How much of that $4 is taxes?
Federal excise tax – 18.4 cents per gallon (cpg)
California state excise tax – 51.1 cpg, some of which is used for roads, freeways and bridges
Sales tax – It varies by area. The average is 12.7 cpg
Underground storage tank fee – 2 cpg
Fuels under the cap – 15.1 cpg This program works to control greenhouse gases.
Low carbon fuel standard - 22.6 cpg This program is designed to reduce carbon intensity in transportation fuels.
Does California pay the highest in gas taxes and fees?
Yes.
Noda says the nationwide average for fees and taxes is 65 cents less compared to California.
“The U.S. average for fees and taxes is about 56.5 cents and we’re at $1.21.”
Do other factors play a role in California’s high gas prices?
Yes.
Among them: California has a special grade of gasoline, and 10% of it is ethanol, which costs more money to transport.
There’s also the higher cost of doing business here.
“A lot of that has to do with the real estate costs. Service stations need a higher margin to cover those costs,” said Noda.
He believes taxes and fees will continue to rise as a result of California’s environmental programs becoming more stringent.
WATCH RELATED: San Diego gas prices are spiking (Feb. 2021)