(WWJ) Gas prices jumped a bit in Michigan, just ahead of the holiday weekend, but remain low compared to last year.
According to AAA Michigan, the prices at the pump was up 12 cents compared to last week to an average of a $1.97 per gallon. The highest average price was in the Ann Arbor area at $1.99; and the lowest price was in the Saginaw area at a $1.95.
But even at $1.97, AAA says Michigan drivers are still paying about 94 cents less than they were paying at this time a year ago. Motorists are paying an average of $30 for a full 15-gallon tank of gasoline; a discount of $14 from when prices were their highest last July, according to AAA.
With many people working from home, and just generally staying home more amid the COVID-19 health crisis, demand for gas remains low. New data from the Energy Information Administration revealed that it hit 6.8 million barrels per day last week, which is 2.6 million barrels per day lower than this time last year.
But expect that all to change day by day, experts say. "Pump prices have gone up as gas demand and crude prices have increased and more states reopen businesses," said Adrienne Woodland, spokesperson, AAA - The Auto Club Group.
Compared to last week, Metro Detroit's average daily gas price also increased to around $1.96 per gallon, That's 12 cents more than last week's average, but still 91 cents less than this time last year. AAA said the most most expensive gas prices right now are in Jackson, Ann Arbor and Benton Harbor areas.
On Tuesday, GasBuddy.com showed there were some good deals out there. In metro Detroit, the cheapest price Tuesday morning was $1.55 at the BP at Middlebelt and Wick Rd. if you pay cash. There are several options at $1.59 a gallon in Troy, Livonia, Southfield and Madison Heights.
Find the best price near you at this link.
