Title: Gasoline Prices Spike by 20 Cents Per Gallon in Three Days, Hits Average of $3.46 in Miami
Miami, (Date) – After experiencing a steady decline in gasoline prices over the past three weeks, motorists in Miami are now facing an unexpected rise in costs. In just three days, the price per gallon has surged by an average of 20 cents, bringing the average price to $3.46 per gallon. This increase comes as a surprise to many drivers who were paying $3.26 per gallon just a week ago.
According to a report by the American Automobile Association (AAA), the price of oil has remained stable. However, following the long Independence Day weekend, the price inexplicably climbed once again. The AAA noted that this jump in prices coincided with their prediction that a record number of Floridians would be embarking on road trips for the holidays.
“The price jump came on the heels of Independence Day, when AAA forecast that a record number of Floridians would be taking road trips for the holidays,” stated the AAA report. “Fortunately, oil prices remain low. Unless that changes this week, the upward pressure on gasoline prices should ease soon.”
In contrast, gas prices in Florida on Independence Day averaged $3.26 per gallon, representing a $1.28 per gallon decrease compared to the prices a year ago. Despite the recent increase, the state average on Monday still remained significantly below the high of $3.72 per gallon seen earlier in the year.
In Miami, the average price per gallon stands at $3.45, while in Fort Lauderdale, it is $3.48. Some gas stations in Miami continue to offer fuel for around $3.27 per gallon. Frustrated drivers have commented on the unpredictable nature of price changes, with some stations following suit when neighboring stations raise their prices.
To combat excessive pricing, consumers are urged to report their concerns to the state Consumer Protection Office by dialing 1-866-966-7226. The areas with the highest gas prices in Florida are West Palm Beach, Naples, and Homosassa Springs, while the cheapest can be found in the Pensacola and Panama City areas. Nationwide, the average price per gallon is slightly higher at $3.54.
For those seeking the best prices in their vicinity, there are several online portals and mobile applications available. One such portal is GasBuddy.com, which provides hourly price updates by location. By simply inputting their zip code, users can access a list of nearby gas stations and their respective prices. In the Miami area, for instance, prices as low as $3.28 per gallon can be found along Calle 8 or Flagler Street.
Motorists are advised to avoid gas stations near Miami International Airport, where prices are often inflated by 25 to 40 cents. The higher rates are attributed to the influx of travelers returning rental cars, attracting “commercial logic” aimed at charging an additional premium.
GasBuddy.com also offers a mobile application, allowing users to access detailed information on prices for each gas station in their respective locations.
As motorists continue to face fluctuating gasoline prices, staying informed and utilizing resources like GasBuddy.com can help drivers navigate to the most affordable options in their area.