Since the beginning of 2021, the national gas price average has increased 13 cents, with today’s average being $2.38. That is a nickel more than last week, but still cheaper year-over-year by 17 cents. The average cost of regular gas in Osceola County is $2.38/gallon, aligned with the state average.

The last time the nation saw a substantial January pump price increase was in 2009. That year, the national gas price average jumped 23 cents inside of the first 3 weeks of the year. At that time U.S. gasoline demand and supply were lower and crude oil prices had been increasing, similar to today.

“The higher price of crude is outweighing sustained low gasoline demand and a build-in gasoline supply,” said Jeanette Casselano McGee, AAA spokesperson. “Motorists can expect gas prices to continue to climb through at least the end of the month.”

On the week, every state saw an increase at the pump, with 14 state averages jumping at least seven cents. While all states are paying less year-over-year, the coming weeks could put an end to that 10-month trend.