Overview
- California’s average price reached $4.31 per gallon on Feb. 9, rising for a second straight week and about 34 cents over the month, according to EIA data.
- The national average stands at $2.90 per gallon, below $3 for 11 consecutive weeks and near its cheapest level since spring 2021.
- EIA reports state gasoline taxes now average 33.5 cents per gallon, led by California at 70.9 cents, with 19 states raising and 7 lowering rates since early 2025.
- Analysts say the refinery transition to California’s costlier summer blend is lifting prices now, and GasBuddy projects a potential additional 10–20 cent increase near term.
- AAA data show wide disparities, with Oklahoma, Arkansas, Kansas, and Mississippi in the mid-$2 range while California, Hawaii, and Washington exceed $4 per gallon.