Southern Californians are once again watching gas prices climb, with the average price of self-serve regular gasoline in Los Angeles County rising for the 26th consecutive day on Sunday. The average price increased by 1.7 cents to $6.038, marking its highest point since June 2. This continuous climb adds to a significant increase over the past few weeks, according to figures compiled by the AAA and Oil Price Information Service.
Over the past 26 days, Los Angeles County has seen average prices jump by 39.6 cents, including a 4.8-cent increase on Saturday alone. Drivers are now paying 14.1 cents more than just a week ago, and 38.4 cents more than one month prior. Compared to a year ago, the current average is $1.331 higher. Since February 28, which the data notes as the start of a "joint U.S./Israel war on Iran" that elevated oil prices and accelerated pump increases, the average price in Los Angeles County has risen by $1.344.
Orange County drivers are experiencing a similar trend, with average gas prices also increasing for the 26th straight day. On Sunday, the average rose by 1 cent to $6.008, its highest level since May 29. Over the 26-day period, Orange County’s average price has increased by 43.3 cents, with a 4.4-cent jump on Saturday. Prices are 13.4 cents higher than a week ago, 41.3 cents more than a month ago, and $1.316 more than a year ago. The average price has increased by $1.372 since the start of the conflict in Iran.
Doug Shupe, the media and public relations manager for the Automobile Club of Southern California, stated on Thursday that the primary driver for these rising prices is the global oil market. Shupe explained that "oil prices are now near or over $100 a barrel due to continued supply concerns related to the Middle East conflict, and that has pushed up pump prices locally and nationally."
This local trend contrasts with typical seasonal patterns, as the national average price of gasoline also continues its upward trajectory. The national average rose for the 13th time in 14 days, increasing by three-tenths of a cent to $4.313. This national figure is 16.6 cents more than one week ago, 24.2 cents more than one month ago, and $1.134 more than one year ago, with a total increase of $1.331 since the attack on Iran.
According to the AAA, this national increase is occurring during a season when gas prices typically decline due to reduced gasoline demand. Patrick De Haan, head of petroleum analysis at GasBuddy, which tracks real-time gas prices, noted that the national average price is currently at its highest point for this late in the calendar year. This unusual late-year surge in prices further underscores the impact of global supply concerns on everyday costs for Southern California residents.
