A Week of SoCal Gas Price Changes and Smart Tips to Save on Fuel
Gas Prices Surge in Los Angeles as Global Oil Costs Climb
The average price for a gallon of regular gas in Los Angeles County reached $5.597 on Monday, marking a 38-cent increase from the previous week. This rise can be attributed to escalating global oil prices, which have surged significantly in recent days.
One month ago, the average price in Los Angeles County was $4.612, illustrating a notable trend of increasing fuel costs across California. The statewide average for a gallon of regular gas on Monday stood at $5.509, well above the national average of $3.699.
The highest recorded average price in Los Angeles County was $6.495 on October 5, 2022. Meanwhile, fuel prices in coastal counties are among the highest in the state, with San Luis Obispo at $5.637, Monterey at $5.631, and Marin County reaching $5.693. In contrast, the lowest prices can be found in northeastern California, with Modoc County reporting $5.222.
A detailed look at current gas prices in several Southern California counties shows the following:
Los Angeles County
Current: $5.597
One week ago: $5.221
One month ago: $4.612
One year ago: $4.660
Orange County
Current: $5.558
One week ago: $5.211
One month ago: $4.535
One year ago: $4.626
Riverside County
Current: $5.482
One week ago: $5.104
One month ago: $4.460
One year ago: $4.483
San Bernardino County
Current: $5.479
One week ago: $5.108
One month ago: $4.452
One year ago: $4.500
Ventura County
Current: $5.548
One week ago: $5.162
One month ago: $4.544
One year ago: $4.655
Recent geopolitical tensions, particularly regarding Iran, have contributed to the instability in oil supply. The International Energy Agency stated in its monthly report that the situation is “creating the largest supply disruption in the history of the global oil market.” Iran has threatened to attack vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, a critical route through which about one-fifth of the world’s oil typically passes.
In response to market pressures, the agency released a record 400 million barrels of oil last week as a temporary measure to counteract the supply slowdown. Energy Secretary Chris Wright indicated on Sunday that there is a “very good chance” that gas prices could fall below $3 per gallon by summer if current trends continue. He emphasized that the U.S. may soon mitigate the risks associated with Iran’s potential disruption of global energy supplies.
In California, gasoline is a blend consisting of 90 percent petroleum-based gasoline and 10 percent ethanol, as mandated by the California Air Resources Board. Over 90 percent of the gasoline consumed in California is produced by in-state refineries.
As fuel prices continue to rise, consumers are encouraged to adopt strategies to save on gas, such as checking tire pressure, avoiding idling in drive-thru lines, and incorporating smooth acceleration techniques. These practices can contribute to improved fuel efficiency and relieve some financial pressure at the pump.
