ST. PAUL — The average price for unleaded regular gas has dropped below $3 in Minnesota.

Industry observers say it’s the first time since last December that unleaded regular has dipped below that mark in Minnesota. The decline is driven by world oil prices dropping to the lowest level in years.

The Star Tribune says Minnesota is among 10 states where regular unleaded is below $3 a gallon.

Todd Brazman pumped gas for $2.89 a gallon at Capitol City Station in St. Paul. Brazman says it’s like gas is on sale. He calls it a “whale of a deal.”

The website GasBuddy says Minnesota gas prices are down 29 cents compared with the September average.