Increasing Gas Prices Pose Problem For Consumers, Help Boost Oklahoma Economy

The pain at the pump is being felt across Green Country and nationwide. Experts said your wallet might feel a little thinner after gassing up for the next several months. 

Gas prices nationwide are on the rise. While experts say it could be good for the state’s economy, it can also be a struggle for Oklahomans at the gas pump.

Many drivers at gas stations around Tulsa said they’re stressed about rising gas prices. However, for the state of Oklahoma, this could be considered a good thing. 

The oil and gas industry is big business in Oklahoma, providing a lot of jobs. Oil companies also pay the state taxes, so as the cost of oil increases, companies are paying more to the state and helping fuel the economy.

GasBuddy's daily survey of more than 300 stations in Tulsa shows that gas prices have risen to an average of $2.49 per gallon for regular unleaded. That's about 35 cents higher than this time last month and a 57-cent increase over last year.

Patrick De Haan is the head of petroleum analysis for GasBuddy. He said OPEC surprised oil markets last week by extending oil production cuts for another month and markets are responding by increasing oil prices. De Haan believes we could be less than a month away from a $3 per gallon national average.

Trent Brown understands it's a double-edged sword but said it's tough to watch gas prices rise with so many people still out of work.

“As this does help Oklahoma like as a state, maybe with their economic profiting and things like that, it really seems like we should put more emphasis on the well-being of the people and the individuals,” Brown said. 

This is a pricey impact on drivers whose cars guzzle gas. Grayson Merrill said he's stressed because making deliveries is part of his job description.

"It's a nightmare for those of us who do work hard and are putting in 70-hour weeks and are trying to make ends meet. Too many miles a week have to be driven and too much gas is spent," Merrill said. 

Experts said drivers should prepare for the trend to continue in weeks and potentially months to come.