COLUMBUS – For the first time in four weeks, Columbus motorists are starting the work week with gas prices higher than the week before.
According to a daily survey by the AAA, the Oil price Information Service and WEX, Inc., the average retail price of regular gasoline in Columbus was $1.61, 12 cents higher than a week earlier. The statewide average price of $1.64 was 8 cents higher.
Pump prices have risen during the week but, until now, always fell before the next Monday.
The nationwide average fell 3 cents to $1.80.
The price in Ohio had dropped farther and faster than any other state during the first month of the year, according to auto club analysts. The statewide average price fell 36 cents between Christmas Day and Jan. 25.
Reduced seasonal demand for gasoline and falling crude oil costs have combined to send pump prices to the lowest mark in six years.