Gasoline prices in Oregon before Labor Day

PORTLAND, Oregon — Driving this Labor Day weekend? Drivers in Oregon can expect lower prices at the pump, as the average price of gasoline in the state fell this week to its lowest level since February.

The average price in Oregon fell five cents to $3.80 per gallon, compared to the national average of $3.35 per gallon, according to AAA's Marie Dodds. Last year, the average price in Oregon at this time was about $4.76, and in Portland it was slightly higher at $4.81.

Dodds cited weak demand for gas, an increase in gasoline production and relatively stable oil prices as reasons for the lower costs this week.

Despite the price drop, Oregon ranks fifth in the nation for most expensive gas this week, only surpassed by Nevada ($3.97), Washington ($4.18), California ($4.61) and Hawaii ($4.66). According to AAA, transportation costs tend to be higher on the West Coast than in the rest of the U.S. because of tight supplies, consuming about as much gas as is produced and being located far from oil drilling, production and refining.

While the TSA predicts it will be the busiest Labor Day ever nationwide, the Port of Portland said it will not be the busiest Labor Day ever for Portland International Airport (PDX).

Between August 29 and September 2, nearly 270,000 people are expected to travel through PDX, up 7% from the same period last year. The busiest travel day appears to be Friday, August 30, when more than 59,000 travelers are expected. Two days earlier this summer saw more travelers, the Port of Portland said. Both June 16 and August 11 rank 7th and 5th on the list of the 10 busiest days on PDX.

Passengers are advised to arrive at PDX two hours before their flight.