Americans are paying a pretty penny to hit the road this summer as national and statewide gas price continue to rise, says AAA Northeast.
On the national level today, the average price for a gallon of self-serve regular is $3.18, 2 cents higher than last week and $1 higher than last year.
In Connecticut, today’s statewide average is $3.17, also 2 cents higher than last week and 97 cents higher than last year.
Even though global crude production is expected to increase later this month, worldwide demand is still expected to outpace global supply, keeping prices high, said Fran Mayko, AAA Northeast spokeswoman.
“On average, drivers are paying 15 cents more to fill up since the beginning of May,” said Mayko. “And if crude oil prices continue to increase, August could prove to be even more expensive.” Crude is about $74 a barrel today.
Greater demand, market concerns about rising Covid cases, higher crude prices, and a weaker US dollar are pushing prices higher.
Here is AAA’s weekly price survey of Connecticut’s six metro regions:
Greater Bridgeport $3.24 Lower Fairfield County $3.23
New Haven/Meriden $3.15 Greater Hartford $3.14
New London/Norwich $3.19 Windham/Middlesex $3.17
Statewide Average: $3.17
Today, Mississippi and Louisiana register the lowest prices in the nation at $2.79 and $2.82, respectively. California and Hawaii continue to hold the highest prices in the nation at $4.38 and $4.08, respectively. Connecticut remains at 18th spot on the list of highest gas prices in the nation. Average gas prices may be obtained daily through www.gasprices.aaa.com.