Across the state, similar declines are being seen. The Ohio average has dropped to $2.89 per gallon, down 14.5 cents from the previous week. Other cities are experiencing even steeper declines—Dayton's average has fallen to $2.78, a 19-cent decrease, while Cincinnati has seen prices drop to $2.83, down 18.5 cents. These decreases are consistent across the region, reflecting a broader trend in falling fuel prices.
Within Columbus itself, prices vary notably by location. Over the weekend, the lowest gas price reported in the city was $2.55 per gallon, while the highest reached $3.19, creating a 64-cent difference. The price range is even wider statewide, with the lowest pump price found at $2.33 and the highest at $3.67—a difference of $1.34 per gallon.
Nationally, the average price of gasoline has declined by 3.8 cents per gallon over the past week, now averaging $3.09. This represents a 6.9-cent drop from a month ago and is 41 cents lower than it was a year ago. Diesel prices have also dropped slightly, now averaging $3.465 per gallon across the country after a 2.4-cent decline last week.
Looking at historical price trends offers useful perspective. On June 2 of last year, gas prices in Columbus averaged $3.42 per gallon, while the national average was $3.50. The year before that, in 2022, gas prices were dramatically higher, hitting $4.79 in Columbus and $4.76 nationwide. Prices in 2021 were much more comparable to today’s rates, at $2.95 locally and $3.04 nationally. In 2020, at the height of pandemic lockdowns, prices dropped to $1.98 in Columbus and $1.99 nationally. The current average of $2.92 in Columbus is therefore among the lowest in recent years, especially when compared with the spikes seen during 2022.
Several contributing factors are behind the drop in fuel prices. A recently resolved refinery issue in the Great Lakes region helped ease pressure on the wholesale gasoline market, allowing prices to trend downward. In addition, the ongoing arrival of fuel shipments and improved refining output in key regions is boosting supply and helping stabilize prices. While gasoline inventories are still tight in some areas, increased refinery production could lead to continued declines as the summer progresses.
Despite this positive outlook, the market remains sensitive to potential disruptions. Any unexpected outages or supply chain hiccups could cause short-term increases, though current projections remain optimistic. Seasonal demand during summer travel may place some upward pressure on prices, but higher output from refineries is expected to help offset these effects.
As drivers across Ohio prepare for vacation and holiday road trips, the current price trend is good news. Fuel savings can make a meaningful impact on household budgets during the warmer months, and with prices below $3 per gallon in Columbus and other cities, residents are getting a much-needed break at the pump. The wide range in prices, however, means that comparison shopping can still make a difference. Drivers are encouraged to monitor local stations and fill up at the lower-priced locations when possible.
In the weeks ahead, continued monitoring of refinery operations and fuel inventories will be key to understanding how long the lower prices will last. For now, the trend remains positive, and drivers across Columbus and beyond can look forward to more affordable travel as summer begins.
