The major problem is suply and demand which ups the price.
Here in San Diego we have had the highest prices the longest, at times close to $4.00
But I laugh as I never owned a car in my life and take public transortation, did while I worked for several decades, all my errans, etc.
People choose their situations. The folks who want to live in the burbs with their 5 bedrms and 4 baths, etc and commute 50+ extra miles a day, their choice not the oil co.
Yes - -supply and demand. US military presence in the Middle East helps ensure that supply flows smoothly, reducing the cost.