Gas prices across New York are holding steady this week, remaining just under the $3-a-gallon mark even as prices tick slightly higher nationwide.
According to AAA Western and Central New York, the statewide average for regular gasoline is $2.99 per gallon — unchanged from last Monday and down nearly 20 cents compared to this time last year, when drivers were paying $3.18. The national average rose two cents to $2.90.
Most regional prices across western and central New York saw little movement. Batavia, Buffalo, Rochester, Rome, Syracuse, and Watertown all remained steady week to week. Elmira climbed two cents to $2.80, while Ithaca rose a penny to $3.11, the highest average in the region. Buffalo and Rochester are both at $3.07, and Syracuse sits slightly lower at $2.96.
AAA says February often brings modest increases at the pump as refineries begin switching to more expensive summer-blend gasoline. However, lower seasonal demand — partly due to winter storms keeping drivers off the roads — has helped keep prices stable for now.
Gas prices are still cheaper than a year ago, and with oil trading in the low-to-mid $60 range, analysts say significant spikes aren’t expected in the near term.
Diesel, however, is moving higher. The New York average jumped five cents this week to $3.99 a gallon, while the national average rose two cents to $3.63.
