by Los Angeles, California — Southern California drivers heading out for Christmas travel are getting some welcome relief at the gas pump, as fuel prices across much of the region continue to fall to their lowest levels of the year.
According to the Auto Club’s Weekend Gas Watch, average gas prices statewide and in several major metro areas have dropped noticeably, easing some of the financial pressure as millions prepare for holiday road trips.
The average price for self-serve regular gasoline in California now sits at $4.33 per gallon, down eight cents from last week and just two cents higher than this time last year. Analysts say continued declines are being driven by softer demand and stable fuel supply heading into the holiday week.
Southern California Metro Gas Prices Drop
Across Southern California, drivers are seeing steady week-over-week decreases, with some regions posting the lowest averages of 2025.
In the Los Angeles–Long Beach area, the average price of regular gasoline is $4.48 per gallon, which is nine cents lower than last week, though still 11 cents higher than last year.
San Diego County motorists are paying an average of $4.52 per gallon, reflecting an eight-cent weekly decline and sitting seven cents above last year’s price.
On the Central Coast, drivers are benefiting from the lowest average price of the year, at $4.43 per gallon — down nine cents from last week and only four cents higher than last year.
In the Inland Empire, price relief has been even more pronounced. Riverside now reports an average price of $4.23 per gallon, a 12-cent drop in one week, making it two cents cheaper than a year ago and the lowest price seen all year in the area.
Meanwhile, Bakersfield drivers are paying an average of $4.36 per gallon, down seven cents from last week, though still eight cents higher than last year.
Some Stations Dip Below $3.50
Auto Club officials say bargain hunters may be able to find even better deals if they’re willing to shop around.
“A few gas stations in Southern California, mainly in the Inland Empire, now are posting prices below $3.50 a gallon,” said Auto Club spokesperson Doug Shupe. “Drivers can usually find gas stations near them charging 50 to 70 cents per gallon less than the average price for their area.”
Shupe encouraged motorists to compare prices before filling up, noting that mobile apps and real-time price trackers can help identify the cheapest nearby stations as prices continue to fluctuate.
National Gas Prices Also Falling
The price drop isn’t limited to California. Nationwide, the average gas price is $2.89 per gallon, which is five cents lower than last week and 14 cents cheaper than this time last year, according to AAA data.
Read Also: 17 Migrants Found Inside Texas Home in Alleged Human Smuggling Operation
While California drivers still pay significantly more than the national average, the gap has narrowed slightly as holiday travel approaches.
Record Holiday Travel Expected
The timing of the price dip is especially significant, as Southern California is preparing for record-breaking holiday travel.
Auto Club estimates that 10.2 million Southern Californians will travel at least 50 miles from home during the year-end holiday period. Of those travelers, approximately 8.9 million are expected to drive, making fuel costs a major factor for many households.
Traffic congestion is expected to peak in the days leading up to Christmas, particularly on major freeways and routes heading out of urban centers. Officials advise travelers to plan refueling stops in advance and allow extra time on the roads.
What Comes Next for Gas Prices?
While prices are trending downward now, analysts caution that gas markets can shift quickly due to weather, refinery issues, or changes in demand. However, barring unexpected disruptions, drivers are expected to continue seeing relatively stable — and possibly slightly lower — prices through the holiday week.
For many Southern California families, the drop at the pump offers a small but meaningful boost during one of the busiest and most expensive travel periods of the year.
Are you noticing lower gas prices where you live, and will it change your holiday travel plans? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
