by Katy Grimes, E&E Legal Senior Media Fellow and California Globe Editor
As Appearing in the California Globe
California’s gas is $1.58 higher per gallon than every other state
As of 2025, California’s total gas taxes and fees amount to approximately $1.15 per gallon, which includes state excise taxes, local sales taxes, and various fees. The state excise tax alone is currently around 59.6 cents per gallon, with additional costs from environmental programs and other fees contributing to the total.
AAA has today’s national average gas price at $3.05 per gallon. California’s is $1.58 higher per gallon at $4.62 per gallon on average for mid-grade gas. If you use premium gas or diesel that will cost you $5.04 and $5.12 per gallon, respectively.
And this is why: California’s total gas taxes and fees amount to approximately $1.15 per gallon on top of the gas price per gallon… so says the California Energy Commission.
