Local gas prices drop: Regional prices are all lower than last week, though oil prices have escalated

By AAA of Western and Central New York

Today’s national average price for a gallon of gasoline is $2.245, up less than 1 cent from last week. One year ago, the price was $2.53. The New York state average is $2.55 – down 3 cents from last week. A year ago, the state average was $2.68.

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

• Batavia - $2.58 (down 10 cents since last week)
• Buffalo - $2.60 (down 4 cents since last week)
• Ithaca - $2.41 (down 1 cent since last week)
• Rochester - $2.52 (down 3 cents since last week)
• Rome - $2.53 (down 3 cents since last week)
• Syracuse - $2.43 (down 3 cents since last week)
• Watertown - $2.55 (down 8 cents since last week)

Low winter demand for gasoline has helped to push pump prices lower. Meanwhile, total gas stocks around the country are growing and are more than 10 million barrels higher than last year. If stocks continue to grow amid low demand and low oil prices, motorists could see pump prices continue their descent as the country settles into winter.

At the same time, oil prices rose last week. OPEC’s global pact with large non-OPEC crude producers (including Russia) to reduce crude production by 1.2 million barrels per day for at least the first six months of 2019 is now in effect so the global glut of crude is expected to decline, helping to push crude prices higher. If crude prices continue to climb, motorists could see gas prices increase.

Motorists can always 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.

AAA WCNY reminds members they can receive discounts at NOCO gas stations, as well as Fastrac locations. Learn more HERE. One can find the lowest prices in the area at http://aaa.opisnet.com/index.aspx.

As upstate New York’s largest member services organization, AAA Western and Central New York provides more than 880,000 members with travel, insurance, financial and automotive-related services. Since its founding in 1902, AAA has been a leading advocate for the safety and security of all travelers. Visit AAA at www.AAA.com.