CA gas prices set to surge — and it’s unrelated to Iran

California drivers are facing yet another new reason why gas prices are on the rise this spring — and it has nothing to do with the war with Iran or oil production cuts.

Instead, the culprit is the switch to summer-blend gasoline, which traditionally sends prices climbing in the Golden State ahead of the summer months.

“Gas prices are climbing as refineries undergo maintenance ahead of the switch to summer-blend fuel,” said Marie Dodds, Public Affairs Director for AAA Oregon/Idaho. “The unknown is how geopolitical tensions between the U.S. and Iran will continue to impact crude oil prices. That could mean volatility at the pumps, in addition to the normal seasonal spring increases.”

Refineries in California are already making the transition, with the state being the first in the nation to switch to this more expensive, environmentally-friendly fuel.

The changeover typically leads to higher prices at the pump due to a combination of factors, including refinery maintenance, reduced output, and the higher cost of producing summer-blend fuel, according to the American Automobile Association, In addition, while crude oil prices have been relatively stable, the switch to summer-blend has put additional pressure on West Coast prices.

Summer-blend gasoline is formulated with a lower Reid Vapor Pressure (RVP) to reduce evaporation during hotter temperatures, a key requirement to combat air pollution in California’s warmer months, the press release from AAA says.

While it’s good for the environment, it also makes the gasoline more expensive to produce.

For example, while gas prices on the East Coast are relatively stable for now, California drivers are already feeling the pinch. California has the highest gas prices in the nation, with an average of $4.59 per gallon as of mid-February 2026 — well above the national average of $2.92 per gallon. according to AAA.

The switch to summer-blend gasoline isn’t unique to California, but it does affect the state more immediately.

While other states begin making the switch closer to May 1, California refineries start the process much earlier, with some areas requiring summer-blend fuel as soon as April 1.

California’s strict environmental regulations and its unique market dynamics mean the state’s drivers are the first to feel the pain of the changeover.

The average price of regular gas in California has risen by 38 cents from January to February 2026.

In addition to the seasonal transition, crude oil prices have seen fluctuations, although they’re not as volatile as they were last year. Crude oil prices briefly peaked at $65 per barrel in January 2026, and while they’ve since dipped to $62, they remain higher than the typical winter price ranges of $55 to $60.

The summer-blend fuel switch, compounded by rising tensions from the war in Iran and the strategic importance of the Strait of Hormuz, has already pushed gas prices higher and could lead to even more volatility at the pump.

If you’re in California, brace for higher gas prices in the coming months.

The switch to summer-blend fuel, combined with refinery slowdowns, will likely keep prices elevated throughout the spring and summer. Gas prices, already averaging $4.59 per gallon, could climb further, and with geopolitical tensions potentially impacting crude oil prices, volatility is expected.

Don’t expect relief until the fall, when winter-blend gasoline returns — likely in time for the holidays.

Download The California Post App, follow us on social, and subscribe to our newsletters