Michigan motorists are reaching deeper into their wallets this week, with the state's gas prices rising by 10 cents per gallon for regular unleaded gasoline. The average price at the pump is currently $3.23, which, despite the hike, is 5 cents less than last month and 36 cents down from last year's figures. Filling up a 15-gallon tank in the state now costs drivers around $48, as reported by CBS News Detroit.
It isn't just statewide data that's showing the increase; Metro Detroit is feeling the squeeze too, albeit slightly milder, with a 2-cent increase bringing the average to $3.21 per gallon. In a statement obtained by WXYZ, this uptick is marked but still comes in at 42 cents less compared to the same time last year.
Gas prices vary across different localities within Michigan, with some areas feeling the brunt more than others. Ann Arbor, Saginaw, and Jackson are topping the list with the most expensive gas prices, peaking at $3.29 in Ann Arbor. On the other end of the spectrum, Marquette offers the least expensive average gas prices at $3.05 per gallon, followed by Traverse City and Flint, as found in figures reported by both CBS News Detroit and WXYZ.
Discussing the broader market trends, The Detroit News cited Patrick De Haan, head of petroleum analysis at GasBuddy, who said, "After rising for two straight weeks, the national average price of gasoline saw a slight decline in the last week as oil prices fell below $64 per barrel, paving the way for prices to ease in most states." The national average currently sits at $3.08, a slight dip from the previous week. However, De Haan also refers to the unpredictable nature of gas prices amid the upcoming peak of hurricane season, which could potentially impact supply and prices as Labor Day approaches.
Although prices have shot up recently, there's a possibility that this trend may not endure. Adrienne Woodland, AAA's spokesperson, told The Detroit News, "Despite the slight decrease in demand, Michigan motorists are seeing higher gas prices across the state." She also suggested that if the demand continues to drop, pump prices may reverse course, offering a glimmer of hope to budget-conscious drivers across Michigan.
