How much should you expect to pay to fill your tank ahead of Fourth of July? What to know

Gas prices in Arizona were above the national average by more than 5 cents on Tuesday as residents prepared for record travel, according to data from AAA.

On Tuesday, the average price of regular gas was $3.56 per gallon, above the national average of $3.50, with Maricopa and Coconino counties ranking as the most expensive counties in Arizona, at $3.58 and $3.67, respectively.

About 60 million travelers were expected to take a road trip for Independence Day, with AAA suggesting that could increase gas prices even more.

"That number could pop over the next ten days," said Andrew Gross, spokesperson for AAA on Thursday.

In Arizona, prices had increased by seven cents since Monday, and almost 15 cents since last week.

The average price in Phoenix on Tuesday was $3.56, $3.50 in Tucson, and $3.67 in Flagstaff.

In the Phoenix metro area, gas averaged $3.53 in the west and $3.59 in the east.

These prices were lower than last year, with the average gas costing $3.86 in Arizona in July 2024.

Rising costs were associated with crude oil prices nearing $81 per barrel, up from $78.50 two weeks ago, according to AAA.

"Gas is significantly cheaper right now compared to this time in 2023. But prices may start heading up soon due to the cost of oil and hurricane season," said Julian Paredes, AAA of Arizona spokesperson.

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: How much should you expect to pay to fill your tank ahead of Fourth of July? What to know