Florida gas prices jump overnight, leaving drivers struggling to adjust
Gas prices in Florida rose sharply overnight to an average of $4.07 per gallon, forcing drivers to rethink their spending and travel habits.
Gas prices in Florida increased overnight, with AAA reporting Wednesday’s average at $4.07 per gallon, up from $3.89 the day before.
“When I just finished filling up my tank, I was just confused. I was like, this number is usually never on the screen,” said Deven Alvarado, an Orlando resident.
In eight Central Florida counties, the average price is at or above the state’s average, leading drivers to make more intentional decisions about their travel.
“If I’m going to the supermarket… I can bring more home instead of driving out, going to the store, coming back, going back,” Alvarado said.
Business owners who spend much of their day driving are feeling the impact even more. Isaac Vazquez, visiting Central Florida from Massachusetts for work, said he had to fill his tank five times to get to the area.
“It cost me almost $900,” Vazquez said. “Last year, it was around 4-something, maybe $500, so it’s been a drastic difference.”
Vazquez added that the rising fuel costs are cutting into his earnings.
“At the end of the week, it’s just like there is no bottom line left,” he said.
Other drivers are finding ways to cope, including relying more on credit cards, canceling gym memberships, substituting driving with alternative transportation like scooters, and simply staying home if they don’t have anywhere essential to be.