Fresno gas prices just 25 cents shy of all-time high, GasBuddy reports

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- With no end in sight to surging gas prices, drivers in Fresno say the strain is hitting their wallets and forcing difficult choices.

"It's really cutting in where people have to decide, do I put gas in my car, do I buy food for my family, do I pay for my electric bill, do I take care of my kids," said Caprice Irvin, a Fresno resident.

Others echoed the frustration at the pump.

"I loathe going to the gas station every time, even if I'm not in a U-Haul, even if I'm a standard daily driver, it's a lot," said Garrett, another Fresno resident.

As prices remain high, some drivers are looking for ways to save. Options include signing up for fuel loyalty programs, which can offer small discounts per gallon. Drivers are also being encouraged to keep vehicles in good condition to improve fuel efficiency.

Proper tire pressure can make a noticeable difference. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, drivers can save as much as 11 cents per gallon by keeping tires properly inflated. Reducing extra weight in vehicles and avoiding habits such as speeding or hard braking can also help stretch fuel.

Driving the speed limit can boost your car's fuel economy by up to 40%, according to the US Department of Energy.

Some drivers are turning to smaller gas stations that may offer lower prices. At one station in northwest Fresno, cars filled the lot as drivers searched for cheaper fuel.

"It is $5.39 and this is still the cheapest place in this city. It is absolutely ridiculous," Garrett said.

For families already on tight budgets, even modest savings can make a difference.

"Those pennies add up if you're on a budget, you have a family. If your finances are already tight, you kind of got to weigh out your options," Irvin said.

While studies have previously shown that certain days of the week may offer lower prices, current market conditions are making it harder to predict when to fill up.

"There's not really a good time to buy gasoline right now. There's not a better day or a worse day because there's an active situation that is causing prices to trend higher over time," said Patrick DeHaan of GasBuddy.

With prices continuing to fluctuate, drivers say they are left weighing cost-saving strategies as they cope with financial pressure at the pump.

Gas Buddy tells Action News Fresno is only 25 cents a gallon away from breaking an all-time record for the highest price of gas.

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