By By ERIN VER BERKMOES / Niles Daily Star
NILES - Even though during the last few days, gas prices continue to rise a few cents per gallon, Niles area residents continue to fill their vehicles up at the pump.
Over the past year, the price of a gallon of regular gas has risen about 38 cents which has put a dent in many peoples wallets when they do fill up their vehicle.
There are many thoughts as to why the price of gas has gone up some of them include, the price of as barrel of crude oil has soared to nearly $57 a barrel, there isn't enough oil being produced by OPEC countries, and countries such as the United States and China are using more and more oil everyday.
Members of the Niles community had their own opinions when asked about how the higher prices at the pump are affecting their budget.
Joan McKenzie of Niles said, "The higher gas prices haven't really affected me, because I've always been careful with my budget, plus I need gas anyway to get around."