Summer Spike Hits Rhode Island Gas Prices

Gas prices saw a sudden spike in Rhode Island over the past week, increasing by six cents per gallon. The average cost per gallon is now $2.75, which is still four cents less than the national average.

This time last year, the average price per gallon was considerably higher at $2.89. AAA Northeast said that drivers across the East Coast have seen a spike in prices over the past few days, though it is not believed to have been caused by Hurricane Barry.

"Gas prices over the last week increased for the majority of motorists east of the Mississippi," said Diana Imondi, AAA Northeast Manager of Public Affairs & Traffic Safety. "More expensive crude oil prices, robust demand, and decreasing gasoline supply all contributed to the higher prices."

Across the state, prices range 40 cents from $2.59 to $2.99. Here's a look at the average cost and range per grade of gas.

Regular Unleaded: $2.75 ($2.59-$2.99)

Midgrade Unleaded: $3.02 ($2.84-$3.19)

Premium Unleaded: $3.20 ($3.04-$3.39)

Diesel: $3.08 ($2.99-$3.35)