The week following President Donald Trump's inauguration, political opponents asked, "Where are the lower gas prices?" Well, according to GasBuddy, they are here.
The 2025 Summer Travel Summary Survey showed Memorial Day weekend prices at their lowest since 2021, but the lowest inflation-adjusted prices since 2003.
The national average is $3.08 per gallon, with Alabama's average much lower at $2.73 per gallon. In 2024, the Memorial Day weekend national gas average was $3.58 per gallon.
Drivers along Alabama's Gulf Coast are thankful to see gas prices below $3 per gallon.
"I think it's a big positive," said Jay Brown as he filled up his truck in Foley on Tuesday. "It's a very favorable thing."
Brown said he noticed gas prices in Baldwin County staying low, despite the summer holiday season. He said there has been increased traffic along Alabama's coast due to warmer weather, a boat show at The Wharf and the Sand in My Boots Festival.
"For travelers and for those that are struggling, it's really a positive," he said. "It allows people to get around and spend maybe a little bit more money elsewhere, going places, versus having to sort of 'staycation."
The nationwide average is expected to fall to $3.02 per gallon over the summer and through Labor Day.
AAA predicts over 45 million people will travel this Memorial Day weekend, 1.4 million more than in 2024.
"People are still feeling pretty good about travel," Diaz said, adding that some households and individuals may just opt to spend less money on their trips.
David Hackney said he has noticed prices down across the board in Gulf Shores.
"They're heading in the right direction," Hackney told 1819 News. "This is excellent. I hope they go lower. We've got the right guy in office now, and it's all good. Eggs are going down, and yeah, it looks good."
Travel is expected to pick up this summer, with some families planning multiple or longer trips, despite inflation.
"While we're forecasting the lowest summer gas prices in years, economic jitters are slightly dampening optimism — but we still expect a robust travel season, with millions of Americans hitting the road, many for extended trips," said Patrick De Haan, head of petroleum analysis at GasBuddy. "Rather than canceling plans, travelers are becoming more strategic with their spending."
Kaushal Patel owns three Baldwin County gas stations. While he doesn't make a lot of money from gas sales, he is happy to see the increased volume in his store.
"Because of the holidays, all gas prices are down and we have to keep them down," said Patel. "Inside of the store, we can make money. It has been busy last weekend and this week and we have a lot of people coming from other states."
GasBuddy credits lower crude oil prices and a possible nuclear deal with Iran for the lower gas prices.
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