San Diego residents react as gas prices in California keep rising
SAN DIEGO (NBC, KYMA) - Gas prices are surging across the country as the war with Iran continues.
For the 27th day in a row, gas prices are up in California, and residents are now paying a $1.04 more per gallon than a month ago.
This comes at a time when a lot of people are trying to make plans for spring break and to visit family for Easter, and some drivers are beginning to change their driving habits to save money.
"No long distance and just keep it local," said Vickie Ortega, an Escondido resident.
That's Ortega's newest mantra. NBC affiliate KNSD caught her topping off her tank Tuesday, even though it was three-quarters full. She says it'll save her money in the long run.
"It's terrible. I have six trucks going out today and they all have to be filled with gas and its high. It's difficult," said Randy Schreck, who owns a tree-service.
Schreck says he has no choice but to raise prices to cover the cost to gas up his trucks. He's feeling the pinch on a personal level too as spring and summer approach.
"We have a lot of family in Nebraska but we can't go see them," Schreck expressed.
Some people are even canceling short trips rather than fill the tank.
"It kept me from going to the beach this weekend. I was invited with my great-grandkids and I thought no I'm not going because it's to the beach and it's far," Ortega remarked.
One gas station and one across the street have somehow managed to keep prices hovering just under $5 a gallon, while other stations in Escondido are charging well above that.
The average price of a gallon of regular in San Diego County is now $5.80. It hasn't been that high since October of 2023.
"It sucks extra bad because I'm a vehicular enthusiast. I like to do stuff with my car and I don't like driving my car as much anymore. It's kind of expensive," said Genevieve Foley, a San Diego County resident.
Foley says she loves the great outdoors, but the cost of gas to get there may soon start to slow her down.
"It definitely makes me think twice before I go outside. It's like 'Do I have enough gas to go hiking, to get to the trails and stuff? Kinda stinks, but you know, what are you really going to do about it?" Foley expressed.
