News Summary
Gas prices in Los Angeles County have seen a slight drop, with the average now at $4.466 per gallon. In contrast, Orange County experienced a minor rise in prices. Nationally, the average has also increased slightly. Looking ahead, Californians may soon face higher prices due to upcoming tax increases and stricter fuel standards. While there are mixed predictions about the extent of these increases, experts advise residents to stay informed about potential changes.
Gas Prices in Los Angeles County Show Signs of Change
In Los Angeles County, the average price for a gallon of self-serve regular gasoline has seen a slight drop of four-tenths of a cent, now sitting at $4.466. This small decrease comes after a couple of days where prices nudged up just a bit. To put it in perspective, the current average is almost back to where it was last week, down 5.3 cents from a month ago, and significantly lower by 9.8 cents compared to last year. Remarkably, that’s a drop of $2.027 since gas peaked at an astonishing $6.493 on October 5, 2022.
Orange County Sees a Slight Rise
Meanwhile, in Orange County, things are looking a bit different as the average price has climbed for the fourth consecutive day, inching up three-tenths of a cent to $4.426. Over the last four days, the average has edged up by a small 1.1 cents. However, in the grand scheme of things, when you look back at prices from a week ago, Orange County’s current average is up by 1.2 cents. On the brighter side, it’s still 3.7 cents lower than it was a month ago and down by 6.1 cents year-over-year.
National Trends are Shifting
On the national stage, gasoline prices have seen a slight increase too. The national average ticked up by 1.5 cents, now sitting at $3.55, ending a five-day stretch of falling prices that had seen a total drop of 3.2 cents. Nevertheless, when you compare it to a week ago, the national average is 1.5 cents lower and down almost 29 cents from last year, although it did rise incrementally by two-tenths of a cent from last month.
What’s Coming Next for Prices in California?
As we look ahead, it seems California’s gas prices might be gearing up for a substantial increase, mainly due to a combination of new taxes and stricter fuel standards. Starting on July 1, the state is implementing an increase in its gas excise tax from 59.6 cents to 61.2 cents per gallon, which will also affect diesel fuel. Alongside that, the Low Carbon Fuel Standard regulations are tightening, with expectations that these changes could lead to gas prices rising by approximately 70 cents.
Predictions regarding these price hikes vary widely, with estimates suggesting that the increase could be anywhere from 5 to 8 cents per gallon all the way up to a staggering 65 cents or more. Some experts are raising alarms that by 2026, we could be faced with prices reaching an eye-watering $8 per gallon. This could be due to cuts in supply and certain refinery shutdowns looming on the horizon.
Seasonal Fluctuations and Possible Disruptions
It’s worth mentioning that California often sees seasonal price spikes around June, but the current oil supply trends are keeping prices lower than might typically be expected for this time of the year. However, we can’t ignore the risk factors that could throw everything off course. International incidents and local refinery disruptions could easily change the current landscape of fuel availability.
Mixed Opinions on Future Price Impacts
Not everyone agrees on how significant the impact of these new regulations will be on gas prices. Experts are split, with some predicting a more moderate increase compared to the more alarming forecasts floating around. The administration in California is pushing back against some of the harsh predictions, attributing them to what they describe as misinformation from certain political opponents and various industry groups.
So, as we gear up for a potential hike in gas prices, it’s clear that residents will need to keep a close eye on the changing landscape. Whether it’s the small dips or anticipated spikes, being aware of how these shifts affect your wallet could make all the difference.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Gas Prices on the Rise in Southern California
Gas Prices in California: Small Increases, Big Impacts
Gas Prices in Los Angeles Show Modest Increase
Gas Prices in Southern California: A Steady Ride
Gas Prices Take a Slight Dip in Los Angeles
Southern California Faces Severe Heat Wave with Triple-Digit Temperatures
California Gas Prices Experience Slight Fluctuations
Gas Prices Dip Slightly in Los Angeles and Orange Counties
Monique Limón Elected as California Senate Leader
Los Angeles Residents Brace for Gas Price Fluctuations
Additional Resources
- Los Angeles Times
- ABC7 News
- Desert Sun
- Google Search: California gas prices
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Gasoline
Author: STAFF HERE HUNTINGTON BEACH
The Huntington Beach Staff Writer represents the experienced team at HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Huntington Beach, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Huntington Beach Surf City USA Marathon, the U.S. Open of Surfing, Fourth of July celebrations at the Huntington Beach Pier, and community festivals at Huntington Beach Central Park. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Huntington Beach Chamber of Commerce and Visit Huntington Beach, plus leading businesses in retail, hospitality, and outdoor recreation that drive the local economy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HERECostaMesa.com, HERESantaAna.com, and HERELosAngeles.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.
