Gas prices in Georgia rose 6 cents last week. Sunday's state average of $2.78 per gallon is 5 cents more than a month ago, and 25 cents more than this time last year.

The most expensive gas price averages in Georgia are in Atlanta ($2.81), Athens ($2.80), and Savannah ($2.79)

The least expensive gas price averages in Georgia are in Augusta-Aiken ($2.69), Columbus ($2.69), and Warner Robins ($2.70)

"Motorists are paying higher-than-normal prices at the pump for this time of year," said Mark Jenkins, spokesman, AAA- The Auto Club Group. "Global supply and demand concerns continue to weigh on oil prices, which are dragging gas prices higher as a result. OPEC output remains low and U.S. sanctions are expected to limit exports of Iranian crude. All of this is happening while global demand keeps growing. These fundamentals could keep upward pressure on prices at the pump during a time of year when motorists normally begin to pay less."

Crude oil prices reach multi-year highs

Crude oil prices reached their highest point in nearly four years. Prices settled at $76.41 per barrel on Wednesday, the highest since November 21, 2014. Crude prices trended lower through the second half of last week, settling at $74.34/b.

Domestically, crude oil supply is at the highest point in a month, according to the latest report from the Energy Information Administration. U.S. oil production-rates remain at a record-setting 11.1 million barrels per day, for the second consecutive week.

Domestic gasoline supplies are healthy and production levels remain at an average point for this time of year. While weekly measured gasoline demand metrics are below summer levels - as is customary in the fall - the latest jobs report showing the lowest unemployment numbers in nearly 50 years suggests continued strength in gasoline demand, as Americans commute to work in large numbers.

Fuel Savings Tips

Drive Sensibly – Aggressive driving (speeding, rapid acceleration and braking) wastes gas.

Gas mileage can be reduced 15-30% at highway speeds / 10-40% in stop-and-go traffic
The equivalent of 27¢ - $1.08 per gallon

Observe the speed limit

Not only is it safer – but it can help you save money
Gas mileage rapidly declines at speeds above 50 mph
Every 5 mph you drive over 50 mph is like paying an additional 19 cents per gallon for gasoline

Lose the weight

Using your trunk for storage can cost you by way of lower fuel economy
Remove unnecessary items from your vehicle.
An extra 100 pounds in your vehicle reduces your miles per gallon by about 1%
Like paying an additional 3 cents per gallon for every 100 pounds

Use cruise control

Cruise control on the highway helps you maintain a constant speed
Conversely, constant throttling at high speeds consumes gasoline much faster

Avoid excess idling

Idling uses a quarter to a half gallon of fuel per hour
Turn off your engine when your vehicle is parked
It only takes 10 seconds worth of fuel to restart your vehicle

Combine trips

Saves time and money
Fuel economy is better when your engine is warmed up and you make multiple stops

Inflate tires

Keeping your tires inflated to the proper pressure can improve your gas mileage up to 3%
It can mean the difference of a couple cents per gallon
Find the recommended tire pressure on a sticker located on the driver’s side door jamb