JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Florida gas prices jumped another 12 cents last week. According to AAA, Sunday’s average was the most expensive since July 2014.
So far this year, gas prices have increased 27 cents. The conflict with Ukraine, winter storms and the latest hike in oil prices are to blame for the jump.
On Friday, the U.S. price for crude oil settled above $90 a barrel for the first time since October 2014.
As of Monday, Florida’s average was at $3.47 per gallon. West Palm Beach, Naples and Port St. Lucie were seeing the most expensive prices, while Jacksonville’s average was the same as the state’s.
News4JAX checked Gas Buddy to see where the cheapest gas is around Jacksonville.
You can find the least expensive gas at the Circle K on Atlantic Boulevard — at only $2.97 a gallon — if you pay cash. The Sunoco on San Juan Avenue on the Westside is at $3.07 per gallon — if you pay with cash. The Murphy USA on State Road 200 by Walmart in Fernandina Beach is $3.15 a gallon — whether you pay with cash or a card.
Traveler Shane Wagner told News4JAX that he thought gas prices were high in Kentucky where he lives — that is until he got to Jacksonville on Sunday night.
“It was shocking,” Wagner said. “That’s Florida for you.”
Here are some reminders about how you can save money on gas:
- Combine errands to limit driving time.
- Shop around for the best gas prices in your area — with tools like Gas Buddy.
- Consider paying cash — some places charge extra per gallon for customers who pay with a credit card.
- It’s also a good idea to remove excess weight in your vehicle.
- Avoid accelerating too fast or speeding.
If you’re waiting to get gas in hopes prices will go down, that’s not likely to happen soon.
“Unfortunately, it looks like gas prices could get a little worse before they get better,” said Mark Jenkins, AAA spokesperson.
Jenkins said that’s because gas is typically cheaper in the winter months.
“Then gas prices tend to pick up as we head into the spring and summer months. People are driving more, so that demand goes up — which means the price tends to get higher, as well,” Jenkins said.
AAA predicts prices will jump another 10 to 15 cents in the coming weeks. Jenkins said prices could get even higher if more sanctions are imposed on Russia.