Gas prices across New York State dipped slightly heading into the final week of May, according to the latest report from AAA Western and Central New York.
The statewide average price for a gallon of regular gasoline is now $4.59, down two cents from last Monday. One year ago, the New York average stood at $3.13 per gallon.
The national average also declined this week, falling three cents to $4.49 per gallon. A year ago, the national average was $3.18.
In the Finger Lakes region, prices were mostly steady or slightly lower compared to last week. AAA reports the average price in Ithaca remained unchanged at $4.60 per gallon, while Elmira dropped two cents to $4.51. Rochester drivers are paying an average of $4.58 per gallon, down one cent from last week.
AAA says gas prices are easing following the Memorial Day holiday travel period, despite record travel numbers this year. The organization projected 45 million Americans would travel at least 50 miles over the holiday weekend, including more than 39 million traveling by car.
Oil prices have also declined over the past week, helping push pump prices lower. Crude oil is currently trading between $92 and $98 per barrel, compared to $97 to $104 per barrel a week ago.
Meanwhile, diesel prices also continued to fall. The New York average for diesel is now $5.91 per gallon, down three cents from last week, though still significantly higher than the $3.88 average reported one year ago.
