Florida Gas Prices Reach Six-Week High

Gas prices in Florida have reached their highest point in six weeks, according to data released by AAA. The average cost of a gallon of gas in Florida as of Friday was $2.93, before dipping to $2.90 as of Monday. Though political figures are quick to point to one cause or another, the factors that influence gas prices are mostly international phenomena. In this case, it appears to be a mixture of diplomatic relations, supply, and economic projections. "Florida gas prices are inching higher as global oil markets react to geopolitical tensions, tightening fuel supplies, and growing optimism about future fuel demand," said AAA spokesman Mark Jenkins. "These factors have pushed oil and gasoline futures upward, and when combined with Florida's normal pattern of price cycling, they've contributed to the recent uptick at the pump." Still, despite a recent spike in gas prices there are still metrics which cast the situation in a more positive light. Friday's statewide average of $2.93 per gallon is up five cents versus both one week and one month prior, but down 17 cents against the figure from one year ago. According to AAA the most expensive gas market in Florida is currently West Palm Beach-Boca Raton, where gas is $3.08 on average. Fuel is cheapest in Crestview-Fort Walton Beach, where it's listed at $2.60. As of Monday, both Volusia and Flagler counties' average gas prices are listed at $2.93, slightly above the state average.