Florida gas prices jumped 12 cents last week, then declined 6 cents over the weekend, according to data from AAA. On Feb. 23, the state average was $3.10 per gallon, 7 cents more than a week ago, 2 cents less than last month and 25 cents less than this time last year.
“Seasonal factors could apply upward pressure on pump prices in the next couple of months,” AAA spokesman Mark Jenkins said. “Spring refinery maintenance season generally peaks in late February and March. This, combined with higher fuel demand from spring travel and the switch to summer gasoline, all typically contribute to higher prices in the spring. For context, last year, gas prices rose 30 cents from late February to the end of March.”
Crude oil prices remained steady last week. Feb. 21’s closing price was $70.40 per barrel, 34 cents less than the week before.
In Southwest Florida, Charlotte County had the lowest average gas price at $3.01 per gallon, followed by Lee County ($3.07) and Collier County ($3.19).
