Georgia Gas Prices Top $4 Amid Crude Surge
The statewide average for regular unleaded gasoline reached $4.01 per gallon. This marks a 12-cent increase from the previous week and a $1.12 rise compared to last year.
Georgia drivers face higher costs at the pump following the Labor Day holiday. The statewide average for regular unleaded gasoline stands at $4.01 per gallon. This figure is 12 cents higher than a week ago and 20 cents higher than a month ago. Compared to this time last year, prices have jumped $1.12. The current rate remains 48 cents below the state’s all-time record of $4.49, set in June 2022. A full 15-gallon tank now costs approximately $60.15.
Crude oil prices have surged above $100 per barrel. West Texas Intermediate crude reached $102.44 this morning. A year ago, the same benchmark stood at $62.22. This spike in crude costs directly drives retail fuel prices. National averages have also climbed, rising 17 cents in one week to $4.31 per gallon. These levels mirror prices seen in early June. Demand typically drops in the fall, yet prices continue to rise due to supply constraints.
Diesel Inventories Remain Tight
Diesel fuel prices show similar pressure. The national average for on-highway diesel hit $5.97 per gallon on September 7. By the latest report, that average rose to $6.23. This represents a near 37-cent weekly increase. Distillate inventories, which include diesel and heating oil, rose by 2.1 million barrels to 106.3 million. Despite this increase, stocks remain 13% below the five-year average. They are also nearly 12% lower than levels from a year ago. Refineries operate at 97.8% of capacity, producing about 5.3 million barrels daily. The issue is a limited supply cushion rather than a total shortage.
Regional Price Variations Across State
Metro areas in Georgia show distinct pricing tiers. Savannah records the highest average at $4.05 per gallon. Macon follows closely at $4.04, and Atlanta sits at $4.03. Cobb County matches the statewide average at $4.01. The most affordable markets include Catoosa-Dade-Walker at $3.92. Rome averages $3.94, and the Augusta-Aiken area reports $3.95. These variations persist despite the uniform rise in wholesale costs.
Charging Costs Stay Lower
Electric vehicle charging offers a cheaper alternative. Commercial DC fast charging stations average 42 cents per kilowatt hour nationally. Georgia rates are slightly lower at 41 cents. Home charging is significantly less expensive, especially during overnight off-peak hours. Utility providers set these local rates, which often undercut fuel costs. Drivers seeking savings should compare local utility plans. The current fuel price environment encourages a shift toward electrification for some households.
