A gas pump in Austin, Texas Brandon Bell/Getty Images

Gas prices dropped below an average of $3 a gallon in the United States on Tuesday for the first time in four-and-a-half years.

The milestone represents a rare feel-good story in a years-long affordability crisis marked by high prices for necessities.

According to AAA, the national average for regular gas dipped to $2.998 a gallon , compared with $3.001 on Monday. Pump prices are down about six cents in just the past week and are below $3 for the first time since May 2021.

Gas is also cheaper than it was last year, albeit modestly. The national average a year ago was $3.05 a gallon.

Prices are even lower in many parts of the country.

According to AAA, the average price for gas is below $2.75 a gallon in 18 states, including Ne

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