Gas prices have leveled off this week after rising each of the previous three weeks. According to AAA, Monday's national average price at the pump is $4.10 per gallon, which is down by more than a cent from a week ago. In New York, the average fell by less than a penny and is now $4.22. Meanwhile, Chautauqua County saw its average climb by more than two cents to $4.28. One year ago, the national and statewide averages were $3.15 and $3.17, respectively.
AAA adds that crude oil prices are sitting at an average of $80 per barrel, down from last week's $85-90 range, while instability lingers along the Strait of Hormuz. Gas prices are nearly a dollar higher than they were this time last year. Typically, August brings some relief at the pump as road trips wind down and fall routine gets underway for many families, but elevated crude oil prices could prevent that seasonal shift from starting just yet.
AAA of Western and Central New York (AAA WCNY) reports the following regional averages:
- Batavia - $4.28 (up one cent from last Monday)
- Buffalo - $4.28 (down one cent from last Monday)
- Elmira - $4.15 (no change from last Monday)
- Ithaca - $4.26 (no change from last Monday)
- Rochester - $4.27 (down two cents from last Monday)
- Rome - $4.33 (down one cent from last Monday)
- Syracuse - $4.23 (down two cents from last Monday)
- Watertown - $4.26 (down three cents from last Monday)
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