Good news has arrived for drivers planning long-distance trips ahead of the U.S. Memorial Day holiday. Especially those passing through New Jersey can expect significant savings on fuel costs. New Jersey's gasoline prices are maintaining the lowest levels in the Mid-Atlantic region.

According to AAA's real-time gas price index, as of Thursday, May 22nd, the national average price for a gallon of regular gasoline was $3.195. This indicates a gradual upward trend in gas prices nationwide, driven by recent increases in international oil prices and rising demand for the summer driving season.

However, the situation in New Jersey is quite different. The average price for a gallon of regular gasoline in New Jersey is $3.063, significantly lower than the national average. Compared to surrounding states, New Jersey's price competitiveness stands out. Delaware's regular gasoline is priced at $2.971 per gallon, New York at $3.123, and Pennsylvania records the highest gas prices in the Mid-Atlantic region at $3.314 per gallon. As such, New Jersey boasts the second-lowest gas prices in the Mid-Atlantic region, after Delaware, offering substantial fuel cost savings compared to neighboring New York or Pennsylvania.

 
Where to Find the Lowest Gas Prices in New Jersey by Region?

While gasoline prices vary by region within New Jersey, they generally remain low across the state. According to AAA's report, the following cities and townships in New Jersey have the lowest average gasoline prices ahead of Memorial Day weekend:

Bergen County: $3.024
Gloucester County: $3.033
Camden County: $3.034
Sussex County: $3.034
Passaic County: $3.035
Burlington County: $3.043
Atlantic County: $3.044
Mercer County: $3.046
Warren County: $3.054

These areas are particularly favorable for affordable fueling within New Jersey, presenting an advantageous condition for drivers passing through or departing from these regions for the holiday.

 
Summer Gas Price Hike Warning: Prepare in Advance

However, New Jersey drivers cannot afford to be entirely complacent about the current low gas prices. AAA has warned that gasoline prices are likely to rise as the busy summer season approaches.

AAA's latest fuel price outlook report states, "Gas prices are climbing again ahead of the busy summer driving season. Due to rising oil prices and increased demand, the national average price for a gallon of regular gasoline rose by 4 cents over the past week." It further added, "Typically, gas price increases begin earlier in the spring, but this year, low gas prices at the beginning of the year have kept them at bay."

This is attributed to the volatile trend in international oil prices due to global economic recovery and geopolitical risks such as the Russia-Ukraine war. OPEC+ (the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries and non-OPEC oil producers) production cuts are also exerting upward pressure on oil prices. Experts commonly agree that with increasing summer travel demand coinciding with these factors, gasoline prices are likely to maintain an upward trend for the foreseeable future.

Therefore, drivers planning to pass through or travel within New Jersey during the Memorial Day weekend would be wise to fill up their tanks as soon as possible to enjoy the cost-saving benefits. Furthermore, it will become crucial to adopt efficient driving habits and smart fueling strategies to prepare for the anticipated rise in gas prices throughout the summer.

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