Gas prices falling, headed below $3 in much of US

The price of a gallon of gasoline may soon start with a “2” across much of the country.

Gasoline prices typically decline in autumn. This year they’re getting a big push lower from falling global oil prices. By the end of the year, up to 30 states could have an average gasoline price of under $3 a gallon, according to a forecast from GasBuddy.com.

Already the average in Springfield, Missouri, is below $3. Several other cities are on the brink.

The national average is $3.35 per gallon, a dime below last year at this time and near its low for 2014.

Lower fuel prices help the economy by making goods cheaper to ship, making travel more affordable, and leaving a few extra dollars in drivers’ pockets.

—JONATHAN FAHEY, AP Energy Writer