Newark Reporter

There was one gas station in cities across Essex County selling midgrade gas at the lowest price of $3.29 per gallon in the week ending May 20, according to GasBuddy.com.

The average cost of midgrade gas in cities within Essex County was $3.74 per gallon.

There are 208 gas stations in cities within Essex County.

The average price of midgrade gas in New Jersey was $3.83, compared to $3.85 the week before.

Drivers across the U.S. have faced a rollercoaster of gas prices in recent months and years. Though the cost of a gallon of gas has steadily fallen in some areas, the national average of gas has risen.

Many analysts blame the COVID-19 pandemic for crushing oil demand and then oil production and Russia's war against Ukraine.

Gas data refers to the price of gas when paid for by cash, not credit. Gas stations can charge drivers more for using credit cards due to surcharge fees. This is prohibited in 10 U.S. states.

Data is accurate as of press time, but gas prices have been known to fluctuate on a daily, and even hourly, basis.