With an eight-cent jump on the week, at $2.62, the national average continues to trend more expensive since mid-February. While today’s national average is nearly a quarter more expensive than last month, it is only two cents more expensive than last year at this time.

“Thanks to increasing demand and tightening gasoline stocks across the country, March gas prices came in like a lion and will not go out like a lamb,” said Jeanette Casselano, AAA spokesperson. “State gas price averages are very similar to a year ago give or take a few pennies, which means some motorists are paying among the most expensive averages seen this time of year in the last five years.”

On the week, every state except Florida (no change) saw gas prices increase, some as much as 16 cents, with the Great Lakes and Central region seeing the most states with double-digit jumps on the week.

Quick stats

The nation’s top 10 largest weekly increases are: Missouri (+15 cents), California (+14 cents), Indiana (+14 cents), Arizona (+14 cents), New Mexico (+12 cents), Michigan (+12 cents), Ohio (+12 cents), Illinois (+11 cents), Kansas (+11 cents) and Oregon (+10 cents).

The nation’s top 10 least expensive markets are: Utah ($2.34), Alabama ($2.36), Mississippi ($2.37), Arkansas ($2.37), Louisiana ($2.38), South Carolina ($2.40), Wyoming ($2.40), Texas ($2.41), Virginia ($2.42) and Oklahoma ($2.43).

Great Lakes and Central States

Jumping a dime or more, six Great Lakes and Central States land on this week’s top 10 list with the largest increases: Missouri (+15 cents), Indiana (+14 cents), Michigan (+12 cents,) Ohio (+12 cents), Illinois (+11 cents) and Kansas (+11 cents). In the region, Kentucky (+3 cents) saw the smallest increase.

Gas prices range from $2.74 to $2.43. Illinois ($2.74) and Michigan ($2.70) carry the largest state averages in the region and are among the top 10 most expensive in the country this week.

The Great Lakes and Central States region saw the second largest decrease in gasoline stocks this week with a draw of 1 million bbl, per the Energy Information Administration’s (EIA) latest data report. The decrease drives total stocks down to 55.7 million bbl, the lowest measure on count this year, and keeps gas prices pushing more expensive.

Rockies Region

This week, Utah ($2.34) carries the cheapest gas price average in the country while Wyoming ($2.40) ranks as the 7th least expensive. This is a vast juxtaposition to last year when both states routinely ranked as some of the most expensive state gas price averages. This winter, most of the Rockies region has seen significantly cheaper gas prices likely due to strong inventory levels and lower demand. Year-over-year, gas prices are as much as a quarter cheaper in the region. However, this isn’t expected to be the case throughout the spring and summer as gas prices are expected to return to the more expensive levels of last year.

On the week, most states in the region saw gas prices increase significantly: Wyoming (+8 cents), Idaho (+8 cents), Colorado (+8 cents), Montana (+7 cents) and Utah (+3 cents).

Gasoline stocks dipped by 68,000 bbl, wiping out the prior week’s gains. Stocks now measure at 7.3 million bbl. The EIA reports that regional refinery utilization jumped up from 89 to 90.1 percent indicating that stocks could build in coming weeks

Mid-Atlantic and Northeast

Gas price averages in the Mid-Atlantic and Northeast states are as much as a six cents cheaper in Delaware to three cents more expensive in Tennessee as compared to last year. For states that have more expensive gas prices, it’s only by a few pennies, though spring demand could likely drive all states averages more expensive year-over-year.

This week, gas prices range from $2.42 to $2.81. Motorists in Tennessee (+9 cents) saw the region’s largest increase in pump prices while West Virginia (+1 cents) saw the smallest.

The Mid-Atlantic and Northeast region was the only area to see gas stocks increase on the week, albeit it 442,000 bbl. Even with the build, EIA reports stocks continue to measure at the 63 million mark which helped most of the region see moderate gas price changes this past week.

South and Southeast

Florida ($2.61) was the only state to not see any change in their gas price average in the country and region. All other states saw gas prices increase with averages in New Mexico (+12 cents), South Carolina (+10 cents) and Texas (+9 cents) seeing the largest weekly change.

Even as gas prices continue to increase, Alabama ($2.36), Mississippi ($2.37), Arkansas ($2.37), Louisiana ($2.38), South Carolina ($2.40), Texas ($2.41) and Oklahoma ($2.43) carry among the cheapest averages in the country.

EIA data shows that the South and Southeast had the largest draw in stocks in the country with 2.4 million bbl, dropping totals to 83 million bbl, which is the lowest reading since the end of November 2018. Stocks have drawn sharply from February’s 90 million bbl reading to today. The consistent decrease since February — which is partly attributed to exports — has caused gas prices to increase throughout the region.

West Coast

Pump prices in the West Coast region are among the highest in the nation, with most of the region’s states landing on the nation’s top 10 most expensive list. California ($3.49) and Hawaii ($3.40) are the most expensive markets. Washington ($3.07), Oregon ($2.96), Nevada ($2.89) and Alaska ($2.83) follow. Arizona ($2.67) is the only state in the region that dropped from the 10 most expensive markets list. All prices in the region have increased on the week, with California (+14 cents), Arizona (+14 cents) and Oregon (+10 cents) seeing the largest jumps.

EIA’s recent weekly report showed that West Coast gasoline stocks fell by 1.5 million bbl from the previous week and now sit at 31.3 million bbl. Stocks are approximately 1.5 million bbl lower than at this time last year, which could cause prices to spike if there is a supply challenge in the region this week.

Oil market dynamics

At the close of Friday’s formal trading session on the NYMEX, WTI decreased 94 cents to settle at $59.04. U.S. stock market losses dragged oil prices lower despite new data from EIA that revealed that total domestic crude inventories fell by nearly 10 million bbl to 439.5 million bbl. The larger-than-expected drawdown could be a sign of higher crude prices in the near future in light of crude export sanctions on Iran and Venezuela and OPEC’s 1.2 million b/d production reduction agreement which is in place with other major global crude producers through June 2019. Crude prices could rise this week if there is another major drawdown. Pump prices will likely follow suit as the country enters the late spring and summer driving seasons.

In related news, Baker Hughes Inc. reported that the U.S. lost nine oilrigs last week, bringing the total to 824. When compared to last year at this time, there are 20 more rigs this year.

Motorists can find current gas prices along their route with the free AAA Mobile app for iPhone, iPad and Android. The app can also be used to map a route, find discounts, book a hotel and access AAA roadside assistance. Learn more at AAA.com/mobile.

At $2.54, the national gas price average is 7 cents more expensive on the week and 23-cents more than last month. However, today’s price is just as expensive as the same day a year ago. In fact, for the first time since the end of November last year, the national gas price average the past four days was identical or a penny more expensive year-over-year.

“Since early February, gasoline demand has been steadily increasing while stocks have been gradually decreasing causing more expensive pump prices across the country,” said Jeanette Casselano, AAA spokesperson. “The good news is most motorists are not paying more than they were a year ago to fill up.”

While the national gas price average is the same price year-over-year, only 20 states can say the same. Across the country, the yearly difference ranges from as much as 25-cents cheaper to 10-cents more expensive.

Quick stats

• The nation’s top 10 largest weekly increases are: Kentucky (+16 cents), Florida (+15 cents), Missouri (+10 cents), Delaware (+10 cents), Wisconsin (+10 cents), Maryland (+9 cents), Texas (+9 cents), Iowa (+9 cents), Colorado (+9 cents) and Kansas (+9 cents).

• The nation’s top 10 least expensive markets are: South Carolina ($2.30), Mississippi ($2.30), Arkansas ($2.30), Alabama ($2.30), Utah ($2.31), Missouri ($2.32), Texas ($2.32), Wyoming ($2.32), Louisiana ($2.33) and New Mexico ($2.33).

Mid-Atlantic and Northeast

Three Mid-Atlantic and Northeast states land on the top 10 most expensive gas price average list in the country with two states just a quarter away from hitting the $3/gal mark: Washington, D.C. ($2.75), Pennsylvania ($2.75) and New York ($2.66). On the week, gas prices are as much as a dime more expensive with Delaware seeing the largest jump.

Month-over-month, five states in the region have averages that are a quarter of more expensive: West Virginia (+30 cents), North Carolina (+27 cents), Maryland (+27 cents), Virginia (+25 cents) and Tennessee (+25 cents).

The Energy Information Administration’s (EIA) weekly data puts total stocks for the region at 63.5 million bbl following a draw of 1.4 million bbl for the week ending March 8. This is the lowest regional stock level seen this year and is a 4 million bbl year-over-year deficit. The tightened stocks can be attributed to exports as well as to planned and unplanned refinery maintenance during the winter season. As maintenance wraps up and refineries increase runs, stocks levels are expected to increase in coming weeks, which will hopefully help to stabilize gas prices.

Great Lakes and Central States

State gas price averages in the Great Lakes and Central States are as much as 16-cents more expensive on the week, but 33-cents more expensive on the month. In fact, six states appear on the top 10 list for largest month-over-month increases: Iowa (+33 cents), Minnesota (+32 cents), Kentucky (+31 cents), Wisconsin (+29 cents), Nebraska (+29 cents) and North Dakota (+29 cents).

Other notable moves on the week: With a nickel increase on the week, Illinois ($2.62) now carries the 10^th most expensive gas price average in the country and highest in the region. Ohio (-9 cents) was the only state in the region and country to see gas prices decrease on the week.

As regional refinery utilization holds steady, gasoline stocks took a large 1.5 million bbl draw on the week, according to the latest EIA data. The sustained drop in stocks since mid-February continues to be a driver toward more expensive gas prices. Total stocks sit at 56.8 million bbl, which is the lowest for the year and a 3.2 million bbl deficit over this time last year.

South and Southeast

One week after being the only state in the country to see a pump price decrease, Florida (+15 cents) saw the second largest increase in the country this past week. Also joining Florida on the top 10 weekly change list is Texas (+9 cents). New Mexico (+4 cents) saw the smallest increase of all the South and Southeast states.

While gas prices have been steadily increasing in the South and Southeast, only four state averages are more expensive year-over-year by a dime or less: Florida (+8 cents), Alabama (+2 cents), Mississippi (+2 cents) and Texas (+1 cent).

Since the beginning of February regional gasoline stocks have consistently tightened. The EIA’s latest data reports show that the South and Southeast region had the largest draw of any region in the country with 1.7 million bbl. Total stocks register at 85.5 million bbl. While one of the lowest levels this year for the region, it is comparable to levels at this time last year.

Rockies Region

Despite increasing gas prices, two states from the region carry among 10 of the cheapest gas price averages in the country: Utah ($2.31) and Wyoming ($2.32). On the week gas prices are 4 to 9 cents more expensive across the region.

Of the Rockies region states, all but Colorado land on the top 10 list of states for the largest difference in year-over-year gas prices: Montana (-20 cents), Idaho (-17 cents), Utah (-11 cents) and Wyoming (-9 cents).

With a 59,000 bbl add, gasoline stocks bumped up to a total of 7.4 million bbl, which is low compared to historic data for this time of year. However, stocks have held steadily above the 7 million mark all year and helped to keep gas prices on the cheaper side.

West Coast

Motorists in the West Coast region are paying the highest pump prices in the nation, with most of the region’s states landing on the nation’s top 10 most expensive list. Hawaii ($3.35) and California ($3.34) are the most expensive markets. Washington ($2.96), Nevada ($2.86), Oregon ($2.85) and Alaska ($2.81) follow. Arizona ($2.53) is the only state in the region that dropped from the 10 most expensive markets list. All prices in the region have increased on the week, with Oregon (+5 cents) seeing the largest jump.

EIA’s recent weekly report showed that West Coast gasoline stocks remained virtually unchanged from the previous week and now sit at 32.78 million bbl. Stocks are approximately 350,000 bbl lower than at this time last year, which could cause prices to spike if there is a supply challenge in the region this week. In related news, the Phillips 66 Carson refinery near Los Angeles reported a fire at one of its crude processing units on Friday, which caused the 139,000 b/d refinery to close the unit while the fire is under investigation.

Oil market dynamics

At the close of Friday’s formal trading session on the NYMEX, WTI dropped 9 cents to settle at $58.52. Oil prices took a hit last week as the market continued to have concerns about the global economy slowing this year, which could weaken global crude demand later this year. Moving into this week, prices will likely remain volatile following news from OPEC that it will not hold a meeting this April regarding its crude reduction pact with other global crude producers. Instead, OPEC will meet on June 25-26 to allow the cartel more time to determine if it should work with its partners to extend the crude production reduction agreement beyond June.

Prices were also volatile last week after new data from EIA revealed that total domestic crude inventories declined last week by 3.8 million bbl to 449.1 million bbl, which is roughly 20 million bbl higher than last year’s level at this time. Some market observers believe increased crude production from the U.S., which hit 12 million b/d last week, will help to meet global crude demand as global supply tightens due to OPEC’s 1.2 million b/d reduction agreement in place for the first six months of 2019 and U.S.-imposed sanctions on crude exports from Iran and Venezuela – two major global crude producers.       

In related news, Baker Hughes Inc. reported that the U.S. lost one oilrig last week, bringing the total to 833. When compared to last year at this time, there are 33 more rigs this year.

Motorists can find current gas prices along their route with the free AAA Mobile app for iPhone, iPad and Android. The app can also be used to map a route, find discounts, book a hotel and access AAA roadside assistance. Learn more at AAA.com/mobile.

On the week, the national gas price average and that of 26 states jumped a nickel or more. The national gas price average has been steadily increasing for the last three weeks. During that time, gasoline stocks have gradually decreased while demand has started to increase and crude oil prices have been fluctuating. Combined, these factors are driving up gas prices across the country.

“While motorists are paying more to fill up today than at the beginning of the year, gas prices are still cheaper year-over-year by a nickel,” said Jeanette Casselano, AAA spokesperson. “Pump prices will continue to increase in coming weeks, but AAA does not expect this year’s high to be nearly as expensive as last year’s peak price of $2.97.”

Today’s gas price average of $2.47 is a nickel more than last week, 20 cents more expensive than a month ago, but five cents less than last year.

Quick stats

• The nation’s top 10 largest weekly increases are: Indiana (+14 cents), Ohio (+11 cents), West Virginia (+11 cents), Maryland (+9 cents), Illinois (+9 cents), North Carolina (+8 cents), Washington, D.C. (+8 cents), Virginia (+8 cents), Iowa (+7 cents) and Tennessee (+7 cents).
• The nation’s top 10 least expensive markets are: Missouri ($2.21), Mississippi ($2.21), Texas ($2.22), South Carolina ($2.24), Arkansas ($2.24), Louisiana ($2.24), Utah ($2.24), Alabama ($2.25), Colorado ($2.26) and Kansas ($2.26).

Mid-Atlantic and Northeast:

In the region, gas prices range from $2.28 – $2.67. As regional gasoline stocks tighten, six Mid-Atlantic and Northeast states’ gas price averages jumped seven cents or more and land on the top 10 list of largest changes in the country on the week: West Virginia (+11 cents), Maryland (+9 cents), North Carolina (+8 cents), Washington, D.C. (+8 cents), Virginia (+8 cents) and Tennessee (+7 cents).

All states have cheaper year-over-year pump prices, with these five states carrying the largest differences compared to this time last year in the region: Rhode Island (-14 cents), Vermont (-13 cents), Connecticut (-12 cents), Maine (-11 cents) and New Hampshire (-11 cents).

Since the beginning of February, regional gasoline stocks have decreased by 6.3 million bbl due to ongoing planned and unplanned refinery maintenance. As stocks diminished, total inventory tightened to 64.9 million bbl – one of the lowest levels seen in the region this year. However, year-over-year, inventories are at a 3.1 million bbl surplus, according to Energy Information Administration (EIA) data.

Great Lakes and Central States

Indiana (+14) and Ohio (+11 cents) saw the largest week-over-week gas price increases of all states in the region and the country. Joining these two states from the region on the top 10 biggest changes list are Illinois (+9 cents) and Iowa (+7 cents).

Year-over-year, gas price averages in the region are as much as 18 cents cheaper. North Dakota (-18 cents) and South Dakota (-17 cents) have the largest difference in gas prices compared to this time last year.

Gasoline stocks drew moderately in the region to total in the EIA’s latest reading at 58.3 million bbl. In the same week, regional refinery utilization decreased one percent. If stocks continue to fall, gas prices are likely to continue increasing especially with the switchover to summer-blend gasoline, which is more expensive to produce.

South and Southeast

With six South and Southeast states’ gas price averages a quarter or more expensive than last month, the region is seeing some of the largest month-over-month increases in the country: Oklahoma (+30 cents), Alabama (+28 cents), Arkansas (+28 cents), Mississippi (+25 cents), Louisiana (+25 cents) and Texas (+25 cents).

On the week, state gas price averages are as much as seven cents more expensive for all but one state. Florida (-1 cent) was the only state in the region and the country to see gas prices decrease since last Monday, albeit by only a penny

Gasoline stocks in the region decreased for a third consecutive week, though just by 220,000 bbl to total 87.2 million bbl. If stocks continue to decline, gas prices can be expected to continue to increase for motorists in the region.

Rockies Region

In contrast to recent trends, all states in the region saw gas prices jump on the week: Utah (+6 cents), Colorado (+5 cents), Idaho (+5 cents), Montana (+4 cents) and Wyoming (+2 cent). Despite pump prices trending more expensive, the region carries relatively cheap gas. Currently, Utah ($2.24) ranks as the seventh least expensive gas price average in the country while Colorado ($2.26) is 10^th, Wyoming ($2.28) is 11^th, Idaho ($2.34) is 18^th and Montana ($2.34) is 19^th.

Despite increases, Utah (-2 cents) and Wyoming (-1 cent) averages are still cheaper than gas prices a month ago, joining only  Alaska and Nevada.  

Gasoline stocks in the region declined for a third week, dropping to 7.3 million bbl. The tighter supply level – which is an 810,000 bbl deficit compared to this time last year – is likely contributing to the increase in prices. However, according to EIA data, refinery utilization increased from 86.9 to 91 percent which could lead to an increase in production and more supply in coming weeks.

West Coast Region

Pump prices in the West Coast region are among the highest in the nation, with most of the region’s states landing on the nation’s top 10 most expensive list. At $3.31, California and Hawaii are the most expensive markets. Washington ($2.91), Nevada ($2.84), Alaska ($2.80) and Oregon ($2.80) follow. Arizona ($2.49) is the only state in the region that dropped from the 10 most expensive markets list. All prices in the region have increased on the week, with Arizona (+7 cents), Washington (+4 cents) and Oregon (+4 cents) seeing the largest jumps.

EIA’s recent weekly report showed that West Coast gasoline stocks increased modestly by 56,000 bbl. They now sit at 32.77 million bbl. Stocks are approximately 1.6 million bbl lower than at this time last year, which could cause prices to spike if there is a supply challenge in the region this week.

Oil market dynamics

At the close of Friday’s formal trading session on the NYMEX, WTI dropped 59 cents to settle at $56.07. Oil prices fell at the end of last week following the release of lower-than-expected job growth data in the U.S. and continued concerns that a slowing global economy could bring weaker global crude demand later this year. Moving into this week, crude prices may rise as the global crude supply tightens due to OPEC’s 1.2 million b/d production reduction agreement in place through at least June 2019 and U.S-imposed crude export sanctions on Iran and Venezuela.

Additionally, EIA’s weekly petroleum report showed that total domestic crude inventories fell by 7 million bbl to 452.9 million bbl, which is 27 million bbl more than last year’s level at this time. Domestic production also hit a new all-time high record since EIA began reporting it at 12.1 million b/d. The growth in U.S. production, which is now the world’s leading crude producer, could help meet demand due to tighter supplies this year.

In related news, Baker Hughes Inc. reported that the U.S. lost 22 oilrigs last week, bringing the total to 834. When compared to last year at this time, there are 38 more rigs this year.

Motorists can find current gas prices along their route with the free AAA Mobile app for iPhone, iPad and Android. The app can also be used to map a route, find discounts, book a hotel and access AAA roadside assistance. Learn more at AAA.com/mobile.

The national gas price average has increased nearly 20-cents since the beginning of the year, which is the largest jump during the January-February timeframe since 2015. Pump prices rose steadily across the country in February, a month that saw a number of refineries undergoing planned and unplanned maintenance, and an increase in crude oil prices.

Today’s national average is $2.42, which is three-cents more expensive than last week, 17-cents more expensive than a month ago, but 10-cents cheaper than a year ago.

“Pump prices have been pushed higher this week due to reduced gasoline stock levels and increased demand,” said Jeanette Casselano, AAA spokesperson. “Motorists can expect gas prices to continue to increase as refineries gear up for spring gasoline production and maintenance season.”

Quick Stats

• The nation’s top 10 largest weekly increases are: Florida (+13 cents), Alabama (+11 cents), Mississippi (+8 cents), Louisiana (+8 cents), Kansas (+6 cents), South Dakota (+6 cents), Texas (+5 cents), North Dakota (+5 cents), Colorado (+5 cents) and Michigan (+5 cents).

• The nation’s top 10 least expensive markets are: Missouri ($2.17), Arkansas ($2.17), Utah ($2.18), Mississippi ($2.19), South Carolina ($2.19), Texas ($2.19), Virginia ($2.20), Colorado ($2.20), Louisiana ($2.21) and Tennessee ($2.22).

Mid-Atlantic and Northeast

Motorists in the Mid-Atlantic and Northeast region saw gas prices moderately increase on the week. With gas prices ranging from $2.20 to $2.64, the region is the only one to have states appearing on both the top 10 most and least expensive states in the country. Most expensive: Pennsylvania ($2.64), Washington, D.C. ($2.58), New York ($2.53) and Connecticut ($2.51). Least expensive: Virginia ($2.20) and Tennessee ($2.22).

After two weeks of draws, gasoline inventories built by a healthy 1 million bbl to 68.6 million bbl, per Energy Information Administration (EIA) data. However, refinery utilization continues to trend down. In fact, utilization has fallen from the first of the year when it was at 87.9 percent to 60 percent today. Much of this can be pinpointed to ongoing planned and unplanned maintenance throughout the region. It’s likely that gasoline imports and lower demand (due to colder weather) has helped to keep gas price fluctuations moderate.

Great Lakes and Central

The Great Lakes and Central states have among the biggest month-over-month difference in gas prices in the country. With gas prices a quarter or more expensive, nine states land on the top 10 list: Michigan (+32 cents), Minnesota (+31 cents), Kansas (+30 cents), Iowa (+29 cents), Oklahoma (+28 cents), Wisconsin (+27 cents), Missouri (+27 cents), Nebraska (+26 cents) and Illinois (+26 cents).

On the week, Indiana (-10 cents) and Kentucky (-1 cent) were the only states in the region to see gas prices decrease. In the rest of the region, gas price averages increased one to 10 cents, while gas prices range from $2.17 in Missouri to $2.47 in Illinois.

Regional inventories drew by 911,000 bbl on the week to drop to a total of 58.5 million bbl, according to EIA data. For a second week, refinery utilization increased, which is a promising sign for the region and likely helped to keep gas prices from jumping dramatically. Should inventories build and utilization remains positive, motorists could see fluctuating gas prices.

South and Southeast

Gas prices are more expensive on the week for all states in the South and Southeast with half of the region landing on this week’s top 10 list of states with the biggest increase: Florida (+13 cents), Alabama (+11 cents), Louisiana (+8 cents), Mississippi (+8 cents) and Texas (+5 cents).

While gas prices have been increasing recently across the region, Florida ($2.47) has seen a huge jump (+31 cents) since the beginning of the year and carries the most expensive average in the South and Southeast region.

Gas price increases on the week can be attributed to the large draw in gasoline inventories in the region. EIA data shows stocks drew for a second week, this time by a staggering 2.1 million bbl, which measures total levels at 87.5 million bbl.

Rockies

The region saw moderate fluctuation in pump prices on the week: Colorado (+5 cent), Montana (+2 cent), while prices held flat in Wyoming, Utah and Idaho.

EIA data shows inventories increasing by 244,000 bbl in the Rockies region for a total of 7.7 million bbl. Without any large fluctuation in stocks, gas prices are likely to see only moderate fluctuation this month.  

West Coast

Motorists in the West Coast region are paying some of the highest pump prices in the nation, with most of the region’s states landing on the nation’s top 10 most expensive list. At $3.29, California and Hawaii are the most expensive markets. Washington ($2.87), Nevada ($2.83), Alaska ($2.79) and Oregon ($2.76) follow. Arizona ($2.42) is the only state in the region that dropped from the 10 most expensive markets list. Prices in the region have mostly increased on the week, with Hawaii (+3 cents) seeing the largest jump.

EIA’s recent weekly report showed that West Coast gasoline stocks fell slightly by 100,000 bbl. They now sit at 32.7 million bbl. Stocks are approximately 500,000 bbl higher than at this time last year, which could help stabilize prices if there is a supply challenge in the region this week.

Oil market dynamics

At the close of Friday’s formal trading session on the NYMEX, WTI dropped $1.42 to settle at $55.80. Oil prices took a downward turn last week due to concerns that global crude demand may be lower than expected. Moving into this week, crude prices may rise on optimism that the United States and China are closer to a deal that resolves the ongoing trade spat between two of the world’s largest economies. Tightened global supply due to OPEC’s 1.2 million b/d production reduction agreement (which will be through June 2019) and decreased crude exports from Venezuela and Iran could also help prices increase.

Earlier last week, crude prices rallied after EIA revealed that domestic crude inventories decreased last week by 8.6 million bbl and now sit at 445.9 million bbl. The week-over-week reduction is the largest so far in 2019 and was driven largely by a robust crude export rate of 3.4 million b/d, which is more than double the export rate at this time last year. Additionally, the U.S. saw a low crude import rate at 5.9 million b/d last week, which is the lowest rate since February 1996. Low imports also contributed to lower crude inventory levels.

In related news, Baker Hughes Inc. reported that the U.S. lost 10 oilrigs last week, bringing the total to 843. When compared to last year at this time, there are 43 more rigs this year.

Motorists can find current gas prices along their route with the free AAA Mobile app for iPhone, iPad and Android. The app can also be used to map a route, find discounts, book a hotel and access AAA roadside assistance. Learn more at AAA.com/mobile.

Motorists can fill up for $2.50 or less at four in five gas stations throughout the country despite more than 40 states seeing gas price averages increase on the week. At $2.39, the national gas price average is eight cents more expensive than last week and 12 cents more expensive than last month, yet remains 12 cents cheaper year-over-year.

“On average, gas prices this year are 11 percent cheaper than the first two months of 2018 in part due to mostly cheaper crude oil prices so far this year,” said Jeanette Casselano, AAA spokesperson. “Even though pump prices are on the rise, the increase has been countered by mostly decreasing demand, leading to the majority of people still paying less than $2.50.”

Pump prices have increased around the country as refineries gear up for spring gasoline production and maintenance season.

Quick Stats

• The nation’s top 10 least expensive markets are: Mississippi ($2.10), Alabama ($2.12), Louisiana ($2.12), Arkansas ($2.13), Missouri ($2.13), Texas ($2.14), Colorado ($2.14), South Carolina ($2.15), Virginia ($2.17) and Kansas ($2.18).
• The nation’s top 10 largest weekly increases are: Minnesota (+15 cents), New Mexico (+13 cents), Iowa (+12 cents), Indiana (+12 cents), North Carolina (+11 cents), Nebraska (+11 cents), Florida (+11 cents), Alabama (+11 cents), South Carolina (+10 cents) and Illinois (+10 cents).

Great Lakes and Central

With gas prices increasing on the week as much as 15 cents in the region, Illinois ($2.45), Michigan ($2.41) and Indiana ($2.40) carry the most expensive state averages among Great Lakes and Central states. This week, Minnesota (+15 cents) saw the largest increase while  Iowa and Indiana saw the second biggest increases at 12 cents, followed by Nebraska (+11 cents), Illinois (+10 cents) and Wisconsin (+10 cents).

Only four states in the country carry gas price averages more expensive than a year ago and two are from the Great Lakes and Central region. Motorists in Ohio (+3 cents) and Indiana (+2 cents) are paying two cents more a gallon to fill-up. Conversely, motorists in North Dakota (-30 cents) and South Dakota (-29 cents) are seeing the largest difference in the region compared to last year at this time.

With a 773,000 bbl build, regional inventories measure slightly above the 59 million bbl mark, according to EIA data. The region was just one of two in the country to see refinery utilization increase indicating that some refineries may have finished unplanned maintenance since January due to severe winter weather.

South and Southeast

Five South and Southeast states’ gas price averages jumped double-digits on the week: New Mexico (+13 cents), Florida (+11 cents), Alabama (+11 cents), South Carolina (+10 cents) and Mississippi (+10 cents). At $2.34, Florida touts the most expensive average in the region followed by Georgia ($2.28).

Following a week of substantial inventory growth, the latest EIA data reports that stocks drew down by 922,000 bbl for the South and Southeast, measuring total stocks just below 89 million bbl. It’s likely that the region will see gasoline supplies ebb and flow through April as regional refineries begin planned maintenance, which means the instability in stock levels is likely to push gas prices more expensive in the spring.

Mid-Atlantic and Northeast

North Carolina (+11 cents) was the only Mid-Atlantic and Northeast state to see gas prices jump double digits on the week, though three states saw a nine cent increase: Tennessee, Maine and West Virginia. All state averages are more expensive on the week with pump prices ranging from as expensive as $2.61 in Pennsylvania to as cheap as $2.18 in Tennessee.

A handful of regional states are among the few in the country who have cheaper gas prices today as compared to a month ago: Massachusetts (-3 cents), Vermont (-2 cents), Connecticut (-2 cents) and Rhode Island (-1 cent).

For a second week, the region saw a substantial drop in inventories. EIA reports the latest draw at nearly 2 million bbl. At 67.5 million bbl, stock totals are at their lowest since early January of this year, but sit at a 2.39 million bbl year-over-year surplus. In addition, refinery utilization dropped even further from 69.7 to 64 percent. Contributing to the reduced utilization is refinery maintenance at, but not limited to, PBF Energy 190,200 b/d in Delaware City, Del., Philadelphia Energy System (PES) 350,000 b/d in Philadelphia, Pa. and Phillips 66 Bayway 264,800 b/d in Linden, N.J.

Rockies

This winter, decreases at the pump have been the major trend for states in the Rockies region. With a three-cent decrease, Utah saw the second largest decrease of any state in the country on the week. Overall, the region’s gas prices are only more expensive than states in the South and Southeast region. Today’s pump prices in the Rockies are: Colorado ($2.14), Utah ($2.19), Wyoming ($2.25), Montana ($2.27) and Idaho ($2.28).

Utah (-21 cents), Wyoming (-13 cents) and Idaho (-12 cents) are among the minority of all states in the country who have gas prices cheaper than one month ago.

With a small draw of 46,000 bbl, EIA data shows stocks dipped below 7.5 million bbl in the Rockies region. The small draw combined with a healthy overall supply are helping to reduce any large fluctuation in pump prices for most of the region.

West Coast

Pump prices in the West Coast region are among the highest pump prices in the nation, with most of the region’s states landing on the nation’s top 10 most expensive list. At $3.28, California is the most expensive market. Hawaii ($3.26), Washington ($2.86), Nevada ($2.83), Alaska ($2.78) and Oregon ($2.74) follow. Arizona ($2.42) is the only state in the region that dropped from the 10 most expensive markets list. Prices in the region have mostly declined on the week, with Alaska (-4 cents) seeing the largest drop.

EIA’s recent weekly report showed that West Coast gasoline stocks are on the rise. They increased by approximately 700,000 bbl to 32.8 million bbl. However, stocks are approximately 1.4 million bbl lower than at this time last year, which could cause prices to spike if there is a supply challenge in the region this week.

Oil market dynamics

At the close of Friday’s formal trading session on the NYMEX, WTI increased 30 cents to settle at $57.26 – setting a new high for crude prices this year.  If crude prices sustain at these higher levels, they could help send pump prices higher this spring. An increase in crude prices this week will likely be supported by optimism that the U.S. and China have been making significant strides to reduce trade tensions between the countries. However, crude price gains could be tempered by further increases in U.S. production, potentially signaling that the global crude market may be able to overcome an expected tightening in supply due to U.S-imposed sanctions on crude exports from Venezuela and Iran.

In EIA’s latest petroleum status report, the federal agency revealed that total domestic crude production hit 12 million b/d. This rate is the highest weekly estimate ever recorded by EIA, since it began tracking the data in 1983. Recent growth in domestic crude production helped to push up total domestic crude inventories by 3.7 million bbl to 454.5 million bbl last week.

In related news, Baker Hughes Inc. reported that the U.S. lost four oilrigs last week, bringing the total to 854. When compared to last year at this time, there are 54 more rigs this year.

Motorists can find current gas prices along their route with the free AAA Mobile app for iPhone, iPad and Android. The app can also be used to map a route, find discounts, book a hotel and access AAA roadside assistance. Learn more at AAA.com/mobile.

On the week, 28 states saw gas price averages increase by at least a nickel, pushing the national gas price average up six-cents to land at $2.33. That is the largest one-week increase seen at the national level this year. Today’s gas price average is nine-cents more expensive than last month, but 19-cents cheaper than a year ago.

“Motorists are seeing more expensive gas prices as a result of ongoing refinery problems coupled with crude oil prices hitting their highest level so far this year as global crude inventories tighten,” said Jeanette Casselano, AAA spokesperson. “Inventories are likely to continue to tighten and keep gas prices higher through the end of the month.”

The latest Energy Information Administration (EIA) weekly report details demand dropping for a second week, to total at 8.6 million b/d. Frigid and severe winter weather has been a driving factor for declining demand and this week’s approaching storm from the Plains to the Northeast has the potential to drop demand further. Refinery problems and increasing exports have kept inventories at minimal builds. For the week ending Feb. 8, inventories increased only 408,000 bbl to total 258.3 million bbl.

Quick Stats

• The nation’s top 10 least expensive markets are: Alabama ($2.04), Mississippi ($2.04), Missouri ($2.07), Arkansas ($2.07), Louisiana ($2.07), South Carolina ($2.08), Texas ($2.09), Colorado ($2.09), Kansas ($2.11) and Virginia ($2.11).
• The nation’s top 10 largest weekly increases are: Michigan (+16 cents), Oklahoma (+12 cents), Minnesota (+11 cents), Texas (+11 cents), Kansas (+10 cents), Arkansas (+10 cents), Delaware (+10 cents), Maryland (+9 cents), Iowa (+9 cents) and Kentucky (+9 cents).

Great Lakes and Central

Gas prices are 4 to 16 cents more expensive on the week across the Great Lakes and Central states mostly due to ongoing refinery maintenance and inventories tightening. Eleven states in the region have averages that are a nickel or more expensive since last week: Michigan (+16 cents), Minnesota (+11 cents), Kansas (+10 cents), Iowa (+9 cents), Kentucky (+9 cents), Nebraska (+8 cents), Missouri (+8 cents), Wisconsin (+7 cents), Ohio (+6 cents), Indiana (+5 cents) and Illinois (+5 cents).

While gas prices are less expensive than a year ago, they are more expensive than last month for most Great Lakes and Central states. In fact, four states land on the top five chart for all states in the country with the largest month-over-month difference: Michigan (+35 cents), Ohio (+25 cents), Wisconsin (+22 cents) and Indiana (+20 cents).

Regional inventories drew down by 3.2 million bbl, according to EIA latest reports, to total at 58.6 million bbl. This is the second lowest inventory level of the year. Regional refinery utilization is also down nearly 9 percent. The large draw and drop in utilization are pushing gas prices higher.

South and Southeast

Three South and Southeast have seen gas prices increase by at least a dime on the week and also land on the top 10 list with this week’s largest increases in the country: Oklahoma (+12 cents), Texas (+11 cents) and Arkansas (+10 cents). Despite pump jumps for all states in the region, states in the South and Southeast tout the cheapest average in the country: Alabama ($2.04), Mississippi ($2.04), Arkansas ($2.07), Louisiana ($2.07), South Carolina ($2.08) and Texas ($2.08).

EIA reports that regional inventories built by a substantial 5.7 million bbl for the week ending Feb. 5, registering total inventories once again above the 90 million bbl mark. Year-over-year, inventories sit at a 7 million bbl surplus. The large inventory may help motorists only see modest pump price jumps through the end of the month as much of the region’s refineries enter maintenance season.

Mid-Atlantic and Northeast

With a penny decrease, Massachusetts ($2.38) was the only state in the region to see gas prices drop on the week while Vermont ($2.38) and Washington, D.C. ($2.52) averages held steady. For all other states, gas prices are as much as a dime more expensive on the week. Delaware (+10 cents) and Maryland (+9 cents) saw the largest jumps.

Inventories measure at 69.5 million bbl following a draw of 1.775 million bbl, according to the EIA. The latest regional refinery utilization dropped five percent down to 69.7 percent, the lowest of any region in the country. With reduced utilization, the region may see stocks tighten in coming weeks which may drive up gas prices.

Rockies

Utah (-5 cents), Wyoming (-2 cents), and Idaho (-1 cents) are among the fewer than 10 states where gas price averages decreased on the week. After weeks at nearly $2/gal, Colorado’s average jumped seven-cents to $2.09. Idaho has the most expensive average in the region at $2.29.

With a build of 151,000 bbl, inventory measures at 7.5 million bbl. This is the largest inventory level for the Rockies region in 52-weeks and should help to keep gas price fluctuation modest for the rest of the month.

West Coast

Motorists in the West Coast region are paying some of the highest pump prices in the nation, with most of the region’s states landing on the nation’s top 10 most expensive list. At $3.27, California is the most expensive market. Hawaii ($3.26), Washington ($2.86), Nevada ($2.84), Alaska ($2.82) and Oregon ($2.74) follow. Arizona ($2.42) is the only state in the region that dropped from the 10 most expensive markets list this week. Prices in the region have mostly declined on the week, with Arizona (-2 cents) seeing the largest drop.

EIA’s recent weekly report showed that West Coast gasoline stocks decreased for a second week. They fell by approximately 500,000 bbl to 32.1 million bbl. Stocks are approximately 2.3 million bbl lower than at this time last year, which could cause prices to spike if there is a supply challenge in the region this week.

Oil market dynamics

At the close of Friday’s formal trading session on the NYMEX, WTI increased $1.18 to settle at $55.59 – the highest price point of the year. Crude prices continued their ascent last week, due to growing belief that global supply is tightening. OPEC’s 1.2 million b/d production cut agreement, which is in effect for the first six months of 2019, has helped to rebalance the market. Also, an increasing reduction in crude exports from Venezuela due to U.S.-imposed sanctions has contributed to market observers believing the market will grow tighter in the coming weeks.

These concerns will likely bolster crude prices even more this week, and market observers will look to this week’s EIA report to see if there are additional indicators of market tightening. As crude prices increase, American motorists can expect pump prices to follow suit, since approximately 50 percent of the cost consumers pay at the pump is due to the cost per barrel of crude oil.

Additionally, EIA reported that total domestic crude inventories grew by 3.6 million bbl to 450.8 million bbl last week. High crude production in the U.S., which held steady at a staggering 11.9 million b/d last week, contributed to the growth in crude stocks around the country and is expected to help meet global crude demand as supply challenges loom.

In related news, Baker Hughes Inc. reported that the U.S. added three oilrigs last week, bringing the total to 857. When compared to last year at this time, there are 59 more rigs this year.

Motorists can find current gas prices along their route with the free AAA Mobile app for iPhone, iPad and Android. The app can also be used to map a route, find discounts, book a hotel and access AAA roadside assistance. Learn more at AAA.com/mobile.

Just 67 restaurants in North America meet AAA’s rigorous Five Diamond expectations

ORLANDO, Fla. (February 14, 2019) – Only 67 restaurants in North America currently have what it takes to hold AAA’s distinctive Five Diamond Rating, including three restaurants added this year – Atera, COAST and Oriole. The coveted 2019 Five Diamond Award restaurant list makes up just 0.2 percent of the nearly 32,000 AAA Inspected & Approved restaurants across the United States, Canada, Mexico and the Caribbean.

Additional Resources

• Diamond Ratings fact sheet
• Four and Five Diamond restaurants fact sheet
• Five Diamond restaurants list
• Four Diamond restaurants list
• Graphic
• Photos of new Five Diamond restaurants: 1 | 2 | 3

Among the exclusive number of high-end establishments that have attained the Five Diamond Rating, AAA’s inspectors note many are adopting a much more casual environment in response to evolving guest preferences for a more relaxed experience. High-end restaurants are adopting simple, streamlined décor and, thanks in part to the popularity of cooking shows and competitions, some continue to highlight lively open kitchen designs that allow guests to watch and even interact with culinary staff.

“Attaining the Five Diamond Rating is an impressive accomplishment,” said Michael Petrone, director, AAA Inspections & Diamond Ratings. “To be considered leading edge, chefs must incorporate a laser-focused approach using innovative concepts and menus featuring the finest ingredients. Diners want to be wowed on multiple levels, so exceptional service is also important, but they’re not necessarily looking for all the formalities that were once synonymous with fine dining.”

Following a rigorous evaluation that includes anonymous dining by an experienced AAA inspector and review by a panel of experts, these restaurants earned Five Diamonds for the first time this past year.

• Atera (New York, New York) – A treat for all the senses, the tasting menu slowly builds and excels with never-before-seen visual presentations and combinations. In a small dining room with a chef’s table open to the kitchen and a lone side dining table for a party of four, it does not get much more exclusive than this.
• COAST (Watch Hill, Rhode Island) – Located within a stately seaside inn with dramatic views of the ocean, this restaurant prides itself on using local Rhode Island and Atlantic Coast farm-to-table ingredients. The menu changes daily to incorporate the freshest items from local farmers and fishmongers.
• Oriole (Chicago, Illinois) – The classy dining room is made more interesting by the brightly illuminated display kitchen that allows diners to watch the artful assembly of each plate. A multi-course menu is designed to be a surprise for guests.

Atera and Oriole both debut as AAA Five Diamond restaurants, while COAST—Rhode Island’s first Five Diamond restaurant—was upgraded from Four Diamonds.

Those at the Four Diamond level, just 2.1 percent of AAA Inspected & Approved restaurants, are also an exclusive group. They offer a distinctive fine-dining experience, employing creative preparations that are skillfully served amid upscale ambience. This year, there are 656 Four Diamond restaurants located across North America, including 39 additions this year.

To see the complete lists of 2019 AAA Four and Five Diamond restaurants, visit AAA.com/DiamondAwards. To see which cities and states have the most award winners, see AAA Four and Five Diamond Restaurant Facts. The 2019 AAA Four and Five Diamond Award-winning hotels were announced in January.

About AAA Diamond Ratings  

For more than 80 years, AAA has used professional inspectors to conduct in-person property evaluations. AAA offers the only rating system using comprehensive, on-site professional hotel and restaurant inspections guided by member priorities. With a far greater inventory than any other rating entity, AAA’s rating system covers the United States, Canada, Mexico and the Caribbean. AAA conducts these inspections as the trusted source of nearly 60 million members, guiding them to have memorable travel and dining experiences.

The AAA inspectors who assign these ratings have a wide range of hospitality experience – their resumes include stints as hotel managers and food and beverage experts – that gives them an authoritative perspective. Inspectors provide an unmatched first-person, on-site view of emerging trends, which includes the continuing evolution of technology to elevate the guest experience.

Travelers can find Diamond Rated establishments and inspector insight in AAA’s trip planning products: the AAA Mobile app, the online AAA Travel Guides and Travel Planner and the AAA TourBook guides available to members at AAA offices.

About AAA

AAA provides more than 59 million members with automotive, travel, insurance and financial services through its federation of 34 motor clubs and nearly 1,100 branch offices across North America. Since 1902, the not-for-profit, fully tax-paying AAA has been a leader and advocate for safe mobility. Drivers can request roadside assistance, identify nearby gas prices, locate discounts, book a hotel or map a route via the AAA Mobile app. To join, visit AAA.com.

On the week, the national gas price average is two cents more expensive, landing at $2.28. At the start of the workweek, nearly half of all state averages also saw jumps – some at or more than a dime increase.

Frigid temperatures across much of the country have contributed toward a half a million barrel per day drop in demand to measure at 9 million bbl – a level consistent with a year ago according to Energy Information Administration (EIA). At the same time, gasoline stocks saw a nominal 513,000 bbl increase for a total of 257.8 bbl. While demand is mostly flat year-over-year, total stocks sit at a 124 million bbl surplus.

“Since the beginning of the year, crude oil remains relatively cheap, moving between $51- $55/bbl,” said Jeanette Casselano, AAA spokesperson. “This, coupled with fluctuating gasoline stocks due to planned and unplanned maintenance at refineries as well as instability in demand, likely due to frigid temperatures, are all contributing toward movement at retail pumps across the country.”

Today’s national gas price average is four cents more expensive than a month ago and 30 cents less expensive than a year ago.

Quick Stats 

• The nation’s top 10 least expensive markets are: Arkansas ($1.96), Mississippi ($1.96), Alabama ($1.97), Texas ($1.97), Missouri ($1.99), Louisiana ($1.99), Oklahoma ($1.99), South Carolina ($1.99), Kansas ($2.00) and Colorado ($2.01).
• The nation’s top 10 largest weekly changes are: Michigan (+13 cents), Illinois (+9 cents), Missouri (+9 cents), Wisconsin (+7 cents), New Mexico (+6 cents), Iowa (+6 cents), Ohio (+6 cents), Utah (-6 cents), Indiana (+5 cents) and Minnesota (+5 cents).

Great Lakes and Central

The majority of Great Lakes and Central states’ motorists are paying more to fill up at the pump on the week. Eight of the country’s top 10 states with the largest weekly increases are from this region with prices increasing a nickel or more since last Monday: Michigan (+13 cents), Illinois (+9 cents), Missouri (+9 cents), Wisconsin (+7 cents), Iowa (+6 cents), Ohio (+6 cents), Indiana (+5 cents) and Minnesota (+5 cents). Nebraska and Kansas state averages also jumped by six cents.

Winter weather is one reason for the region’s fluctuating gas prices. Frigid weather has caused unplanned maintenance at a handful of refineries. This includes, according to the OPIS Refinery Maintenance Report: BP Whiting (Indiana); CITGO Lemont (Illinois); Phillips 66/Cenovus Wood River (Illinois) and Marathon Petroleum (Michigan). These disruptions negatively impacted utilization rate, down two percent, and limited stock growth.

On the week, stocks built by only 350,000 bbl on the week, per the latest EIA data published.  At 61.8 million bbl, regional gasoline stocks sit at their highest level in a year. The small jump in stocks, coupled with healthy stock levels, is helping most of the region see lower pump price increases – under double-digits. If stocks make strong gains in the week ahead, gas prices could see less fluctuation.

South and Southeast

Gas prices range between $2.24 (Florida) and $1.96 (Arkansas) in the South and Southeast region with averages as much as six cents more expensive and four cents cheaper on the week. New Mexico (+6 cents) and Oklahoma (+5 cents) saw the largest jumps, while Florida (-4 cents) is cheaper after a period of increases. Refinery maintenance and exports are impacting gas prices in the region.

According to EIA data, exports jumped by nearly 300,000 b/d to 895,000 b/d, contributing towards regional stocks dipping by 1.8 million for the week ending February 1. At the beginning of the year, stocks sat at 89.3 million bbl. With the latest draw, the region’s total stocks sit at 84.8 million bbl. This is the third straight week of stock declines as utilization holds relatively stable at 90 percent.

Mid-Atlantic and Northeast

Only three Mid-Atlantic and Northeast states have more expensive gas price averages on the week: West Virginia (+3 cents), Pennsylvania (+2 cents) and Tennessee (+1 cent). The rest of the region is paying less to fill-up as compared to last Monday. These states all saw the largest drop of three cents: Rhode Island, Vermont, Connecticut, Massachusetts and Washington, D.C. Despite the drop, Washington, D.C. ($2.50) carries the most expensive average in the region while Tennessee is the cheapest at $2.04.

With regional utilization up 2.2 percent to 74.6 and an increase in imports, the region’s gasoline stocks built by 2.3 million bbl for the week ending February 1 – the largest of any region according to EIA data. Total stocks register at 71.3 million bbl, which is a number not seen in the region since early 2017, and should help keep fluctuation in gas prices relatively moderate.

Rockies

Utah (-6 cents), Wyoming (-4 cents) and Idaho (-4 cents) have among the largest weekly declines in the country on the week. State gas price averages are also cheaper in Idaho (-3 cents). While Montana ($2.25) holds flat on the week, Colorado’s ($2.01) gas price average is down a penny and the state continues to rank as the 10^th least expensive average in the entire country.

Total gasoline stocks for the Rockies region held flat at the 7.3 million bbl mark for the week ending Feb. 1, according to EIA’s latest report.

West Coast

Pump prices in the West Coast region are among the highest in the nation, with all of the region’s states landing on the nation’s top 10 most expensive list. At $3.26, California and Hawaii are the most expensive markets. Washington ($2.87), Nevada ($2.85), Alaska ($2.82), Oregon ($2.76) and Arizona ($2.45) follow. Prices have been volatile on the week in the region, with Alaska seeing the largest drop (-3 cents) and California seeing the largest increase (+2 cents).

EIA’s recent weekly report showed that West Coast gasoline stocks decreased slightly by approximately 200,000 bbl to 32.6 million bbl. Stocks are approximately 2.4 million bbl lower than at this time last year, which could cause prices to spike if there is a supply challenge in the region this week.

Oil market dynamics

At the close of Friday’s formal trading session on the NYMEX, WTI increased eight cents to settle at $52.72. Oil prices were volatile last week, following the release of new data from EIA that showed that at the end of the previous week, total domestic crude oil inventories rose less than expected – a build of only 1.3 million bbl to total 447.2 million bbl. For market observers, the price gains indicate that the global crude supply is tightening, an anticipated result of U.S.-imposed sanctions on Iran’s crude exports and OPEC’s production reduction agreement of 1.2 million b/d with other non-OPEC producers, including Russia. The reduction agreement remains in effect for the first six months of 2019.

Additionally, the global crude supply is expected to tighten as a result of U.S.-imposed sanctions on crude exports from Venezuela, which could send crude prices higher. Moving into this week, global crude prices will likely remain volatile as the market also looks for indications that the trade tensions between China and the U.S. are heading toward resolution, reducing fears of lowered crude demand as a result of continued escalation of the dispute.

In related news, Baker Hughes Inc. reported that the U.S. added seven oil rigs last week, bringing the total to 854. When compared to last year at this time, there are 63 more rigs this year.

Motorists can find current gas prices along their route with the free AAA Mobile app for iPhone, iPad and Android. The app can also be used to map a route, find discounts, book a hotel and access AAA roadside assistance. Learn more at AAA.com/mobile.

For most states, gas prices are starting off the first week in February cheaper than the last week in January. On the week, only eight states saw gas prices increase which is a big shift from the week prior that saw increases for 25 states. With the majority of state gas price averages decreasing, the national gas price average held flat at $2.26 even though the Energy Information Administration’s (EIA) latest demand rate reflected summer-like numbers.

For the week ending Jan 25, the EIA reported U.S. gasoline demand at 9.6 million b/d. The last time the rate was this high was during the 2018 Labor Day weekend. As the EIA rate is an estimate, it’s considered preliminary and the agency may revise it later this year when it releases final figures for the month. If the estimate is not revised, one reason for the jump could be the extreme cold weather seen last week.

“Three-fourths of the country faced below freezing temperatures last week which may have prompted many motorists, especially in the mid-west, to fill-up early and often ahead of the storm, in turn driving demand. This is similar to what we see prior to hurricanes,” said Jeanette Casselano, AAA spokesperson. “Now that the storm has passed, demand is likely to fall more in-line with typical February estimates.”

Today’s national gas price average is a penny more expensive than a month ago and 34 cents less expensive than a year ago.

Quick Stats

• The nation’s top 10 least expensive markets are: Missouri ($1.90), Arkansas ($1.93), Oklahoma ($1.94), Kansas ($1.95), Mississippi ($1.96), Texas ($1.96), Alabama ($1.97), South Carolina ($1.98), Louisiana ($2.00) and Colorado ($2.02).
• The nation’s top 10 largest monthly changes are: Utah (-24 cents), Wyoming (-22 cents), Colorado (-20 cents), Idaho (-20 cents), Alaska (-19 cents), Washington (-17 cents), Arizona (-17 cents), Oregon (-15 cents), Florida (+14 cents) and Ohio (+13 cents).

Great Lakes and Central

Five of the eight states in the country to see gas prices increase on the week hail from the Great Lakes and Central states (areas hard hit by last week’s Polar Vortex). They include: Illinois (+6 cents), Ohio (+6 cents), Indiana (+4 cents), Wisconsin (+4 cents) and Kentucky (+2 cents). States throughout the rest of the region have averages that are as much as a three-cents cheaper than last week. With last week’s major winter storm in the rear-view mirror, much of the region is digging out as roads are made passable. This will likely contribute toward retail prices mostly holding steady or declining in the week ahead for much of the region.

Year-over-year, motorists in the region are seeing big cost savings, among the largest in the country. Seven states in the region make the top 10 list for largest year-over-year changes, all of which are nearly 50-cents cheaper: Iowa (-58 cents), Nebraska (-55 cents), Minnesota (-53 cents), Michigan (-52 cents), Kansas (-510 cents), North Dakota (-49 cents) and Missouri (-48 cents).

EIA data for the week ending January 25 show gasoline stocks had a marginal increase of nearly 300,000 bbl. Total stocks register at 61.5 million bbl. This past weekend a fire was reported at PBF Energy’s Toledo 188,000 b/d refinery in Ohio. Local media reported that the fire started at the plant when a railroad tanker car containing gasoline exploded. No further information was available and it’s unclear the impact to refinery operations at this time.

South and Southeast

The majority of South and Southeast states are seeing gas prices decline by as much as three-cents. Florida (+6 cents), Oklahoma (+1 cent) and Louisiana (+1 cent) are the exception for the week. Two likely contributing factors to the fluctuation is this week’s substantial, nearly 4 million bbl draw in gasoline stocks combined with refinery maintenance season. With the draw, total stock levels fall to 86.6 million bbl, but continue to measure at a year-over-year surplus.

Most states in the region continue to carry averages at or below the $2/mark. Arkansas ($1.93), Oklahoma ($1.94), Mississippi ($1.96), Texas ($1.96), Alabama ($1.97), South Carolina ($1.98) and Louisiana ($2.00) carry the cheapest gas prices averages in the region and are among the 10 least expensive in the country.

Rockies

2019 continues to usher in cheaper gas prices for motorists in the Rockies region. Since January 1, retail prices are, on average, 23-cents cheaper: Utah (-26 cents), Wyoming (-24 cents), Idaho (-23 cents), Colorado (-23 cents) and Montana (-16 cents). With the decreases, Colorado’s average drops to $2.02 and ranks as the 10^th least expensive average in the entire country. Prior to January, gas prices haven’t been this cheap in Colorado since March 2016.

With the exception of Montana, all Rockies states landed on this week’s top 10 list with the biggest changes. Pump prices declined the most in Utah (-5 cents). Gas prices range between $2.02 and $2.35.

The EIA reports that with the addition of 90,000 bbl, gasoline stocks in the region built slightly for the week ending January 25 and total 7.3 million bbl.

Mid-Atlantic and Northeast

Washington, D.C. ($2.53), New York ($2.49) and Connecticut ($2.48) are the most expensive state gas price averages in the region and among the highest in the country. On the week, gas prices are one to three cents cheaper for every state in the region. Connecticut ($2.48), Delaware ($2.14) and Tennessee ($2.03) all saw the largest decreases on the week.

As the region’s refineries enter into turnaround season, the EIA reports utilization dropped from 88.6 to 72.4 percent for the week ending January 25. Despite the lower operating rate, stocks increased nearly 1 million bbl to register at 69 million bbl. The healthy supply will help to keep gas prices stable for motorists in the region. Over the weekend a crude unit fire at PBF Energy’s 190,000 b/d Delaware City, Del. refinery required several fire companies to bring it under control. It’s unclear the overall damage and impact the fire has had to the refinery at this time.

West Coast

Motorists in the West Coast region are paying some of the highest pump prices in the nation, with all of the region’s states landing on the nation’s top 10 most expensive list. At $3.25, California and Hawaii are the most expensive markets. Washington ($2.89), Nevada ($2.85), Alaska ($2.86), Oregon ($2.77) and Arizona ($2.47) follow. While still expensive, prices have mostly fallen on the week. Arizona (-4 cents) and Washington (-3 cents) saw the largest drops.

EIA’s recent weekly report showed that West Coast gasoline stocks grew by approximately 400,000 bbl to 32.8 million bbl. However, stocks are approximately 1.1 million bbl lower than at this time last year, which could cause prices to spike if there is a supply challenge in the region this week.

Oil market dynamics

At the close of Friday’s formal trading session on the NYMEX, WTI increased $1.47 to settle at $55.26. Oil prices mostly increased last week, following indications of tightened global supply this year. Alongside OPEC’s production reduction agreement of 1.2 million b/d for the first six months of 2019, the recently announced U.S.-imposed crude export ban on Venezuela has made market observers worry that global crude supplies will shrink and rebalance prices. Worries over tighter supplies amid robust demand, which could dampen because of the continued trade tensions between China and the U.S., will likely continue to lift the global price of crude.

Moreover, EIA’s weekly petroleum report this week showed that total domestic crude inventories grew by 1 million bbl last week to 446 million bbl, much less than the market expected and despite crude production maintaining its record-breaking pace at 11.9 million b/d last week. Moving into this week, crude prices will likely continue their ascent, making headway for increased gasoline prices after winter.

In related news, Baker Hughes Inc. reported that the U.S. lost 15 oil rigs last week, bringing the total to 847. When compared to last year at this time, there are 82 more rigs this year.

Motorists can find current gas prices along their route with the free AAA Mobile app for iPhone, iPad and Android. The app can also be used to map a route, find discounts, book a hotel and access AAA roadside assistance. Learn more at AAA.com/mobile.

Five Diamond properties are noted for ultimate luxury, sophistication and comfort

ORLANDO, Fla. (January 31, 2019) – With the addition of 10 new properties, AAA has unveiled the coveted 2019 Five Diamond Award list totaling 121 hotels. This exclusive group represents just 0.4 percent of the more than 27,000 AAA Inspected & Approved hotels across North America.

Additional Resources

• Diamond Ratings fact sheet
• Four and Five Diamond hotels fact sheet
• Five Diamond hotels list
• Four Diamond hotels list
• Graphic
• Photos of new Five Diamond hotels: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10

“The Five Diamond Rating is an impressive accomplishment that recognizes the upper echelon of hotels. These properties have extraordinary physical qualities, extensive amenities and impeccable standards of excellence in delivering a highly personalized experience,” said Michael Petrone, director, AAA Inspections & Diamond Ratings.

Following a rigorous evaluation that includes in-person inspections, anonymous overnight stays and, finally, review by a panel of experts as an additional step to ensure credibility, 10 hotels have been added as Five Diamond honorees throughout the past year.

• Baccarat Hotel New York (New York, New York) – Crystal chandeliers sparkle as they chime overhead and exquisite stemware overflows with champagne in the lounges, creating rich pleasures for the senses at this storybook destination from the fabled French glass company.
• Banyan Tree Mayakoba (Playa del Carmen, Mexico) – The unique mixture of Asian and Mexican architecture is stunning throughout. This gated resort, located on the famed Riviera Maya coast, blends untouched nature in a carefully maintained ecosystem.
• Fairmont Pacific Rim (Vancouver, Canada) – Guests are pampered at this luxury tower, which has a beautiful, innovative design. Gorgeous rooms with spectacular views feature an enhanced Pacific Northwest feel.
• Hotel Emma (San Antonio, Texas) – Guests will be stunned by this chic hotel, the site of the former Pearl’s Brewhouse, built in 1894, including its upscale, beautifully crafted lobby, library and rooftop pool areas.
• Montage Los Cabos (Cabo San Lucas, Mexico) – This upscale property features several infinity-edge pools that blend in with the ocean and overlook the secluded beach. The impressive guest bathrooms feature indoor and outdoor showers.
• NIZUC Resort & Spa (Cancun, Mexico) – This beautiful and expansive resort features rustic and elegant Mayan-inspired décor. The guest rooms are spacious with many custom furnishings and luxurious features.
• Rosewood San Miguel de Allende (San Miguel de Allende, Mexico) – This colonial-style hacienda has gorgeous public areas and meticulously maintained gardens. The spacious guest rooms feature a refined colonial décor with a fireplace and terrace.
• The Dominick Hotel (New York, New York) – With stellar views of the city, this bastion of contemporary luxury features swanky modern Italian furnishings, impressive artworks and marble bathrooms. The SoHo location puts you at the very heart of Manhattan’s fashion culture.
• The Post Oak Hotel at Uptown Houston (Houston, Texas) – Houston’s premier property offers its guests impeccable service and highest quality amenities. This contemporary hotel is a crown jewel among the city’s accommodations.
• The St. Regis Mexico City (Mexico City, Mexico) – This gleaming hotel tower offers large rooms complete with high-tech conveniences and a butler. The views are stunning, with many overlooking iconic symbols of Mexico.

Many of this year’s new Five Diamond honorees have received top marks in the past for their physical attributes that, although impressive, were not paired with AAA’s exceptionally high Five Diamond service expectations, until now. After demonstrating notable service enhancements, San Antonio’s first Five Diamond establishment, Hotel Emma, as well as Banyan Tree Mayakoba, NIZUC Resort & Spa, Rosewood San Miguel de Allende, and The St. Regis Mexico City, received the coveted fifth Diamond for the first time.

Others, like Baccarat Hotel, The Post Oak Hotel at Uptown Houston and Montage Los Cabos, attained the AAA Five Diamond Rating shortly after opening within the past 12 months. 

Hotel trends observed by AAA inspectors, often appearing first at high-end properties, include continued developments in the use of technology to enhance service. Responding to this trend, AAA recently updated its hotel Approval Requirements & Diamond Rating Guidelines, which reflect the importance of connective technologies such as availability of in-room tablets, mobile apps, interactive kiosks, mobile key technology and digital messaging services.

Those at the Four Diamond level, just 6.3 percent of AAA Inspected & Approved hotels, are also an exclusive group. They must be refined and stylish with upscale physical attributes, extensive amenities and a high degree of hospitality, service and attention to detail. This year, there are 1,722 Four Diamond hotels.

To see the complete lists of 2019 AAA Four and Five Diamond Hotels, visit AAA.com/DiamondAwards. To see which cities and states have the most award winners, see AAA Four and Five Diamond Hotel Facts.

About AAA Inspections

For more than 80 years, AAA has used professional inspectors to conduct in-person property evaluations. AAA offers the only rating system using comprehensive, on-site professional hotel and restaurant evaluations guided by member priorities. With a far greater inventory than any other rating entity, AAA’s rating system covers the United States, Canada, Mexico and the Caribbean.

The AAA inspectors who assign these ratings have a wide range of hospitality experience – their resumes include stints as hotel managers and food and beverage experts – that gives them an authoritative perspective. Inspectors provide an unmatched first-person, on-site view of emerging trends, which includes the continuing evolution of technology to elevate the guest experience.

Travelers can find Diamond Rated establishments and inspector insight in AAA’s trip planning products: the AAA Mobile app, the online AAA Travel Guides and Travel Planner and the AAA TourBook guides available to members at AAA offices.

About AAA

AAA provides more than 59 million members with automotive, travel, insurance and financial services through its federation of 34 motor clubs and nearly 1,100 branch offices across North America. Since 1902, the not-for-profit, fully tax-paying AAA has been a leader and advocate for safe mobility. Drivers can request roadside assistance, identify nearby gas prices, locate discounts, book a hotel or map a route via the AAA Mobile app. To join, visit AAA.com.