Understanding Montana Gas Prices: Insights From Industry Expert

Missoula, MT (KGVO-AM News) - After a slight increase last week, Montana gasoline prices are back on the decline. Patrick De Haan is the head of petroleum analysis at GasBuddy and he provided the current numbers.                  

“Average gasoline prices in Montana have fallen 3.4 cents per gallon in the last week, averaging $3.40 per gallon today,” De Haan said. “Prices in Montana are 9.3 cents per gallon lower than a month ago and stand 26.3 cents per gallon lower than a year ago.”                

As of Monday afternoon, many stations in Missoula still had their prices set to around $3.39 per gallon.        

According to GasBuddy price reports, the cheapest station in Montana was priced at $3.18 per gallon yesterday while the most expensive was $4.49 per gallon.                 

Montana is currently ranked 23rd in the U.S. when it comes to the average price of gas, which is four spots higher than last week.               

“The national average price of gasoline has fallen 10 cents per gallon in the last week, averaging $3.40 per gallon today,” De Haan said. “The national average is down 23 cents per gallon from a month ago and stands 18.2 cents per gallon lower than a year ago. The national average price of diesel has fallen 6.7 cents in the last week and stands at $3.75 per gallon.”             

Read More: Montana Fuel Update: Gas Prices Inch Up After Six-Week Dip

According to De Haan, we've seen one of the larger weekly drops in the national average price of gasoline in some time. 

“What incredible timing that it comes at the beginning of the summer driving season," said De Haan. "Not only have gasoline prices plummeted in nearly every state in the last week, but nearly every state has also seen prices drop compared to a month ago. With the declines, Americans will spend roughly $425 million less per week on gasoline than a year ago.” 

In addition, De Haan said the price of diesel has fallen alongside gasoline to its lowest level since Russia's invasion of Ukraine in early 2022.  

“This price decline party is ramping up, and I expect additional declines ahead of July 4 for both gasoline and diesel prices,” De Haan said. “Six states now have average prices below $3 per gallon, and more will join soon, with the number of U.S. stations at $2.99 or lower already nearing 25,000. It's a great start to summer for those hitting the road."