ECONOMY

Regional Pump Prices Slip Amid Continued Crude Volatility

PUBLISHED Apr 23, 2026, 11:15 AM ET

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Lubbock, Texas — Gasoline prices fell for the second consecutive week across multiple U.S. regions this week, according to AAA and local reports. Texas statewide average was reported at $3.60 per gallon while Lubbock averaged $3.30; metro Phoenix recorded a 12-cent decline over the past two weeks and Virginia’s average also eased this week. Drivers and small fleets reported immediate relief, with Whitney business owners noting lower fill-up costs this week; AAA and EIA data show a 4.6-million-barrel gasoline inventory drop last week, and crude oil volatility tied to Middle East shipping tensions remains present. Market watchers say supply-demand dynamics will influence prices in the coming days and weeks.

By Noormahi M. | JQJO News

Timeline of Events

AAA maintains weekly gas price surveys tracking national and state averages and releases data.
Year-over-year comparisons show pump prices remain higher than same period last year.
Over the past two weeks, metro Phoenix and multiple Texas markets record week-over-week declines.
Local business owners report reduced operating fuel costs as pumps ease modestly this week.
EIA reports a 4.6-million-barrel gasoline inventory drop, and crude oil remains volatile due to geopolitical shipping tensions.

News Intelligence

Falling gas prices mean more money in your pocket. If you're a driver or small business owner, you're likely seeing immediate relief at the pump. Keep an eye on local gas prices and consider filling up your tank when prices are low.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 4
Right Leaning:: 0
Left Leaning:: 0
Neutral:: 4
Distribution:: Left 0%, Center 100%, Right 0%

Who Benefited

Local consumers, commuters and small service fleets experienced modest immediate relief from lower pump prices this week, reducing near-term fuel expenses and easing operating costs for vehicle-dependent businesses.

Who Impacted

Transport-dependent businesses and fleets had previously absorbed higher fuel costs; refiners and fuel retailers may face margin pressure from fluctuating wholesale crude and falling pump prices while inventories tightened.