Rising gas prices could cost commuters hundreds more annually

That way of getting into work every day is becoming more costly as gas prices continue going up. For many who thought they would be saving on housing, they’re now paying in fuel.

"It’s just crazy ridiculous right now," said Amy Cook, a server at Backyard Bistro in Raleigh.

Cook is spending between $65 and $70 each time she fuels up – which is twice a week as she travels more than 40 miles from Harnett County to her job in the city.

"Some days aren’t as good as others," she said. "Some days you don’t make money so you lose money."

Cross-county commuting is common in North Carolina, a 2020 report shows. Workers from rural and micropolitan areas often have jobs in large labor markets.

Ford F-150 drivers will be spending the most, more than $2500, just on gas each year. But Honda Accord and CR-V as well as Toyota Camry drivers will each me handing over nearly $1700 to $1900, too.

Some of the most common commutes in our area include those to or from RTP, Durham and Garner.

Using the 2020 Honda Accord as an example, here's what the average driver would spend for those commutes in a year.

As for Cook, she says there isn't much she can do other than hope prices tumble and people keep coming into the restaurant.

"I don't really have a choice. I’m not going anywhere else."