News Summary
Gas prices in Los Angeles County have seen a slight increase, now averaging $4.468 per gallon. While up just a bit from last week, prices are significantly lower than last month and last year. Comparatively, Orange County also experiences a minimal bump. Despite the increases, the overall trend shows a decrease from previous record highs, providing some relief to residents amidst fluctuating prices.
Gas Prices in Los Angeles Show Modest Increase: What You Need to Know
Gas prices are always a hot topic, and here in sunny Los Angeles, they have ticked up just a bit recently. The average price of a gallon of self-serve regular gasoline in Los Angeles County has nudged up by three-tenths of a cent, inching its way to $4.468. While this figure may make some of you cringe at the pump, it’s only four-tenths of a cent higher than last week. On the bright side, it’s actually 7 cents lower than a month ago and a whopping 9.7 cents lower than this time last year!
How Do Prices Compare Over Time?
It’s pretty enlightening to step back and look at the larger picture. During the dizzying heights of gas price peaks, Los Angeles witnessed a staggering record high of $6.493 back on October 5, 2022. Fast-forward to today, and that’s a drop of $2.025. Many households are likely breathing a sigh of relief over these lower numbers.
Over in Orange County, the story is somewhat similar. The average price for gasoline has also seen a modest bump, increasing by four-tenths of a cent to $4.419. To put this in perspective, this price is only eight-tenths of a cent higher than it was last week. On a more optimistic note, Orange County residents are paying 6.5 cents less than a month ago and 6 cents less than a year ago. Focusing on the long game, the average price has dropped $2.039 from its record high of $6.458 on that same dramatic day last October.
What’s Happening in Other Areas?
Across most of Southern California, the price of gas remains relatively consistent, typically within a range of 5 to 10 cents of the lowest levels recorded this year. Doug Shupe from the Automobile Club of Southern California noted that these low averages provide some relief to families and commuters alike. And speaking of averages, the national price for gasoline has decreased slightly as well, now sitting at $3.139. This is 1.1 cents lower than last week and a full 31 cents lower than one year ago.
What’s Driving These Prices?
Now, you might be wondering, what’s influencing these prices? One major factor is the stability of crude oil prices, which are currently hanging out in the mid $60s per barrel. That steadiness at the source is contributing to keeping those pump prices from ballooning. In addition, OPEC+ is gearing up to increase production next month, which should help maintain a good supply of oil and potentially keep prices more manageable.
However, there are whispers of impending refinery closures that could flip the script very quickly. Experts say we might see prices skyrocket, hovering around $8 per gallon by 2026. On top of that, changes to California’s Low Carbon Fuel Standard could also result in additional costs, keeping consumers on their toes.
Looking Ahead
As we navigate these ups and downs, it’s wise to consider alternative transportation methods. Many residents are already rethinking their driving habits in response to these fluctuating prices. Whether it’s carpooling, public transport, or even cycling, there are plenty of options to keep those wallets a little heavier. Fill up that tank wisely!
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Additional Resources
- Forbes: Gas Prices by State
- MyNewsLA: Little Change to Average LA & Orange County Gas Prices
- ABC7 News: California Gas Prices Could Top $8 a Gallon
- Los Angeles Times: Gas Prices This Summer
- Desert Sun: Why is California Gas So Expensive?
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.
