LA County Gas Prices Hit 2.5-Year High at Nearly $6.03

The average price of regular self-serve gasoline in Los Angeles County reached $6.005 per gallon on March 31, 2026, marking the first time the average has exceeded $6 since October 8, 2023.

This price surge is driven by global fuel price increases and supply disruptions resulting from the ongoing war with Iran. The spike in costs has impacted both consumers and businesses, contributing to broader cost-of-living strains for households.

Regional and National Price Trends

In Los Angeles County, the average price increased in 40 of the 41 days leading up to March 31, 2026. The average price on that date was 7.2 cents higher than the previous week, $1.311 higher than one month prior, and $1.186 higher than one year ago.

The trend extends across Southern California, with other counties reporting multi-year highs. On March 31, 2026, the average regular gas prices were as follows:

• Orange County: $5.938
• San Bernardino County: $5.891
• Riverside County: $5.864

The statewide average in California was $5.887, an increase from $4.643 one week prior and $4.809 from one year ago. Other California counties that exceeded a $6 average include Mono ($6.675), Humboldt ($6.247), Inyo ($6.076), Marin ($6.069), Sonoma ($6.035), and San Mateo ($6.034).

Nationally, the average price for a gallon of regular gasoline reached $4.02, the first time the U.S. Average has surpassed $4 since 2022.

Market Volatility and Extreme Pricing

While averages hover around $6, some individual retail locations in Los Angeles have seen much higher spikes. A Chevron station in downtown Los Angeles was reported to be charging close to $9 a gallon.

Diesel fuel has also hit record highs, reaching $7.592 in Los Angeles County and $7.455 across California.

Industry experts suggest that prices could climb further if geopolitical tensions persist. Kate Gordon, CEO of California Forward and former senior adviser to the U.S. Secretary of Energy, stated that $10 gas is not out of the question under certain conditions, noting that global oil markets drive these prices.

Geopolitical Drivers and Policy Responses

The current price volatility is linked to the U.S.-Iran conflict and tensions in the Strait of Hormuz. Analysts warn that local prices in Southern California could approach the previous record high of $6.494, set in October 2022, if the Strait of Hormuz remains closed.

The federal government has responded by initiating an emergency oil release. In Sacramento, Republican and Democratic leaders are considering measures to provide relief, including the possibility of suspending the state’s gas tax or increasing local production.

California’s retail prices generally remain higher than national averages due to specific state factors, including environmental and fuel requirements, as well as taxes and fees.