By: Las Vegas Now Staff
Monday has been a record breaker for gas prices, setting an all-time high statewide and in the Las Vegas valley.
According to AAA, drivers in Vegas are paying an average of $3.23 a gallon for regular unleaded, beating the previous record of $3.21 set in May of 2007.
Experts say Las Vegas is one of the most competitive gas station markets in the country. Part of the reason, there are just so many gas stations, and the station owners say they aren't gauging retailers.
One owner said his company doesn't make that much money on gasoline. On average, they mark up gas 5 to 7 cents a gallon from what they pay. Add credit card fees and they aren't really turning that much of a profit.
Many gas stations and mini-marts make their money from gaming inside their stores, but the smoking ban and the overall economy has brought those numbers down as well.
AAA spokesperson Michael Geeser says the cost of crude oil, which has skyrocketed to over $100 a barrel, is bringing up the prices.
“This is not a good time for consumers who drive automobiles. Look around, we all drive cars, especially in the Las Vegas valley, where we are married to the car. Things aren't as close as we'd like them to be, so people are going to be using their cars and gasoline, which is going to cost money,” he said.
Geeser predicts that prices will go even higher because we still haven't entered the peak summer travel season, when demand and prices traditionally see an increase.
AAA says there are simple steps you can take to increase fuel efficiency. They suggest you make sure your car is serviced and well maintained, including checking fluid levels and keeping your tires properly inflated.
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