Emeryville, CA…California’s average gasoline price, $3.00 is the 2^nd highest in the nation, with only Hawaii having a higher price of $3.07. Despite lower crude costs nationally, prices in California have slightly increased due to ongoing maintenance of refineries on the West Coast.   Today’s average price of California unleaded regular gas is $3.00, a $.01 increase from a week ago, up $.12 from a month ago and $.41 higher than a year ago. Northern California’s average price for regular gasoline is $2.95, up $0.15 from a month ago. Of the Northern California cities surveyed by AAA as a service to consumers, Marysville posted the lowest price at $2.71 and South Lake Tahoe has the highest average at $3.23.

“Gas prices in California are the highest they’ve been in nearly five years,” said John Moreno, spokesperson for AAA Northern California. “While national gas prices are declining, on the west coast, refinery maintenance and the process of switching to summer-blend gasoline is continuing to have an impact on prices.”

While prices in California continue to climb, the national average price for regular unleaded gasoline has seen declining prices for more than a week, resting at $2.29. Though consumers are still paying $.36 more than they were a year ago. Experts predict that gasprices may continue to drop in the near future due to declining crude oil prices and a well-supplied market, but will begin to creep up again due to seasonal refinery maintenance and the upcoming conversion to summer-blend gasoline.

AAA March, 2017 Gas Price Report

To get the best mileage possible, AAA recommends keeping tires at the proper pressure suggested by the vehicle manufacturer, performing routine maintenance and making sure fluids are clean and belts and hoses are in good repair. The way you drive can also impact fuel economy. Smooth driving to avoid sudden stops and starts, combining trips and lightening your load also help conserve gasoline.

AAA’s Fuel Gauge Report is the most comprehensive retail gasoline survey available, with over 100,000 self-serve stations surveyed every day, nationwide. Data is provided in cooperation with OPIS Energy Group and Wright Express, LLC.

AAA Northern California offers a wide array of automotive, travel, insurance, DMV, financial services and consumer discounts to more than 4 million members. AAA has been a leader and advocate for the safety and security of all travelers since it was founded 117 years ago.