Georgia motorists are paying more at the pump this week, with the statewide average for regular gasoline climbing to $4.19 per gallon.

According to AAA – The Auto Club Group, Georgia’s average is 10 cents higher than last week, 39 cents higher than a month ago and $1.31 higher than a year ago. A 15-gallon fill-up at the statewide average now costs approximately $62.85. Pasted markdown

Here in Northwest Georgia, prices vary somewhat by county but remain above $4 per gallon. Chattooga County is averaging $4.15 per gallon, while Floyd County is also at $4.15. Walker County is averaging $4.13, and Gordon County is at $4.18.

Across the state line in Northeast Alabama, prices are somewhat lower. DeKalb County is averaging $4.07 per gallon, while Cherokee County has the lowest average among the six counties at $4.01.

AAA spokeswoman Montrae Waiters says gas prices remain a challenge for Georgia families, particularly those who depend on their vehicles for work, school and everyday activities. AAA recommends reducing aggressive driving, keeping tires properly inflated and combining trips when possible to help stretch fuel dollars. Pasted markdown

Georgia’s current $4.19 average remains below the state record of $4.49 set in June 2022, but it is now just 30 cents shy of that mark.

Nationally, regular gasoline is averaging $4.47 per gallon, unchanged from last week and more than $1 higher than a year ago. Normally, the beginning of fall brings some relief at the pump as summer travel declines and stations transition to less-expensive winter-blend gasoline. This year, however, AAA says volatility surrounding the Strait of Hormuz and high crude-oil prices continues to put upward pressure on prices. September is on track to establish a new September record. Pasted markdown

For Chattooga County drivers, Monday’s $4.15 average is four cents below the Georgia average, but the continued high cost of gasoline means transportation remains a significant expense for households throughout the area.