U.S. gas prices turn lower

updated 12:08 p.m. ET May 22, 2006

CAMARILLO, Calif. - The average retail price of a gallon of gas fell about 1.45 cents across the nation during the past two weeks, the first drop since prices began a steady climb in late February, according to a survey released Sunday.

Self-serve regular averaged about $2.93 a gallon, down from about $2.95 two weeks ago, said Trilby Lundberg, who publishes the nationwide Lundberg Survey of roughly 7,000 gas stations.

The average price of mid-grade was $3.03 a gallon, down from $3.04. Premium hit $3.13 a gallon, compared with $3.14 two weeks ago.

The survey covered the period from May 6 through May 19.

Gas prices have climbed more than 70 cents since Feb. 24, when self-serve regular was $2.24.

Of the stations surveyed, the highest average price in the nation for regular unleaded was found in San Diego at $3.40 a gallon. The lowest was in Wichita, Kansas, where drivers paid an average of $2.59 a gallon.

Among the California cities surveyed, Sacramento had the lowest average price for regular unleaded at $3.22.

MORE FROM AUTOS

Autos Section Front

Source: GM to begin repaying aid by year-end 37 percent of U.S. Saab dealerships to close Ford: New police cruiser to replace Crown Vic Automakers turn to safety to sell cars Texan drives $1 million car into marshes Dirtiest vehicles on America’s highways GM needs new Buick, Chevy entries to be hits IntelliDrive program blends technology, safety Chinese automaker aims to compete globally CEO lays out ambitious Chrysler road map Autos Section Front   Add Autos headlines to your news reader: