AAA: Florida gas prices remain elevated heading into Labor Day weekend

Although pump prices have fluctuated from week to week, Florida's state average has hovered around $3.92 per gallon over the past 45 days, generally remaining within a narrow range despite volatility in the energy market.

"Drivers have seen gas prices move up and down throughout the summer, but the overall trend has been relatively stable," said Mark Jenkins, spokesman for AAA - The Auto Club Group. "Florida's state average has remained near $3.92 per gallon for the past month and a half, which means motorists are approaching Labor Day with fuel costs that are generally in line with what they've been paying all summer."

While prices have changed little in recent weeks, they're significantly higher than a year ago. Sunday's state average of $3.89 per gallon is about 81 cents more than the $3.08 per gallon Florida drivers paid during the same period last year. For a driver with a 15-gallon tank, that's roughly $12 more per fill-up. 

Despite the higher cost, AAA does not expect fuel prices to deter holiday travelers.

"Gas prices are one factor travelers consider when planning a trip, but they're rarely the deciding factor," Jenkins said. "Many Floridians have been paying around the same price for gas throughout the summer, so there isn't a lot of sticker shock heading into the holiday weekend. People who have planned a Labor Day getaway are generally still taking that trip."

Apopka Gas Prices

Florida's Most Expensive Metro Markets

• West Palm Beach-Boca Raton ($4.06)
• Gainesville ($3.97)
• Naples ($3.95)

Florida's Least Expensive Metro Markets

• Panama City ($3.69)
• Pensacola ($3.70)
• Crestview-Fort Walton Beach ($3.72)