GAS: California Drivers Faced Higher Prices, Often 34% Higher Thank National Average in August

While July was kinder to drivers across the nation and in high cost states like California and Hawaii, August brought higher prices with the national average for a gallon of gas jumping 13 cents and in California by 16 cents according the AAA Gas Price Survey.

While 2026 has been difficult on energy prices, July had offered what turned out to be a short lived drop in prices especially in high cost states like California and Hawaii. Amazingly, given its resources, fuel transport capacity, ports, and even established refining capacity despite recent closures, California drivers still face the highest prices in the nation.

Energy costs hit the price of every transaction in the economy and we at the Association of Western Employers track the price of energy very closely for our members and readers like you.