Gas prices in south central Ohio steady ahead of July 4 weekend

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South Central Ohio gas prices hovered at $2.168 per gallon this week, according to AAA East Central’s Gas Price Report.

One of the most volatile regions as of late, the Great Lakes and Central States saw some stability on the week. Ten states saw prices decrease on average by 2 cents. Statewide, Ohio (+4 cents) is one of three states in the country to see an increase. For the first time in three weeks, gasoline inventory declined. According to the Energy Information Administration (EIA), inventory sits at nearly 55 million barrels, similar to this time last year inventory levels.

This week’s average prices: South Central Ohio Average $2.168

Average price during the week of June 19, 2017 $2.171

Average price during the week of June 27, 2016 $2.410

Here is the price per gallon of unleaded self-serve gasoline in various areas:

$2.309 Athens

$2.175 Chillicothe

$2.109 Columbiana

$2.152 East Liverpool

$2.155 Gallipolis

$2.166 Hillsboro

$2.103 Ironton

$2.192 Jackson

$2.176 Logan

$2.152 Marietta

$2.248 Portsmouth

$2.061 Steubenville

$2.161 Washington Court House

$2.192 Waverly

On the National Front

Despite a surge in gasoline demand on the week, the national average price for gasoline is nearing an all-time low for the year at $2.26/gallon. On the week, gas prices fell in all but three states, and the national average has fallen for 24 consecutive days. Today’s national average is three cents cheaper than a week ago and eleven cents cheaper than a month ago. Heading into Independence Day weekend, gasoline is four cents less than a year ago.

Record refinery rates and high gasoline and crude inventory are among the contributing factors causing the downward price trend. Refinery production has easily met demand from drivers and has left gasoline stockpiles at high levels. This is good news for people planning to travel for the Independence Day holiday. AAA forecasts 37.5 million Americans will drive to their holiday destination, which potentially can mean a small increase in holiday weekend gas prices. But in light of the gasoline surplus, the increase may amount to pennies at most.

Drivers can find current gas prices along their route with the free AAA Mobile app for iPhone, iPad, and Android. The app can also be used to map a route, find discounts, book a hotel and access AAA roadside assistance. Learn more at [AAA.com/mobile]AAA.com/mobile.

AAA East Central is a not-for-profit association with 81 local offices in Kentucky, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania and West Virginia serving 2.7 million members. Past news releases are available at news.eastcentral.aaa.com. Follow us on Twitter and Facebook.

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