Gas prices in the United States have increased three cents since July 6. At 58 percent of gas stations, gas was $2.25 or less.
The price increase is not consistence nationwide. Thirteen states saw prices drop a few cents while in Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan and Ohio prices increased by double digits.
“Gas prices are still at some of the cheapest prices we’ve seen this year, but consumers should take advantage of them while they can,” AAA spokesperson Jeanette Casselano said. “This week, drivers in 31 states are paying more than last week for a gallon of gas. And we expect to see slight price increases throughout July, so now’s the time to hit the road.”
Patrick DeHaan, senior petroleum analyst for GasBuddy.com, said gas prices will fluctuate throughout the remainder of the summer, but are expected to remain near current prices.
An active hurricane season could negatively affect gas prices, DeHaan said.
Demand for gasoline is not as strong this year as it has been in past summers. Traditionally, driving peaks around July 4 and declines sharply after mid-August.
This year, demand was down 1.8 percent in the four weeks leading up to the Fourth of July weekend following a trend set in January. Annual growth by miles is 1.5 percent compared to 3.4 percent in 2016.