Gas Prices Move Toward $4

GDP is already under pressure, having fallen 2.9% in the first quarter, which was worse than most estimates. One reason may be the unprecedented cold weather. Additionally, however, the American consumer’s activity could have been fatigued by factors that range from the still-high unemployment to stagnant household income, at least as measured by current dollars. According to the Washington Post, this level is actually down from 1989 to 2012.

The problem with gas prices, beyond their increase, is that they are highest in a number of the most populous states, according to GasBuddy. More than 25% of Americans pay above $3.80. California residents pay $4.12, and in New York $3.94. The price is $3.89 in Michigan and $3.85 in Illinois. The only very large state exempt from prices well above the national average is Texas. There the price of regular averages only $3.48 per gallon.

The price in Texas illustrates the importance of proximity to refineries, which sharply cuts the cost of transportation. The Gulf states of Alabama, Mississippi and Louisiana have prices below $3.46. Being close to refineries, however, is only relatively helpful. Oil prices remain the primary contributor to what drivers pay. Troubles in the Middle East have pushed the cost of a barrel of crude higher than $107. A number of experts believe that more violence and instability in the region could put the price above $110.

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Without any question, the consumers hurt the most by the rise in the cost of gasoline are lower- and middle-class families and those with people who must drive great distances. The tipping point at which they cease to become significant consumers is when the cost of housing, clothing and transportation reach the limit of household budgets. In some families, that has already happened.

Worries about second-quarter GDP have to be based to some large extent on the rising price of gasoline, which for the time being shows no sign of easing up.