Gas prices climb across WA through April
MOSES LAKE — Gas prices across Washington continued their upward trajectory throughout April, mirroring national volatility, driven by shifting crude oil markets and renewed geopolitical tensions. According to AAA data, the Washington state average rose from $5.39 on April 6 to $5.48 on April 27, an increase of 1.7% or 9 cents over the month.
Nationally, prices fluctuated but ended slightly higher, moving from $4.12 on April 6 to $4.11 on April 27, essentially flat with a 0.2% decrease.
Patrick De Haan, head of petroleum analysis at GasBuddy, said the market remains highly reactive to global developments.
“Average gasoline prices rose in 39 states over the last week… However, that divergence may prove short-lived. Oil prices have been climbing again as markets react to renewed geopolitical tensions and the cancellation of talks between the U.S. and Iran,” De Haan said.
He added that many inland states could soon see their highest prices since 2022 as price‑cycling markets brace for another round of hikes.
Grant and Adams see steady increase
Local prices in Grant and Adams counties followed the statewide pattern, rising consistently through April.
In Grant County, the month started with fuel prices at $5.11 and ended with them at $5.27, a 26-cent increase or 3.1% rise from the beginning of the month.
Adams County followed a similar trend. It started the month at $5.07 on April 6 and ended the month at $5.19. This means there was a 12-cent increase or 2.4% rise from the beginning of the month.
Both counties remain below the statewide average.
National context
AAA reports throughout April noted that crude oil prices repeatedly pushed above key thresholds, driven by uncertainty in the Middle East and fluctuating diplomatic conditions. National averages briefly dipped mid‑month but began climbing again as oil markets tightened.
De Haan warned that the brief divergence between rising gasoline prices and falling diesel prices is unlikely to last.
“Gasoline prices are set to rise further this week, with diesel expected to follow,” he said.