Once again, gas prices moved upward all over the state of Georgia last week, according to Sunday's weekly report from AAA. The state average has increased 30 of the past 32 days, for a total of 28 cents. During the past week alone, Georgia gas prices rose an average of 5 cents per gallon.
"Drivers saw a jump have seen a steady increase at the pump due to rising demand, reduced refinery output, and lower gasoline supplies," said AAA spokesman Mark Jenkins. "Unfortunately the springtime surge may not be over quite yet. These seasonal factors could keep upward pressure on prices at the pump through Memorial Day weekend."
Georgia drivers are now paying an average price of $2.42 per gallon for regular unleaded, which is the highest daily average price of 2019. Although Sunday's state average is 23 cents per gallon more than a month ago, it remains 2 cents less than this time last year.
Gas prices increased because:
- Gasoline demand increased for the fourth consecutive week, according to weekly data from the EIA
- Gasoline supply levels declined for the fourth consecutive week, according to weekly data from the EIA.
- Refineries are conducting seasonal maintenance leading to reduced output.
- Summer-blend gasoline is hitting the market, as required by the EPA, in effort to reduce smog levels. Because this blend of gasoline requires more additives, it is more expensive to produce.
Georgia Metro Prices:
- Most expensive city averages – Brunswick ($2.49), Hinesville-Fort Stewart ($2.49), Savannah ($2.47)
- Least expensive city averages – Warner Robins ($2.35), Albany ($2.35), Rome ($2.37)
- Hall County average - $2.39
