AAA: National gas price average tops $2; local prices mixed

By AAA of Western and Central New York

Today’s national average price for a gallon of gasoline is $2.03, which is 5 cents higher than a week ago. One year ago, the price was $2.76. The New York average is $2.20 – 2 cents higher than last week. A year ago, the state average was $2.90.

AAA Western and Central New York (AAA WCNY) reports the following averages:

• Batavia – $2.25 (up three cents since last week)
• Buffalo – $2.19 (down one cent since last week)
• Ithaca – $2.11 (up one cent since last week)
• Rochester – $2.20 (no change since last week)
• Rome – $2.21 (up three cents since last week)
• Syracuse – $2.10 (up one cent since last week)
• Watertown – $2.19 (up one cent since last week)

The national average price for a gallon of gasoline has topped $2, after spending months below that $2 mark due to inactivity among motorists, low demand and slowed production. Prices have been slowly rising as states reopen and demand for gasoline increases for both work and recreation purposes. While demand is on the rise, levels are still lower than one year ago. Expect prices to continue to increase as the summer travel season gets underway. This year, AAA expects road trips to be very popular.

AAA members receive discounts at gas stations such as Fastrac, Maple Leaf Market and Shell locations across the country. Learn more here. One can find the lowest prices in the area at http://aaa.opisnet.com/index.aspx. Motorists can find current gas prices along their route with the free AAA mobile app for iPhone, iPad and Android. The app can also be used to map a route, find discounts, book a hotel, and access AAA roadside assistance. Locate gas prices across the country at http://gasprices.aaa.com.

As upstate New York’s largest member services organization, AAA Western and Central New York provides more than 887,000 members with travel, insurance, financial and automotive-related services. Since its founding in 1900, AAA has been a leading advocate for the safety and security of all travelers. Visit AAA at www.AAA.com.