Dayton residents are feeling the pinch as gasoline prices climbed to $4.49 per gallon this week, according to local pumps. The increase comes just as Ohio’s temporary gas‑tax holiday ends, meaning drivers could soon be paying close to $4.90 per gallon without the tax break.
Students bear the brunt
University of Dayton students Richard Remley and Jack Demeo say the higher cost of fuel is a serious financial strain during an already expensive time of year. Remley explained that many of his classmates have started walking long distances to avoid driving altogether.
“Yeah, we’re just walking everywhere now. It takes me like 50 minutes to get to like Walmart. It sucks,” Remley said.
Demeo echoed the sentiment, noting that the price hike adds to the already heavy burden of tuition, textbooks and housing.
“It’s brutal. I mean, $4.49 for gas, it’s not even reasonable. I think it’s ridiculous. For college students, we’ve got to pay for a lot of stuff, and it kind of sucks,” Demeo said.
Ride‑share drivers adapt
Lyft driver Roxanne Simon, who relies on her vehicle for income, has turned to grocery‑store rewards programs to offset fuel costs.
“If you go to Kroger, use some points because I go grocery shopping a lot so I just had a dollar off,” Simon said.
Practical tips from AAA
Chelsea Sick, public and government affairs manager with AAA Club Alliance, offered straightforward advice for anyone looking to save money at the pump.
“Make sure that before you go on those trips, your cars are prepared. Make sure that the tires are inflated. Be prepared to use your cruise control on the interstate. That can really help save some money on gas,” Sick said.
Sick also warned that rising diesel prices could increase the cost of food and holiday gifts, urging drivers to base their personal budgets on current market rates.
“Make sure that you are basing those budgets off of what the prices are now, and if the prices do go down then you will have a little extra wiggle room in that budget,” she added.
Historical perspective
AAA noted that average gas prices in Ohio this time last year were just around $3 a gallon, highlighting the steep year‑over‑year rise.
While the higher cost is a challenge for many, local officials have not indicated any immediate policy changes to address the spike. In the meantime, commuters are encouraged to plan trips wisely, keep vehicles well‑maintained, and explore discount programs wherever possible.
As the holiday season approaches, Dayton families and students alike will need to balance travel plans with tighter budgets, making every mile count.
Original reporting: WHIO-TV Dayton (local) — read the source article.
