Florida gas prices drop 31 cents in a month but still remain 40% higher than a year ago

Florida drivers have gotten a bit of relief at the pump recently, but gas prices remain well above where they were last year.

Here's what to know

Compared with the $2.92 average on Oct. 26 last year, Florida's statewide price for regular unleaded had risen to $4.09 per gallon by Oct. 26 this year, according to AAA data cited by Gulfshore Business.

That was a penny higher than the statewide average of $4.08, which was down from $4.40 a month prior.

Drivers were spending $1.17, or 40%, more for each gallon than they were on Oct. 26 last year.

Florida drivers were still paying a little less than the national average of $4.29 per gallon.

More background

The data showed noticeable differences across Southwest Florida.

Of the three counties, Charlotte had the lowest average at $4.07 per gallon, Lee was next at $4.10, and Collier had the highest at $4.17.

The gap between Charlotte and Collier showed how much pump prices varied even among neighboring counties on the same day.

Where can I learn more?

For more on fuel costs in Florida and nationwide, these stories offer a closer look.

• In Florida, AAA warned the average could climb to $4.19 as gas topped $4 again.

• Across Florida, prices surged 18 cents to $4.07, pushing drivers to stretch every fill-up.

• South Florida truck fleets were squeezed as diesel neared records, driving up food-bank costs.

• Florida Republican Casey Askar pushed a first-ever cut to federal gas and diesel taxes.

• Nationwide, drivers experienced the priciest September on record while California flirted with $8.

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