Bay Area gas prices: Why are they so high? Experts explain [Video]

CONTRA COSTA COUNTY, Calif. (KGO) — Gas prices in California are up $.50 in the last month, according to AAA. That is higher than the rest of the nation who are only seeing about a $.30 increase. The average price for a gallon of unleaded gas in California is $5.385. In each of the Bay Area counties it’s over $5.50.

“A whole tank cost me about $65 $70,” said John Altemus, who was filling up at a Chevron station in Orinda. “It was over $6. A little bit too much right now.”

Why is it higher in the Bay Area than the rest of the country? Tom Klosa, the head of energy analysis at the Oil Price Information Service says several reasons, but two are big factors. He says refineries are focusing on maintenance while also producing oil, and one of the five Bay Area refineries is no longer producing gas.

“You’ve got refinery maintenance that …