Some 102 million Americans to drive to their holiday destination this year, taking advantage of the lowest gas prices of the year.
On Dec. 17, the national gas price average hit $2.37, offering drivers the least expensive pump prices since December 2016.
This time a year ago the national average price of gas was $2.43. Gas prices are also five cents less than last week and 26-cents less than last month.
According to AAA, the price drop comes at an ideal time as millions of Americans are expected to begin holiday travel later this week.
“AAA expects 102 million Americans to drive to their holiday destination this year, which is a 4% increase year-over-year,” said Jeanette Casselano, AAA spokesperson. “No doubt cheaper gas prices are fueling their decision to hit the road.”
With gasoline production on the high side – 10 million b/d – amid low demand, drivers are likely to see gas prices to continue declining through the end of the year, AAA reported.
Missouri ($1.96) and South Carolina ($2.03) have the least expensive gas, while Ohio Ohio (-12 cents), Indiana (-9 cents), Idaho (-9 cents), Montana (-9 cents) and Michigan (-9 cents) saw the biggest weekly changes in gas prices. Hawaii ($3.51) has the most expensive gas followed by California ($3.40).