CA gas prices are set to rise – and it has nothing to do with Iran

California drivers are facing yet another new reason why gasoline prices are rising this spring – and it has nothing to do with the US-Israeli airstrikes in Iran or the reduction in oil production.

Instead, the race is to switch to summer blend fuel, which tends to send prices up in the Golden State ahead of the warmer months.

“Gas prices are rising as refineries prepare to switch to blended fuel in the summer,” said Marie Dodds, director of public affairs for AAA Oregon/Idaho. “What is unknown is how political tensions between the US and Iran will continue to affect crude oil prices. That could mean volatility at the pumps, in addition to the usual spring spike.”

Refineries in California are already making the transition, as the state became the first in the country to switch to this cost-effective, environmentally friendly fuel.

The switch often leads to higher prices at the pump due to a combination of factors, including refinery renovations, reduced emissions, and higher production costs for summer blending fuel, according to the American Automobile Association. In addition, although crude oil prices are relatively stable, the switch to summer blending has put additional pressure on West Coast prices.

Summer blend fuel is formulated with a low Reid Vapor Pressure (RVP) to reduce evaporation during hot temperatures, an important need to combat air pollution in California’s warmer months, said a press release from AAA.

Although it is good for the environment, it also makes fuel more expensive to produce.

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

The switch to fossil fuels isn’t unique to California, but it’s affecting the state quickly.

While other states begin making the switch closer to May 1, California refiners begin the process much earlier, and some areas require summer-mix fuel as soon as April 1.

California’s strict environmental laws and its unique market power mean that the state’s drivers are the first to feel the pain of change.

The average price of regular gasoline in California increased by 38 cents from January to February 2026.

In addition to seasonal changes, crude oil prices have seen volatility, although not as strong as last year. Crude oil prices rose briefly to $65 a barrel in January 2026, and although they have fallen to $62, they remain above the normal winter price range of $55 to $60.

The fuel shift that includes summer, combined with increased tensions from the Iran war and the strategic importance of the Strait of Hormuz, has already increased fuel prices and could lead to more volatility at the pump.

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

The shift to summer-mix fuel, combined with the decline in refinery runs, will likely keep prices up through the spring and summer. Gasoline prices, already around $4.59 per liter, could rise further, and with political tensions likely to affect crude oil prices, volatility is expected.

Don’t expect relief until the fall, when the fuel for the winter mix returns — probably just in time for the holidays.

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