GasBuddy projects that average Christmas Day gas prices will be their highest since 2013. However, there is some good news. Average gas prices have fallen in every state in the last month as demand for gasoline cools off with winter returning in full force, led by states in the Great Lakes, which have seen drops of over 15 cents per gallon in recent weeks.
GasBuddy projects the national average gas price this Christmas will be $2.39 per gallon, a 12-cent drop since Thanksgiving, but the priciest Christmas in four years. Gas cost $3.26 on average on Christmas in 2013.
Nearly 3,300 days have passed since prices on Christmas Day averaged under $2 per gallon, a feat last accomplished in 2008 when the average was $1.63 per gallon. Overall, while gas prices stand at higher seasonal levels than prior years, they remain relatively low.
On Christmas Day 2010, 2011, 2012 and 2013, average gas prices were over $3 per gallon.
“It’s hard to be completely happy with gas prices dropping slightly in recent weeks when we’re going to see the most expensive Christmas at the pump in years, but what we’re seeing now really pales in comparison to the holidays when we pulled up to a pump that was over $3 per gallon,” said Patrick DeHaan, head of petroleum analysis at GasBuddy. “With a New Year on the horizon, I’ll again try to set my New Year’s resolution to spend only $2 per gallon on gas or less, but I suspect it’ll last as long as most resolutions-minutes, hours, maybe even days if I’m lucky.”
GasBuddy is a smartphone app connecting drivers with their Perfect Pit Stop. With 70 million downloads, GasBuddy is a leader in crowdsourced information to help drivers find the best gas prices, closest stations, friendliest service, cleanest restrooms, and tastiest coffee.