Gas prices decline for fourth consecutive week nationwide
The national average price of gasoline has decreased for the fourth week in a row. It is now $3.02 per gallon, dropping 1.3 cents from last week. In New York State, the price is slightly higher at $3.06, down 3.1 cents. Data from GasBuddy shows that prices are 10.6 cents lower than a month ago and 42.2 cents less than a year ago nationwide. In New York, prices have dropped 9.0 cents from last month and 27.7 cents from the previous year. Experts note that while lower gas prices are good, they reflect economic concerns. Patrick De Haan from GasBuddy explained that reduced demand for gasoline and other fuels can indicate a slowing economy. This could mean gas prices stay low for now, but any improvement in the economy might lead to price increases in the future. The most common price that drivers see is $2.99 per gallon. The top 10% of gas stations charge around $4.36, while prices at the lowest stations are around $2.47. States like California, Hawaii, and Washington have the highest average prices, while Texas, Oklahoma, and Mississippi have the lowest. In the North Country, local prices vary. In Plattsburgh, gas prices range from $2.85 at Sam's Club to $3.09 at some Stewart's Shops. Other towns like Malone, Saranac Lake, and Ticonderoga also show a range, with prices generally between $2.99 to $3.59 per gallon.