How to Reduce Gas Costs in Long Beach

Long Beach, California, is a vibrant coastal city known for its bustling port, scenic waterfront, and thriving urban lifestyle. But with its dense traffic, sprawling suburbs, and reliance on personal vehicles, many residents face rising fuel expenses that strain household budgets. Gas prices in Long Beach frequently exceed state and national averages due to regional taxes, port-related logistics, and high demand. Reducing gas costs isn’t just about saving money—it’s about increasing financial resilience, reducing environmental impact, and optimizing daily routines in one of California’s most congested metro areas.

This comprehensive guide walks you through proven, actionable strategies to significantly lower your fuel expenditures in Long Beach. Whether you’re a daily commuter, a delivery driver, a parent shuttling kids, or a small business owner managing a fleet, these methods are tailored to the unique geography, infrastructure, and economic conditions of the region. By combining smart driving habits, local resources, and technology, you can cut your gas bill by 20–40% annually without sacrificing convenience.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Optimize Your Driving Habits

How you drive has a direct and measurable impact on fuel efficiency. Aggressive acceleration, excessive idling, and high-speed cruising are the top culprits behind wasted gasoline in Long Beach’s stop-and-go traffic. Start by adopting these fuel-efficient driving techniques:

• Accelerate gently—avoid flooring the gas pedal. Smooth acceleration uses up to 30% less fuel than rapid starts.
• Maintain a steady speed. Use cruise control on highways like I-710 and the 405 when traffic permits.
• Anticipate stops. Lift off the accelerator early when approaching red lights or congestion instead of braking hard.
• Limit idling. If you’re stopped for more than 60 seconds (excluding traffic), turn off your engine. Idling for 10 minutes a day can waste over 20 gallons of gas per month.

These habits are especially effective in Long Beach, where average commute times exceed 30 minutes and traffic congestion is common during rush hours (7–9 AM and 4–7 PM). A 2023 study by the Southern California Association of Governments found that drivers who adopted smooth driving techniques saw an average 15% improvement in fuel economy.

2. Maintain Your Vehicle Regularly

A poorly maintained vehicle burns more fuel. In Long Beach’s humid coastal climate, corrosion and engine inefficiency can accelerate if maintenance is neglected. Follow this simple checklist:

• Change your oil every 5,000–7,500 miles using the manufacturer-recommended grade. Synthetic oils improve efficiency in stop-and-go traffic.
• Check tire pressure monthly. Underinflated tires can reduce fuel economy by up to 3%. Long Beach’s warm temperatures cause air to expand, so check pressure in the morning before driving.
• Replace air filters every 15,000 miles. A clogged filter forces the engine to work harder, increasing fuel consumption.
• Ensure proper wheel alignment. Misaligned wheels create drag, especially on Long Beach’s older roadways like Pacific Coast Highway and 7th Street.
• Use the correct fuel octane. Unless your vehicle manual specifies premium, regular 87 octane is sufficient and saves money.

Many Long Beach residents overlook routine maintenance until something breaks. Scheduling biannual tune-ups at trusted local shops like Long Beach Auto Care or AAMCO on Atlantic Avenue can prevent costly repairs and keep your car running efficiently year-round.

3. Plan and Combine Errands

Every extra mile driven adds up. In Long Beach, where destinations are spread across neighborhoods—Downtown, Belmont Shore, Lakewood Village, and the West Side—planning is critical. Use the “cold start” rule: your engine uses the most fuel during the first few minutes after starting. Avoid multiple short trips.

Instead:

• Group errands into one trip. For example, combine grocery shopping at Ralphs on Long Beach Blvd with picking up dry cleaning at a shop on 4th Street and dropping off packages at the USPS on Pine Avenue.
• Use mapping apps to plot the most efficient route. Google Maps and Waze can help you avoid construction zones on the 605 Freeway or delays near the Port of Long Beach.
• Time your trips to avoid peak congestion. Leaving 15–30 minutes earlier or later can shave off miles and reduce idling time.

Residents who consolidate errands report saving an average of 8–12 gallons of gas per month—over $40 in savings at current prices.

4. Leverage Public Transit and Active Transportation

Long Beach has invested heavily in alternatives to driving. Take advantage of these systems to reduce your reliance on gasoline:

• Long Beach Transit (LBT) operates 35 bus routes connecting major hubs, including the Downtown Transit Center, CSULB, and the Long Beach Airport. A monthly pass costs $65—far less than weekly gas expenses.
• The Metro C Line (Green Line) connects to the 710 Freeway corridor, allowing you to park at a station and ride into Downtown or to the Harbor Gateway Transit Center.
• Use the Long Beach Bike Share program. With over 50 stations from the Strand to the Pike Outlets, it’s ideal for short trips under 3 miles.
• Walk whenever possible. Neighborhoods like Belmont Shore and Naples have wide sidewalks and pedestrian-friendly layouts.

According to the City of Long Beach’s 2023 Sustainability Report, residents who replaced one car trip per day with transit or biking reduced their annual fuel use by 22%. For families with two cars, switching just one commute to public transit can save over $1,000 per year.

5. Use Gas Price Tracking Apps

Not all gas stations in Long Beach charge the same. Prices can vary by 30–50 cents per gallon within a 5-mile radius. Use real-time apps to find the lowest prices:

• GasBuddy – Crowdsourced data with user reviews. Filter by credit card rewards or loyalty programs.
• Waze – Shows gas prices along your route and suggests detours to cheaper stations.
• AAA Mobile App – Provides price comparisons and discounts for AAA members.

For example, a station on Atlantic Avenue near the 710 may charge $4.89/gal, while one on Carson Street near the 105 may be $4.59. That 30-cent difference adds up to $15 per fill-up on a 50-gallon tank. Over a year, that’s $780 saved.

6. Consider Fuel Rewards and Loyalty Programs

Many Long Beach gas stations offer loyalty programs that give you cash back or discounts:

• Shell Fuel Rewards – Earn points at Shell stations and redeem for cents-off per gallon.
• Chevron and Texaco – Use the Chevron Rewards app for discounts and sweepstakes.
• Costco Wholesale – Members get the lowest gas prices in the region, often 20–40 cents below market rate. The Long Beach Costco on 7th Street is a popular destination for fuel savings.
• Target Circle – Earn 1% back on gas purchases at Target-owned stations.

Stack these with credit cards that offer 3–5% cash back on gas purchases, such as the Chase Freedom Flex or Citi Double Cash. Combined, these programs can reduce your effective price per gallon by up to 15%.

7. Explore Electric and Hybrid Options

Long Beach has one of the highest rates of EV adoption in Southern California, thanks to city incentives and charging infrastructure. If you’re due for a new vehicle, consider:

• Hybrid models (Toyota Prius, Honda Insight) – Offer 45–50 MPG in city driving, ideal for Long Beach traffic.
• Plug-in hybrids (Toyota RAV4 Prime, Ford Escape PHEV) – Combine electric range with gasoline backup.
• Full EVs (Tesla Model 3, Hyundai Kona Electric) – Over 250 miles of range on a single charge.

Long Beach offers free public EV charging at multiple locations, including the Long Beach Convention Center, the Central Library, and the Recreation and Parks Department’s community centers. The city also provides rebates up to $2,000 for EV purchases through the Clean Vehicle Rebate Project (CVRP). Even with the higher upfront cost, the average Long Beach driver saves $1,200–$1,800 annually on fuel and maintenance.

8. Carpool and Rideshare with Neighbors

Long Beach has active carpool networks, especially around schools and workplaces. Use these platforms to share rides:

• Long Beach Rideshare – City-sponsored program matching commuters heading in the same direction.
• Waze Carpool – Connect with others going to similar destinations; pay only for gas.
• Workplace Programs – Many employers in the Port of Long Beach and CSULB offer preferred parking for carpoolers.

Even sharing a ride twice a week can cut your fuel use by 20%. For parents, coordinating carpools for school runs eliminates multiple trips and reduces emissions.

9. Avoid Heavy Loads and Roof Racks

Extra weight and aerodynamic drag hurt fuel economy. In Long Beach, where many residents haul beach gear, bikes, or construction materials:

• Remove roof racks and cargo carriers when not in use—they can reduce MPG by 10–25%.
• Don’t carry unnecessary items in your trunk. Every 100 pounds of extra weight reduces efficiency by 1–2%.
• Use a trailer only when absolutely necessary. Trailers can cut fuel economy by 30–50%.

For example, a family that removes a rooftop bike rack after the summer season can gain back 3–4 MPG—equivalent to saving 1–2 gallons per week.

10. Monitor Your Fuel Consumption

Track your fuel usage to identify patterns and measure progress. Here’s how:

• Record your odometer and gallons filled each time you refuel.
• Calculate your MPG: (Ending odometer – Starting odometer) ÷ gallons used.
• Use apps like Fuelio or MileIQ to automate tracking.
• Set monthly goals (e.g., “Increase MPG from 24 to 28”).

Tracking creates accountability. Drivers who log their fuel use consistently improve efficiency faster than those who don’t.

Best Practices

1. Drive During Off-Peak Hours

Long Beach traffic peaks during weekday rush hours. Driving outside these windows not only saves fuel but also reduces stress. Try to schedule non-urgent trips between 10 AM–2 PM or after 8 PM. Weekends are often less congested, especially on Pacific Coast Highway and Shoreline Drive.

2. Use the Right Fuel for Your Vehicle

Many drivers believe premium fuel improves performance. In reality, 90% of vehicles in Long Beach are designed for regular unleaded. Using premium when it’s not required is a waste of money. Check your owner’s manual—most cars have a sticker inside the fuel door indicating the required octane.

3. Keep Windows Closed at High Speeds

On highways like the I-710 or I-405, open windows increase drag and reduce fuel efficiency. Use the air conditioning instead—it’s more efficient at speeds above 40 mph. Modern AC systems are far more energy-efficient than older models.

4. Avoid “Gas Station Hopping” for Small Savings

While finding cheaper gas is smart, driving 3 miles out of your way to save 20 cents per gallon may not be worth it. Calculate the extra fuel burned: if your car gets 25 MPG, driving 6 miles round-trip burns 0.24 gallons. At $4.80/gal, that’s $1.15 in extra fuel—more than the savings. Only detour if the price difference is 40+ cents per gallon.

5. Invest in a Fuel-Efficient Vehicle for Your Next Purchase

When it’s time to replace your car, prioritize fuel economy. The EPA’s Fuel Economy Guide ranks the most efficient vehicles. In Long Beach, hybrids like the Toyota Corolla Hybrid and the Honda Civic Hybrid consistently rank at the top for city driving. EVs are increasingly practical with the city’s expanding charging network.

6. Stay Informed About Local Fuel Trends

Long Beach gas prices are influenced by port activity, refinery outages, and state taxes. Follow local news outlets like the Long Beach Post or the Press-Telegram for alerts on price spikes. Avoid filling up on Mondays—prices often rise over the weekend due to wholesale adjustments.

7. Educate Your Household

Make fuel efficiency a family priority. Teach teens to drive smoothly, remind partners to check tire pressure, and encourage carpooling. When everyone contributes, savings multiply.

8. Take Advantage of City Incentives

Long Beach offers programs beyond EV rebates:

• Free EV charging at public lots (no time limit).
• Discounted transit passes for low-income residents through the Long Beach Mobility Program.
• Grants for small businesses converting to electric delivery vehicles.

Visit the City of Long Beach’s Sustainability Department website to learn about current offerings.

Tools and Resources

Gas Price Trackers

• GasBuddy – iOS and Android app with real-time pricing, station reviews, and rewards.
• Waze – Navigation app with live gas prices and route optimization.
• AAA Mobile App – Includes fuel price comparisons and discounts for members.

Public Transit and Rideshare

• Long Beach Transit – www.longbeachtransit.com – Schedules, maps, and monthly pass purchases.
• Long Beach Bike Share – www.longbeachbike.org – Rent bikes via app at 50+ stations.
• Waze Carpool – www.waze.com/carpool – Match with neighbors heading the same way.
• LA Metro – www.metro.net – Connects Long Beach to the broader region.

Vehicle Maintenance

• RepairPal – Get fair estimates for maintenance and find certified shops in Long Beach.
• Carfax – Check your vehicle’s service history before buying used.
• Oil Change Locations – Long Beach Auto Care, AAMCO, and Jiffy Lube on 7th Street offer affordable tune-ups.

Electric Vehicle Support

• PlugShare – Map of public EV chargers in Long Beach and surrounding areas.
• California Clean Vehicle Rebate Project (CVRP) – www.californiacleanvehiclerebate.org – Apply for up to $7,000 in rebates.
• Long Beach EV Charging Map – City of Long Beach website lists free and paid public chargers.

Driving Efficiency Apps

• Fuelio – Track fuel consumption, maintenance, and costs.
• MileIQ – Automatically logs trips for business or personal use.
• Hypermiler – Offers tips and driving feedback to improve MPG.

Local Resources

• City of Long Beach Sustainability – www.longbeach.gov/sustainability – Programs, rebates, and events.
• Long Beach Public Library – Free access to car maintenance guides and EV workshops.
• CSULB Transportation Services – Offers free shuttles and bike repair stations for students and staff.

Real Examples

Example 1: Maria, Single Mom, Belmont Shore

Maria, a 38-year-old mother of two, used to spend $220/month on gas driving her 2015 Honda CR-V between school, work, and grocery stores. She followed these steps:

• Switched to a Toyota Prius Prime (plug-in hybrid) using a $2,500 CVRP rebate.
• Used the Long Beach Bike Share for short trips to the library and pharmacy.
• Joined a neighborhood carpool for school drop-offs.
• Used GasBuddy to find the cheapest Shell station on 7th Street.

Result: Her monthly fuel cost dropped to $58. She now saves over $2,000 per year.

Example 2: James, Delivery Driver, Downtown Long Beach

James delivers food for a local restaurant and drives a 2018 Ford Transit van. He averaged 12 MPG and spent $450/month on gas. He implemented:

• Reduced idling by turning off the engine while waiting for orders.
• Planned delivery routes using Google Maps to avoid traffic.
• Switched to synthetic oil and checked tire pressure weekly.
• Used Costco gas for his van—saving 35 cents per gallon.

Result: His fuel efficiency improved to 15.5 MPG. Monthly savings: $135. Annual savings: $1,620.

Example 3: The Rivera Family, Lakewood Village

The Riveras own two vehicles: a 2017 Toyota Camry and a 2016 Honda Civic. Both were driven daily for school, work, and weekend trips. They:

• Switched to Long Beach Transit for one weekly commute.
• Installed a smart thermostat at home to reduce HVAC use, freeing up more budget for fuel.
• Used Waze Carpool for weekend trips to the beach.
• Tracked fuel usage with Fuelio and set a goal to increase MPG by 2 points.

Result: Combined gas spending dropped from $480 to $320 per month. They now have an extra $1,920 per year for savings or family activities.

Example 4: Small Business Owner, Long Beach Industrial Park

A local contractor with three pickup trucks reduced fuel costs by:

• Applying for a city grant to convert one truck to electric.
• Installing GPS fleet tracking to optimize delivery routes.
• Training drivers in eco-driving techniques.

Result: Fuel costs fell by 38% in 9 months. The electric truck paid for itself in 14 months through fuel and maintenance savings.

FAQs

What’s the average gas price in Long Beach right now?

As of mid-2024, the average price for regular unleaded in Long Beach ranges from $4.60 to $4.90 per gallon, depending on location and brand. Prices are typically higher near the port and tourist areas like the Pike Outlets.

Is it cheaper to fill up at Costco in Long Beach?

Yes. The Costco on 7th Street consistently offers gas prices 20–40 cents below surrounding stations. However, you must be a member. For frequent drivers, the annual membership fee ($60) is easily offset by fuel savings.

Can I use public transit to get to LAX from Long Beach?

Yes. Take the Long Beach Transit to the Green Line (Metro C Line) at Lakewood Blvd Station, then transfer to the Metro C Line to Aviation/LAX Station. Total travel time: about 90 minutes. Cost: under $5 with a TAP card.

Do electric vehicles really save money in Long Beach?

Absolutely. Charging an EV at home costs about $0.12 per kWh. For a 250-mile range EV, that’s roughly $4–$5 per full charge—equivalent to $1.20–$1.50 per gallon of gas. Public charging is often free in Long Beach, making EV ownership extremely cost-effective.

How can I find free EV charging stations in Long Beach?

Use PlugShare or the City of Long Beach EV map. Free chargers are available at the Long Beach Convention Center, Central Library, and several city parks. Most require no payment or registration.

Does using air conditioning hurt fuel economy?

At low speeds (under 40 mph), open windows create more drag than AC. At highway speeds, AC is more efficient. Use AC wisely and keep it set at 72–75°F for optimal balance.

Are there any tax credits for hybrid cars in California?

Yes. The California Clean Vehicle Rebate Project (CVRP) offers up to $7,000 for new EVs and up to $2,000 for plug-in hybrids. Income limits apply. Apply at www.californiacleanvehiclerebate.org.

How often should I check my tire pressure in Long Beach?

Monthly, and always before long trips. Heat causes air to expand, so check in the morning before driving. Underinflated tires are a leading cause of wasted fuel in Southern California.

Can I get a discount on gas with my credit card?

Yes. Cards like the Chase Freedom Flex, Citi Double Cash, and Bank of America Customized Cash Rewards offer 3–5% cash back on gas purchases. Combine with loyalty programs for maximum savings.

What’s the best time of day to fill up?

Early in the morning on weekdays. Prices tend to rise on weekends and Mondays. Avoid filling up on Friday afternoons—demand spikes before the weekend.

Conclusion

Reducing gas costs in Long Beach is not a one-time fix—it’s an ongoing practice shaped by smart habits, local resources, and mindful choices. From maintaining tire pressure to leveraging public transit, every small action compounds into significant savings. The average Long Beach driver spends over $2,000 annually on gasoline. With the strategies outlined in this guide, you can cut that number by nearly half without changing your lifestyle.

The city’s infrastructure, from bike lanes to EV charging stations, is designed to support sustainable transportation. Take advantage of it. Use apps to find the cheapest fuel. Carpool with neighbors. Maintain your vehicle like a pro. Consider switching to a hybrid or EV when the time comes.

More than money, reducing your fuel consumption means cleaner air, less traffic congestion, and a healthier community. Long Beach is a city on the move—and now, you can move smarter, cleaner, and more affordably.

Start today. Track your next fill-up. Plan your next errand. Choose one new habit from this guide and commit to it for 30 days. The savings—and the peace of mind—will surprise you.