Gas prices across New York are holding relatively steady this week, even as national prices begin their typical seasonal climb and global oil markets show signs of volatility.
According to AAA Western and Central New York, the statewide average for a gallon of regular gas is now $3.01 — up just one cent from last week. That’s still 15 cents lower than this time last year, when the state average sat at $3.16.
Nationally, drivers are seeing a sharper increase. The U.S. average rose six cents to $3.00 per gallon. Analysts say the seasonal uptick is partly due to refineries switching to more expensive summer-blend gasoline, which is designed to reduce evaporation in warmer weather. Increased travel demand with spring break also tends to push prices higher.
Across western and central New York, prices vary by market:
Batavia: $3.00 (down 3 cents)
Buffalo: $3.06 (down 1 cent)
Elmira: $2.78 (down 1 cent)
Ithaca: $3.10 (down 1 cent)
Rochester: $3.06 (no change)
Rome: $3.12 (up 1 cent)
Syracuse: $2.98 (up 1 cent)
Watertown: $3.03 (no change)
While local prices have remained relatively stable, broader factors could still drive increases. Recent military strikes involving the U.S., Israel, and Iran have rattled global oil markets. Iran plays a significant role in worldwide crude exports, and any disruption to shipping routes such as the Strait of Hormuz could tighten supply and raise fuel costs internationally.
Oil prices have already climbed roughly 9 to 13 percent in the past week, trading in the low $70s to $80s per barrel — higher than last week’s mid-$60s to low-$70s range.
For now, New York drivers are seeing only modest changes at the pump, but seasonal demand and global tensions could put upward pressure on prices in the weeks ahead.
