Florida gas prices soar by double digits amid Iran-Israel conflict, AAA says
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Florida drivers are feeling the pinch at the pump after gas prices jumped 16 cents in the past week, and some fear things could get worse following U.S. military strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities. For small business owners like Johnny Farias, the cost is already overwhelming.
"$450 dollars a week. And that's a good week," Farias said.
Farias, who owns an electrical contracting company, says his fleet of four company vehicles — plus his family's cars — require constant refueling. He says he tops off the tank every other day at the 7-Eleven near his home.
"They're gas guzzlers. Can't afford super unleaded," he said.
Iran tensions fuel market anxiety
The conflict in the Middle East is adding pressure to global oil markets. 's Mark Jenkins said the strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities have already played a part in the price increase, and what happens next depends on Iran's response.
"If that happens that would be a big deal on a global scale. Because that is a shipping channel that affects about 20 percent of the global oil market," Jenkins said, referring to the potential closure of the Strait of Hormuz.
CBS News estimates gas prices could rise by 5–10 percent if Iran follows through on threats to close the vital waterway.
"I got 485 miles to empty. It seems like a lot but it goes really fast. That's two days of just driving," Farias said.
Diesel prices dip, but not for long
Not all prices are up just yet. Javier Conda, who runs a gas station in Cutler Bay, said diesel prices have dropped ten cents over the past week.
"It going down now. Next week. Up," Conda said.
Drivers look for savings where they can
To stretch his fuel budget, Farias says he sticks with the 7-Eleven rewards program and won't switch stations even if prices rise.
"Gotta get something back," he said.
Jenkins said using rewards programs is a smart move and also recommends fueling up in areas with multiple gas stations nearby, where competitive pricing may bring costs down.
Where prices are highest and lowest in Florida
Some Florida metro areas are feeling the price pressure more than others.
Most expensive gas prices in Florida:
- West Palm Beach–Boca Raton: $3.27
- Naples: $3.18
- Gainesville: $3.18
Least expensive gas prices in Florida:
- Crestview–Fort Walton Beach: $2.90
- Panama City: $2.93
- Pensacola: $2.96
Tips to save money at the pump
AAA recommends drivers take the following steps to reduce fuel costs:
Combine errands to limit drive time
Avoid rapid acceleration and speeding
Remove unnecessary weight from vehicles
Use the AAA mobile app to compare prices locally
Pay with cash to avoid card surcharges
