LOS ANGELES (CNS) - The average price of a gallon of self-serve regular gasoline in Los Angeles County rose today for the 29th time in 31 days, increasing eight-tenths of a cent to $3.041, its highest amount since April 4.
The average price has risen 16.6 cents over the past 31 days, including four-tenths of a cent on both Tuesday and Wednesday, according to figures from the AAA and Oil Price Information Service. It rose 14 consecutive days, dropped one-tenth of a cent June 2, increased the next five days, decreased one-tenth of a cent June 8 and resumed increasing June 9.
The average price is 3.5 cents more than a week ago and 16.6 cents higher than a month ago but 73.8 cents less than one year ago. It has decreased 57.4 cents since the start of the year.
The Orange County average price rose 1.3 cents today to $3.017, its highest amount since April 5. It has increased 41 of the past 44 days, rising 24.7 cents, including 1.2 cents on Wednesday.
The Orange County average price is 4.4 cents more than one week ago and 17.3 cents higher than one month ago but 71.3 cents less than one year ago. It has dropped 52.8 cents since the start of the year.
“In general, increased demand has been the primary reason why gas prices have been increasing,'' said Marie Montgomery, a public relations specialist with the Automobile Club of Southern California.
The crude oil price and supply and demand are the most important factors in the gas price. Crude oil prices have also been increasing recently because of increased demand.
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