AAA finds strong demand for oil contributing to higher gas prices

Strong demand and rising crude oil prices are contributing to higher gasoline prices nationally and in Massachusetts. Self serve regular unleaded gasoline prices in Massachusetts have risen after falling for six consecutive weeks, according to AAA Pioneer Valley.

AAA's July 16 survey of prices in Massachusetts found self serve unleaded averaging $2.92 per gallon, two cents more than last week. Massachusetts is currently 13 cents below the national average for regular unleaded of $3.05. A year ago at this time the average price locally was $3.02.

The range in prices for regular unleaded in the latest AAA survey is 42 cents, from a low of $2.79 to a high of $3.21. Motorists should continue to shop around for the best prices in their area, and to make sure they and their passengers buckle up, every time.

Find the most up-to-date local gas prices with the AAA Fuel Finder by logging onto AAA.com and clicking on Gas Saving Tips & Tools.