California gas prices declined for the third consecutive week and reached an average of $5.65 per gallon of regular fuel on Monday, down from last week’s price of $5.73 per gallon, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration.
Gas prices are jumping around because traders are trying to price in how long the Iran war will disrupt oil flows from the Middle East, on top of the usual spring run‑up in demand as driving season approaches. Markets are baking in higher risk and “additional volatility” but not a long-term shutdown, and prices could retreat if it becomes clear the tensions are short-lived, petroleum analyst Patrick De Haan said.
Analysts say another 20 to 30 cents a gallon is still likely in the weeks ahead.
The average fuel price in California is about the same price as a month earlier. According to the EIA, gas prices across the state in the last year have been as low as $3.98 on Jan. 19, 2026, and as high as $5.77 on April 6, 2026.
A year ago, the average gas price in California was 23% lower at $4.61 per gallon.
>> INTERACTIVE: See how your area’s gas prices have changed over the years at data.usatoday.com.
The average gas price in the United States last week was $4.04, making prices in the state about 39.7% higher than the nation’s average. The average national gas price is lower than last week’s average of $4.12 per gallon.
USA TODAY Co. is publishing localized versions of this story on its news sites across the country, generated with data from the U.S. Energy Information Administration. Please leave any feedback or corrections for this story here. This story was written by Ozge Terzioglu.
This article originally appeared on Mount Shasta Herald: California gas prices declined in April 20, 2026 update. Here’s why
