Higher gas prices arrive just in time for summer driving

The average-priced gallon of unleaded gas in Fresno now costs more than $3, thanks to a rise of 8.6 cents per gallon in the past week.

According to the gas surveying firm GasBuddy, the global crude oil price surged $3 per barrel in the past week, taking the average per-barrel cost over $50 for the first time since late April. Oil-producing nations also seem likely to agree on cutting back production, GasBuddy said, meaning higher prices.

Gas now averages $3.04 per gallon in Fresno, said GasBuddy, which surveys 364 outlets in the city. A year ago the average per-gallon price in Fresno was $2.78. Five years ago, however, a gallon cost $4.28.

The statewide average is $3.10, whilel the national average is $2.35. California’s gas costs more because it is specially formulated to meet the state’s strict air-quality requirements.

This story was originally published May 22, 2017 at 2:02 PM with the headline "Higher gas prices arrive just in time for summer driving."