ROANOKE, Va. – Gas prices in Roanoke have jumped more than 13 cents since last month, reaching an average of $2.79 per gallon, according to a new GasBuddy report.
In the past week alone, local prices have increased by more than six cents, though prices remain nearly a dollar lower than in 2023.
“No matter what the gas prices are, you just have to pay it. I wish gas was cheaper,” said Peter Siepert, who is moving to Virginia.
For residents like India Basham of Roanoke County, who drives a lot for school and work, the increase is particularly challenging. “I work two jobs and I go to school so I travel a lot and it would help me if it was lower,” she said.
Multiple Factors Influence Price Changes
AAA spokesperson Morgan Dean points to several factors affecting gas prices, including foreign affairs, weather, and seasonal changes.
“As we’re coming out of the wintertime, we transition from winter blend gasoline to summer blend gasoline that usually involves a several cent climb just because it’s more expensive to produce the summer blend,” Dean explained.
While current unrest in Venezuela has had minimal impact on local gas prices, Dean notes that tensions between the U.S. and Middle Eastern nations could significantly affect oil prices.
Finding the Best Deals
Of the gas stations in our area who don’t require a membership, the Murphy station at Valley View Walmart currently offers the lowest prices at $2.47 per gallon — 30 cents below the area average.
Dean suggests drivers can save money by avoiding gas stations near interstates. “Driving a couple of miles away from the interstate can really save them some money because you’re not paying for that prime piece of property that may have a very high rent to it right there next to the interstate,” he said.
Tips for Saving on Gas
Dean recommends several strategies for reducing fuel costs:
- Using loyalty cards
- Maintaining proper tire inflation
- Shopping around for better prices
“Under inflated means more of the tires hitting against roadway, that actually taking a little bit more work out of that engine to move that car forward,” Dean noted.