those prices, and you do have to keep in mind that california prices are higher than any other state in the nation, but the average here is already above $5. the national average at the moment $3.92 and experts believe we can get to that $4 average very soon. of course, in part, because russia is a major producer of oil and ukraine, a key energy transit hub. since russia s invasion of ukraine we ve seen prices go up by 37 cents. in the last two days an increase of 19 cents and that makes a huge difference for a lot of people especially people who rely on gas are for their jobs, say ride share drivers, for example. i talked to one man, benjamin valdes who works three days a week and is greatly impacted by these prices. here s what he said. if i m driving 200 miles i m spending $50 on gas and i m