Gas Prices in the 1st Quarter of 2016 Lowest in 12 Years

Gas prices keep rising, but it's important to have perspective.

During January to March 2016, Americans paid the cheapest quarterly gas prices in 12 years, according to AAA. The national average price of gas during the first quarter was $1.86 per gallon.

Gas prices are expected to remain relatively low compared to recent years. New Yorkers paid about $2.568 per gallon for regular this week last year.

However, -- and here's another perspective -- average prices could rise another 25 cents per gallon by Memorial Day, AAA says. The reasons include the switch to summer blend gas. Oh, and Americans are driving at record rates, apparently, so Memorial Day may be memorable for another reason. We'll keep you posted.

Meanwhile, here's how you can search for local gas prices near where you are or where you're headed:

To get the map and list you want, click the magnifying glass icon near the top of the graphic, type in your ZIP code or town and state, then press return.