News Summary
Gas prices in the Augusta-Aiken metro area have increased slightly to an average of $2.90 per gallon, a rise of $0.01 or 0.5% over the past week. Compared to last year, prices have dropped significantly by $0.39, showing an annual decrease of 11.8%. Diesel prices are also up to $3.51 per gallon, with a similar weekly increase. As travel demand rises ahead of the July Fourth holiday, consumers may face fluctuating gas prices due to geopolitical uncertainties. The Georgia Department of Transportation plans to suspend construction lane closures to ease holiday traffic.
Augusta, GA – Gas prices in the Augusta-Aiken metro area have experienced a slight increase, now averaging $2.90 per gallon. This marks a marginal rise of $0.01 or 0.5% over the past week. However, compared to last year, gas prices have dropped significantly by $0.39, translating to an annual decrease of 11.8%, as reported on July 18, 2023. In comparison, the state average for Georgia stands at $2.91 per gallon.
Diesel prices in Augusta have also seen a similar upward trend, now priced at $3.51 per gallon. This represents a week-over-week increase of $0.03 or 0.7%. Compared to last year, diesel prices have decreased by $0.26 or 6.9%.
Historical Context of Gas Prices
The current gas prices are notably lower than the historical peak recorded on June 15, 2022, when prices surged to $4.42 per gallon in Augusta. Diesel prices also peaked at $5.51 on June 10, 2022. This current increase in gas prices has raised concerns as geopolitical tensions in the Middle East unfold, with experts warning of the potential for further price hikes.
National Trends and Comparisons
Nationally, the average gas price has seen a slight increase to $3.17 per gallon, up 3 cents from the previous month. Several Texas metros boast the lowest gas prices in the country, with McAllen-Edinburg-Mission leading at $2.60 per gallon, followed by Laredo and Brownsville-Harlingen, both at $2.63.
Upcoming Holiday Travel Impact
With the upcoming July Fourth holiday, travel in Georgia is expected to increase. An estimated 2.3 million Georgians will be on the move, up 2.9% from the previous year. Nationally, 72.2 million Americans are projected to travel domestically, marking a 2.4% increase. Of these, approximately 61.6 million are expected to drive.
To facilitate holiday travel, the Georgia Department of Transportation has announced the suspension of construction-related lane closures from July 3 to July 6. Peak travel periods are expected in Atlanta, particularly on July 3 from noon to 8 p.m. and July 6 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Future Price Projections
Experts caution that while gas prices are currently relatively mild, conditions may change rapidly due to ongoing geopolitical uncertainties. Disturbances such as those in Israel and Iran could push prices higher. Although modest increases are predicted for now, the situation warrants close observation as developments unfold.
In summary, Augusta gas prices have seen a slight increase, yet remain significantly lower than last year’s rates. With demand surging due to holiday travel and potential geopolitical tensions, consumers are urged to stay informed as prices may continue to fluctuate.
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Additional Resources
- WGAU Radio: Gas Prices Change in Augusta
- Wikipedia: Gasoline
- WRDW: Update on Gas Prices for Holiday Travelers
- Google Search: Gas Prices
- Augusta Chronicle: Weekly Gas Prices
- Google Scholar: Gas Price Trends
- Stacker: Most Expensive Homes in Augusta Metro Area
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Gas Prices
- Augusta Free Press: Israel-Iran Tension and Gas Prices
- Google News: Gas Prices Augusta
Author: STAFF HERE AUGUSTA WRITER
AUGUSTA STAFF WRITER The AUGUSTA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAugusta.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Augusta, Richmond County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Arts in the Heart Festival, Westobou Festival, and Masters Week. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Augusta Metro Chamber of Commerce and Greater Augusta Arts Council, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and healthcare that power the local economy such as Textron Specialized Vehicles, Cardinal Health, and Nutrien. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAtlanta.com and HERESavannah.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
