By allowing ads to appear on this site, you support the local businesses who, in turn, support great journalism.
New Year Ushers In Higher Prices For Gas
gas pump1

Average retail gasoline prices in Modesto have risen 5.2 cents per gallon in the past week, averaging $2.58/gallon Monday, according to GasBuddy’s daily survey of 201 gas outlets in Modesto. This compares with the national average that has increased 5.6 cents per gallon in the last week to $2.34/gallon, according to gasoline price website GasBuddy.com.

Including the change in gas prices in Modesto during the past week, prices Monday were 5.2 cents per gallon higher than the same day one year ago and are 19.6 cents per gallon higher than a month ago. The national average stands 35.4 cents per gallon higher than this day one year ago.

According to GasBuddy historical data, gasoline prices on Jan. 3 in Modesto have ranged widely over the last five years: $2.53/gallon in 2016, $2.49 in 2015, $3.54 in 2014, $3.43 in 2013 and $3.54/gallon in 2012.

Areas near Modesto and their current gas price climate include: Stockton - $2.61/gallon, up 5.8 cents per gallon from last week’s $2.55/gallon; Oakland - $2.75, up 4.0 cents from last week’s $2.71; and San Jose - $2.76, up 4.1 cents from last week’s $2.72/gallon.

“In 2016, motorists spent an average $2.13 per gallon on gasoline, the cheapest yearly average since 2004, and 28 cents lower than 2015, but if motorists made a resolution to pay less in 2017, they either broke it already or aren’t planning on driving for a while,” said Patrick DeHaan, senior petroleum analyst for GasBuddy. “While nearly 100,000 gas stations in the country were selling for $1.99 per gallon a year ago, fewer than 3,000 are today. Though we may see rising gas prices take a brief break in early February, we’re unlikely to come anywhere close to last year’s low levels. Overall, the national average price of gas stands 35 cents higher than where it was a year ago on this day and the gap is likely to continue widening.”

GasBuddy is the technology company changing the way more than 60 million consumers find, purchase, and save money on gasoline. Founded in 2000, the original GasBuddy website was a pioneer in crowd-sourced information, leveraging technology, big data, and a passionate community that now connects more than 60 million users with real-time, accurate fuel pricing information as well as reliable reviews of gas station amenities and services. The app and website have the most accurate and real-time fuel prices at over 140,000 unique stations in the United States, Canada, and Australia and is the most comprehensive money-saving companion while on the road. GasBuddy is available on all mobile platforms. For more information, visit www.gasbuddy.com.