Georgia drivers are breathing a sigh of relief as the cost of gasoline has continued its downward trend for the second consecutive week. The statewide average price for a gallon of regular unleaded fuel has dropped an additional 6 cents since last week, now settling at $2.81 as of Monday. This welcome decrease offers a noticeable reprieve for motorists navigating their daily commutes and longer journeys.

The current price point represents a significant saving compared to recent history. Drivers are now paying 11 cents less per gallon than they were a month ago, and a full 10 cents less than at this time last year. For those filling up a standard 15-gallon tank, this translates to an approximate cost of $42.15, nearly $2.00 cheaper than filling the same tank a year ago.

“Falling crude oil prices and lower demand are keeping downward pressure on gas prices,” explained Montrae Waiters, spokeswoman for AAA-The Auto Club Group. “While it’s unclear how long this trend will last, Georgians should take advantage of the savings and keep an eye on price changes in their area.”

This dip in prices mirrors a broader national trend. The national average for regular gasoline has also slid, now hovering just above the $3 mark at $3.03 per gallon, down 5 cents from the previous week. This decline is attributed to several factors, including softening crude oil prices, a natural seasonal decrease in demand as the weather cools, and the transition to the more affordable winter-blend gasoline. With calm conditions in the tropics, experts suggest that gas prices could continue to fall as colder weather sets in.

Data from the Energy Information Administration (EIA) supports this trend, showing a decline in gasoline demand from 8.91 million barrels per day to 8.45 million. Domestic supply also saw a slight decrease, while gasoline production averaged a marginally lower 9.4 million barrels per day last week. This combination of factors is translating into more affordable fuel for consumers across the state and the nation.

The most expensive metro markets in Georgia are Savannah ($2.96), Hinesville-Fort Stewart ($2.88), and Macon ($2.87).

The least expensive metro markets in Georgia are Brunswick ($2.70), Dalton ($2.69), and Catoosa-Dade-Walker ($2.63).

Area gas price averages are Chattooga ($2.75), Walker ($2.70), Floyd ($2.68), Gordon ($2.71), DeKalb, AL ($2.61), Cherokee, AL ($2.57).