California Drivers Are Paying a More Than $6-a-Gallon Price for the War in Iran

Inside Climate News · By Steven Rodas · last updated May 2, 2026 – 2:02 AM

The high cost of gasoline in the Golden State has a variety of causes, but the war is a key reason for the recent surge. It’s forcing residents to cut back other spending.

By Steven Rodas

LOS ANGELES—At a Chevron station where the gas pump had a $6.49 cash price, Veronica Cervantes listed the concessions she’s made to afford the skyrocking price of gasoline over the last two months.

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