Gas prices in Arizona are expected to rise this summer as the travel season begins, a survey by AAA says.
Prices have remained relatively stable over the last week, today's statewide average climbed a little more than a half-cent from last week to $2.28. The average in Tucson is a little lower, $2.20, but Tucsonans are seeing higher prices at the pump.
However, that will not stop drivers from hitting the road this year. Drivers say they would change their habits to compensate for gas prices that will continue to rise in the summer. The AAA report found 70% of consumers surveyed would change other habits to compensate for more expensive gas instead of not traveling.
Consumers would rather:
- Combine errands or trips
- Reduce shopping or dining out
- Delay major purchases
- Carpool
AAA's latest report says gas prices in Arizona will rise until they reach a peak this summer, about a 75 cents per-gallon increase over last summer. That would make the making the average gas price reach about $2.77 a gallon.
However, drivers will begin to see gas prices rise over the next month, as the industry wraps up spring maintenance and completes the switch to summer-blend gas.The increase has already started, though. Prices are expected to jump about 40 cents a gallon this month.
Despite higher gas prices, AAA found that 80% of U.S. families are planning a road trip this year, 10% more than last year.
