San Diego Gas Prices Spike Amid Iran Conflict

Refinery switchover and tensions in the Middle East drive up costs at the pump.

Published on Mar. 4, 2026

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Gasoline prices in San Diego and across Southern California have been steadily increasing in recent weeks as California refineries make their annual switch to the state's more expensive summer-blended gas. But the ongoing conflict in Iran has added further upward pressure on fuel costs in the region.

Why it matters

The rise in gas prices in San Diego and Southern California is impacting consumers and businesses, as higher fuel costs ripple through the local economy. The situation highlights the vulnerability of California's gasoline supply to global geopolitical events and refinery maintenance schedules.

The details

The annual switch to summer-blend gasoline, which is more expensive to produce, typically leads to a seasonal price increase each spring. However, tensions in the Middle East, particularly the conflict in Iran, have exacerbated the price hikes this year. Disruptions to global oil supply and refining capacity due to the war have added further upward pressure on wholesale and retail gasoline prices across the region.

  • California refineries began the annual switchover to summer-blend gasoline in late February 2026.
  • Tensions between the U.S. and Iran have escalated since the start of 2026, leading to supply disruptions and price volatility in global oil markets.

The players

California refineries

Oil refineries located in California that produce the state's specialized summer-blend gasoline, which is more expensive to manufacture than the winter blend.

Iran

A major oil-producing country in the Middle East whose ongoing conflict with the U.S. and its allies has disrupted global oil supply and contributed to rising fuel prices in California.

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What’s next

Analysts expect the higher gasoline prices in San Diego and Southern California to persist through the summer driving season, barring any significant changes in the geopolitical situation or refinery operations.

The takeaway

The combination of seasonal refinery maintenance and the impact of the Iran conflict on global oil markets has led to a sharp increase in gasoline prices for San Diego consumers, underscoring the region's vulnerability to external energy market forces.