85 Octane?

I just moved to Denver from Texas and I noticed that the regular gas here is 85 octane, where in central Texas it is 87 octane which I always run in my truck. Is it bad to run 85, or should I shell out for the "mid grade" 87?

85?!?!?!?! WTF? Maybe it has something to do with altitude?

It's also a lot more expensive. 85 is about 40-50 cents more than 87 back home.

Yes, it's an altitude issue. At that altitude the air pressure is lower and you are able to use fuel with that octane rating. It's fine to use if you are staying in that area for any length of time. If you were on a trip and "just passing through", then it is recommended to mix it with a higher octane gas.
It's also a lot more expensive. 85 is about 40-50 cents more than 87 back home.
40 to 50 cents more? For a lower octane fuel? I would think it would be cheaper as you go down the octane scale. In my area there is about a .10 to .12 difference going between the grades of fuel- 87,89,91/93 octane. I've spoken to people in the past who told me the 85 was usually about .10 to.15 cents cheaper than the 87.

Cool, thanks. I will use 85 and let you know if I notice any difference between the two.

I'd keep a bottle of octane booster handy, just to cover my own ass.

You have less Air in Denver, so less Octane is needed to burn the same amount in fuel.. you will loose MPG unless you install a turbo or super charger.