Today’s national average price for a gallon of gasoline is $2.61, which is up six cents compared to one week ago. One year ago, the price was $2.28. The New York State average is $2.73, which is up four cents from last week. A year ago, the NYS average was $2.42.

AAA Western and Central New York (AAA WCNY) reports the following averages:

• Batavia - $2.67 (up 3 cents in past week)
• Buffalo - $2.69 (up 3 cents in past week)
• Ithaca - $2.71 (up 6 cents in past week)
• Rochester - $2.70 (up 6 cents in past week)
• Rome - $2.71 (up 1 cent in past week)
• Syracuse - $2.70 (up 8 cents in past week)
• Watertown - $2.73 (up 3 cents in past week)

As predicted, higher gas prices have arrived at a pump near you. Today’s national average price ($2.61) is six cents more than last week, nine cents more than a month ago, and 33 cents more than last year. Gas prices around the country are on the rise as demand is very robust for this time of year. The arrival of spring brought the expected increase. AAA attributes the hikes to higher demand for gas from spring break travelers in advance of the busy summer driving season, along with rising crude oil prices and lower gas supplies.

Expect prices to move even higher in April when Easter travel will take place. But that is not expected to deter families from taking trips. A recent AAA survey shows that 88 million Americans plan to take family vacations this year.  Expensive gas prices – the highest prices seen since 2014 – are not stopping vacation planners from packing up their cars for a road trip. That is the most popular option for family vacations, with nearly two-thirds (64 percent) of those planning a trip expected to hit the roads this year. 

Motorists can always find current gas prices along their route with the free AAA Mobile app for iPhone, iPad, and Android. The app can also be used to map a route, find discounts, book a hotel, and access AAA roadside assistance. Locate gas prices across the country at http://gasprices.aaa.com.
AAA WCNY wants to remind members that they can receive discounts at NOCO gas stations, as well as Fastrac locations. Learn more here. You can find the lowest prices in your area at http://aaa.opisnet.com/index.aspx.