There’s no such thing as cheap gas in California right now, as prices have soared amid the Iran war.
But Stocktonians can take heart. Gasoline is cheaper in Stockton than most other cities in the state.
How cheap? On Wednesday, regular gas averaged $5.60 a gallon in Stockton, compared to the statewide average of $5.83, according to price tracker GasBuddy, a fuel price-tracking service. Compared to San Francisco at $5.97 a gallon or Los Angeles at $5.92, that might seem like a bargain.
But it’s a bargain that defies simple explanations.
Patrick De Haan, head of petroleum analysis for GasBuddy, said the differences are linked to factors such as the level of competition, location and the cost of doing business.
“Sounds simple, but (it’s) quite complex,” he said.
The year started off promising enough for gas. On Jan. 2, regular gas in Stockton was listed at $4.28 a gallon. But that was before the U.S. and Israel attacked Iran. Then Iran retaliated by closing the Strait of Hormuz. Gas prices have been climbing since.
Generally, cheaper gas in California can be found in the Central Valley, said Doug Johnson, the Sacramento-based spokesperson for the AAA Mountain West Group. On Wednesday, Modesto’s gas prices were 3 cents cheaper than Stockton’s, using AAA data. Fresno was about 7 cents higher.
Earlier this month, AAA reported that the national average for a gallon of regular gas topped $4, the first time in four years. The price was over $1 higher than a month ago.
But California’s pain at the pump, as we all know, runs even deeper — thanks to the state’s distinct gasoline blends. The Golden State reformulates fuel to cut vehicle emissions. And gas taxes here are among the highest in the nation, which drives up prices further.
That leaves motorists trying to find ways to squeeze more out of every gallon.
To stretch your gas mileage, Johnson said drivers should not speed, and should check their tire pressure regularly; avoid driving during rush hour, if possible; and avoid idling when stuck in traffic.
He also urged people to clean out their cars. Added weight from all that clutter makes engines work harder and burns more gas.
As for records, GasBuddy listed the highest price ever in Stockton as $6.42 on June 14, 2022 (so see, it’s not really that bad right now). The lowest was $1.73 on Dec. 15, 2008.
Those who are willing to do a little hunting can find gas that’s even cheaper than the average price per gallon in greater Stockton.
The Maverik station in Lathrop had the cheapest regular gas Wednesday, at $4.98 a gallon. Costco and several other service stations listed gas at $4.99 a gallon.
At J&L Market in French Camp, clerk Vanessa Cortez said it’s always been the store’s policy to offer inexpensive fuel, a tactic that began with the previous owners.
“We like to have the gas cheap so people will come and buy groceries,” she said.
Sometimes the lines of motorists waiting to fill up can grow. But customers apparently don’t mind the wait, especially since there are fringe benefits of gassing up at the J&L.
“We have the best tamales in town,” Cortez said.