Gas Prices Soar Nationwide, Californians Pay Over $5 Per Gallon

Conflict in the Middle East and refinery shutdowns drive up costs at the pump

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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Gas prices have continued to rise across the United States, with the average price in California reaching $5.20 per gallon, well above the national average of $3.47. Prices in the Sacramento region have spiked as high as $5.69 per gallon, leading some residents to consider switching to electric vehicles.

Why it matters

The sharp increase in gas prices is having a significant impact on consumers, with many Sacramento-area residents feeling the financial strain. The rise in oil prices and refinery shutdowns are contributing to the price hike, which could have ripple effects across the broader economy.

The details

According to AAA, the average price for a gallon of unleaded gas in California is $5.20, with the national average at $3.47. The current local average in the Sacramento region is $5.16, a 0.51-cent increase within a week and a 0.68-cent increase within a month. Drivers in the area are paying as high as $5.69 for a gallon of unleaded gas, while some stations are offering prices as low as $4.25. The increase in prices is attributed to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, which has driven up the price of oil, as well as the seasonal switch to more expensive summer-blend gasoline. The shutdown of the Valero refinery in Benicia by the end of March is also expected to contribute to the rise in gasoline prices.

  • On Monday, gas prices in California exceeded $5 per gallon.
  • Over the weekend, the price of oil hit $100 per barrel.

The players

AAA

A non-profit organization that provides automotive and travel services, including monitoring and reporting on gas prices nationwide.

Jose Perez

A Sacramento resident who is feeling the impact of the gasoline price jump, spending $233 to fill up both of his cars.

Valero

An oil and gas company that operates a refinery in Benicia, California, which is scheduled to shut down by the end of March.

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What they’re saying

“For both cars, I put $233. Before I was content with $4, but now $6-$6.07? Yeah, it's ridiculous. Too high of a price.”

— Jose Perez (fox40.com)

“We're like, Let's go electric. Let's look for something. So that's what we're going to start looking for, is electric, if gas prices continue to stay this high.”

— Jose Perez (fox40.com)

What’s next

The shutdown of the Valero refinery in Benicia by the end of March could further contribute to the rise in gasoline prices in the region.

The takeaway

The sharp increase in gas prices is putting a significant financial strain on consumers, with many Sacramento residents considering switching to electric vehicles to offset the high costs. The ongoing conflict in the Middle East, refinery shutdowns, and the seasonal switch to summer-blend gasoline are all factors driving up prices at the pump.