Gas prices take a surprising 2-cent dip in Bradenton-Sarasota

MANATEE -- Average retail gasoline prices in the Bradenton-Sarasota are have fallen 2 cents per gallon in the past week, averaging $2.13 a gallon, according to GasBuddy's daily survey of 308 area gas outlets. This compares with the national average that has increased 1.7 cents per gallon in the last week to $2.22 a gallon, according to gasoline price website GasBuddy.com.

Prices Monday are 47 cents a gallon lower than the same day one year ago and are 12 cents per gallon higher than a month ago. The national average has increased 10.9 cents per gallon during the last month and stands 48.2 cents per gallon lower than this day one year ago.

Statewide, gas prices are averaging $2.18 a gallon, down 1.4 cents per gallon from last week's $2.19 a gallon.

"As the national average for retail gas prices appeared to be headed for a week-over-week decrease, prices popped back up thanks to a late-week surge by Great Lake states," said Will Speer, senior petroleum analyst with GasBuddy.com. "While pockets of significant gas price hikes were prevalent, especially in regions such as the Pacific Northwest and Rockies, 22 states actually had prices decrease."

With the Memorial Day holiday two weeks away, the summer driving season has started.

"Gasoline demand that has already been strong this year will undoubtedly see a huge seasonal increase in demand," Speer predicted.

This story was originally published May 16, 2016 at 8:56 PM with the headline "Gas prices take a surprising 2-cent dip in Bradenton-Sarasota ."