Connecticut drivers are digging deeper to fill up since pump prices are now reflecting the return of the state’s gas tax.
As expected, Nutmeggers are seeing a slight increase in average prices today, as Connecticut incrementally phases in the 25-cent a gallon fuel tax a nickel a month now through May, says AAA Northeast.
Today’s Connecticut average for a gallon of self-serve regular is $3.18, 4 cents higher than this time last week, but 31 cents lower than last year.
On the national level, today’s $3.23 average is 13 cents higher than last week but 6 cents lower than last year.
A late December winter storm and frigid temperatures in some parts of the country caused gas prices to spike with refineries as far south as Texas and the Gulf Coast shutting down temporarily. The storm also contributed to higher demand, forcing many holiday travelers to fuel up for travel, said Fran Mayko, AAA Northeast spokeswoman.
“Along with higher crude oil prices, more demand and less supply also contributed to price increases at the pump,” said Mayko. “The cost will likely rise a bit more before this surge in demand stalls, but 2022 will go down as a record year with a national annual average of $3.96, while in Connecticut the statewide average is quite similar at $3.97.”
Here is AAA’s weekly price survey of Connecticut’s six metro regions:
Greater Bridgeport $3.30 Lower Fairfield County $3.31
New Haven/Meriden $3.16 Greater Hartford $3.11
New London/Norwich $3.17 Windham/Middlesex $3.22
Statewide Average: $3.18
Today, Georgia and Kansas register the lowest prices in the nation at $2.78 and $2.83, respectively. Hawaii and California have the highest gas prices at $5.02 and $4.43, respectively. Connecticut holds the 24th spot on the list of highest gas prices in the nation. Average gas prices may be obtained daily through www.gasprices.aaa.com.