On Wednesday, October 29, AAA released new survey numbers indicating that the per gallon price of gasoline in the United States has fallen 42 days in a row to a new average of $2.589 for unleaded regular.

The retreat in gas prices began on September 17 in the wake of Hurricanes Gustav and Ike with levels now reaching those on par with the rates of August 18, 2005. The decline represents a pull-back of 37.1 percent or $1.485 per gallon from the record high of $4.114 a gallon on July 17. On October 18, the price fell under $3 a gallon for the first time in a nine-month period.

Regardless of the more realistic prices, however, demand for gas in the United States has dropped on consumer fears and increased concern about environmental issues. The U.S. Department of Energy calculates that Americans are driving 5.6% fewer miles than in 2007. In the same vein, a MasterCard survey indicates drivers are using 6.4% less gasoline per week than one year ago.

Consumers in three states, Alaska Hawaii, and California, continue to pay more than $3 a gallon while some eighteen states are under the $2.50 average. Alaskans pay the most for their fuel at $3.622 with the least expensive gasoline in Oklahoma at $2.20 a gallon.