Despite trouble in the Middle East, GasBuddy is predicting 2020 will show a national average of $2.60 per gallon – a 2 cent drop versus 2019.

But warns that the national average will rise as much as 75 cents per gallon from a low in February until an eventual peak in May, leading to localized gas price hotspots that could lead unsuspecting motorists to pay as much as 15-50 cents more per gallon than competitors.

Tulsa gas prices rose 1.9 cents per gallon in the past week, averaging $2.20/g Monday, according to GasBuddy’s daily survey of 321 stations. Gas prices in Tulsa are 1.4 cents per gallon higher than a month ago and stand 32.9 cents per gallon higher than a year ago.

Highlights from GasBuddy’s 2020 Fuel Price Outlook include:

• The nation’s yearly gasoline bill will rise to $373 billion dollars as the average household sees their annual gasoline spending rise to $1,935.
• The national average is forecast to rise as much as 75 cents per gallon from a low in early February to a possible peak in May, as the seasonal switch to summer gasoline  causes some stations to raise prices much quicker than others, leading to opportunities for motorists who compare prices.
• 75% of the largest metro areas could hit $3/gallon in 2020, including Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Cleveland, Detroit, Miami, New York City, Philadelphia, Phoenix, and Washington, D.C. while four could see over $4/gal: Los Angeles, Sacramento, San Francisco, and Seattle.

“Hit the road, America! It will be another year where gasoline prices will be relatively affordable- but don’t close your eyes- the price variation between stations and states will approach record levels. Never has there been a bigger opportunity to spend less, or to spend more, if you aren’t checking prices before filling up,” said Patrick De Haan, head of petroleum analysis.

“In addition, motorists should be feel some comfort that for a sixth straight year, gasoline prices will start with a ‘2’ in most areas amidst a robust economy, with thanks to U.S. oil producers for matching our increasing appetite for affordable energy, which also helps to act as insulation against unpredictable events including production cuts from other nations to keep oil prices from spiraling out of control.”