California Gas Prices
Average retail price · Source: AAA · Updated daily
Today's Average
—
per gallon · regular unleaded
California consistently ranks as the most expensive state for gasoline, driven by a 68¢/gallon state tax, unique boutique fuel blend requirements (CARB fuel), and limited pipeline connections that reduce supply flexibility. Refinery outages hit California drivers harder than any other state due to this isolation from national fuel markets.
⛽ Gas Tax: 68¢/gallon
Ranked #1 most expensive nationally
Top Gas Station Chains in California
ChevronARCOShell76Costco
Top California Cities for Gas Prices
California Gas Price FAQ
Why is gas so expensive in California?
California's high gas prices stem from three main factors: the nation's highest state gas tax (68¢/gallon), a requirement for a special 'CARB' fuel blend unavailable elsewhere, and limited pipeline access to other states' refineries. When a California refinery goes down, there's no easy way to import cheaper fuel from Texas or the Gulf Coast.
Which California cities have the cheapest gas?
Inland cities like Bakersfield, Fresno, and Riverside typically have lower prices than coastal metros. Costco stations consistently offer the lowest prices in any California city — often 20-30¢ below the local average.
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Gas Prices by City in California
California Gas Price — Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average gas price in California today?
California gas prices are updated daily from AAA data. Check back for today's average.
Why are gas prices lower in California than the national average?
California's high prices stem from the nation's highest state gas tax (~86¢/gal), a unique reformulated fuel blend required by state law that limits import options, and significant distance from Gulf Coast refineries.
What is California's gas tax?
California's state gas tax is approximately 86¢ per gallon, one of the highest in the United States. This is a combined state excise tax and in some states includes local levies. The federal gas tax adds an additional 18.4¢/gal on top of state taxes.
When is the cheapest time to buy gas in California?
Gas prices in California — like across the US — tend to be lowest on Mondays and Tuesdays, when weekly demand is lowest. Prices typically rise Thursday through Saturday as weekend travel demand increases. Avoiding fill-ups on Fridays and Saturdays can save 3–8¢/gal on average. California prices also tend to be lower in late fall and winter when summer-blend fuel requirements end.
Which cities in California have the cheapest gas?
Gas prices vary by city within California based on local competition, distance from fuel terminals, and population density. Use our city pages to compare prices across California: cities farther from major metro areas and distribution hubs often have slightly higher prices due to transport costs, while high-competition suburban areas near major highways tend to be cheapest.