Today’s national average price for a gallon of gasoline is $1.88, up three cents since last week. One year ago, the price was $2.85. The New York State average is $2.16 – up one cent from last week. A year ago, the NYS average was $2.96. AAA Western and Central New York (AAA WCNY) reports the following averages:

• Batavia - $2.20 (down one cent since last week)
• Buffalo - $2.19 (down two cents since last week)
• Ithaca - $2.13 (no change since last week)
• Rochester - $2.19 (no change since last week)
• Rome - $2.12 (up one cent since last week)
• Syracuse - $2.06 (no change since last week)
• Watertown - $2.14 (up two cents since last week)

Gas prices are fluctuating around the country (with the highest prices in the Northeast and on the West Coast) as demand increases amid reopening phases and stocks begin to decrease. Local prices are also mixed this morning. Typically, this week brings some of the highest prices of the year as Memorial Day weekend approaches. However, this year is anything but typical. One thing is certain, as regions across New York begin to reopen and destinations like campgrounds open for holiday recreation, the need for gasoline will increase. Motorists returning to work will also drive up demand. Expect prices to increase as more motorists hit the roads.

A members receive discounts at gas stations such as Fastrac, Maple Leaf Market and Shell locations across the country. Learn more here. You can find the lowest prices in your area at http://aaa.opisnet.com/index.aspx. Motorists can always find current gas prices along their route with the free AAA Mobile app for iPhone, iPad, and Android. The app can also be used to map a route, find discounts, book a hotel, and access AAA roadside assistance. Locate gas prices across the country at http://gasprices.aaa.com.