Gas prices in Hawaii remain elevated, with the statewide average holding relatively steady this week while prices remain higher than a year ago, according to the AAA Hawaii Weekend Gas Watch. Gas prices typically begin to decline this time of year as the back-to-school season begins and summer driving demand winds down.
The statewide average price for regular unleaded is $5.42, which is one cent lower than last week and 96 cents higher than this time last year. The average national price is $4.10, which is three cents higher than last week and 97 cents higher than a year ago.
At $5.42 per gallon, Hawaii has the second-highest average gas price in the nation, behind California at $5.58. Washington ranks third at $5.24.
In Honolulu, today’s average price for regular unleaded gas is $5.36, which is one cent lower than last week and 99 cents higher than a year ago. The Hilo average gas price is $5.50, which is three cents lower than last week and 84 cents higher than a year ago.
The average price in Kahului is $5.45, unchanged from last week and 97 cents higher than a year ago. Lihue’s average regular gas price is $5.81, which is one cent higher than last week and 80 cents higher than a year ago.
“Crude oil prices are once again approaching the $90 per barrel range amid continued uncertainty along the Strait of Hormuz and the conflict in the Middle East,” said AAA Hawaii spokesperson Kandace Redd. “Gas prices remain volatile, so motorists should continue looking for ways to stretch their fuel dollars. Keeping tires properly inflated, avoiding excessive idling and combining errands are simple steps that can help reduce fuel consumption and save money at the pump.”
The Weekend Gas Watch monitors the average price of gasoline. As of 9 a.m. on Aug. 20, averages are:
