VIRGINIA BEACH, Va., (April 1, 2014) - Today’s national average price of gas is $3.56 per gallon, which is the highest daily average since September 11, 2013. Despite recent increases, the monthly average of $3.51 per gallon was the least expensive for March since 2010. In Virginia, the current average price for unleaded gasoline rests at $3.38, a 13 cent increase for the month of March. Hampton Roads ended the month at $3.41, an increase of 16 cents for the region.
“Spring is the most frustrating time of year for drivers given that gas prices seem to jump every time you get in the car,” said Georjeane Blumling, AAA Tidewater spokesperson. “We are seeing the same seasonal hikes this spring, but fortunately gas is not nearly as expensive as in recent years.”
Gas Prices as of, April 1, 2014, for a gallon of self-serve regular gasoline:
|
Price Today |
Price Last Month |
Price Last Year |
National |
$3.56 |
$3.45 |
$3.64 |
Virginia |
$3.38 |
$3.25 |
$3.55 |
Hampton Roads |
$3.41 |
$3.25 |
$3.55 |
Average gas prices have increased 49 out of 52 days for a total of 29 cents per gallon. Prices are up primarily due to seasonal factors such as refinery maintenance, the switchover to summer-blend gasoline and rising demand.
Gas prices so far this year have averaged $3.38 per gallon, which are 17 cents per gallon cheaper than in 2013 and 20 cents per gallon less than in 2012 through the same period. Gas prices are less expensive than in recent years primarily because many refineries have increased capacity to take advantage of North American crude oil production. Also, gasoline demand was relatively weak during much of the winter due to strong storms and colder than normal temperatures.
As part of North America’s largest motoring and leisure travel organization, AAA Tidewater Virginia provides its more than 325,000 members with travel, insurance, financial and automotive-related services. Since its founding AAA Tidewater Virginia has been a leader and advocate for the safety and security of all travelers. For more information, visit AAA.com and follow us on Twitter at Twitter.com/AAATidewaterVA or on Facebook at facebook.com/AAATidewaterVirginia