National gas prices fall, while Iowans pay more at pump - KWWL.com

Average retail gasoline prices in Iowa have risen 10.7 cents per gallon in the past week, now averaging $3.47 a gallon. This compares with the national average that has fallen 3.2 cents per gallon in the last week to $3.53 a gallon, according to gasoline price website IowaStateGasPrices.com.

"I have a sneaking suspicion that the election in Greece may stir up oil prices this week, and we could see oil prices gain as markets feel more upbeat about the economic situation," said GasBuddy.com Senior Petroleum Analyst Patrick DeHaan. "While any gains in oil prices won't likely be immediately felt, the debt situation in Europe bears keeping a close eye on as it has far reaching global implications. Outside of that situation, West Coast wholesale gasoline prices are now among the lowest in the nation with California, Oregon, and Washington seeing their averages drop back under $4/gallon, while the nation's midsection may see prices rising in the week ahead," DeHaan said.

Analysts believe an unexpected shutdown of a newer refinery in Texas, and problems with a refinery in Chicago may be partly to blame for recent price spikes experienced in the Midwest.