Gas prices across Arkansas saw a modest decline heading into the week of April 20, though costs at the pump remain significantly higher than earlier this year.
According to AAA, the statewide average for a gallon of regular unleaded gasoline is ranging between $3.59 and $3.64, down a few cents from the previous week. Despite the slight drop, prices are still well above where they stood a month ago, when averages hovered around $3.24 per gallon.
Regional data shows some variation across the state. Lafayette County is reporting the highest average prices, while Sebastian County currently has the lowest. Among metro areas, drivers in Little Rock, Hot Springs, and the Fayetteville-Rogers region are seeing prices fall within the statewide range.
Other fuel grades remain elevated as well. Mid-grade and premium gasoline continue to track higher than regular unleaded, while diesel prices—though easing slightly—remain more than $1 higher than this time last year, adding continued pressure on transportation and agricultural sectors.
Nationally, gas prices have recently climbed above the $4 per gallon mark, leaving Arkansas below the national average despite the recent increases.
Industry analysts say the primary driver behind the price fluctuations continues to be volatility in crude oil markets. Oil prices have periodically surged above $100 per barrel in recent weeks, contributing to elevated fuel costs even as short-term declines provide temporary relief at the pump.
