Metro Atlanta gas prices for regular unleaded is running at about 35 cents below a year ago, but if historical trends hold true, in the stretch between the beginning of Fall and Halloween, there is more room for prices to fall.

Between September 19th and Halloween, the U.S. average gasoline price has fallen by an average of 28 cents per gallon over the past five years. This year, we seem to be leaning closer to the 10-year average, which is 23 cents per gallon.

In one of its regular price updates recently, AAA said the national average price for regular unleaded gasoline is about $3.52 per gallon. That's 35 cents less than the same day a year ago. "The national year-over-year discount continues to increase and sits at its widest mark since April 21st," AAA said.

Despite the year-over-year price relief, September 17th marked just the 1,000th consecutive day with the national average price at the pump above $3.00 per gallon, which is the longest such stretch on record. The current streak began on Dec. 23, 2010.

Metro Atlanta Gas Prices Lower Than Last Year

Metro Atlanta gas prices are lower than one year ago, however the size of the year-over-year discount can, and does vary from station to station.

The pre-Halloween drop forecasted would be an added bonus, even though there is no guarantee of sub-$3.00 averages anytime soon. Barring a hurricane or sudden turbulence in the Middle East, it appears that most major U.S. cities will see their total gas prices fall in this 20-to-25 cent range over what's left of the month of October.

We'll continue to keep you up to date on news that affects Metro Atlanta gas prices and the economy in general here on our website. Check out our other articles on the Metro Atlanta Economy and Metro Atlanta Real Estate News, both under the Metro Atlanta Real Estate Categories to your right.