Gas prices see sharp increase as crude oil prices continue to rise

Submitted by AAA of Western and Central New York

Monday’s national average price for a gallon of gasoline is $3.27, up 7 cents from last week. One year ago, the price was $2.19. The New York average is $3.35 – up 7 cents from last week. A year ago, the state average was $2.26.

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

• Batavia – $3.33 (up 7 cents from last week)
• Buffalo – $3.31 (up 8 cents from last week)
• Ithaca – $3.36 (up 8 cents from last week)
• Rochester – $3.35 (up 8 cents from last week)
• Rome – $3.36 (up 6 cents from last week)
• Syracuse – $3.33 (up 10 cents from last week)
• Watertown – $3.27 (up 7 cents since last week)

Gasoline demand, the need for more oil production, and the price of crude oil all contribute to the fluctuating gas prices. OPEC+, which comprises the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), and allied countries, chose not to move forward with an agreement to produce more crude oil in November. These factors combined led to an increase in gas prices locally and nationally. High crude prices (touching $78 per barrel) are keeping pump prices elevated.

Motorists can benefit from comparing pump prices before filling up with the AAA mobile app for iPhone, iPad and AndroidPlus. The app can request roadside assistance, map a route, find discounts or book a hotel. 

AAA members receive discounts at gas stations such as Fastrac, Maple Leaf Market and Shell locations across the country. Learn more here. AAA members can save on gas by joining the Fuel Rewards at Shell program (AAA.com/Shell).

Motorists can also locate gas prices across the country and stay up-to-date on the latest news and fuel-saving tips 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.