Gas prices in Hawaii are continuing to rise as global oil markets respond to the ongoing conflict in Iran, increasing crude oil prices, and disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, according to AAA Hawaii’s Weekend Gas Watch.
Today’s statewide average for regular unleaded is $5.50 per gallon, up 17 cents from last week, $1.12 higher than last month, and 97 cents above a year ago. The national average stands at $4.08 per gallon, up 10 cents in the past week, $1.09 over the past month, and 85 cents higher than last year. On average, drivers in Hawaii are paying about $1.42 more per gallon than drivers nationwide.
With the national average now surpassing $4 per gallon, prices have reached a level not seen since August 10, 2022. That year, the national average remained at or above $4 per gallon from March 6 through August 10, following the onset of the Russia-Ukraine conflict and during the peak spring and summer driving seasons.
Hawaii currently ranks second in the nation for highest gas prices, behind California at $5.89 per gallon. Washington ranks third, with drivers there paying an average of $5.36 per gallon.
Locally, gas prices vary across the islands. In Honolulu, the average price for regular unleaded is $5.40 per gallon, up 20 cents from last week and 96 cents higher than a year ago. In Hilo, drivers are paying $5.63 per gallon, up 14 cents from last week and 97 cents above last year. Kahului’s average is $5.61 per gallon, up 15 cents from last week and $1.07 higher than a year ago. In Lihue, the average is $5.86 per gallon, up 16 cents from last week and 76 cents higher than a year ago.
“With gas prices continuing to rise in Hawaii, AAA encourages drivers to take steps to manage fuel costs,” said Kandace Redd, AAA Hawaii spokesperson. “We recommend comparing prices at different stations, using the free AAA Mobile app to find the lowest gas prices nearby, and practicing fuel-efficient habits. How high or how long prices will rise depends on the conflict and how markets respond.”
The Weekend Gas Watch monitors the average price of gasoline. As of 9 a.m. on April 2, averages are:
AAA Hawaii 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.