While the national average gas price is expected to grow, it should stay below $3.

The national average price of gas hit $2.71 on Monday, April 16, the highest average price in almost three years. Gas is now 30 cents more expensive than this time last year and 18 cents more than last month. Prices are expected to continue to climb, according to AAA.

AAA reported that in the past week, gas prices increased by five cents. Nationwide, only 27% of gas stations are selling gas for $2.50 or less.

“Expensive crude oil prices, unrest in the Middle East, strong domestic demand, record production rates and global oil supply surplus have created the perfect storm to drive spring gas prices toward new heights,” said Jeanette Casselano, AAA spokesperson. “Consumers can expect gas prices to increase another five to 10 cents this season, but the national average is not expected to reach the $3 mark.”

Gas in California is up 55 cents over last year, while Utah is up 54 cents over last year.

Oklahoma ($2.43) and Arkansas ($2.44) are the states with the least expensive gas.