CA Gas Prices Are Highest In The Nation

Los Angeles - The average price of a gallon of self-serve regular gasoline in Los Angeles County rose today to its highest amount since Aug. 26, 2008, increasing 1.1 cents to $3.91.

The 33rd increase in 34 days pushed the average price 14.2 cents higher than a week ago, 50.5 cents above what it was one month ago and 84.9 cents greater than it was one year ago, according to figures from the AAA and Oil Price Information Service.

The Orange County average price rose eight-tenths of a cent today to $3.89, the highest since Aug. 25, 2008.

The Orange County average price -- which is 13 cents more than a week ago, 48.7 cents higher than one month ago and 82.9 cents above what it was one year ago -- has increased 32 of the past 34 days, including 1.2 cents on Sunday.

The statewide average of $3.897 is the highest in the nation, 1.5 cents more than Hawaii, which is second. The nationwide average is $3.509.

Gasoline prices in California are typically among the highest in the nation because of taxes and a state law mandating a special blend of fuel to reduce emissions.

Analysts attribute the rising prices to increasing prices for imported crude oil stemming from concerns over the unrest in the Middle East and North Africa interrupting the flow of oil.

Crude oil costs account for two-thirds to three-quarters of the price of a gallon of gasoline, according to Tupper Hull of the Western States Petroleum Association, a trade association representing oil companies in six western states.