Overview
- AAA and GasBuddy put the national average around $3.92–$3.96 per gallon, with analysts saying $4 could be reached as soon as this week.
- California’s statewide average is about $5.70, San Diego County hit $5.84, and some Las Vegas stations posted $5.19, reflecting regional taxes, special fuel blends and refinery constraints.
- EIA data show the Gulf Coast regional average rose to $3.41, up 93 cents over the month, underscoring broad but uneven increases across the country.
- Economists warn the jump acts like an “energy tax,” with Fed Chair Jerome Powell noting higher energy costs will lift inflation even as the growth impact remains uncertain.
- Diesel climbed to a national average of $5.23, businesses and drivers report cutbacks, and rising pump prices are renewing interest in EVs as total ownership costs approach a crossover near $4 gasoline.