Gasoline prices in Texas jumped by 14 cents last week, the biggest jump since May of 2008, according to AAA Texas.
The statewide average price of a gallon of unleaded regular is now $2.47 and only 20 cents higher than this time last year.
Here in Austin, prices also rose 14 cents to $2.49 a gallon.
The increase is being prompted by higher oil prices, a large number of off-line refineries and higher gas demand.
Every city in Texas saw a double-digit price increase during the last week. Houston and Galveston had the lowest price for gasoline at $2.43, up 17 cents in Galveston and 16 cents in Houston. El Paso continues to have the most expensive at $2.51.
While attending the University of Texas in the early 1980's, I decided that Austin was a pretty cool place to live. With it's laid back lifestyle and gorgeous lake and hill country setting, I knew it was the best location Texas had to offer, and I'd be a fool not to eventually make Austin my home.
Austin quickly grows on you, and the prevailing attitude in and around the city is one of genuine friendliness.
I find great pleasure now helping newcomers find their niche in Austin, and helping current Austinites move about the area as their needs and wants change.
