Study: California Gas Prices Driven by Policy, Not Profiteering

If you’ve filled your tank in California lately, you’ve felt the sting—gas prices there aren’t just high, they’re consistently the highest in the nation. As of April 14, 2025, the average price of a gallon of regular unleaded in California was $4.67—more than 55% above the national average. In some counties, including Mono and Alpine, prices exceed $5.

80 a gallon. That’s nearly 90% more than what drivers are paying in states like Texas or Mississippi. These aren’t short-term spikes—they’re…