AAA: Florida Gas Prices Up 8 Cents

ORLANDO, Florida – Gas prices in Florida increased by 8 cents per gallon to $3.16, according to AAA.

The Sunshine State's average is 8 cents more than a week ago, but only 2 cents more than what drivers paid on Christmas Day. 

Sunday's state average is also lower than what drivers paid a year ago, when drivers paid $3.30 per gallon. 

"Florida drivers have seen some volatility in prices at the pump in recent weeks and that trend could continue in the coming weeks," said Mark Jenkins, spokesman, AAA - The Auto Club Group. 

"Gasoline supplies are strong right now, due to strong refinery activity and seasonally low demand. That would normally help keep gas prices low, but oil prices remain propped up by concerns over the possibility of widening conflict in the Middle East." 

Crude oil prices - which influence more than half the price of gasoline - closed at $73.81 per barrel. That's nearly $2/b (3%) more than the week before. 

Most Expensive Metro Markets:

West Palm Beach-Boca Raton ($3.32)

Naples ($3.20)

Homosassa Springs ($3.20)

Least Expensive Metro Markets:

Crestview-Fort Walton Beach ($2.82)

Panama City ($2.83)

Pensacola ($2.89)