Georgia drivers are paying significantly more at the pump this week as higher crude oil prices continue to drive gasoline costs upward amid ongoing unrest in the Middle East. According to the weekly report from AAA – The Auto Club Group, the statewide average for a gallon of regular unleaded gasoline is now $3.92, up 15 cents from a week ago and 31 cents higher than a month ago.
The increase mirrors a nationwide trend, with the national average reaching $4.11 per gallon as concerns over global oil supplies continue to pressure energy markets.
“What drivers pay at the pump is still closely tied to crude oil prices,” said Montrae Waiters, spokeswoman for AAA – The Auto Club Group. “As uncertainty in global energy markets persists, drivers should be prepared for continued price fluctuations and the possibility of higher pump prices in the weeks ahead.”
Georgia’s average gas price is now 15 cents higher than last week, 31 cents higher than one month ago and $1.01 higher than the same time last year. Filling a standard 15-gallon tank of regular gasoline now costs approximately $58.80.
National Average Tops $4 Per Gallon
AAA said gas prices continue to climb across the country as ongoing uncertainty in the Middle East pushes crude oil prices toward $90 per barrel. Concerns surrounding the Strait of Hormuz and broader regional instability have increased fears of supply disruptions, contributing to higher fuel costs and raising the likelihood of additional price increases through the remainder of the summer.
What about prices in Cobb County?
The average cost of a gallon of regular unleaded in Cobb County was about $3.97 per gallon, roughly five cents more than the statewide average.
Most and Least Expensive Georgia Markets
The highest average gas prices in Georgia are found in Brunswick at $3.97 per gallon, followed by Atlanta at $3.95 and Hinesville-Fort Stewart at $3.94.
The lowest average prices are in Catoosa-Dade-Walker at $3.76 per gallon, Rome at $3.79 and Dalton at $3.83.
EV charging costs
EV charging rates at commercial DC fast charging stations were hovering around 42 cents per kilowatt hour nationally, and 41 cents in Georgia.
Home charging is much cheaper, particularly during overnight off-peak hours. Check your local utility provider for rates.
Gas Price Snapshot
| Current | Week Ago | Month Ago | One Year Ago | Record High | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| National | $4.11 | $3.99 | $3.90 | $3.15 | $5.01 (June 14, 2022) |
| Georgia | $3.92 | $3.77 | $3.61 | $2.91 | $4.49 (June 15, 2022) |
AAA also reminded drivers that they can reduce fuel costs by comparing gas prices before filling up, taking advantage of fuel rewards programs and using the AAA TripTik Travel planner to find current gasoline and electric vehicle charging prices along their route.
What causes fluctuations in gasoline prices?
According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), the price of crude oil is the main factor affecting the price of gasoline.
“Strong and increasing demand for gasoline and other petroleum products in the United States and the rest of the world can place intense pressure on available supplies,” the EIA website states.
According to the EIA, other factors that can affect prices include” disruptions in crude oil supplies, refinery operations, or gasoline pipeline deliveries.”
There are also seasonal changes in demand that cause price fluctuations throughout the year.
For more information on the price considerations for crude oil and gasoline, visit the EIA website.
How does AAA determine gas prices?
According to AAA:
AAA updates fuel price averages daily at www.GasPrices.AAA.com. Every day up to 130,000 stations are surveyed based on credit card swipes and direct feeds in cooperation with the Oil Price Information Service (OPIS) and Wright Express for unmatched statistical reliability.
All average retail prices in this report are for a gallon of regular, unleaded gasoline.