Gas Prices Rise Quickly

This time last week, the average price of a gallon of gas in Tampa Bay was $3.28. Today it's $3.42, an increase of 14 cents in one week according to AAA's Fuel Gauge Report.

So what's behind the rapid rise at the pump? 

“Gas prices generally inch up after the first of the year on optimism the economy will continue to improve and set the stage for increased demand in the new year," says Jessica Brady, AAA spokesperson, The Auto Club Group. 

Brady says U.S. payrolls increased by 200,000 in December, which supports the theory. She says that concerns about Iran disrupting Mideast oil exports could also be influencing the increase.

“Motorists will probably see pump prices inch up again this week, which is likely to reveal whether or not oil prices are sustainable above $100 a barrel,” says Brady.

We checked prices of gas on TampaGasPrices.com Here's a look at the gas stations in Palm Harbor that are offering the lowest prices for a gallon of regular unleaded gas as of 4:30 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 10.

$3.39

• Rally, 2525 E. Lake Rd. near Tarpon Woods Blvd
• Exxon, 36300 US 19 & Colonial Blvd.
• Mobil, 38590 US 19 & Klosterman Rd.
• Super Gas, US 19 & Tampa Rd.