BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KBAK/KBFX) — Drivers in Bakersfield are feeling the squeeze as gas prices continue to climb, forcing some to cut back on driving and rethink their budgets.
Gas prices are displayed at a Brooklyn gas station on September 04, 2026, in New York City. (Photo by Spencer Platt/Getty Images)
“It’s astronomical, disappointing, trying to figure out how to, again, save money and not drive,” said Christina Del Torodias.
AAA’s latest numbers show the average price for regular gas in Bakersfield is now about $5.85 a gallon, more than a dollar higher than this time last year.
AAA Senior Public Affairs Specialist Anlleyn Venegas said one of the biggest reasons for the higher prices is the cost of oil. “Oil is trading near or above $100 a barrel because of global supply concerns. And this is related to the conflict in the Middle East,” Venegas said.
Gas prices are displayed at a Brooklyn gas station on September 04, 2026, in New York City. (Photo by Spencer Platt/Getty Images)
In Kern County, diesel prices are also rising. According to the AAA website, Bakersfield’s average diesel price is about $7.81 a gallon — the highest average diesel price on record for Bakersfield. The increase is significant in Kern County, where agriculture, trucking and other industries heavily rely on diesel.
For people driving Kern County roads every day, higher prices can mean less money for other expenses. “I fill up every week so I would say about $300,” said Sharron Briggs.
Lupe Perez said he’s frustrated with the way gas prices have been moving. “We definitely need a break here. That’s too much,” Perez said. He also said he has adapted his car to use less gas. “I got a six. I used to have an eight. I brought down maybe nine and you’d go to a four. I don’t know who knows. In time maybe I’ll be driving a lawnmower,” Perez said.
Gas pumps are seen at a gas station in Buffalo Grove, Thursday, June 25, 2026. (AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh)
Venegas urged drivers to look for ways to reduce fuel use and costs. “We are just telling drivers to do everything they can to maximize efficiency, to make sure that their vehicles maintenance is up to date. And to shop around for the cheapest gas,” she said.