AAA: Michigan gas prices drop 8 cents since a week ago

Gas prices in Michigan are down 8 cents compared to last week, taking the state average to$3.54per gallon for regular unleaded gasoline, AAA officials announced Monday.

The price is9 cents morethan the same time last month but still 7 cents less than a year ago, the auto group said in a news release.

Motorists are paying an average of $53 for a full 15-gallon tank of gasoline, according to the statement.

According to new data from the Energy Information Administration, higher demand and rising oil prices will likely nudge pump prices higher.

"At the close of Wednesday’s formal trading session, oil prices edged higher despite EIA reporting an increase of 3.2 million barrels from the previous week. At 451.4 million barrels, U.S. crude oil inventories are about 2% below the five-year average for this time of year," the release said.

Adrienne Woodland, AAA's spokesperson, added: "Michigan motorists are seeing lower prices at the pump as gas prices continue to fluctuate. If gas demand increases, alongside tight supply, pump prices could follow suit."

Metro Detroit’s current average is $3.56 per gallon, about 2 cents less than last week’s average and 1 cent less than the same time last year.

The most expensive gas price averages are in Jackson ($3.64), Ann Arbor ($3.59) and Marquette ($3.58).

The least expensivegas price averages are in Traverse City ($3.44), Flint ($3.47) and Benton Harbor ($3.49).

mjohnson@detroitnews.com