Gasoline prices in Rhode Island are on the rise.

AAA Northeast says the average retail price of a gallon of regular unleaded gas in the area is $2.56.

The state's average gas price is five cents below the national average of $2.61.

A year ago today, gas prices in Rhode Island were 33 cents lower at $2.23 per gallon.

AAA Northeast Vice President Lloyd Albert says the season change brings about higher gas prices.

Albert says the market is starting to "purge" winter-blend gasoline for more expensive summer blend.