Truth matters. Community matters. Your support makes both possible. LAist is one of the few places where news remains independent and free from political and corporate influence. Stand up for truth and for LAist. Make your tax-deductible donation now.
This is an archival story that predates current editorial management.
This archival content was written, edited, and published prior to LAist's acquisition by its current owner, Southern California Public Radio ("SCPR"). Content, such as language choice and subject matter, in archival articles therefore may not align with SCPR's current editorial standards. To learn more about those standards and why we make this distinction, please click here.
Map of the Day: Gas Prices Around the Country
The USA National Gas Temperature Map by LosAngelesGasPrices.com
Oh my, look at California. The darkest state of them all... on this map, at least. In fact, California currently has the second most expensive gas in the country next to Alaska, whose current average price of a regular is $4.572. The Golden State sits 6-cents below at 4.510 (and Los Angeles is around $4.50).
Why does California have some of the highest prices? In a nutshell, high taxes. Then on top of that, add stringent pollution requirements. "It costs more to refine the gasoline -- it's a more costly driving blend," explained Jason Towes, co-founder of LosAngelesGasPrices.com.