AAA: Gas demand continue its downward trend

New York state prices drop despite being among highest in nation

By AAA of Western and Central New York

Monday’s national average price for a gallon of gasoline is $1.86, down 7 cents since last week. One year ago, the price was $2.82. The New York average is $2.25, down 5 cents from last week.

A year ago, the state average was $2.82.

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

• Batavia - $2.31 (down 7 cents since last week)
• Buffalo - $2.31 (down 2 cents since last week)
• Ithaca - $2.27 (down 5 cents since last week)
• Rochester - $2.24 (down 3 cents since last week)
• Rome - $2.24 (down 5 cents since last week)
• Syracuse - $2.19 (down 5 cents since last week)
• Watertown - $2.24 (down 5 cents since last week)

Gas prices continue to be unusually low. Two reasons for this dip in prices: COVID-19 – demand is historically low; and the oil price war between Russia and Saudi Arabia drove oil prices down. Oil prices directly impact pump prices.

Some gas stations across the U.S. are selling gas for less than $1 per gallon – the Native American reservations locally are doing this. Gas prices are higher in New York due to three main factors: taxes, no refinery in state, and delivery challenges.

Typically, at this time of year, refineries would be switching over to summer blend fuel, which is more expensive to make, and demand would be rising with Easter/spring break travel – but this is a very unique situation given the extremely low demand, no travel, and refineries stalling production.

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 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.

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.