Auto Club: Gas Prices Decline For Third Straight Week, Still Higher Than Year Ago

Southern California drivers are seeing some relief at the pump as gas prices have declined for three consecutive weeks, according to the Auto Club's Weekend Gas Watch. Even with the recent drop, gas prices remain higher than they were a year ago amid volatile crude oil markets, ongoing tensions involving Iran, uncertainty surrounding the Strait of Hormuz, and increased summer travel demand.

Today's statewide average price for a gallon of regular gasoline in California is $5.80, down 17 cents from last week and $1.13 higher than the same time last year. The national average is $4.12 per gallon, 12 cents lower than last week and $1.00 higher than a year ago.

California continues to have the highest average gas price in the nation at $5.80 per gallon. Hawaii ranks second at $5.58, followed by Washington at $5.56 per gallon.

In the Los Angeles-Long Beach area, the average price for self-serve regular gasoline is $5.82 per gallon, 17 cents lower than last week and $1.15 higher than a year ago. San Diego drivers are also paying an average of $5.82 per gallon, down 16 cents from last week and up $1.15 from this time last year.

On the Central Coast, the average price is $5.83 per gallon, down 10 cents from last week and up $1.24 from a year ago. In Riverside, drivers are paying an average of $5.67 per gallon, down 17 cents from last week and $1.19 higher than a year ago. In Bakersfield, the average price is $5.92 per gallon, 10 cents lower than last week and $1.28 higher than a year ago.

"Drivers are seeing some welcome relief at the pump as crude oil prices remain below $100 per barrel, helping to push gas prices lower than they were just a week ago," said Auto Club spokesperson Kandace Redd. "While recent declines are encouraging, global events and increased summer travel demand continue to put pressure on the market. As Californians hit the road for summer vacations and weekend getaways, every penny saved can make a difference. Motorists can stretch their fuel dollars even further by comparing gas prices before filling up, keeping their vehicles properly maintained, and avoiding aggressive driving habits that reduce fuel efficiency."

The Weekend Gas Watch monitors the average price of gasoline. As of 9 a.m. on June 11, averages are: