Gasoline prices in Rhode Island are down nine cents this week, according to AAA Northeast.

AAA Northeast’s March 30 survey of prices in Rhode Island finds self-serve, regular unleaded averaging $2.17 per gallon. Rhode Island’s price is sixteen cents higher than the national average of $2.01. A year ago at this time, the average price in Rhode Island was 38 cents higher at $2.55 per gallon.

“This week, the national gas prices will drop below $2.00 per gallon for the first time in four years and it won’t stop there as demand for gasoline diminishes as Americans stay home,” said Lloyd Albert, Senior Vice President of AAA Public and Government Affairs. “Crude oil continues to price low – in the $20 per barrel range – as U.S. gasoline demand decreases to numbers typically seen during the winter driving season.”

The range in prices in the latest AAA survey for unleaded regular is 76 cents, from a low of $1.67 to a high of $2.43. AAA advises motorists to shop around for the best prices in their area. Please remember to slow down and move over for any emergency vehicles on the side of the road.

Today’s local gas prices and their ranges are as follows:

Self Serve                                           Grade

$2.17 ($1.67-$2.43)                            Regular Unleaded

$2.65 ($2.33-$2.97)                            Midgrade Unleaded

$2.83 ($2.53-$3.15)                            Premium Unleaded

$2.83 ($2.42-$3.05)                            Diesel

Find the most up-to-date local gas prices with the AAA Fuel Finder by logging onto AAA.com and clicking on Gas Saving Tips & Tools.