Today’s national average price for a gallon of gasoline is $3.18, down one cent from last week. One year ago, the price was $2.20. The New York State average is $3.28 – no change from last week. A year ago, the NYS average was $2.28. AAA Western and Central New York (AAA WCNY) reports the following averages:

• Batavia - $3.25 (down two cents since last week)
• Buffalo - $3.23 (no change since last week)
• Ithaca - $3.27 (up one cent since last week)
• Rochester - $3.27 (no change since last week)
• Rome - $3.30 (up one cent since last week)
• Syracuse - $3.24 (down one cent since last week)
• Watertown - $3.25 (no change since last week)

Note: prices are compared to last Monday, Labor Day. The last gas price report was issued Tuesday after the holiday.

The national gas price average has held steady for several days at $3.18. The latest data from the Energy Information Administration shows that gas demand increased slightly from 9.58 million b/d to 9.61 million b/d — a healthy reading for the Labor Day weekend. Meanwhile, total domestic stocks took a major step back by 7.2 million bbl to 220 million bbl. Refinery utilization was down almost 10% to 81.9%, as refineries impacted by Ida continue to progress in their recovery efforts. With demand increasing and supplies tightening, some states have seen prices fluctuate, with some up by four cents and others lower by 3 cents. This has helped stabilize the national average this week. However, as oil prices remain high (over $70 per barrel), the national average is expected to stay above $3 per gallon.

Motorists can benefit from comparing pump prices before filling up with the AAA Mobile App for iPhone, iPad, and Android - a convenient option to find the lowest gas prices in a given area. Plus, the app is the quickest way to request roadside assistance, map a route, find discounts, or book a hotel. 

AAA members receive discounts at gas stations such as Fastrac, Maple Leaf Market and Shell locations across the country. Learn more here. AAA members can save on gas by joining the Fuel Rewards at Shell program. Join now at AAA.com/Shell.

Motorists can also locate gas prices across the country and stay up-to-date on the latest news and fuel-saving tips at:

AAA Gas Prices