Gasoline prices have fallen an average of 3 cents nationally since the beginning of the month to $2.84 a gallon, with the 10 most expensive markets still above $3 a gallon.
Despite the savings, the average is still 50 cents more than mid-August 2017.
“Compared to July, consumer demand for gasoline is weaning and prices are following suit,” Jeanette Casselano, AAA spokesperson, said. “The national average is expected to keep moving lower, especially with the switchover to lower-grade gasoline in September.”
In the nation’s most expensive market, the West Coast, prices dropped in most states. Alaska had the largest drop. The second most expensive market, the Mid-Atlantic and Northeast, also saw a price drop of 5 cents. Both markets still have prices averaging above $3 a gallon in most states.
In the Midwest and Great Lakes, prices fell in most states. The largest decrease was in Michigan at a 10-cent drop.
The South and Southeast continue to be the nation’s least expensive market.
Utah and Idaho – rising 5 cents and 2 cents, respectively – are two of only four states in the country to see an increase in gas prices on the week. Rounding out the Rockies region, Wyoming, Montana, and Colorado held steady.
Next month, gas stations switch to winter-blend gasoline which is cheaper to produce. The blend contains a fuel that evaporates at low temperatures, allowing vehicle engines to operate properly.