RI Gas Prices Continue to Rise

RI Gas Prices Continue to Rise

Gas prices in Rhode Island are rising again for the fifth straight week in a row. According to AAA Southern New England, they have increased by 2 cents in the last week to an average of $3.06 per gallon for unleaded regular gas.

"It's not a dramatic rise, but it's part of a larger climb upward," said Mary MaGuire, spokeswoman for AAA Souther New England. Rhode Islanders have witnessed this upward climb for over a month with prices rising a total of 18 cents in the last six weeks.

RI Compared to National Gas Prices

National gas prices are also rising. According to AAA, national averages for regular unleaded gas rose a total of 9 cents over the last week from $2.86 to $2.95.

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Although there is a national upward trend, Rhode Island has some of the highest gas prices in the country with rates that are 11 cents above the national average at $3.06 per gallon of regular unleaded.

According to MaGuire, the rising gas prices may be the result of rising oil prices. "Oil prices have increased to just below $90 a barrel. And as oil prices rise, prices at the pump will too," said MaGuire.

Stable Gas Prices in the Future?

Although gas prices are facing an upward climb, Rhode Islanders may witness a short respite in time for the holidays. "We do see a nesting period, between Thanksgiving and the Chanukah-Christmas season, when it gets colder outside and people stay inside more often. So we may begin to see prices stabilize," said MaGuire.

To find the latest local gas prices by logging onto AAA.com and clicking on Gas Saving Tips & Tools.