Gas Prices Surge Nearly 30 Cents Overnight in San Diego

Prices reach highest level since November 2023 as conflict with Iran and seasonal factors drive up costs

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

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The average price of a gallon of self-serve regular gasoline in San Diego County rose 8.7 cents overnight to $4.894, the highest level since November 2023. Prices have increased for 15 consecutive days, rising a total of 28.7 cents, including a 7-cent jump on Wednesday. Experts cite a recent surge in crude oil prices due to conflict with Iran, as well as the seasonal switch to more expensive summer-blend fuel and increased spring break travel demand.

Why it matters

Rising gas prices have a significant impact on consumers' budgets and the overall economy. Spikes in fuel costs can lead to higher inflation, reduced consumer spending in other areas, and increased transportation costs for businesses. The San Diego region, with its heavy reliance on personal vehicles, is particularly sensitive to fluctuations in gas prices.

The details

The average price of a gallon of self-serve regular gasoline in San Diego County rose 8.7 cents on Thursday to $4.894, the highest level since November 13, 2023. Prices have increased for 15 consecutive days, rising a total of 28.7 cents, including a 7-cent jump on Wednesday. Experts attribute the surge to a recent increase in crude oil prices following strikes on Iran by the U.S. and Israel, as well as the seasonal switch to more expensive summer-blend fuel and increased spring break travel demand.

  • On Thursday, the average price of a gallon of self-serve regular gasoline in San Diego County recorded its largest increase since September 28, 2023.
  • Prices have increased for 15 consecutive days, rising a total of 28.7 cents, including 7 cents on Wednesday.

The players

Kandace Redd

The Automobile Club of Southern California's senior public affairs specialist.

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What they’re saying

“Gas prices are rising primarily due to a recent surge in crude oil following strikes on Iran by the U.S. and Israel. Any conflict with Iran can send oil prices higher, as Iran is a major oil producer and about a fifth of the oil consumed globally travels through the Strait of Hormuz between Iran and Oman.”

— Kandace Redd, Senior Public Affairs Specialist (City News Service)

What’s next

Analysts will be closely monitoring the situation in the Middle East and the transition to summer-blend fuel to see if gas prices in San Diego and across the country continue to rise in the coming weeks.

The takeaway

The sharp increase in San Diego gas prices highlights the vulnerability of consumers to global geopolitical tensions and seasonal supply changes. As drivers prepare for the busy spring and summer travel seasons, they may need to adjust their budgets to account for potentially higher fuel costs in the months ahead.