Northwest Georgia counties Dade, Walker and Catoosa are no longer home to the cheapest gas prices in the state, as rising crude oil costs continue to push prices higher at the pump across Georgia.
Filling up is getting more expensive again for Georgia drivers, with the average price for a gallon of regular gasoline rising to $3.69, up from last week and expected to continue fluctuating in the coming days, according to AAA – The Auto Club Group.
“Drivers are continuing to see higher prices at the pump, largely due to rising crude oil costs,” said Montrae Waiters, spokeswoman for AAA – The Auto Club Group. “With oil prices remaining elevated, seasonal demand increasing as spring gets underway, and a more expensive summer gasoline blend coming online, gas prices are likely to stay under pressure in the near term.”
The current average price is:
- 18 cents higher than last week
- $1.00 higher than last month
- 76 cents higher than this time last year
At current prices, filling a standard 15-gallon tank now costs about $55.35.
National trend mirrors Georgia increases
Across the country, gas prices are also climbing as spring travel begins. The national average price for regular gasoline rose nearly 25 cents over the past week to $3.94 per gallon. Warmer weather and increased seasonal demand are contributing to the rise.
Even with the White House announcing the release of 172 million barrels of oil from the nation’s reserves over the next four months, immediate relief has not materialized as crude oil prices continue to climb.
Electric vehicle charging stable
While gasoline prices are increasing, electric vehicle charging costs remain steady. The national average price at public EV charging stations held at 41 cents per kilowatt hour, with AAA encouraging drivers to plan routes and fuel stops in advance.
Regional prices in Georgia
The most expensive metro markets in Georgia are:
- Athens at $3.77
- Atlanta at $3.76
- Gainesville at $3.72
The least expensive metro markets are:
- Hinesville-Fort Stewart at $3.56
- Brunswick at $3.53
- Albany at $3.50
AAA officials say drivers in northwest Georgia should expect continued day-to-day price fluctuations as crude oil prices, seasonal travel demand and summer fuel blends continue to influence the market in the weeks ahead.