Gas prices rise again

PLATTSBURGH — The nation's average price of gasoline rose for a third week, up 5 cents from last week and standing at $3.45 per gallon, and in New York state, prices are up 0.8 cents averaging $3.55 per gallon Monday.

According to GasBuddy data, prices in New York are 7.6 cents per gallon lower than a month ago and stand 9.3 cents per gallon lower than a year ago.

The national average is down 6 cents per gallon compared to a month ago and 5.4 cents per gallon lower than a year ago.

"As we approach July 4 later this week, motorists have seen the national average price of gasoline inch up ever so slightly for the third straight week," Patrick De Haan, head of petroleum analysis at GasBuddy, said.

"While the increases have been fairly tame, with oil continuing to hold above $80 per barrel, we could continue to see the national average climb slightly. Other areas that see price cycling saw prices shoot up early in the week, but those areas are now starting to see prices fall back down. For many Americans hitting the road for the July 4 holiday, prices in most areas are very comparable to what we saw last July 4. However, with Hurricane Beryl now formed in the Caribbean, we're reminded that gas prices could experience some jolts in the second half of the summer should a storm threaten refining capacity in Texas or Louisiana."

According to Gasbuddy, The national average price of gasoline on July 4 is expected to be $3.49 per gallon, the lowest holiday price since 2021.

"For those hitting the road to celebrate Independence Day, gas prices have seen modest recent fluctuations, but most states are seeing prices near or even well below where they were a year ago," De Haan said.

"While the first half of the summer has been relatively smooth sailing, the road ahead may be bumpy. Activity in the tropics has increased, and projections remain for a very busy hurricane season. Even after the holiday fireworks are over, we'll be watching for any potential fireworks at the pump that could be brought on by hurricanes disrupting refineries."

According to GasBuddy's annual summer travel survey, 45% of Americans plan to head out on the road over Independence Day weekend.

According to GasBuddy demand data, US retail gasoline demand fell 1.1 percent during the week ending Saturday, June 29.

The most common price per gallon encountered by motorists is $3.29, unchanged from last week.

The top 10% of stations in the country average $4.56 per gallon, and the bottom 10% average $2.91 per gallon.

The states with the lowest average prices per gallon are Mississippi at $2.90, Louisiana at $2.94 and Oklahoma at $3.00.

California, Hawaii and Washington average the highest prices per gallon at $4.73, $4.65 and $4.26 respectively.

As of Tuesday, June 25 these are gas prices reported from around the North Country:

Plattsburgh:

Sunoco (Irish Settlement Road) — $3.24

Shell (Archie Bordeau Road) — $3.24

Mobil (NY22) — $3.29

Sam's Club (Membership Required) — $3.29