(The Center Square) – Georgia gas prices are up 10 cents from last week, just ahead of the July 4th holiday weekend when more than 2 million Georgians will take a road trip, according to AAA.
The average cost for a gallon of regular unleaded gasoline is $2.96. While it’s 2 cents higher than last month, the price is 30 cents less than a year ago, the organization said.
Gas prices rose last week as the conflict between Israel and Iran escalated. It’s not clear how the U.S. strike of nuclear targets over the weekend could affect fuel costs at home. Uncertainty also surrounds Iran’s threat to close the Strait of Hormuz, a major trade route.
Motorists will find the highest Peach State gas prices in Savannah, where it’s $3.03 a gallon, according to AAA. The northwest corner of the state, which competes with Tennessee for less expensive gas, has the lowest cost at $2.84. Tennessee’s fuel price was a dime cheaper than Georgia’s average at $2.85 a gallon.
Mississippi has the least expensive gas in the country at an average of $2.73 a gallon. California takes the top spot once again for the highest-priced fuel at $4.66 a gallon, according to AAA’s national map. The national average is $3.22.
July 4th travel will likely break a record, according to AAA. Last year 2.31 million Georgia motorists traveled. This year that number will grow to 2.38 million, the organization said.
More than 72.2 million Americans will travel during the holiday weekend, with more than 61 million choosing to drive.
“Independence Day is one of the most popular times for travel, with Americans eager to take advantage of summer vacation opportunities,” said Debbie Haas, vice president of AAA Travel. “This year, we’re seeing strong demand for road trips, flights, and cruises, especially with the holiday falling on a Friday.”
