TUCSON, Ariz. (KGUN) — Tucson drivers are feeling the pinch at the pump. According to AAA, the current average price for regular unleaded gas in Tucson is $4.58 per gallon—10 cents above the national average.
That price is also $1.35 higher than it was at this time last year, when Tucson's average sat at $3.23 per gallon.
River Havens, a Tucson resident, said the rising costs are straining his budget.
"Well, my car only holds 10 gallons. So last summer, when it was $2.50-$3 a gallon, I knew I could get a full tank with 25 to 30 bucks. Now, this little car has to cost me $50 to fill it up," said Havens.
Havens said he fills up several times a week and has turned to DoorDash at night to help cover everyday expenses.
"I'm working two to three jobs a week, it seems like now. And last year I was working just one job, and it's just, it's killing us," said Havens.
AAA data shows how Tucson's average price has climbed in recent weeks:
- Now: $4.58
- One week ago: $4.47
- One month ago: $4.32
- One year ago: $3.23
Fellow Tucsonan Bret Smith said he is watching how he gets around. His 27-mile commute from Picture Rocks to Tucson means filling up his motorcycle about every other day. At around $5 a tank, Smith said it is still far cheaper than driving his truck.
"This is about 1/10 of what it costs to fill up the truck," Smith said.
With Tucson's average above where it was last week, a month ago and a year ago, drivers are adjusting in ways that fit their own budgets.
This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.
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Jacqueline Aguilar is a multimedia journalist at KGUN 9. Born and raised in Yuma, AZ., she is no stranger to the unforgiving Arizona heat. Now this U of A wildcat is excited to be back in Tucson and is looking forward to involving herself in the community. Share your story ideas with Jacqueline by emailing jacqueline.aguilar@kgun9.com or connecting on Facebook, Instagram or X.
