Los Angeles County gas prices stay high, prompting transit shift

The average price of self‑serve regular gasoline in Los Angeles County held at $5.70 per gallon for a third straight day, unchanged after a 13‑day streak of increases that followed the U.S. and Israel attack on Iran on Feb. 28. The rise lifted the county’s price by about $1.00 since the attack, while the national average also climbed to $4.10 per gallon.

Amid the elevated pump costs, a 27‑year‑old Glendale driver spent $105 on premium fuel before switching to public transit, enrolling in the Metro Life program that offers free rides for low‑income riders. His decision reflects a broader trend: Metrolink ridership rose about 4 % and Metro rail usage increased roughly 5 % as gasoline prices surged, making transit a more attractive and affordable option for many Angelenos.