California Gas Prices Surge Ahead of Labor Day Weekend

California, September 2, 2025

News Summary

California is experiencing a significant rise in gas prices as travelers prepare for the Labor Day weekend. Prices have increased by 10 cents or more across Southern California, with the statewide average now at $4.59 per gallon. Although still slightly lower than last year, this marks the second notable hike this year, impacted by unplanned refinery maintenance. The Los Angeles-Long Beach area averages $4.61, with Santa Barbara close behind. Experts note this increase could affect travel decisions as families budget for higher fuel costs during the holiday.

California is witnessing a surge in gas prices as travelers prepare for the Labor Day weekend. In the days leading up to the holiday, prices have jumped by 10 cents or more in most areas of Southern California, marking the second significant increase this year. The ongoing rise in pump prices means that some regions are now facing costs higher than they experienced on the same date last year.

As of Friday, the statewide average cost of gasoline reached $4.59 per gallon, an increase of nearly 8 cents from the previous week and a 12-cent increase from a month ago. Although the current prices are about 4 cents per gallon lower than the same time last year, the notable increase this week is drawing attention from travelers and residents alike. In the Los Angeles-Long Beach area, the average gas price hit $4.61, a rise of approximately 14 cents from just one month ago and slightly more than last year’s figures.

The Central Coast region, particularly Santa Barbara, also saw a price hike, with averages reaching $4.59—a jump of 9 cents over the past week but still 9 cents below last year’s average. California continues to hold the record for the highest average gas prices in the U.S., with Hawaii and Washington state following closely.

The recent price increases can largely be attributed to unplanned maintenance at refineries, which led to a spike in wholesale prices. This scenario typically affects retail prices, creating a ripple effect across the state just before holiday travel peaks.

Despite the surge in gas prices, experts suggest that Los Angeles may not be among the top travel destinations for the holiday weekend. Many domestic travelers seem to be opting for cities like Seattle, Orlando, and New York, while others are choosing to take road trips to nearby beaches and national parks instead.

On a national level, gas prices are projected to average $3.15 per gallon for this upcoming Labor Day weekend, marking the lowest price for the holiday since 2020 and a 1-cent decrease from 2021. This context adds a layer of complexity for California travelers, who are facing significantly higher prices than most of the rest of the country.

As families and friends make plans, the increase in fuel costs could impact decisions regarding travel distances, with many likely reconsidering their destinations as they budget for higher gas prices this Labor Day.

Key Gas Price Data

• Statewide average cost per gallon: $4.59
• Los Angeles-Long Beach area average: $4.61
• Santa Barbara area average: $4.59
• Average increase over the last week: 10 cents
• Statewide average increase from last week: 8 cents
• Nationwide average projected for Labor Day: $3.15

Background Context

The price fluctuations observed in Southern California’s gasoline market have been influenced by complex factors including supply chain logistics, seasonal demand for fuel, and recent refinery complications. These dynamics are particularly notable during holiday travel periods when families traditionally embark on vacations, potentially guiding them away from California’s pricier fuel landscape towards more affordable options elsewhere.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

• Los Angeles Times: SoCal Gas Prices Surge Ahead of Labor Day Weekend
• Wikipedia: Gasoline
• Audacy: SoCal Gas Prices Increase But Remain Lower Than Last Year
• Google Search: Gas Prices California
• KTLA: Gas Prices Up as Holiday Rush Kicks Off on Southern California Freeways
• Google Scholar: California Gas Prices
• ABC7: California Gas Prices Could Top $8 a Gallon by 2026
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Gasoline
• Natural Gas Intel: Summer’s Over and Natural Gas Spot Prices Are Toast
• Google News: California Gas Prices Increase

Author: STAFF HERE BEVERLY HILLS WRITER

The Beverly Hills Staff Writer represents the experienced team at HEREBeverlyHills.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Rodeo Drive Concours d'Elegance, the Beverly Hills artSHOW, Concerts on Canon, and holiday celebrations throughout the city. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Beverly Hills Chamber of Commerce and Visit Beverly Hills, plus leading businesses in luxury fashion, hospitality, and entertainment that drive the local economy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERELosAngeles.com, HERESantaAna.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, and HERECostaMesa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.