Gas prices have tumbled by 86 cents since hitting a record average high of $5.02 on June 14. Over the past month alone the national average is down by 65 cents.
Nineteen states have average gas prices below $4, including Ohio, Iowa and Wisconsin, according to AAA.
“When people pay and they see $100 for the bill, they panic and become apoplectic,” said Tom Kloza, global head of energy analysis at the Oil Price Information Service.
No matter the cause, falling prices at the pump give a boost to consumers grappling with high prices on food, rent and everyday items.
Although the average price nationally is $4.16 a gallon, Kloza noted the figure is lifted by high prices in places like California. The median price, on the other hand, is $3.99, according to OPIS.
Some analysts argue prices will continue to dip, especially as the summer driving season winds down.
“This streak has more room to run,” said Kloza.
Andy Lipow, president of consulting firm Lipow Oil Associates, expects the national average will drop to $4.10 a gallon in the next seven to 10 days and $4 by Labor Day.
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