Motorists in the Los Angeles area are facing sharply increased gasoline prices, with the average cost of regular fuel in the LA-Long Beach region reaching $5.707 per gallon as of Friday. This represents a nearly 28% surge compared to the $4.471 average recorded one year ago, according to AAA data.
The substantial price hike means filling a 15-gallon tank now costs more than $18 extra compared to the previous year. Across California, the statewide average has also seen a significant increase, standing at $5.651 per gallon on July 31, up from $4.482 at the same time last year, AAA data indicates.
Despite the widespread price increases, a review of gas prices in Los Angeles has identified a limited number of stations offering fuel below the regional average. These locations provide a slight reprieve for drivers, though the term "cheap" is relative given the overall cost.
One of the lowest-priced options found was a 76 station located at Pico Boulevard and Barrington Avenue in West Los Angeles, where regular gas was listed at $5.16 per gallon as of Thursday. This price is approximately 55 cents below the LA average, potentially saving drivers about $8 on a 15-gallon fill-up.
Other stations offering prices below the regional average include La Brea Gas at Slauson and La Brea avenues in Windsor Hills, charging $5.22 per gallon. In downtown Los Angeles, a 76 station near Olympic Boulevard and Alameda Street was selling regular gas at $5.40 per gallon, about 31 cents below the average.
In the San Fernando Valley, an ARCO at Vanowen and Vineland Avenue in North Hollywood was offering regular for $5.50 per gallon. Another ARCO, situated at Figueroa Street and Avenue 45 in Highland Park, was listed at $5.54 per gallon. Even this price was about 17 cents lower than the regional average.
Gas price information listed online can be subject to change and may not reflect the exact price at the pump upon arrival at the station.