Gas prices continued their downward trend in Georgia this week with some real bargains available in metro Atlanta's southern suburbs.
The average price for a gallon of regular unleaded in Georgia was $3.45 Monday, down 7 cents from a week ago, according to AAA. Other grades were down as well: Mid-grade was $3.63, down 7 cents; premium was $3.79, down 6 cents; and diesel was $3.92, down 6 cents. The average price for regular a month ago was $3.77; a year ago it was $3.83.
While AAA says the average price in Atlanta is $3.49, many retailers are selling for far less. Gasbuddy.com reports a number of stations in Henry County, and a couple in DeKalb, selling regular unleaded for less than $3.30 a gallon.
The low prices in Henry appeared to be the result of a "very competitive situation" with a "huge battle going on with everyone," said Mike Thornbrugh, manager of public and government affairs for QuikTrip, which has two outlets in Stockbridge selling regular for $3.28. He noted that there are several new retailers in the area, which can often lead to price wars.
Farther south of metro Atlanta, Macon was reporting average price of $3.29 a gallon -- the lowest in the state -- with one station in Warner Robins selling regular for $3.10 a gallon.
The average price was highest in Athens, at $3.51 a gallon.
Gas prices in the South and parts of the Midwest are the lowest in the country, with West Coast drivers paying the most -- well over $4 a gallon in California, Oregon, Washington and Alaska.
The decline in gas prices reflects the falling price of oil, which broke the trend by rising Monday for the first time in seven days. West Texas intermediate crude rose 72 cents to $92.20 a barrel on the New York Mercantile Exchange, an increase of 0.8 percent.
Despite Monday's rise, AAA still expects gas prices to retreat further this week in advance of the Memorial Day Weekend.
"Although AAA forecast 30.7 million Americans will travel via automobile this upcoming holiday, it's very likely more people will travel as a result of falling gas prices," the organization said in a statement.
"Motorists will get the much-needed relief at the pump just in time for the Memorial Day weekend and will likely lead to an increased number of travelers, helping to jump start the summer travel season," said Jessica Brady, AAA spokeswoman. "Both oil and gas prices are forecast to decrease this week as global leaders meet to discuss a resolution for Europe’s debt issues."
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