Today’s national average price for a gallon of gasoline is $3.47, down 4 cents since last Monday. One year ago, the price was $3.44. The New York State average is $3.56, down 1 cent since last Monday. A year ago, the NYS average was $3.59. AAA Western and Central New York (AAA WCNY) reports the following averages:

•    Batavia - $3.43 (down 1 cent from last Monday)
•    Buffalo - $3.44 (down 1 cent from last Monday)
•    Elmira - $3.50 (no change from last Monday)
•    Ithaca - $3.52 (down 1 cent from last Monday)
•    Rochester - $3.51 (down 2 cents from last Monday)
•    Rome - $3.61 (down 2 cents from last Monday)
•    Syracuse - $3.51 (no change from last Monday)
•    Watertown - $3.56 (no change from last Monday)

The national average for a gallon of regular gasoline is down despite data from the Energy Information Administration (EIA) which shows that gas demand is on the rise. However, total domestic gasoline stocks have increased. The growth in total supply has helped to limit pump price increases. If demand does not spike, drivers could continue to see pump prices drop. 

This morning oil prices range from $74 to $80 per barrel, down a few dollars from last week. Crude prices fell after the U.S. Federal Reserve increased interest rates and signaled that more increases are likely. As a result, the market believes oil demand could be less than expected this year, pulling prices down. Oil stock levels are also up.

To conserve fuel, motorists should map routes, avoid peak traffic times like rush hour, and combine errands into one trip while using cruise control when possible. Drivers should also make sure tire pressure is at the vehicle’s recommended level for the best gas mileage while removing any unnecessary and bulky items from the car since it takes more fuel to accelerate a heavy vehicle. Get more tips here: https://gasprices.aaa.com/news/fuel-saving-tips/. Motorists can benefit from comparing pump prices before filling up with the AAA Mobile App for iPhone, iPad, and Android. 

AAA members receive discounts at gas stations such as Fastrac, Maple Leaf Market and Shell. 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 http://gasprices.aaa.com.