Gas prices in Merced County continue to climb, reaching an average of $5.57 per gallon for regular-grade fuel, according to the latest AAA survey. This represents a significant jump from $4.41 a gallon recorded at this time last year.
Despite the rising county average, local drivers can still find cheaper options, with GasBuddy reports noting prices starting as low as $5.05 per gallon at select stations like Delhi 5 Star and Gas-N-Save in Merced.
Nationwide, gasoline prices experienced a mixed trend driven by wild fluctuations in global oil markets.
According to Patrick De Haan, head of petroleum analysis at GasBuddy, oil prices surged due to escalating geopolitical tensions before easing following potential diplomatic signals.
However, ongoing supply pressures—including Ukrainian attacks on Russian oil infrastructure that have caused output plummets—continue to drive refined product prices higher and maintain upward pressure at the pump.
