Gas prices up nearly 50 cents past week and go over $4 nationally

Photos by Tom Rivers: The sign at the Crosby’s on Route 104 in Gaines proclaims the $4.29 for a gallon of gas this morning. The average price in Orleans increased 44 cents a gallon in the past week, according to AAA.

By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 7 March 2022 at 8:31 am

The average price of a gallon of gas is now over $4 nationally, with the cost up 46 cents in the past week nationally to $4.07, and 46 cents state-wide, up to $4.26, according to AAA.

In Orleans County, the average price increased from $3.801 a week ago to $4.243 today. Since Jan. 31, the average price is up nearly 70 cents in the county. It was $3.546 a gallon five weeks ago on Jan. 31.

The average price for regular unleaded gas reported today by AAA for Orleans and nearby counties includes:

  • Orleans, $4.243
  • Niagara, $4.167
  • Erie, $4.219
  • Genesee, $4.225
  • Wyoming, $4.180
  • Monroe, $4.231
  • Livingston, $4.250

New York is nearing the highest recorded average price of $4.309 on July 9, 2008. The highest average diesel price is $5.138 on June 18, 2008. Today it’s $4.854.

“This morning, oil prices are more than $124 per barrel – in August, oil prices were $30 per barrel,” AAA said in a news release. “At one point during the pandemic they were below zero, in negative territory.”

AAA offered fuel-conserving tips including mapping routes, avoiding peak traffic times like rush hour, and combining errands into one trip while using cruise control when possible.

“Drivers should also make sure tire pressure is at the vehicle’s recommended level for the best gas mileage while removing any unnecessary and bulky items from the car since it takes more fuel to accelerate a heavy vehicle,” AAA said.

The Crosby’s in Clarendon was selling a gallon of regular unleaded for $4.19 on Saturday.