Illinois sees biggest drop in gas prices nationwide, still above $4 average

(The Center Square) – The national average price for a gallon of motor fuel has steadily dropped in the past week, falling below $4 for the first time since the end of March. Illinoisans have, as a result, also seen lower prices at the pump.

Illinois’ average cost per gallon Friday was $4.24, higher than the national average and still nearly $1 more than the Illinois price a year ago.

The price decrease for Illinois, however, month-over-month was roughly 80 cents – a larger shift than the 56-cents difference in the national average, according to AAA.

Vice President J.D. Vance told the media Thursday that as a result of negotiations with Iran and a tentative deal being struck to bring an end to the conflict with Iran, the cost of motor fuel to consumers has begun to fall steadily.

“Last night, 12.5 million barrels of oil went through the Strait of Hormuz. That is a high since the beginning of the conflict. Oil prices are down nearly at their level from the pre-war conflict. ...