NH gas price fall, but national trend is up

NEW HAMPSHIRE — Gasoline prices in New Hampshire have fallen 3.0 cents per gallon in the past week, averaging $2.27 per gallon yesterday, according to GasBuddy’s daily survey of 875 stations in New Hampshire. This compares with the national average that is unchanged versus last week to $2.25 per gallon, according to GasBuddy.

Average gasoline prices on Jan. 28 in New Hampshire have ranged widely over the last five years:

$2.53 per gallon in 2018, $2.24 per gallon in 2017, $1.82 per gallon in 2016, $2.04 per gallon in 2015 and $3.32 per gallon in 2014.

Including the change locally during the past week, prices yesterday were 25.9 cents per gallon lower than a year ago and are 12.2 cents per gallon lower than a month ago. The national average has dropped 2.0 cents per gallon during the last month and stands 31.6 cents per gallon lower than a year ago.

Areas near New Hampshire and their current gas price climate:

Burlington- $2.47 per gallon, down 2.2 cents per gallon from last week’s $2.49 per gallon.

Boston- $2.48 per gallon, down 2.0 cents per gallon from last week’s $2.50 per gallon.

Vermont- $2.36 per gallon, down 2.4 cents per gallon from last week’s $2.39 per gallon.

“The national average saw limited upward movement in the last week, while the lowest price stations overall were the locations that saw prices tick higher. The percent of gas stations in the U.S. selling under $2 per gallon fell from 37 to 27 percent over the last week as oil prices hold above $53 per barrel. We’re also starting to see early refineries begin seasonal maintenance, which may aid prices moving higher in the weeks ahead,” said Patrick DeHaan, head of petroleum analysis for GasBuddy. “Part of where gas prices go from here and how quickly depends on whether or not politicians can make a long-term budget agreement. Another prolonged shutdown will hurt the economy and likely keep gas prices more muted. In addition, watch for any progress of a broad trade deal with China. Even the sub-zero temperatures upcoming in many areas could play a role in gasoline prices, diesel prices and heating oil: it may keep Americans at home, using more heavy oils to heat their home.”