Fresno-area gas prices remain high despite recent dip, drivers say relief can't come soon enough

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- As Vice President J.D. Vance touts a "good foundation" to end the war in Iran, Fresno drivers are still feeling the pain at the pump.

"Normally when I fill my gas a full tank is $70. Now, it's $90," Nikki said.

Nikki said relief can't come soon enough, "Now! ... Go down now!"

Gas prices are down 15 cents this week, but local drivers are paying nearly a dollar more today than this time last year.

AAA reports the average price is $5.51 a gallon in Fresno County, $5.54 in Tulare County, and $5.72 a gallon in Merced County.

"For now, it looks like gas prices may continue to drop across California," GasBuddy's Patrick De Haan said.

De Haan said the fluctuation is directly tied to the Strait of Hormuz, where much of the world's oil transits. After being closed briefly over the weekend, it has now reopened.

"What happens today will have an impact in just a few days. So it's very quick, whether it's an increase or a decrease," De Haan said.

As the back-and-forth over Iran played out on the world stage in Switzerland, there are effects at home.

"Everything, not just the gas prices, everything. I have two sons. Household items that I have to buy, like food..." Nikki said.

The Institute on Taxation and Economic Policy estimates the average driver has spent an extra $400 on gas alone.

With a final agreement on Iran not yet signed, elevated gas prices could last for months.

"The gap could start narrowing though in the months ahead if the Strait reopens, but that gap still may persist until global inventories recover, and that could take until early 2027," De Haan said.

Nikki said she pays even more for gas because her car takes premium and has considered selling it.

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