Florida gas prices set a new high for 2021, with the statewide price at the pump reaching $3, the most expensive since 2014.
According to the American Automobile Association (AAA), the Sunshine State posted an average of $3.01 per gallon. Florida drivers are now paying 7 cents per gallon more than this time last week. Since last month, Florida gas prices climbed 15 cents on average. Additionally, Tuesday’s average is 90 cents higher than this time last year when prices dropped due to low demand amidst the COVID-19 pandemic.
Despite the recent jump at the pump being driven by rising crude oil prices, Florida’s average price per gallon still sits below the national average which is north of $3.13 per gallon. AAA noted that Tropical Storm Elsa, which is expected to bring tropical storm-force winds and heavy rainfall to Florida’s west coast this week, is not expected to impact the price at the pump.
“Florida drivers continue to feel the effects of rising crude oil prices, which have made it more expensive to produce gasoline,” said Mark Jenkins, spokesman, AAA – The Auto Club Group. “Oil prices have surged nearly 60% this year, as global fuel demand outpaces the recovery in supplies. Unfortunately, these pump prices will likely hang around through the summer, unless fundamentals change. Tropical Storm Elsa is not expected to impact prices at the pump.
Jenkins added that crude oil prices in the United States have jumped from $47 per barrel in January to $75 per barrel last week. Crude oil prices haven’t been that high since October 2018.
Motorists looking to travel around the state will find the highest price per gallon in the Panhandle and across parts of South Florida. Panama City ($3.13), West Palm Beach-Boca Raton ($3.12), and Tallahassee ($3.05) posted the highest gas prices in the state. The lowest prices were reported in Fort Myers-Cape Coral ($2.97), Punta Gorda ($2.98), Jacksonville ($2.98)
A full breakdown of gas prices across the state can be seen here.
Any chance that our Consumer Affairs Commissioner (Nikki Pelosi) will comment on the energy policy of Sleepy Joe which has lead to these high prices or is she still running around Surfside looking for anyone that will put her on a camera? Is anyone at home at the Agriculture Office?