Philly Area Gas Prices Skyrocket To New Record High

Philadelphia PA

14 March, 2022

1:16 PM

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PHILADELPHIA, PA — As the Russian invasion of Ukraine continues and the fallout from sanctions and bans of oil imports is felt globally, gas prices have reached a new record high in southeastern Pennsylvania. Prices hit $4.48 a gallon in the five-county Philadelphia area on Friday. That ticked down slightly by Monday to $4.45, with AAA speculating that some oil producing countries might increase their supply following the United States' ban on Russian oil. But AAA also notes that the thought that more countries might place similar bans on Russian oil, further impacting the world markets, could drive prices up even more in the coming weeks. It's also likely to lead to significant changes in motorist behavior. "With the local and national average gas prices hitting all-time highs over $4.00 per gallon, Americans may have reached a tipping point," Jana Tidwell, spokesperson for AAA Mid-Atlantic, said in a statement. "Over half (59%) of Americans said they would make changes to their driving habits or lifestyle if the cost of gas rose to $4 per gallon." The Philadelphia area's gas price rose 15 cents from last Monday, when it sat at a then record-high $4.30. The previous record of $4.15 had been set in June 2008 following that year's economic depression. Since Russia invaded Ukraine, the area's gas price has gone up 74 cents. Statewide, Pennsylvania's gas price is $4.42, up 19 cents in the past week and $1.41 over this time last year. Ways to save gas recommended by AAA include combining errands in one trip, removing excess weight from your vehicle, traveling at the speed-limit, and using cruise control on the highway. To check gas prices in your area, visit here.