Gasoline supplies remain well above levels commonplace for this time of year, which should keep prices relatively steady as more drivers take to the roads.

Today’s gas prices registering on the AAA gas survey show the state pump price of unleaded regular is $2.80 per gallon, which is $0.03 higher  than a month ago.

The least expensive fuel can be found in Marysville, where the average price for a gallon of regular is $2.53. The highest price is in San Francisco where the average price is $2.96 a gallon, up $0.11 from last month’s AAA gas survey.

“Historically gasoline demand increases leading into the summer driving season, and this year so far is no different,” said Cynthia Harris, AAA Northern California spokesperson. “However, lower gas prices are contributing to drivers taking to the roads at record levels and the 2016 summer driving season is expected to rival 2007, when gasoline demand hit an all-time high.”

ExxonMobil’s Torrance California Refinery’s delayed gasoline production is due to unexpected recent operational delays, and gasoline production is not expected to be at full capacity until later in the month.

The return to full capacity of this refinery is expected to help offset some of the growing demand in the state and region.

The possibility of disrupted supply from the Canadian Oil Sands influenced the global price of crude oil over the past week; however, expectations of reduced supply were largely overshadowed by news of increased production out of Iran and other OPEC and non-OPEC nations. 

Iran reportedly reached pre-sanction production levels, and as production countries continue to fight for market share, the global oil market is likely to remain oversupplied.

Global oil prices rallied over the weekend due to news that the longtime Saudi Arabian oil minister would be replaced. This sentiment was short-lived as reports quickly surfaced that the world’s largest exporter would maintain its current course and attempt to defend its market share by sustaining production levels.

Oversupply is likely to continue to characterize the global oil market and attention will remain focused on output from non-OPEC countries and any other factors that may help bring supply and demand into balance.

At the close of Friday’s formal trading session on the NYMEX, WTI was up $0.34 and settled at $44.66 per barrel.

To get the best mileage possible, AAA recommends keeping tires at the recommended pressure suggested by the vehicle manufacturer, performing routine maintenance and making sure fluids are clean and belts and hoses are in good repair.

The way you drive can also impact fuel economy. Smooth driving to avoid sudden stops and starts, combining trips and lightening a vehicle’s load also help to conserve gasoline.

AAA Fuel Gauge Report is the most comprehensive retail gasoline survey available, with over 100,000 self-serve stations surveyed every day, nationwide. Data is provided in cooperation with OPIS Energy Group and Wright Express LLC.

AAA Northern California offers a wide array of automotive, travel, insurance, DMV, financial services and consumer discounts to more than 4.5 million members. AAA has been a leader and advocate for the safety and security of all travelers since it was founded 116 years ago.