News Summary
Los Angeles gas prices have dipped as the Labor Day weekend approaches, with average prices around $4.64 per gallon. Although this marks the lowest prices for Labor Day since 2021, prices have been gradually climbing in recent weeks. Travelers may still feel the pinch as gas prices continue to rise compared to last year’s figures. Nationally, gas prices have also shown a slight increase, but California still holds the title for the highest prices in the nation. Planning ahead can help mitigate costs for holiday travel.
Los Angeles Gas Prices Dip Just Before Labor Day
As we roll into Labor Day weekend, it’s a bit of a *mixed bag* for those of us driving in sunny Southern California. In Los Angeles County, the average price of a gallon of self-serve regular gasoline is resting at $4.64. Over in neighboring Orange County, it’s slightly lower at $4.607. And guess what? This marks the lowest prices we’ve seen for Labor Day since 2021, a little bit of good news before we hit the holiday roads!
Recent Trends in Fuel Prices
But before you fill up your tank and hit the highway, hold on—prices have been climbing. Over the last two weeks, the price of gasoline in Los Angeles has ticked up for 12 out of the past 13 days, adding up to a total jump of 16.4 cents. On Labor Day itself, the prices went up by 0.9 cents. Compared to just a week ago, the price has climbed by 6.1 cents, and if we take a look back one month, it’s a staggering 16.7 cents higher. Even compared to this time last year, gas is up by 4.2 cents!
Orange County is feeling the pinch too, with gas prices climbing for 12 consecutive days, increasing by 16.5 cents in total. The area’s average price now sits at $4.607, which is 5.5 cents higher than last week, 18.9 cents higher than a month ago, and a noticeable 8.4 cents higher than a year back. Ouch! Nonetheless, there is a silver lining—prices in both counties have dropped significantly from the record highs of last year.
Nationally, Gas Prices Are on the Move
two-tenths of a cent to $3.19. Looking back, it’s still lower than last year’s figures by 14.2 cents. It’s interesting to note that the national average has decreased by some $1.826 since it hit a record high of $5.016 back in June 2022. California, however, remains the heavyweight champion of high gas prices—boasting the highest averages in the nation.
Travel Plans Despite Higher Prices
Heads up travelers! Even with these frustrating gas prices, Los Angeles is not topping the list of travel hotspots for this holiday weekend. Instead, folks seem to be flocking to places like Seattle, Orlando, and New York. So if you were planning on a spontaneous trip down the Pacific Coast Highway or a jaunt to Disneyland, keep in mind that your gas budget might be feeling a little tighter this year.
Putting It All into Perspective
Despite the increase in fuel costs, it’s worth noting that prices are still lower than those skyrocketing records we saw last year, with California experiencing a drop of nearly $2 from its peak. And while the rising costs can frustrate anyone planning to hit the road, a little planning can go a long way. Fuel up wisely and perhaps think about sharing the ride to make travel a little lighter on the wallet.
As we gear up to cherish the Labor Day long weekend, let’s hope the rising tide of gas prices evens out soon. In the meantime, have a wonderful holiday weekend, stay safe, and enjoy some sunshine!
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Additional Resources
- Los Angeles Times: SoCal Gas Prices Surge Ahead of Labor Day Weekend
- Wikipedia: Fuel Prices in the United States
- My News LA: Average Southland Gas Prices at Lowest Labor Day Amounts Since 2021
- Google Search: Gas Prices California
- Live Mint: Gas Prices in Southern California Record an Increase Ahead of Labor Day
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Gasoline
- KTLA: Gas Prices Up as Holiday Rush Kicks Off on Southern California Freeways
- Google News: California Gas Prices
- ABC7 News: California Gas Prices Could Top $8 a Gallon
- Politico: Your Guide to Newsom’s Gas Price Gambits
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.
