Gas prices rise in Missoula, impacting local commuters

MONTANA — Gas prices are climbing across Montana, affecting commuters in Missoula and beyond. With many residents relying on their vehicles for long-distance travel to work, school and errands, the rising costs are becoming a significant concern.

Amanda Wiemers, a local Montana commuter, shared her experience. "It used to be affordable to DoorDash when I first started, and it’s almost not now. And I also live 16 miles out of town, so it makes it hard to get the kids into important places and etc.," said Wiemers.

Industry experts point to global factors as a major influence on local gas prices. Sonny Capece, Executive Director of the Montana Petroleum Association, explained, "Crude oil, which is what gas and diesel is made out of, as a commodity and commodities are highly susceptible to international events and obviously we have some conflict happening in the Middle East. That would probably be the largest contributing factor to what’s going on with crude prices right now?" said Capece.

Dr. Robert Sonora, a Finance Professor at the University of Montana, highlighted how rising prices can affect rural states like Montana more intensely. "Well, obviously, Montana’s huge. And we have a lot bigger distances to drive. So gas prices affect us a lot more than, say, somebody who lives in Rhode Island or Massachusetts, because we have a lot more distance to drive. Secondly, we have a lot less public transportation, some of the bigger cities. So, you know, it’s a more immediate cost to people," said Sonora.

As drivers in Missoula keep a close watch on gas prices, the community will continue to seek understanding of the factors contributing to these increases.