ST. LOUIS, Mo. – Missouri’s statewide gas price reached an average price of $2.48 per gallon for regular unleaded fuel. That price is five cents more compared to this day last week and is 34 cents more per gallon compared to this day last year.

Of the major metropolitan areas surveyed in Missouri, drivers in Springfield are paying the most on average at $2.55 while drivers in St. Louis are paying the least at $2.41 per gallon. The national average price for a gallon of regular unleaded is $2.74, which is six cents more compared to this day last week and 32 cents more than the price per gallon at this same time last year.

Drivers in Missouri are seeing the most expensive statewide pump price average since July 2019. This, as many southern refineries return to production after February’s winter storm. AAA forecasts the national gas price average to hit at least $2.80 in March. For motorists, that means they can expect continued increases of at least 5–10 cents in local markets until refinery operations are stable.

The latest Energy Information Administration (EIA) report shows demand for retail fuel rose to eight million barrels per day across the United States. While sales for gasoline are up week-to-week following the winter storm, demand levels remain below year-ago readings, which exceeded nine million barrels per day.

“March could bring the highest pump prices this year, barring any issues during Hurricane season,” said AAA spokesperson Nick Chabarria. “While the month is roaring in like a lion, by the end of it we could see some relief at the pump as refineries resume normal operations, especially if crude oil prices show signs of stability.”

Drivers in Missouri continue to pay some of the cheapest prices at the pump, raking 4th lowest in the country, according to AAA Gas Prices.