Americans are filling up at the pump more and more. Since mid-May, gasoline demand has increased 18 percent to 7.9 million barrels per day, according to the latest Energy Information Administration report.

The slow but steady rise in demand has pushed the national pump price higher by 13 percent in the same timeframe. The June 15 national average was $2.10, a release from AAA Tidewater Virginia stated. That is seven cents more on the week, 24 cents more on the month, but 59 cents cheaper on the year.

Across Hampton Roads, gas prices continue to rise. The current average in Hampton Roads is $1.79, up six cents from last week and 11 cents over last month. Last year, the average was $2.45, 66 cents higher than the price on Monday.

While pump price volatility in the Mid-Atlantic and Northeast is low compared to other regions, within the region there were significant pump price jumps on the week. Virginia ($1.86) saw a seven-cent increase.

“As Americans drive more, they are re-...