Florida motorists are feeling the pinch at the pump. According to the American Automobile Association (AAA), the state’s average price for regular gasoline has risen to about $4.28 per gallon, a 15‑cent increase from the previous week. The national average sits at $4.47 per gallon, up 16 cents.

County‑by‑county snapshot

Local price reports show the following averages:

• Martin County: $4.27 per gallon
• St. Lucie County: $4.34 per gallon
• Indian River County: $4.33 per gallon
• Okeechobee County: $4.32 per gallon
• Palm Beach County: $4.43 per gallon – the highest average in the region

Drivers across the Treasure Coast and South Florida are encountering stations that charge more than $4 per gallon, a level many consider burdensome.

Voices from the road

“It’s horrible; it’s too expensive,” said Linda Tinajero, a local driver who relies on her car for work. “Every week is like 50‑something dollars. It’s crazy.” Tinajero, who works in cleaning, often travels to Jupiter, Boca Raton, and Boynton Beach, adding that the rising cost directly impacts her family’s budget.

Why prices are climbing

Mark Jenkins, AAA’s public‑relations manager for Florida, explained that the ongoing conflict in Iran is creating volatility in the global oil market. “It’s very hard to predict on a week‑to‑week basis what to expect in prices at the pump,” Jenkins said. He noted that crude oil prices have climbed above $100 per barrel, a level that can trigger further increases at the pump if the trend continues.

Tips to ease the burden

While the market remains uncertain, AAA offers practical steps for drivers seeking relief:

• Shop around – compare prices at nearby stations before filling up.
• Pay with cash – some stations offer a small discount for cash transactions.
• Maintain your vehicle – regular tune‑ups and proper tire inflation can improve fuel efficiency.
• Join rewards programs – many gas stations provide loyalty points or discounts that add up over time.

These measures, while not eliminating the price increase, can help families stretch their dollars a bit farther.

Looking ahead

Jenkins cautioned that unless there is a significant drop in crude oil prices, a comparable decline in gasoline costs is unlikely in the near term. He emphasized that the situation remains fluid and that drivers should stay informed through reliable sources such as AAA and local news outlets.

For ongoing updates on fuel prices and other transportation news, Florida residents can follow local media and the AAA website.

Original reporting: WPBF (Treasure Coast / Hearst) — read the source article.