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Gas Prices in Los Angeles See Minor Drops

Gas station sign displaying fluctuating fuel prices in Los Angeles

News Summary

Gas prices in Los Angeles have seen a slight decrease, with the average price for a gallon of regular gasoline now at $4.465. This represents a minor drop compared to previous weeks and a significant reduction from last year’s prices. Orange County is also experiencing similar trends. While the national average gas price has dropped for five consecutive weeks, experts warn that upcoming tax hikes and tighter regulations may impact prices in the near future. Staying aware and planning ahead could help manage gas budgets effectively.

Gas Prices in Los Angeles See Minor Drops, But Bigger Changes on the Horizon

Hey there, Los Angeles! If you’ve been keeping an eye on the gas prices around town lately, you might have noticed that they’ve been taking a tiny dip. As of Tuesday, the average price of a gallon of self-serve regular gasoline in Los Angeles County is $4.465. Yes, you heard that right – it’s down by just half a cent! While it may seem like a drop in the bucket, it’s worth noting that this price is 1.9 cents less than last week, 12.3 cents less than what we were paying a month ago, and a whopping 17.2 cents less than this time last year. That’s a breath of fresh air for all of us who drive around this bustling city!

Orange County’s Gas Prices Join the Trend

While we’re on the topic, let’s swing by Orange County where the average gas price has also seen a slight decrease. The latest figures show it at $4.405, marking a decline of 1.1 cents – the lowest price we’ve seen in this area since January 15. Just like in Los Angeles, the price is down 2.3 cents from last week, 10.4 cents from a month ago, and 16.6 cents compared to this time last year. Both counties have seen a significant drop since peaking in October of 2022, with Orange County prices dropping by $2.053 since hitting $6.458.

National Trends Also Show Declines

Looking at the bigger picture, the national average price of gasoline also experienced a slight decrease of 0.7 cents, now sitting at $3.136. This marks the fifth consecutive drop, which is good news for many American drivers. Compared to last year, gas prices nationally are down by 36.8 cents. Overall, national prices dropped by $1.88 from a record of $5.016, which was reached in June 2022.

Will Lower Prices Last?

But before we start cheering too loudly, there’s some news that has our eyebrows raised. Although summer is winding down, and demand for gasoline is expected to decline, experts warn that upcoming tax hikes and stricter regulations might spell trouble for our wallets. Starting July 1, California’s gas excise tax will go up, from 59.6 cents to 61.2 cents per gallon. Diesel tax will also see a hike, jumping from 45.4 to 46.6 cents.

Moreover, the state is aiming to cut fuel use by an ambitious 94% by 2045. With revisions to the Low Carbon Fuel Standard, California is pushing for cleaner fuel options, but this could potentially drive gas prices sky-high—estimates suggest an increase of anywhere from 5 to 85 cents above current prices in the coming years.

Supply Challenges Ahead

Adding to the chaos, two major oil refineries in the state have closed recently, leading many to worry about the supply of gasoline and what that means for prices. Local services and apps can help guide drivers to the best prices, just in case things start to get crazy again.

What’s Next?

While Governor Newsom’s office has disputed outlandish predictions of gas prices potentially hitting $8 per gallon by 2026, the uncertainty is palpable. As it stands, California’s gas price is hovering around $4.85 per gallon, which is already 18 cents lower than a year ago.

So, keep your fingers crossed that the recent dips continue for a bit longer, but brace yourself for a potential ride as we approach the tax hikes and prepare for a new season. With some careful planning and price hunting, it might be possible to keep the gas budget in check for now. Happy driving, Los Angeles!

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

California Gas Prices Set to Climb Amid New Tax and Environmental Changes
California Gas Prices on the Rise: What You Need to Know
California Gas Prices Set for a Bumpy Ride
Irvine Man Arrested for Racially Charged Road Rage Incident
Gas Prices in Los Angeles on the Move: What You Need to Know
Gas Prices Plummet in Los Angeles and Orange Counties
Los Angeles Gas Prices See a Drop
California Gas Prices Set to Rise Due to New Regulations
Gas Prices in California: Rising Costs on the Horizon!
California Gas Prices Set to Rise with New Tax and Standards

Additional Resources

STAFF HERE HUNTINGTON BEACH
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.

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