ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — Florida gas prices are seeing an increase this week after previously reaching a multi-week low, according to AAA.
The state average jumped 16 cents week-over-week, from $2.99 to $3.15 per gallon. AAA reports the U.S. price of crude oil is now at $78.01. That's $4.60 per barrel more than the week before and the highest daily settlement since mid-November, the auto club said.
In the Tampa Bay area, AAA says gas prices are at $3.11 in Pasco County, $3.13 in Pinellas County and $3.15 in Hillsborough County.
Currently, the most expensive area in Florida for a gallon of gas is in the West Palm Beach-Boca Raton area, with an average of $3.34. The least expensive area in the state is in the area of Crestview-Fort Walton Beach at $2.89.
"Despite declining through the weekend, gas prices are facing renewed upward pressure, after crude oil and gasoline futures shot up late last week," said Mark Jenkins, spokesman of the AAA Auto Club Group, in a statement. "This could contribute to higher prices at the pump this week or next. How much higher remains to be seen."
To save money during your next trip to the pump, AAA recommends:
- Combine errands in one trip to limit driving.
- Shop around for the best gas prices in your community.
- Pay with cash. Some retailers charge customers extra when you pay with credit card.
- Remove excess weight in your vehicle. Every 100 pounds taken out of the vehicle improves fuel economy by 1-2 percent.
- Keep an eye on your speed. Driving aggressively or going too fast reduces fuel economy.