(The Center Square) – Gas prices dropped a penny in Iowa, but the decline could be short-lived, according to AAA.
The average cost for a gallon of regular unleaded gasoline is $2.19, up from $2.90 last week. Iowa ranks 10th among states for the lowest fuel costs, according to AAA.
Some counties are already seeing prices well over $3 a gallon. Winneshiek and Chickasaw counties report gas prices at $3.14 a gallon, a dime below the statewide average of $3.24 last year. Clark County, in the southern part of the state, has the lowest cost at $2.64 a gallon, according to AAA. The national price for a gallon of fuel is $3.24.
How the needle will move on gas prices depends on the cost of oil.
“The current streak of daily pump prices either falling or staying flat started on September 19,” said Andrew Gross, AAA spokesperson. “It appears this run is in jeopardy, and we may see prices edge a bit higher. But if the cost of oil eventually hits reverse and dips again, pump prices will likely follow suit.”
Crude oil prices are hovering at around $80 a barrel, according to AAA.
Iowans drive an average of 14,745 miles a year and spend $1,939.85 annually on fuel, according to a report by the American Legislative Exchange Council.
