Florida gas prices increased last week, as was projected in AAA's Gas Price Brief. On Sunday, drivers paid an average price of $3.31 per gallon. That's 9 cents more than the week prior.
In total, the state average rose 11 cents, reaching $3.33 per gallon at the end of the week before slipping a couple cents lower by the weekend. By Monday, prices in Florida averaged $3.31 a gallon, an $3.26 in Osceola County. The average is up over $3.40 in much of South and Southwest Florida.
Around town, prices were briefly seen at $2.99 for regular unleaded at retail pumps besides the wholesale outlets at the start of last week, but shot up as much as 30 cents midweek back to around $3.29 before ticking down a penny or two at a time through the weekend.
"Despite last week's jump at the pump, Florida gas prices are still 27 cents per gallon less than this year's high, which was recorded at the end of January," said Mark Jenkins, spokesman, AAA - The Auto Club Group. "Price hikes like these are common this time of year as spring vacations drive-up gasoline demand, while refineries conduct seasonal maintenance due and switch to Summer gasoline."
Per AAA, there’s some tips on how to boost fuel economy and save on gas:
- Combine errands to limit driving time;
- Shop around for the best gas prices in your community;
- Pay with cash; Some retailers charge extra per gallon for customers who pay with a credit card;
- Remove excess weight in your vehicle. Every 100 pounds taken out of the vehicle improves fuel economy by 1-2 percent;
- Drive conservatively. Aggressive acceleration and speeding reduces fuel economy.
- Get a tune-up. Ensure your vehicle is properly maintained to optimize its fuel economy.
- Find the lowest gas prices in your area by using the free AAA mobile app.
Information from AAA The Auto Club was used in this report.
