Colorado drivers tighten belts as gas prices climb

Colorado motorists are feeling the squeeze at the pump, with regular gas now averaging $4. 76 per gallon. That’s just three cents shy of the point where many say they’ll have to start cutting back elsewhere. A recent survey of over 3, 000 people found that four out of five drivers already feel stressed about fuel costs, even though prices nationally and in-state were lower just a few weeks ago. When budgets get tight, people usually cut first from non-essential spending like eating out or entertainment. But the survey shows that nearly a quarter would actually reduce spending on necessities such as groceries, utilities, or even healthcare if gas prices keep rising. That’s a worrying sign of how close many households are to breaking point.On the road, drivers are planning small but meaningful changes. About 40% say they’ll drive less often, while nearly one in five will combine trips or plan routes more carefully. Some are even looking for extra work or side jobs just to cover fuel costs. Public transit, carpooling, and changing jobs to shorten the commute are less common but still real options for a few. The bigger question is whether gas prices will drop soon. Some experts warn they could actually go up if tensions in key shipping routes aren’t resolved. That would make life even harder for families already stretching every dollar. The survey makes one thing clear: when gas prices rise, the ripple effects go far beyond just the pump.