Florida’s average gas price climbed back above $4 on Sunday, hitting $4.14 a gallon for the first time since June 1. The culprit: crude oil surged from $83 to more than $100 a barrel in two weeks as Middle East tensions intensified, a nearly 20% jump. Since crude makes up more than half of what you pay at the pump, AAA’s Mark Jenkins says the increase was almost inevitable.
The numbers sting a little more when you stack them up. Sunday’s average sat 23 cents above last week, 19 cents above last month, and a staggering $1.18 above this time last year. Here in the Suncoast, where a drive to the beach or a commute over the bridge is just part of the routine, that adds up fast for retirees, snowbirds, rideshare drivers, and small businesses alike.
AAA warns the state average could reach $4.19 if oil prices stay elevated. West Palm Beach-Boca Raton is currently the priciest metro at $4.30, while Panama City and Pensacola are the cheapest at $3.97. One tip: Florida prices tend to spike early in the week, so filling up midweek might save you a few cents. Where are you seeing the cheapest gas around the Suncoast? Let us know in the comments.
