WATERTOWN, New York (WWNY) – Residents in the North Country are noticing significant differences in gas prices across the tri-county area.
In St. Lawrence County, gas prices have reached as high as $3.69 per gallon, with the current average sitting at $3.65, according to AAA. In contrast, Jefferson County’s average price is much lower at $3.28 per gallon. Some gas stations in Watertown are even offering prices as low as $2.99 per gallon.
Pamela Maurer, a St. Lawrence County resident, expressed her frustration about the price disparity. “Why are we paying 30, 40, or 50 cents more just by crossing the county line?” she asked.
The noticeable difference has led residents like Lynne Hewitt to plan trips to Watertown based on fuel levels. “We have kids in the Watertown area, and we fill up at the North Pole station for 5 to 10 cents off. It’s already 20 to 25 cents cheaper there,” she explained.
AAA attributes the price difference to supply and demand dynamics, noting that Jefferson County has a larger population and more gas stations than St. Lawrence County.
Residents are calling for more equitable pricing, echoing a familiar campaign slogan: “Drill, baby, drill.” Maurer added, “It’s right under our feet; there’s no excuse for this.”
While AAA predicts that gas prices may decrease as winter approaches, the gap between prices in Jefferson and St. Lawrence counties is not expected to change. Some residents suggest that local gas companies should start drilling oil in the area to help lower prices.