Seasonal Shifts Drive Changes in Gas Prices

Experts explain how summer and winter fuel blends impact costs at the pump

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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Gas prices in Rochester, New York tend to rise in the spring and fall due to seasonal changes in fuel blends required by environmental regulations. The summer blend, which is more expensive to produce, is used during the warmer months to prevent excessive evaporation and smog. The winter blend, which contains cheaper components like butane, is used in colder weather. Additionally, increased driving demand during the summer months also contributes to higher prices at the pump.

Why it matters

Understanding the reasons behind the seasonal fluctuations in gas prices can help consumers better plan their budgets and transportation needs throughout the year. The changes are driven by environmental regulations and market forces, highlighting the complex factors that influence the cost of fuel.

The details

According to AAA, gas prices typically increase in the spring and peak around Memorial Day, then decrease in the fall. This is due to the switch between summer and winter fuel blends required by the EPA. The summer blend, which is more expensive to produce, is designed to prevent excessive evaporation and reduce smog during warmer months. Conversely, the winter blend can include cheaper components like butane, lowering the overall cost. In addition to the blend changes, increased driving demand during the summer travel season also contributes to higher prices at the pump.

  • Gas prices usually rise in the spring as the summer blend is introduced.
  • Prices typically peak around Memorial Day in late May.
  • Prices then decrease in the fall as the winter blend is introduced.

The players

AAA

A non-profit organization that provides automotive and travel services, including monitoring and reporting on gas prices.

Elizabeth Carey

A spokesperson for AAA of Western and Central New York who provided expert commentary on the seasonal factors impacting gas prices.

EPA

The United States Environmental Protection Agency, which has regulations in place regarding the seasonal fuel blends used to reduce environmental impacts.

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What they’re saying

“The difference between summer blend and winter blend is how it evaporates at different temperatures. The EPA put these rules in place because they don't want gasoline evaporating at high temperatures over the summer and causing smog and other environmental issues.”

— Elizabeth Carey, Spokesperson, AAA of Western and Central New York

“You can put things in the winter blend fuel that are cheaper, like butane and other products, so it brings the cost down significantly.”

— Elizabeth Carey, Spokesperson, AAA of Western and Central New York

What’s next

As the weather warms up and more people hit the roads for summer travel, consumers can expect to see higher prices at the pump in the coming months.

The takeaway

Seasonal changes in fuel blends and increased driving demand are the primary factors behind the annual fluctuations in gas prices. Understanding these dynamics can help consumers plan their budgets and transportation needs throughout the year.