Drivers across New York are seeing some relief at the pump as gas prices continue to trend downward during the busy holiday travel period.
According to AAA Western and Central New York, the average price for a gallon of regular gasoline in New York State is now $3.05, down two cents from last Monday. That is also lower than this time last year, when the statewide average was $3.13.
The national average currently sits at $2.83 per gallon, down three cents over the past week and 20 cents lower than one year ago. AAA says prices have remained below $3 nationwide since early December, marking the cheapest December for gas since the end of 2020.
Regionally, AAA reports the following average prices across Western and Central New York:
- Batavia: $3.09, down one cent
- Buffalo: $3.13, down one cent
- Elmira: $2.89, down one cent
- Ithaca: $3.18, down one cent
- Rochester: $3.13, down one cent
- Rome: $3.13, down one cent
- Syracuse: $3.02, down two cents
- Watertown: $3.08, down one cent
AAA says the drop in prices is being driven by lower crude oil costs and strong fuel supplies, even as more people hit the road for the holidays. Crude oil is currently trading between $57 and $61 per barrel, helping keep fuel costs in check.
At the same time, travel demand is rising. AAA estimates that 109.5 million Americans will drive at least 50 miles from home during the holiday travel period from December 20 through January 1 — a two percent increase compared to last year.
Diesel prices are also moving lower. The national average for diesel is now $3.55 per gallon, down four cents from a week ago. In New York State, diesel averages $3.89, down one cent.
AAA says motorists should continue to see relatively stable and affordable fuel prices as long as oil prices remain low and supply stays strong, even with elevated holiday travel volumes.
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