Pump prices have been steadily rising since the beginning of the year, but drivers in some states are getting hit in the wallet harder than others.
The national average for a gallon of regular gasoline rose to $3.39 on Sunday, according to AAA. That's 5 cents higher than a week ago and 21 cents more than last month's average.
Average gas prices in all 50 states are higher than a month ago, and 42 states have seen prices rise from a week ago. Three states -- Missouri, Kansas and North Dakota -- have seen prices jump by more than 20 cents over the past week.
As for what's driving the increase, AAA says more expensive oil is a likely culprit, as crude accounts for nearly 60% of pump prices. The cost for a barrel of oil is edging closer to $80, about $10 more per barrel than a few months ago. Growing gas demand, amid tighter supply, has also pushed pump prices higher.
"Spring is nearly here, with longer days, better weather, and more opportunities to hit the road," Andrew Gross, AAA spokesperson, said in a statement. "And we are seeing this reflected in rising gasoline demand."
California currently leads the nation in high gas prices with an average of $4.87 per gallon, AAA reports. Three other states -- Hawaii, Washington and Nevada -- are also topping $4 a gallon.
Top 10 most expensive markets
1. California - $4.87
2. Hawaii - $4.70
3. Washington - $4.19
4. Nevada - $4.13
5. Oregon - $3.92
6. Illinois - $3.72
7. Alaska - $3.69
8. Arizona - $3.57
9. Michigan - $3.56
10. Pennsylvania - $3.52
On the flip side, the cheapest gas is in Texas, where the average price is $2.93 per gallon, per AAA. As of Sunday, Texas and Mississippi are the only states where gas is under $3 a gallon.
Top 10 least expensive markets
1. Texas - $2.93
2. Mississippi - $2.94
3. Colorado - $3.00
4. Louisiana - $3.03
5. Arkansas - $3.07
6. Wyoming - $3.07
7. Tennessee - $3.08
8. New Mexico - $3.08
9. Alabama - $3.09
10. Oklahoma - $3.09
