Petrol prices in Delaware County, Pennsylvania, have climbed above $4.50 a gallon, with the regional average reaching $4.48 and some stations charging $4.59, placing further pressure on drivers and businesses reliant on vehicles.
The five-county Philadelphia area average rose by five cents overnight, according to AAA. Electrician Alex Bennett said filling his truck cost $133, forcing him to reconsider some journeys and spending.
“It’s killing me,” one motorist said while paying $4.59 a gallon. Another driver, whose vehicle delivers between 40 and 45 miles per gallon, said even a fuel-efficient car was costing about $20 to fill.
The increase is particularly difficult for workers who use vans, trucks and machinery every day. Anthony Piraino, a Delaware County landscaper, said fuel for two trucks and three lawnmowers cost about $125 a day.
“It’s a big factor,” he said. “You got to figure three of those machines running two of trucks. It’s a 125 dollars of fuel. Every day. Every day.”
Residents have responded by cutting back on driving, combining errands and seeking discounts through loyalty schemes. Kane, from Broomall, said he was trying to travel less and use rewards at his nearest Royal Farms station.
AAA spokesperson Jana Tidwell advised motorists to consolidate trips rather than making repeated journeys, and to consider car-sharing for school activities and weekend sport. She also recommended keeping up with oil changes and checking tyre pressures, which can help improve fuel economy.
The latest prices remain below Pennsylvania’s record average for regular petrol, which AAA lists as $5.0708 a gallon on June 12, 2022. However, the rise is already affecting household budgets and business costs across Delaware County.
Some residents said higher fuel bills were leading them to reduce outings and non-essential journeys. It remains unclear when prices will begin to ease or how long the squeeze will continue.
