As millions prepare to hit the road for Thanksgiving, there’s good news for drivers. This week’s national average gas price matches the low seen earlier in January, according to a report from AAA Western and Central New York. New York’s average price has dropped over 40 cents from the same time last year.
The national average price for a gallon of gas is currently $3.06, down 20 cents from last year’s price of $3.26. In New York, the average price is $3.15, compared to $3.58 in 2023.
Average Gas Prices Across New York State:
Batavia: $3.26
Buffalo: $3.19
Elmira: $3.14
Ithaca: $3.37
Rochester: $3.26
Rome: $3.34
Syracuse: $3.16
Watertown: $3.15
Why Are Gas Prices Lower?
The main reason for the decrease in gas prices is the drop in oil trading prices. AAA reports that oil is currently trading in the low $70s per barrel, which helps reduce the cost of gasoline production.
What About Electric Vehicle Charging Prices?
For electric vehicle (EV) owners, charging prices are also relatively stable. The national average for L2 commercial electricity is 35 cents per kilowatt, while New York’s average is slightly lower at 34 cents per kilowatt.
Tips to Conserve Fuel This Thanksgiving
AAA offers several tips to help you save on gas while driving:
Plan your route to avoid traffic and congestion.
Drive during non-peak hours (avoid rush hour).
Use cruise control on highways to maintain a steady speed.
Combine errands to minimize trips.
Ensure your tire pressure is correct.
Remove unnecessary items from your car to reduce weight.
The Best and Worst Times to Travel This Thanksgiving
AAA expects a record 71.7 million people to travel by car between November 26 and December 2. To make your trip smoother, here are the best and worst times to travel:
Best Times to Depart:
Monday, Nov. 25: Before 11 a.m.
Tuesday, Nov. 26: Before 10 a.m.
Wednesday, Nov. 27: Before 10 a.m.
Thursday, Nov. 28 (Thanksgiving Day): Minimal traffic expected.
Worst Times to Depart:
Monday, Nov. 25: 1-5 p.m.
Tuesday, Nov. 26: 1-7 p.m.
Wednesday, Nov. 27: 1-5 p.m.
Best Times to Return:
Friday, Nov. 29: After 1 p.m.
Saturday, Nov. 30: Before 1 p.m.
Sunday, Dec. 1: Before 1 p.m.
Monday, Dec. 2: Before 8 a.m., after 7 p.m.
Worst Times to Return:
Friday, Nov. 29: 7-10 a.m.
Saturday, Nov. 30: 4-8 p.m.
Sunday, Dec. 1: Noon-6 p.m.
Monday, Dec. 2: 9 a.m.-6 p.m.
If you’re traveling from New York City to the Hamptons via the Long Island Expressway, avoid driving on Tuesday, Nov. 26 at 4:30 p.m. when travel times are expected to increase by 133%, with an estimated travel time of nearly 3.5 hours.
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