Drivers across Georgia are seeing a little breathing room at the pump this week as the statewide average for a gallon of regular unleaded fell to $2.79, according to AAA. Prices can still shift day-to-day, but the overall trend is moving downward as the winter travel season approaches.

“Georgia drivers are getting some relief at the pump as fuel costs ease, thanks to lower crude oil prices, weaker demand, and the seasonal switch to winter-blend gasoline,” said Montrae Waiters, spokeswoman for AAA–The Auto Club Group.

The latest statewide average is:

• 3 cents lower than last week

• 1 cent lower than last month

• 11 cents lower than this time last year

For the typical driver filling up a 15-gallon tank, that puts the total at about $41.85 — a modest but welcome drop for commuters, families, and small businesses across the state, including Northwest Georgia where many drivers rack up miles traveling between work, school, and neighboring towns.

National prices also trending down

The slide isn’t just local. The national average for regular gas has fallen to $2.95 and dipped below $3 this week for the first time in four years, holding at that level since Tuesday. AAA points to a familiar mix of factors pushing prices lower: cheaper crude oil, softer demand, and lower-cost winter-blend fuel. The last time the national average was this low was May 2021.

The most expensive metro markets in Georgia are Savannah ($2.88), Atlanta ($2.86), and Macon ($2.85).

The least expensive metro markets in Georgia are Catoosa-Dade-Walker ($2.70), Hinesville-Fort Stewart ($2.69), and Dalton ($2.68).

Area gas price averages are Chattooga ($2.64), Walker ($2.66), Floyd ($2.71), Gordon ($2.71), DeKalb, AL ($2.62) Cherokee, AL ($2.54).