California, September 2, 2025
News Summary
California is witnessing a sharp rise in gas prices, with the statewide average reaching $4.59 per gallon, which is nearly 8 cents higher than last week and 12 cents higher than a month ago. In Southern California, prices have surged by 10 cents or more in recent days, especially in the Los Angeles-Long Beach area where it hit $4.61. Despite this hike, prices remain about 4 cents lower on average compared to last year. Factors such as unplanned refinery maintenance are contributing to these increases, making travel budgets a concern for many families this holiday weekend.
California is experiencing a surge in gas prices in the days leading up to the Labor Day weekend, with overall costs increasing significantly across the region. As of Friday, the statewide average price for gasoline reached $4.59 per gallon, marking an increase of nearly 8 cents from the previous week and 12 cents higher than a month ago.
The price hike is especially pronounced in Southern California, where gas prices have spiked by 10 cents or more in just the past seven days. This only marks the second significant increase of the year, and in several areas, such as the Los Angeles-Long Beach region, prices are currently higher than at the same time last year. The average gas price in this area has climbed to $4.61 per gallon, up approximately 14 cents from the previous month.
Santa Barbara, located along the Central Coast, also recorded a price rise, with an average cost of $4.59 per gallon, reflecting a 9-cent increase over the last week. Despite the recent surge, gas prices throughout California are about 4 cents per gallon lower on average compared to this time last year, as reported data indicates.
The increases in gas prices have been linked to unplanned maintenance at refineries, which caused a spike in wholesale prices over the previous weekend. California’s gas prices remain the highest in the United States, surpassing those in Hawaii and Washington state. Nationwide, the projected gas price for Labor Day is $3.15 per gallon, the lowest for the holiday since 2020 and 1 cent less than 2021.
Despite the recent surge in prices, Los Angeles does not appear to be among the top destinations for travelers this holiday weekend. Many individuals are opting for trips to cities like Seattle, Orlando, and New York, while others are choosing road trips to nearby beaches and national parks instead.
The fluctuation in gas prices is a recurring concern for travelers, particularly during holiday periods when demand typically spikes. Many families and individuals who plan to travel often budget for these costs, and rising prices can impact overall spending during trips.
Key Gas Price Trends in Southern California
- Statewide gas prices increased to an average of $4.59 per gallon ahead of Labor Day.
- Southern California saw price hikes of 10 cents or more in the last week.
- Los Angeles-Long Beach area prices reached $4.61 per gallon.
- Santa Barbara averages $4.59, below last year’s price.
- California maintains the highest gas prices in the U.S.
Conclusion
While the rise in gas prices poses challenges for travelers, many are still exploring alternative destinations for their holiday plans. The factors influencing these price changes are significant, particularly unplanned refinery maintenance, which has contributed to the recent spike.
FAQ
Why are gas prices in Southern California increasing?
Gas prices have surged due to unplanned refinery maintenance, which caused a spike in wholesale gas prices in the region.
What is the average gas price in California as of Labor Day?
As of Friday before Labor Day, the statewide average gas price in California is $4.59 per gallon.
How do current gas prices compare to last year?
Current statewide gas prices are approximately 4 cents lower than they were at this time last year.
Key Gas Price Features
| Area | Average Price (per gallon) | Change (Last Week) | Comparison to Last Year |
|---|---|---|---|
| California Statewide | $4.59 | +8 cents | -4 cents |
| Los Angeles-Long Beach | $4.61 | +14 cents | Higher |
| Santa Barbara | $4.59 | +9 cents | -9 cents |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Los Angeles Times: SoCal Gas Prices Surge Ahead of Labor Day Weekend
- Audacy: SoCal Gas Prices Increase but Remain Lower Than Last Year
- LiveMint: Gas Prices in Southern California Record an Increase Ahead of Labor Day
- KTLA: Gas Prices Up as Holiday Rush Kicks Off on Southern California Freeways
- Newsweek: California Gas Prices Hike
- Wikipedia: Gasoline
- Google Search: California gas prices
- Google Scholar: gas prices California
- Encyclopedia Britannica: gasoline
- Google News: California gas prices
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.
