TAMPA, Fla. — Gas prices in Florida have reached their lowest levels all year, dropping by 15 cents per gallon over the past week and dipping below $3 per gallon in multiple counties.
The Florida state average dropped to $2.97 per gallon over the weekend, according to the latest figures from AAA, keeping prices well below the nationwide average of $3.15 per gallon. Prices in the Tampa Bay largely met the statewide average or dipped below it.
- Hillsborough County: $2.95
- Pinellas County: $2.88
- Sarasota County: $3.00
- Manatee County: $2.92
- Pasco County: $2.88
- Polk County: $2.91
AAA spokesperson Mark Jenkins attributed the great drop in prices to plummeting oil and gasoline futures and a weekly report showing strong refinery activity and an increase in gasoline supplies.
"About 35 percent of Florida gas stations now have fuel below $3 a gallon. Nearly 10% of retailers have prices in the low $2.70s," Jenkins said in a statement. "While prices could bounce around in the coming weeks, drivers should expect pump prices to remain low through the holidays unless oil prices suddenly spike."
With travel expected to increase throughout the holiday season, AAA reminded drivers that there are ways to save on gas consumption:
- 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 reduce fuel economy.