(The Center Square) – Georgia gas prices are up as many get ready to travel for the Memorial Day weekend.
A gallon of regular unleaded fuel is $2.92 on average, up 4 cents from last week, according to AAA. The cost is still one cent lower than a month ago and 46 cents less than last year.
“Nationwide, a surge in gas demand coupled with the climbing cost of crude oil has pushed prices higher at the pumps,” said Montrae Waiters, AAA-The Auto Club Group spokeswoman. “The slump in crude oil costs kept the customary surge in spring gas prices at bay, but now, we find ourselves amid this anticipated increase as the Memorial Day weekend approaches.”
Georgians will find the least expensive fuel in Warner Robins, where a gallon of regular unleaded averages $2.79. Savannah has the highest price at $2.99 a gallon.
A gallon of gas is cheaper in most of the Peach State’s neighbors. Tennessee is the least expensive at $2.72 on average, 20 cents less than Georgia’s, according to AAA. Florida gas stations are charging an average of $3.04 a gallon, the highest among surrounding states.
The national average is $3.17. California fuel costs are the highest at $4.91 a gallon.
About 1.38 million Georgians are expected to go at least 50 miles during the Memorial Day holiday weekend, with most of them, 1.23 million, traveling by car, according to AAA. Nationally, 45.1 million people will travel during the holiday, up 1.4 million over last year.
“Despite economic uncertainty and global challenges, travel remains a priority for Americans, with millions eager to make memories with a Memorial Day getaway,” said Debbie Haas, Vice President of Travel for AAA – The Auto Club Group.
