AAA: Western PA Gas Prices Rise with New Year

AAA: Gas Prices Rise in Western Pennsylvania as New Year Begins

Gas prices are up slightly in Western Pennsylvania as we start the new year, according to AAA East Central’s Gas Price Report.

The average price for a gallon of regular unleaded gas in Western Pennsylvania is $3.81, which is two cents more than a week ago and 11 cents more than a year ago.

Across the state, the average price is four cents higher than last week, at $3.84. The national average stands at $3.32, up three cents over last week and down from $3.47 a year ago.

The most expensive gas in the area, according to AAA, was in Jefferson County at $3.896 a gallon. The lowest average price was in Armstrong County at $3.771.

The price of crude oil closed above $80 a barrel for the first time in more than three months last week, following reports that China plans to increase its crude imports to make up for a slowdown in domestic production.

The increase, along with the upcoming maintenance season for U.S. refineries, could continue to put upward pressure on gas prices.

AAA East Central’s Gas Price Report is updated each Monday.