Sample Image

Georgia drivers are experiencing a minor increase at the pump this week, with the state’s average price for regular unleaded gasoline rising a penny compared to a week ago. The current average stands at $2.91 per gallon, a figure that can fluctuate overnight.

Despite this slight bump, motorists continue to pay significantly less than they did a year ago. The Monday state average of $2.91 is identical to what it was a month ago, but it stands 31 cents lower than prices recorded at this time last year. For drivers filling a standard 15-gallon tank, the average cost is $43.65, representing nearly $5.00 in savings compared to a year ago.

“We’re only seeing a slight uptick in Georgia’s gas prices right now,” said Montrae Waiters, spokeswoman for AAA-The Auto Club Group. “With crude oil prices holding steady and summer travel tapering off, increases at the pump remain minimal as we head into the final days of the season.”

Nationally, gas prices have largely held steady for another week, offering continued relief to drivers as the busy summer driving season draws to a close. The national average for regular unleaded currently sits at $3.13 per gallon, a figure that has remained consistent.

While stable crude oil prices suggest no drastic price swings are imminent, AAA advises vigilance as the country enters peak hurricane season, which could potentially impact gas production and distribution.

According to new data from the Energy Information Administration (EIA), gasoline demand saw a slight decrease last week, falling from 9.04 million barrels a day to 9 million. Total domestic gasoline supply also dipped marginally from 227.1 million barrels to 226.3 million barrels. Despite these decreases, gasoline production increased last week, averaging 9.8 million barrels per day.

The most expensive metro markets in Georgia are Hinesville-Fort Stewart ($3.00), Athens ($2.93), and Gainesville ($2.91).

The least expensive metro markets in Georgia areRome ($2.82), Augusta-Aiken ($2.79), and Catoosa-Dade-Walker ($2.75).

Area gas price averages are Chattooga ($2.82), Walker ($2.80), Floyd ($2.81), Gordon ($2.79), DeKalb, AL ($2.68), Cherokee, AL ($2.69).