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19h ago

California Gas Prices Push Past $5.35 as U.S. Taps Oil Reserve to Cool Surge

The spike reflects Hormuz shipping trouble alongside a constrained West Coast fuel system.

Regular gas is seen advertised at over five dollars a gallon at San Francisco gas station on March 5. Many drivers say they'll stick with their cars, even if gas hits $10 a gallon.
Aaron Bohlin, of Columbus, finishes pumping gas in his vehicle at the Par Mar convenient store on North Columbus Road on June 23, 2025, in Lancaster, Ohio. According to the USA Today, Iran's parliament approved a measure June 22 endorsing the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a major oil transportation route, following U.S. airstrikes in Iran. Around 20% of the world's oil and gas flow through the narrow channel connecting the Persian Gulf to the Gulf of Oman. Its closure would likely mean rising fuel costs for global consumers, including Americans.
Signs show the gas prices at a gas station, on March 10, 2026, in New York.
A general view of gas stations in South Florida as the price of oil surges higher and shows no signs of halting its rapid climb since the U.S. and Israel launched major attacks on Iran one week ago on March 8, 2026 in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

Overview

  • California’s average price is roughly $5.34–$5.37 per gallon versus a national average near $3.57–$3.60, according to AAA.
  • The White House announced a 172 million‑barrel Strategic Petroleum Reserve release to counter rising crude and pump prices.
  • San Diego County’s average hit $5.359 after a 21‑day run of increases, up about 75 cents in three weeks, AAA and OPIS data show.
  • Gov. Gavin Newsom’s office blamed President Trump’s Iran strikes for the surge, while Republican lawmakers advanced a bill to suspend the state gas tax and certain climate compliance for one year.
  • Nevada Gov. Joe Lombardo warned his state relies on California refineries for roughly 88% of its fuel and urged reconsideration of CARB’s cap‑and‑trade changes that critics say could accelerate refinery exits and raise prices.