the AAA Hawaii Weekend Gas Watch.
The statewide average for regular unleaded is $5.07 per gallon, up 31 cents from last week and 54 cents higher than a year ago. By comparison, the national average is $3.88 per gallon, up 29 cents from last week and 78 cents above last year.
In Honolulu, the average for regular unleaded is $4.94, up 28 cents from last week and 49 cents higher than last year. Hilo drivers are paying $5.26 per gallon, an increase of 33 cents from last week and 61 cents above last year. Kahului averages $5.14, up 29 cents from last week and 62 cents higher than last year, while in Lihue, the average is $5.41 per gallon, up 27 cents from last week and 30 cents higher than last year.
Nationwide, drivers are seeing higher gas prices due to rising crude oil costs, the seasonal switch to more expensive summer-blend fuel, and increased demand as spring break travel begins.
Markets are closely watching the conflict in Iran and its impact on energy infrastructure, particularly the Strait of Hormuz. This narrow but vital shipping route connects the Persian Gulf to open waters, accommodates the largest crude oil tankers, and handles roughly 20 million barrels of oil per day—about 20% of the world’s supply. With few alternatives for transporting that volume, any disruption can delay shipments, raise shipping costs, and push global oil prices higher. Even countries that do not rely heavily on Middle Eastern oil can feel the impact, as crude is priced on a global market.
“As gas prices rise across the country, Hawaii remains among the most expensive markets because the state relies heavily on imported oil,” said Kandace Redd, AAA Hawaii spokesperson. “With global tensions pushing crude oil prices higher, drivers are seeing those increases reflected at the pump, since a significant portion of the price of gasoline is tied to oil costs. To help manage expenses, drivers should shop around for the best deal. Using tools like the free AAA mobile app to find the cheapest gas nearby can make a difference, and driving smart—avoiding speeding and aggressive driving—can improve fuel efficiency.”
The Weekend Gas Watch monitors the average price of gasoline. As of 9 a.m. on March 19, averages are:
The Auto Club recommends these tips for drivers to save money on fuel:
- Optimize your fuel economy with steady speeds, no hard braking, and no “jackrabbit starts.”
- Don't haul extra weight in the passenger compartment or trunk, which reduces fuel economy.
- Properly maintain your vehicle and keep tires properly inflated according to the pressure listed in your owner’s manual, which will optimize fuel economy.
- Use the recommended fuel for your vehicle, and don’t use mid-grade or premium unless it is specifically recommended in your owner’s manual. AAA research shows the higher-grade fuel offers no extra benefit for vehicles that aren’t required to use it.
- Look into discounts. AAA members who sign up for the Shell Fuel Rewards Program at AAA.com/Shell can save 30 cents a gallon on their first fill-up, and five cents a gallon on all other fill-ups. Other retailers such as grocery stores also offer fuel discount programs, and some credit cards offer gas discounts.
- If your household has more than one vehicle, use the most fuel-efficient one as much as possible.
- Consolidate errands to reduce mileage and avoid driving during peak hours when traffic congestion will reduce your fuel efficiency.