For the sixth consecutive week, the average national gasoline price rose, reaching $2.61 a gallon. That represents a 3-cent increase from a week ago and an 18-cent increase since the end of 2017.
“Every motorist in the country is paying more at the pump year-over-year,” Jeanette Casselano, AAA spokeswoman, said. “At 18 cents, Utah is seeing the smallest increase, and California is feeling the biggest increase at 52 cents compared to the same time last year. Strong demand coupled with steadily rising oil prices means filling up will continue to cost consumers more this month. In fact, the last time the national gas price average was this high, but under $3/gallon in February was in 2010.”
Six of the 10 most expensive markets in the country are on the West Coast. Hawaii is the most expensive at $3.39 a gallon, although this is only a 1 cent increase from last week.
The South and Southeast remain the least expensive region despite increases. All but two states average less than $2.43 a gallon.
Price increases in the Great Lake states, the Rockies, and the Midwest have stabilized with states averaging a 6 cent or less increase.
In the Mid-Atlantic and Northeast, prices are hovering near the national average.