The statewide average for a gallon of regular unleaded rose above the $3.90 mark earlier this week, according to both USAA and Gas Buddy.
It could always be worse, however. Each of the states bordering Georgia rose above the $4 plateau, which subsequently led to an increase in people saying four-letter words. Meanwhile, a cluster of midwestern states are approaching the $5 mark, while six western states are now above $5, including California, where the price is now above $6.10.
Georgia had the second-cheapest gas prices in the nation earlier this week, according to USAA, while Gas Buddy had Georgia at fourth. At one point last week, USAA and Gas Buddy both had Georgia No. 1 on its list.
Keep in mind, however, Georgia is the only state in the nation that’s suspended its fuel excise tax, which equates to 33.3 cents per gallon for gasoline and 37.3 cents per gallon on diesel. Without this, Georgia would be middle of the pack and above $4.20.
Gas Buddy is predicting more “volatility.” “With diplomatic efforts faltering and tensions showing few signs of easing, traders will continue to react swiftly to geopolitical developments,” according to its website. “As long as uncertainty surrounds supply – especially in critical regions and transit routes – oil prices are likely to remain supported, with sharp swings possible as markets navigate an increasingly fragile and headline-driven environment.”