Gas prices could reach $10-12 a gallon next year on the West Coast

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Lawmakers in California at both the state and federal levels are warning that refinery closures could push prices higher while leaving the state more dependent on foreign oil.

At the center of the warning is the planned shutdown of two major refineries: Valero’s Benicia facility and Phillips 66’s Los Angeles plant. Together, the closures would eliminate nearly 20% of California’s in-state refining capacity

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California already has the highest gas prices in the country. As of December 2025, drivers are paying about $4.34 per gallon statewide, according to AAA (3). That is roughly $1.40 more per gallon than the national average of around $2.90. Petroleum expert Mike Ariza, who co-authored a recent report on California’s energy outlook, told ABC10 gas could reach $10 to $12 per gallon in extreme scenarios.

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