(Des Moines) Drivers across Iowa welcomed the news that regular unleaded gasoline had slipped another 10 cents, settling at an average of $2.65 per gallon, across the Hawkeye State, according to AAA. It was not only cheaper than last week but also 3 cents lower than this time last year.
Beyond the gas pumps, the global crude oil market told a different story. West Texas Intermediate climbed $1.61, reaching $59.12 per barrel, while Brent crude rose $1.05 to $62.81. Even with those increases, both remained well below last year’s prices, when WTI stood at $70.15 and Brent at $74.80.
Meanwhile, diesel users saw modest savings of their own. Iowa’s average diesel price dipped 6 cents, landing at $3.61 per gallon, still higher than last year’s $3.28, yet 12 cents cheaper than the national average of $3.73. At the Des Moines terminals, rack prices painted a detailed snapshot of the market: $1.63 for U87-E10, $1.89 for clear Unleaded 87, $2.14 for ULSD #2, $2.61 for ULSD #1, and $1.87 for E-70.
Heating fuel costs also shifted as winter demand grew. Natural gas at the Henry Hub jumped 55 cents to $5.00 per MMbtu, while propane held steady at $1.54 per gallon statewide. Home heating oil averaged $3.17 per gallon, rounding out the week’s picture for households preparing for colder days.
For Iowans hoping to stretch every dollar—whether on the road or at home—resources and energy-saving tips awaited at energy.gov and fueleconomy.gov.
