Gasoline prices $69 more a month than 2017

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The average American household pays seven percent of its annual income on gasoline, according to the AAA, as customers pay $69 more a month this summer than they did in 2017.

AAA expects the average national gasoline price per gallon to range between $2.85 and $3.05 through Labor Day.

Increased gas prices, however, do not seem to be discouraging drivers, AAA said. Only 33 percent are planning to change travel plans if gas prices reach $3 a gallon, according to a AAA survey, but 47 percent said they would reconsider travel if prices reach $3.50.

Nationwide, 25 percent gas stations are selling gas for more than $3 a gallon. This compares to last summer when 5 percent of stations were selling gas for $3 or more. In four states, every station is charging more than $3.

“Motorists can expect to spend at least $250 more on gas this season, but that won’t stop them from traveling,” Jeanette Casselano, AAA spokesperson, said. “Summer is synonymous with road trips and vacation, and we are not going to see Americans are giving up this pastime this year. The higher gas prices may just encourage travelers to shorten their driving distance. While others may pinch pennies by eating out less or finding more free family-fun activities while on vacation.”