Oil Price Drop Not Yet Reflected At The Pump

Gas prices locally rose to $3.85 for a gallon of regular, a 4- cent increase over this time last week, even as oil prices decreased.

The Associated Press reported that the price of oil fell about $10 yesterday, or 9 percent, closing under $100 for the first time since March.

Historically, the price at the pump lags behind when the cost for a barrel of oil drops. For now, locals are paying more, but they may see a drop at local stations in the near future.

Compared to the national average, Manchester and Lakehurst residents still fare better, as nationally a gallon of regular costs $3.98, according to AAA. The state average is $3.89 for a gallon of regular.

Don’t get saddled paying more than you need to, however. Check the Manchester Patch gas roundup below to see which stations in your neighborhood are offering the most competitive price.

All prices reported were reported on Friday, May 6.

• Exxon – Route 37 and Commonwealth Boulevard, Manchester: $3.87 regular, $4.09 plus, $4.19 premium.
• Circle Service – Route 37 and Route 70 circle, Lakehurst: $3.85 regular, $3.97 plus, $4.19 premium.
• Gulf – Route 70 and Route 547 (Center Street), Lakehurst: $3.89 regular, $3.99 plus, $4.15 premium.
• Wawa – Route 70 and Route 539, Manchester: $3.85 regular, $3.95 plus, $4.05 premium.
• Jersey Gas – Route 530 and Station Road, Whiting: $3.85 regular, $3.97 plus, $4.07 premium.
• Quick Chek – Route 70 and Route 571, Manchester: $3.81 regular, $3.95 plus, $4.05 premium.

As of press time all stations were charging the same for both cash and credit purchases.