JEFFERSON CITY - The cost of getting from here to there is becoming cheaper. Gasoline prices in Missouri have dropped by more than 20 percent since June.
"Missouri gas consumption is up and more people are driving," said Ken Brogdon of the state's Energy Division.
Consumers may be taking advantage of Missouri's ranking as the state with the second-lowest gasoline costs in the country. According to Mike Wright of AAA in St. Louis, prices at the pump now average 87.9 cents per gallon.
Wright attributed the low rates to the state's gas tax, geographic location, stiff competition and falling world crude oil prices.
According to Wright, gasoline costs have been decreasing since June when they topped $1.14 per gallon, the highest of 1995.
While prices tend to drop in the fall, after the busy summer travel period, this year drivers are seeing better bargains. Last November, prices were seven cents more than they are now, Brogdon said.
In comparison, gasoline costs in Illinois are averaging $1.23 and $1.06 in Kansas, Wright said. So, if upcoming plans include driving out of state, be sure to fill up before crossing state lines.