Gas prices across New York remain just under the $3 mark, according to AAA Western and Central New York.
The statewide average price for a gallon of regular gas is now $2.97, down about two cents from last week and nearly 20 cents lower than this time a year ago. One year ago, the New York average stood at $3.17.
Nationally, the average price is $2.83 a gallon, up three cents from last Monday, but still well below last year’s average of $3.12.
AAA reports that most local markets in Western and Central New York saw modest declines over the past week. Ithaca posted the largest drop, down five cents to $3.11. Rochester is averaging $3.08, down two cents, while Syracuse fell two cents to $2.96. Buffalo drivers are paying about $3.09 a gallon, down one cent, and Elmira has the lowest regional average at $2.77, down three cents. Prices in Batavia held steady at $3.05, while Rome and Watertown both dipped by a penny to $3.07 and $3.01, respectively.
AAA says gas prices typically stay low in January due to reduced demand and the use of cheaper winter-blend gasoline. Crude oil prices also remain low, though analysts are closely watching tensions involving Iran, a major oil producer. Any disruption to oil supplies could eventually impact gas prices in the U.S.
According to the Energy Information Administration, gasoline demand rose slightly last week, while domestic supply and production both increased.
Diesel prices are also holding steady. The national average remains at $3.50 a gallon, unchanged from last week. In New York, diesel is averaging $3.85, down one cent from a week ago.
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