Gas prices rise, start year at highest level since 2014

The average retail price of gasoline in New York rose 1.4 cents per gallon last week to $2.64.

In the Kingston-Ulster area midday Monday, gas stations were selling 87-octane unleaded for $2.43 to $2.49 per gallon, according to gasoline price website GasBuddy.com.

“It’s mostly a happy New Year as gas prices remain in the low- to mid-$2-pergallon range, but it’s not quite as happy as could be as it’s the priciest start to a New Year since 2014,” said Patrick DeHaan, head of petroleum analysis for GasBuddy. “2017 [wound] up a fairly tame year, but keep in mind oil prices are among the highest we’ve witnessed in over two years, and we’re in the middle of a severe cold snap, one which is likely to drive up demand for heating oil, propane and other petroleum products .... ”

New York’s average gasoline price Monday was 3.1 cents per gallon lower that a month ago but 13.2 cents higher than a year ago.

The national average Monday was $2.48 per gallon, up 3.9 cents from a week earlier, 1.3 cents from a month ago and 13.6 cents from a year ago.

According to GasBuddy historical data, gasoline prices on Jan. 2 in New York state have ranged widely over the last five years: $2.51 per gallon in 2017, $2.21 in 2016, $2.73 in 2015, $3.68 in 2014 and $3.73 in 2013.

For live fuel price averages, go to FuelInsights. GasBuddy.com.