Georgia drivers are seeing a slight increase at the gas pump this week, with the average price for a gallon of regular unleaded gasoline now at $2.94. This marks a 2-cent rise from last week, although prices remain steady compared to a month ago.
The modest increase comes as Gov. Brian Kemp reinstates the state’s gas tax, but relief may be on the horizon as seasonal factors typically push prices down.
Just The Facts:
• Current State Average: $2.94 per gallon of regular unleaded.
• Weekly Change: Up two cents from last week.
• Monthly Change: No change from a month ago.
• Yearly Comparison: two cents more than this time last year.
• Cost to Fill Up: A 15-gallon tank costs an average of $44.10.
The Details:
Montrae Waiters from AAA noted the recent uptick is tied to the return of the state gas tax but reassured drivers that prices could soon decline. This anticipated drop is linked to decreased demand typical for this season and the introduction of the cheaper winter fuel mix.
Nationally, the average gas price is $3.10, reflecting a 3-cent decrease from last week. The dip in national prices is attributed to lower oil costs and subdued domestic gasoline demand. The Energy Information Administration reported a slight increase in gasoline demand, from 8.83 million barrels per day to 9.15, while domestic gasoline stocks fell by nearly 3 million barrels.
Regional Prices:
• Atlanta: $2.95 per gallon.
• Most Expensive Markets in Georgia:
• Hinesville-Fort Stewart: $3.02
• Valdosta: $2.99
• Brunswick: $2.97
• Least Expensive Markets in Georgia:
• Rome: $2.87
• Augusta-Aiken: $2.85
• Catoosa-Dade-Walker: $2.79
By The Numbers:
• National Average: $3.10
• Georgia Average: $2.94
• Highest Recorded Prices: $5.01 nationally (June 14, 2022), $4.49 in Georgia (June 15, 2022)
What You Can Do: Drivers looking to save on gas can benefit from a few simple strategies:
• Shop Around: Use tools like the Fuel Price Finder to locate the cheapest gas in your area.
• Cash Payments: Some stations offer lower prices for cash payments.
• Fuel Savings Programs: Enroll in these programs for discounts.
• Driving Habits: Maintain your vehicle, combine errands, and drive conservatively to maximize fuel economy.
What’s Next?: As the holiday season progresses, watch for potential decreases in gas prices due to reduced demand and the shift to winter fuel blends. Additionally, staying informed about local and national price trends can help Georgians make better financial decisions at the pump.
⛽ About Gas Prices: Gas prices can change a frequently, and there are many reasons why. It isn’t as simple as most people think. The biggest reason is the cost of crude oil, which can go up or down based on both world events and how much people want it. There are also costs to make the oil into gas and get it to gas stations. Different locations have different types of gas, and that can also change the price. Taxes also add to the cost. Sometimes, bad weather or problems at oil refineries can make prices go up or down quickly. Also, if the U.S. dollar is strong or weak, that can affect the price. All these things together give us the final price we see when we fill up our tanks.
