Only a year ago, the average gas price in the United States was $3.20. But now, for the first time since 2022, the average price for unleaded gas in the US has climbed over $4 per gallon; for Brockport residents, students and commuters, this jump—a nearly 35% increase in price since the end of February—can spell financial trouble.
Nearly a quarter of the world’s liquefied natural gas and seaborne oil trade passes through the Strait of Hormuz. In an effort to put pressure on Iran’s economy, the U.S. Navy placed a blockade on ports in the area. This action has contributed to rising oil prices.
Erik Lowey is a junior at SUNY Brockport. He commutes from Gates Chili to Brockport five days a week. Lowey says he spends at least $26 a week on gas. For a college student struggling to pay tuition, the added cost is hard to take.
“Gas prices are outrageous right now,” Lowey said. “College students who commute every day to class are definitely feeling it in their wallets. I have to fill up my tank at least once a week, so I’m definitely paying more right now for a full tank of gas than I did last year.”
Like Lowey, SUNY Brockport student Sam Kowalski also commutes to campus. Kowalski says he’s struggling to keep up with the rising prices.
“I used to be able to get by putting $10 in my tank, you know, there and back if I’m in a pickle,” Kowalski said. “But now it’s $10 here and you gotta put another $10 just to get back and it’s ridiculous. As a college student, as somebody who works an hourly minimum wage job, it’s a killer. You can’t save money; gas is just insane.”
As the price of gas in Rochester inches above the New York average of $4.12, residents are looking for ways to save. WROC-TV offers a “Fuel Finder” on its website for area residents to help them find the cheapest gas. Additionally, the New York Department of State offers residents a list of tips for how to save money on gas.
