As gas prices increase slightly nationally, local pumps not yet affected

By AAA of Western and Central New York

Today’s national average price for a gallon of gasoline is $2.44, up 1 cent since last week. One year ago, the price was $2.31. The New York average is $2.61, down 2 cents from last week. A year ago, the state average was $2.47.

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

• Batavia - $2.60 (down 2 cents since last week)
• Buffalo - $2.56 (down 1 cent since last week)
• Ithaca - $2.63 (down 1 cent since last week)
• Rochester - $2.57 (down 2 cents since last week)
• Rome - $2.62 (down 1 cent since last week)
• Syracuse - $2.48 (down 2 cents since last week)
• Watertown - $2.61 (down 3 cents since last week)

The national average price for regular unleaded gasoline is $2.44 per gallon, which is 1 cent more than last week, 12 cents less than a month ago, and 13 cents more than a year ago. The national price is up by 1 cent this week as crude oil prices increased last week, which has a direct impact on pump prices.

Local gas prices have yet to be affected, but analysts are keeping a close eye on global demand. At the same time, winter demand for gasoline is now at its peak with many people traveling for President’s Day weekend and mid-winter break from schools. AAA bookings show that top destinations include Caribbean cruises and Orlando.

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 also find current gas prices along their route with the free AAA mobile app for iPhone, iPad and Android. The app can 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.