California Gas Prices Reach New High

Residents struggle with soaring fuel costs as state grapples with supply issues.

Published on Feb. 19, 2026

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California gas prices have hit a new record high, with the average price for a gallon of regular gasoline reaching $7.50 across the state. The steep increase is driven by a combination of factors, including refinery outages, pipeline disruptions, and global market volatility.

Why it matters

The high gas prices are putting a significant financial strain on California residents, many of whom rely on their vehicles for work and daily transportation. The situation is particularly challenging for low-income families and those living in rural or suburban areas with limited public transit options.

The details

Several major refineries in California have been offline for maintenance or upgrades in recent months, reducing the state's overall fuel production capacity. Additionally, a key pipeline that transports gasoline from Los Angeles to the San Francisco Bay Area has experienced disruptions, further limiting supply. These supply chain issues, coupled with global factors like the ongoing war in Ukraine, have led to the record-breaking prices.

  • California gas prices reached a new all-time high of $7.50 per gallon on February 15, 2026.
  • Refinery outages and pipeline disruptions have been ongoing issues in California since the start of 2026.

The players

California Energy Commission

The state agency responsible for monitoring and regulating the energy industry in California.

Automobile Club of Southern California

A nonprofit organization that provides roadside assistance, travel planning, and advocacy for drivers in Southern California.

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What they’re saying

“We're seeing the perfect storm of factors driving these record-high gas prices, and unfortunately, there's no quick fix in sight.”

— Kathryn Phillips, Director of Fuels and Transportation, California Energy Commission (Los Angeles Times)

“These prices are simply unsustainable for many families. We're urging the state to take immediate action to provide relief and support for those hit hardest by these skyrocketing costs.”

— Doug Shupe, Spokesperson, Automobile Club of Southern California (Sacramento Bee)

What’s next

The California Energy Commission has scheduled a public hearing for March 1, 2026, to discuss potential short-term and long-term solutions to the state's gas price crisis.

The takeaway

The record-high gas prices in California are causing significant financial hardship for residents, highlighting the need for the state to explore both immediate relief measures and long-term strategies to improve the resilience of its energy infrastructure and reduce reliance on fossil fuels.