Ohio among 40 states to experience decline in gas prices
COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) – Ohio was among 40 states in the country to experience lower gas prices last week, one week after the cost jumped up nearly 20 cents per gallon in the Columbus area.
According to GasBuddy’s survey of 500 stations in and around Columbus, the average price at the pump fell by 11.5 cents last week to reach $3.10 per gallon. The current price is 0.8 cents higher than four weeks ago and 46.7 cents lower than this time one year ago.
The cheapest gas station in the Columbus area was priced at $2.84 a gallon on Sunday, while the most expensive was $3.29, a difference of 45 cents per gallon. In Ohio, the average price of gas also dropped by 16.8 cents from $3.13 per gallon to $2.96 per gallon.
Nationally, gas prices decreased by 4.2 cents per gallon to reach $3.08. The price of diesel followed suit, dropping by 2.8 cents, settling in at $3.47 per gallon.
Gas prices fell in approximately 80 percent of the United States, with the exception predominately on the west coast. As Memorial Day approaches, GasBuddy’s head of petroleum analysis Patrick De Haan says there could be some adjustments in fuel cost to match the demand of would-be travelers.
"Even with oil prices jumping more than $4 per barrel compared to last week, the national average price of gasoline has resumed its decline as refineries wrap up seasonal maintenance and prepare to boost output," said De Haan. “As we approach Memorial Day, gas prices may see some minor fluctuations, but for now, I don't expect any significant changes to the national average.”