From AAA
Florida gas prices are inching lower again after surging an average of 18 cents per gallon, last week. On Friday, the state average reached a new 2023 high of $3.84 per gallon – topping the previous high of $3.72, set back in April.
This is the fourth consecutive weekly jump at the pump. Sunday's state average of $3.83 per gallon is 57 cents per gallon more than what Florida drivers paid on Independence Day.
"Florida gas prices are now the highest since August of last year," said Mark Jenkins, spokesman, AAA - The Auto Club Group. "These surging prices have been driven by a couple of factors. Extreme temperatures along the gulf coast has kept refineries from operating at full capacity. Globally, oil prices are significantly higher than a month ago, as OPEC production cuts cause global oil supplies to tighten."
About half the price per gallon of gasoline is influenced by oil prices. When gas prices were lower last month, crude oil was trading just below $70 a barrel. Now oil is above $80 per barrel. Friday's closing price of $82.81/b is just 45 cents below the 2023 high. This is all primarily due to tightness in the global oil market.
Meanwhile, extreme temperatures in the south have prevented fuel refineries from operating at full capacity. Refineries already generate incredible heat while operating. When outside temperatures exceed 100 degrees, that can cause breakdowns and equipment failures, not to mention things beyond their control like rolling electrical outages and severe weather.
"There are some factors that should help alleviate some upward pressure on fuel prices, but one major wild card that could cause them to spike again," Jenkins said. "Last week's supply report from the EIA showed improvements in refinery operations. Additionally, gasoline demand may soon move lower as students return to school, signaling the end of the busy summer driving season.
"Drivers should expect continued volatility at the pump during the coming months, particularly as we approach peak hurricane season," Jenkins continued. "The majority of Florida's gasoline is supplied by refineries along the Texas, Louisiana and Mississippi coastlines. Gas prices could spike just based on the mere threat of a hurricane making landfall in this region. How high gas prices go from there - and for how long - would then be based on whether those refineries suffered any long term damage."
Regional Prices
Most expensive metro markets – West Palm Beach-Boca Raton ($3.96), Homosassa Springs ($3.91), Naples ($3.90)
Least expensive metro markets – Crestview-Fort Walton Beach ($3.58), Pensacola ($3.59), Panama City ($3.62)
Ways to Save on Gasoline
Ways to Save on Gasoline
- Combine errands to limit driving time.
- Shop around for the best gas prices in your community.
- Pay with cash. Some retailers charge extra per gallon for customers who pay with a credit card.
- Remove excess weight in your vehicle. Every 100 pounds taken out of the vehicle improves fuel economy by 1-2 percent.
- Drive conservatively. Aggressive acceleration and speeding reduces fuel economy.
AAA Resources for Drivers
- Enroll in savings programs. AAA Members who enroll in Shell's Fuel Rewards program can save 30 cents per gallon on their first fill-up and 5 cents per gallon each additional trip to the pump. Click here for more information.
- Get a tune-up. Ensure your vehicle is properly maintained to optimize its fuel economy. Visit AAA.com/AutoRepair to find a certified repair shop.
- Find the lowest gas prices in your area by using the free AAA mobile app.
- Determine anticipated fuel costs for your trip by using the AAA's Gas Cost Calculator.
Find Florida Gas Prices
Gas Price Survey Methodology
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
