Data shows lowest average gas prices in state, New Jersey

COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) — Officials say drivers in South Carolina and New Jersey are paying the lowest average gas prices in the nation. The Greenville News reports data released Monday from the American Automobile Association shows that motorists in the two states are paying an average of $1.96 per gallon. AAA officials also say that South Carolina and New Jersey are just two of four states that have retail averages below $2. According to the statistics, average prices in the Greenville-Spartanburg-Anderson area of South Carolina are about 2 cents lower this month than they were a month ago. A year ago, gas prices in the area cost about $3.02. The data also shows drivers in every state are paying an average price below $3 per gallon for the first time since 2009.