ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — Last week, Florida's average gas price nearly dropped below the $3 a gallon threshold, according to a new report from the American Automobile Association (AAA).
The state average reportedly sank to $3.01 per gallon last Monday. Afterward, prices went up by an average of 14 cents.
AAA officials said the state average peaked mid-week at $3.15 a gallon before lowering through the weekend.
"Sunday's state average was $3.11 per gallon," said Mark Jenkins, spokesman, AAA - The Auto Club Group. "Drivers are now paying 9 cents more than this time last week."
In terms of regional prices, Florida's most expensive markets for gasoline were West Palm Beach-Boca Raton ($3.27), Naples ($3.18) and Gainesville ($3.18).
The cheapest markets in the state were listed as Panama City ($2.79), Crestview-Fort Walton Beach ($2.81) and Pensacola ($2.91).
AAA shared the following tips to save money 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.
As of Nov. 11, Florida's average gas prices are as follows, according to AAA:
- Regular - $3.101
- Mid-Grade - $3.537
- Premium - $3.861
- Diesel - $3.450
To learn more about Florida's gas prices, click here.