LANSING, Mich. (Michigan News Source) – As temperatures drop in Michigan, the American Automobile Association (AAA) is anticipating gas prices will rise for the first time in 2024. 

What are current prices?

Prices are expected to climb to $2.96 for regular gasoline, and drop slightly for diesel fuel at $3.87 per gallon. 

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The company is attributing the jump in prices to an increased demand for fuel. 

“If demand continues to increase, alongside fluctuating crude oil prices, Michigan motorists could see pump prices rise further,” said Adrienne Woodland, a spokeswoman for AAA, said in a statement.

What are the cheapest and most expensive prices in Michigan?

Drivers in gas powered vehicles in Michigan are paying roughly $44 to fill up a 15-gallon tank, according to AAA. That is approximately $14 lower than 2023’s highest price from last August. 

Jackson has the highest gas prices at $2.99 per gallon, followed by Ann Arbor and Metro Detroit at $2.98 per gallon.  Traverse City has the lowest average $2.93, followed by Benton Harbor at $2.94, and Grand Rapids at $2.94. 

Just last month, the average for regular gasoline prices was $2.99, dropping slightly to $2.81 last week. 

AAA also recommended that customers check carefully which fuel their car needs, so they can save a few dollars at the pump. 

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“AAA research has found that unless premium fuel is recommended or required by your car’s manufacturer, it provides no added benefit,” said AAA in a statement. “Motorists should refer to their vehicle’s owner’s manual to check which type of gasoline is recommended for their engine.”

What’s happening around the country?

Ohio’s current average for unleaded fuel currently averages at $2.83 per gallon, up slightly from last week’s average of $2.64. 

The current national average for regular unleaded stands at $3.07, also down from its average of $3.30 last year. 

The automotive insurance company is also encouraging customers to be safe in the colder and snowier conditions. 

“In today’s snowy weather, be sure to Slow Down and Move Over,” said AAA on X (formerly Twitter). “Also, avoid driving on shoulders or medians so first responders, tow truck operators and emergency vehicles can get to stranded motorists who are in dangerous road conditions.”