GasBuddy analyst warns California drivers of surging gas prices

America’s favorite gas price app has warned prices are going to continue to go up for Californians as the war in Iran rages on.

Patrick De Haan, head of petroleum analysis at GasBuddy, said there will be no relief at the pumps after ceasefire talks between the US and Tehran fell through.

He told drivers to brace for more “volatility” as regions such as the Golden State already suffer under crippling prices.

California’s gas prices have remained stubbornly high — hovering just under $6 per gallon on Tuesday — amid spikes due to the war and the state’s punishing fuel tax.

De Haan said: “Average gasoline prices rose in 39 states over the last week, with the national average moving higher, while diesel prices declined in most states, offering a brief divergence at the pump.

“However, that divergence may prove short-lived. Oil prices have been climbing again as markets react to renewed geopolitical tensions and the cancellation of talks between the U.S. and Iran.

“As a result, gasoline prices are set to rise further this week, with diesel expected to follow. Many inland states—including those in the Great Lakes and Plains—could see average gas prices climb to their highest levels since 2022, while price-cycling markets may also experience another round of hikes in the next few days.”

The national average price of gasoline ticked up by several cents over the past week, with increases reported across most states, according to GasBuddy.

While diesel prices have shown slight declines in some areas, experts say that split may be short-lived as broader market pressures intensify.

California’s average now sits around $5.96 per gallon, a sharp increase from $4.75 this time last year.

During the height of the Russia-Ukraine War, prices peaked at $6.44 per gallon in June 2022, according to the American Automobile Association.

The US average on Tuesday reached its highest level in four years with one gallon costing $4.17.

Global oil markets reacted to escalating geopolitical tensions, particularly stalled negotiations involving the US and Iran.

Analysts say uncertainty surrounding oil flow through key shipping routes has already begun to push crude prices higher — a trend expected to trickle down to consumers.

“Oil prices have moved up in recent days, as flow through the Strait (of Hormuz) stays restricted,” UBS commodities analyst Giovanni Staunovo said.

“As a result of Asian refineries looking for alternative barrels, U.S. crude exports likely hit a new record high last week.”

Across California, prices vary widely depending on location.

Major metro areas like San Jose and the Bay Area are seeing some of the steepest costs, with averages well above $6 per gallon, while inland regions remain slightly lower — though still elevated compared to national norms.

Several factors are fueling the spike.

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

In addition to global instability, California’s seasonal switch to summer-blend gasoline and ongoing refinery constraints are tightening supply.

At the same time, increased US crude exports and shifting international demand are adding further pressure.

Experts say volatility is likely to persist in the weeks ahead, especially as markets respond quickly to any developments overseas.

“Looking ahead, volatility is likely to remain elevated,” GasBuddy said. “With negotiations stalled and restrictions still in place, markets will continue to react quickly to any signs of escalation or renewed diplomatic efforts.”

Top 5 California counties with the highest gas prices

• Mono County — $6.88
• Humboldt County — $6.33
• Marin County — $6.20
• San Francisco County — $6.17
• Sierra County — $6.17

Top 5 California counties with the lowest gas prices

• Yuba County — $5.59
• Sutter County — $5.61
• Tehama County — $5.62
• Imperial County — $5.66
• Tuolumne County — $5.69