ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — Rising gas prices in Albuquerque are being felt beyond the pump, contributing to higher costs for groceries and raising concerns about travel expenses ahead of major events like the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta.
According to AAA, the average price for a gallon of regular unleaded gas in the Albuquerque metro is currently about $3.59, up sharply from roughly $2.76 one month ago. That increase of more than 80 cents per gallon places New Mexico among states seeing some of the fastest month‑to‑month jumps in fuel costs.
Higher fuel prices often affect transportation and delivery costs, which can then be reflected in what consumers pay at grocery stores. National data shows that food prices remain elevated, particularly for meat. The average price of 100% ground beef currently sits at about $6.74 per pound, according to the latest data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. While beef prices dipped slightly compared to the previous month, they remain significantly higher than a year ago, driven by supply constraints and higher production costs…