Lower demand and falling crude oil prices continue to slow national gas price increases, says AAA Northeast. But closer to home, Connecticut pump prices have climbed compared to this time last week.
Today, the national average for a gallon of self-serve regular is $3.67, less than a penny lower than last week, but 45 cents lower than last year.
In the Nutmeg State, however, the statewide average of $3.59 surged 8 cents higher over last week. Today’s average is still 41 cents lower than last year.
“As the price of oil continues to tumble from $80 a barrel, we caught a break nationwide,” said Fran Mayko, AAA Northeast spokeswoman. “And if this oil price trend on the national level continues, we’re definitely going to see lower gas prices before the start of the summer drive season.”
As many US refinery operations return to service in the next few weeks after spring maintenance, drivers could very well have more change in their pockets because of lower gas prices.
Here is AAA’s weekly price survey of Connecticut’s six metro regions:
Greater Bridgeport $3.63 Lower Fairfield County $3.62
New Haven/Meriden $3.58 Greater Hartford $3.56
New London/Norwich $3.62 Windham/Middlesex $3.65
Statewide Average: $3.59
Today, Mississippi registers the lowest prices in the nation at $3.14, followed by Arkansas at $3.24. California and Hawaii continue to hold the highest prices in the nation at $4.90 and $4.77, respectively. Connecticut holds the 18th spot on the list of highest gas prices in the nation. Average gas prices may be obtained daily through www.gasprices.aaa.com.