News Summary
Gas prices in Virginia have increased significantly, averaging $3.06 per gallon after a rise of 9.5 cents over the past week. In contrast, West Virginia’s prices have fallen to $3.00 per gallon, remaining below the national average. The variation in gas prices highlights differing trends in supply and demand, influenced by rural pricing and regional changes. With summer travel peaking, the outlook suggests potential increases in demand and prices in the coming weeks, urging motorists to stay informed about fuel market fluctuations.
Virginia Gas Prices Increase, West Virginia Sees Decline
Virginia has experienced a notable rise in gas prices, with the average cost climbing by 9.5 cents per gallon over the past week, reaching $3.06 on Monday. This increase marks a rise of 6.3 cents compared to a month ago; however, it remains 14.4 cents lower than the average prices from the same period last year. Conversely, West Virginia has seen gas prices continue to decline, with an average price of just $3.00 per gallon, making it significantly below the national average.
In Virginia, the range of gas prices varies widely, with the lowest reported price at $2.59 per gallon, contrasting with the highest at $3.99, creating a substantial price gap of $1.40 per gallon. The national average price for gasoline also saw an increase of 3.4 cents in the last week, now standing at $3.12 per gallon. Despite this recent rise, the national figure is 2.1 cents lower than a month earlier and 18.3 cents lower than last year.
While Virginia’s prices are on the rise, West Virginia’s average price for regular unleaded gasoline decreased to $3.00 as of August 25, down from $3.01 a week prior, $3.09 from one month ago, and $3.28 a year ago. This positions West Virginia’s prices over 15 cents below the national average of $3.16. Mid-grade fuel in West Virginia is currently averaging $3.42, premium at $3.87, and diesel now at $3.59.
Regional Variations in West Virginia
In several regions of West Virginia, gas prices are reported below $3.10, with rural counties displaying averages that may reach as high as $3.25. Key price averages include:
– Charleston: $2.99
– Huntington: $3.02
– Wheeling: $2.94
– Page County: $2.69 (the lowest average in the state)
Comparison with Previous Prices
Current gas prices in West Virginia stand in stark contrast to the unprecedented highs recorded in June 2022, when regular unleaded was priced at $4.93 and diesel approached $6 per gallon. The ongoing price reductions are attributed to lower demand for fuel and stable crude oil prices; however, volatility may ensue as storm activities are forecasted in the Gulf of Mexico, potentially impacting future prices.
Future Outlook
Furthermore, reports indicate that as summer travel reaches its peak, demand for gasoline may rise, potentially leading to increased gas prices in the coming weeks. In the Harrisonburg metro area of Virginia, fuel prices have seen a light increase, now averaging $3.03. This is one cent higher than the prior week but remains below the month’s average.
Overall, while Virginia is witnessing rising prices, West Virginia continues to enjoy some relief as prices drop. Motorists are encouraged to stay informed about fuel prices and market trends, especially as they fluctuate due to regional supply and demand changes.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- West Virginia News
- WSLS News
- WHSV News
- Stacker
- The Center Square
- Wikipedia: Gasoline
- Google Search: Gas Prices Virginia
- Google Scholar: Gas Prices Trends
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Gasoline
- Google News: Generation Gas Prices
Author: STAFF HERE WILLIAMSBURG WRITER
The WILLIAMSBURG STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREWilliamsburg.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Williamsburg, James City County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Williamsburg Farmers Market, Yorktown Market Days, and Busch Gardens Food & Wine Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Williamsburg Chamber of Commerce and Colonial Williamsburg Foundation, plus leading businesses in education and hospitality that power the local economy such as College of William & Mary, The Williamsburg Winery, and Sodexo. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREVirginiaBeach.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Virginia's dynamic landscape.
