By Jake Fogal

BLOOMINGTON – Gas prices are down 19 cents per gallon in the past week, averaging $3.78 a gallon across the state.

GasBuddy says prices in Illinois are 35.5 cents lower than a month ago and over 26 cents more expensive compared to this time last year.

GasBuddy price reports show the cheapest station in the state is priced at $2.89 while the most expensive is $5.87.

The national average is unchanged in the last week, averaging $3.52 a gallon.

“As millions of Americans hit the road for Thanksgiving, we saw gasoline prices continue dropping coast to coast last week, and a new record was set for the largest single day decline in the national average. In addition, 47 of the nation’s 50 states have seen diesel prices falling as well, providing well-needed relief ahead of the holidays and helping to stem the rise in inflation,” said Patrick De Haan, head of petroleum analysis at GasBuddy.

“All the metrics look very positive for motorists as this week is likely to continue seeing falling gasoline prices, with many areas falling to the lowest level since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February. It’s entirely possible the national average price of gasoline could fall under $3 per gallon by Christmas, which would be a huge gift to unwrap for motorists after a dizzying year at the pump.”