Average Price: Gasoline, Unleaded Regular (Cost per Gallon/3.785 Liters) in the West South Central Census Division

APU037074714 • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)

Latest Value

2.75

Year-over-Year Change

-8.51%

Date Range

1/1/2018 - 6/1/2025

Summary

This economic trend measures the average price of regular unleaded gasoline per gallon in the West South Central Census Division. It is a key indicator of consumer fuel costs and an important input for economic analysis and policymaking.

Analysis & Context

This economic indicator provides valuable insights into current market conditions and economic trends. The data is updated regularly by the Federal Reserve and represents one of the most reliable sources for economic analysis.

Understanding this metric helps economists, policymakers, and investors make informed decisions about economic conditions and future trends. The interactive chart above allows you to explore historical patterns and identify key trends over time.

About This Dataset

The Average Price: Gasoline, Unleaded Regular trend tracks the average retail price of regular unleaded gasoline on a per-gallon basis in the West South Central region, which includes Arkansas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, and Texas. This metric is closely monitored by economists, policymakers, and consumers to assess inflationary pressures and consumer purchasing power.

Methodology

The data is collected through survey responses from retail gasoline stations and calculated as a regional average price.

Historical Context

Gasoline prices are a crucial input for transportation, logistics, and consumer spending analysis.

Key Facts

  • The West South Central region accounts for over 20% of U.S. gasoline consumption.
  • Prices peaked at $4.70 per gallon in the region during the 2022 global energy crisis.
  • Gasoline makes up around 3-4% of the average household's monthly expenditures.

FAQs

Q: What does this economic trend measure?

A: This trend tracks the average retail price per gallon of regular unleaded gasoline in the West South Central Census Division, which includes Arkansas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, and Texas.

Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?

A: Gasoline prices are a key indicator of consumer costs and inflationary pressures, making this metric highly relevant for economic analysis, policy decisions, and household budgeting.

Q: How is this data collected or calculated?

A: The data is collected through surveys of retail gasoline stations and calculated as a regional average price per gallon.

Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?

A: Policymakers and central banks monitor gasoline prices as a key input for assessing inflation, consumer spending, and the overall health of the economy.

Q: Are there update delays or limitations?

A: The data is released on a weekly basis, with a 1-2 week lag. Regional price variations and refinery disruptions can affect the reliability of the average.

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Citation

U.S. Federal Reserve, Average Price: Gasoline, Unleaded Regular (Cost per Gallon/3.785 Liters) in the West South Central Census Division (APU037074714), retrieved from FRED.