CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Unlike previous summers, gas prices toward the end of August and early September have stayed neutral in North Carolina and nationally. 

AAA reports North Carolina's average gas price is around $3.50, 30 cents lower than the national average, and prices at the pump have been holding in place for at least two weeks. 

The travel membership organization says Labor Day weekend, impacts from Hurricane Idalia and summer travel are all events that would typically cause gas prices to increase. 

"Oil and gas experts have noted that overall gasoline demand this summer failed to match previous years, with consumption getting little 'lift' from vacation travel this summer despite retail gasoline prices below last year’s," AAA said in a news release.

While prices have stayed neutral, drivers are still looking for the best deal when it comes to filling their tank. The average gas price in Mecklenburg County is $3.56.

Uber and Just Her Rideshare driver Charleen Daniels said she has seen some prices in the city get as high as $3.79, depending on what side of town she is on.

"Definitely if you're over by the airport they raise the prices more because, obviously the need, whether it's someone probably returning a car," Daniels said.  

Daniels said she usually opts to go to stations that offer reward deals and discounts. 

Although gas prices are steady, Daniels said $3.56 still seems high. But, no matter the cost, she said being a driver and offering people safe and convenient travel is like a public service. 

"So, if it costs me a little bit of money, I don't make as much money back, then I'll somehow or another get it back tenfold," Daniels said.

AAA said gas experts don't yet know why there has been lower demand for oil and gasoline this summer.