Gas prices expected to keep increasing ahead of summer

Jacksonville-area gas prices have jumped almost 20 cents this week, according to numbers released by AAA.

The average person puts gas in their car at least once a week, depending on their commute.

Now some people are forced to drive extra miles to find cheaper prices.

Commuting throughout Jacksonville can cost a pretty penny, depending on how far you’re driving.

With gas prices spiking almost a quarter per gallon, some people, like TC, said it’s a strain on his finances.

“Yeah, this is a good car for gas mileage. It still sucks that it’s so high. To my pocketbooks and wallets, it’s always an inconvenience,” TC, who did not want to use his last name, said.

AAA said they expect prices to continue increasing over the next few months.

Florida is now the state with the 10th-most expensive gas prices in the nation.

Mark Jenkins who’s a spokesperson for AAA, said they expect gas prices to peak around $2.75 a gallon by Memorial Day.

“A lot of that is really due to refineries conducting seasonal maintenance, which is kind of like spring cleaning. They’re also switching to a summer blend gasoline, which is more expensive to produce,” Jenkins said.

It’s something consumers can’t avoid if they want to continue driving. Now TC like many others, will keep searching for the cheapest prices.

“We’re from the northside. It’s always been cheaper over here. It jumped almost a quarter overnight, but what can I say? They got you by the short hairs,” TC said.

To view the cheapest gas prices in town, click HERE.

Download WJAX Apps