Okay, I’ll admit it. I’m one of those people who’ll drive for miles just to find cheap gas. Seems counter-productive, doesn’t it? But I know I’m not alone. For others who are on an endless search for cheap gas, here are some helpful web sites and apps. Most invite participation (i.e., reporting prices) so viewers can stay up-to-date on the latest price hike (or, dare we hope for it — a price drop?). Happy driving.
Portland Gas Prices, also known as Gas Buddy, is a site that rewards gas price reporters with points and opportunities to win FREE gas. Such a deal! The site reports the lowest Portland-area gas prices and where to find them, as well as the highest prices in the Portland area — and they are comparatively high, sometimes shockingly so. On the site there’s a link to download an app for your mobile phone. There are also links to Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
Gas Price Watch lists area gas prices, listed from low to high, along with a map for finding each station. How long ago the price was reported is also listed. Most listings are several hours to several days old. You can also search according to Portland zip code, as well as other nearby cities.
Mapquest has a special map with cheap gas locations marked. Enter your location in the box and it will tell you what’s close, how far away it is, the price of gas and how to get there.
Also, gas stations connected to Costco, Safeway and Fred Meyer offer relatively cheap prices to holders of membership or club cards.