Today’s national average price for a gallon of gasoline is $3.63, up three cents from last Monday. One year ago, the price was $3.67. The New York State average is $3.51, up four cents from one week ago. A year ago, the NYS average was $3.61. AAA Western and Central New York (AAA WCNY) reports the following averages:

• Batavia - $3.44 (up 8 cents from last Monday)
• Buffalo - $3.45 (up 7 cents from last Monday)
• Elmira - $3.44 (up 10 cents from last Monday)
• Ithaca - $3.51 (up 8 cents from last Monday)
• Rochester - $3.48 (up 7 cents from last Monday)
• Rome - $3.61 (up 8 cents from last Monday)
• Syracuse - $3.49 (up 7 cents from last Monday)
• Watertown - $3.61 (up 8 cents from last Monday)

Gas prices are expected to rise in coming weeks due to the return of summer blend fuel, which is more expensive to produce. We are also closely monitoring geopolitical issues that could impact the oil markets. This morning, oil prices range from $85 to $90 per barrel. Since the cost of oil accounts for roughly 60% of what motorists pay at the pump, any major changes to the oil market will likely affect prices at the pump nationally.

Diesel prices remain relatively steady. The national average price for diesel is $4.04, no change from last Monday. The New York average is $4.39, up one cent from a week ago.

To conserve fuel, motorists should map routes, avoid peak traffic times like rush hour, and combine errands into one trip while using cruise control when possible. Drivers should also make sure tire pressure is at the vehicle’s recommended level for the best gas mileage while removing any unnecessary and bulky items from the car since it takes more fuel to accelerate a heavy vehicle. Get more tips here: https://gasprices.aaa.com/news/fuel-saving-tips/. Motorists can benefit from comparing pump prices before filling up with the AAA Mobile App for iPhone, iPad, and Android. 

AAA members receive discounts at gas stations such as Fastrac, Maple Leaf Market and Shell. Learn more here. AAA members can save on gas by joining the Fuel Rewards at Shell program. Join now at AAA.com/Shell. Motorists can also locate gas prices across the country and stay up-to-date on news and fuel-saving tips at http://gasprices.AAA.com.