Gas prices across New York State edged higher this week, pushing the statewide average closer to the $3 per gallon mark even as national prices remained mostly flat.
According to AAA Western and Central New York, the average price for a gallon of regular gas in New York rose two cents over the past week to $2.99. That’s just below $3 a gallon, but still lower than this time last year, when drivers were paying $3.17.
By comparison, the national average slipped slightly to $2.875 a gallon, down less than a penny from last week and well below last year’s $3.10.
Prices vary around the region. Batavia and Watertown are both averaging $3.03 a gallon, while Buffalo and Rochester sit at $3.07. Ithaca is higher at $3.10, Rome at $3.09, and Syracuse just under $3 at $2.96. Elmira continues to see some of the lowest prices in the area at $2.78.
AAA says recent winter storms that swept across much of the country disrupted crude oil production and refinery operations, while many drivers filled their tanks ahead of the weather, temporarily boosting demand. Those factors caused slight price swings at the pump, though costs remain below last year’s levels.
Oil prices are currently trading in the low to mid-$60 range, which could help keep gas prices relatively steady in the short term. Federal data shows gasoline demand and production both increased last week, and supplies rose slightly.
Meanwhile, diesel prices are climbing faster. The national average jumped four cents to $3.61 a gallon. In New York, diesel rose eight cents to $3.94, adding extra costs for trucking and transportation statewide.
