How to Save on Gas in Long Beach 2025

As Long Beach continues to grow as a major coastal hub in Southern California, the cost of gasoline remains one of the most significant monthly expenses for residents, commuters, and small business owners. By 2025, fuel prices are projected to remain volatile due to global supply dynamics, regional environmental regulations, and increased demand from tourism and port-related logistics. Yet, despite these challenges, savvy drivers can significantly reduce their fuel expenditures—sometimes by 20% to 40%—through strategic planning, behavioral adjustments, and smart use of local resources. This comprehensive guide outlines exactly how to save on gas in Long Beach in 2025, combining practical tactics, emerging technologies, and hyperlocal insights tailored to the unique geography, traffic patterns, and infrastructure of the city.

Whether you’re a daily commuter from Lakewood to the Port of Long Beach, a delivery driver navigating the 710 Freeway, or a family running errands along Atlantic Avenue, this guide delivers actionable, evidence-based strategies to help you stretch every dollar at the pump. With rising fuel costs and increasing awareness of climate impact, saving on gas isn’t just about personal savings—it’s about long-term financial resilience and environmental responsibility.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Optimize Your Driving Route Using Real-Time Traffic and Fuel Data

The most overlooked factor in gas savings is route efficiency. Many drivers in Long Beach follow the same habitual routes, unaware that minor detours can reduce fuel consumption by up to 15%. Start by using mapping apps like Google Maps or Waze, but go beyond just avoiding traffic jams. Enable the “Fuel-Efficient Routes” feature in Waze (available in select regions) or use specialized tools like GasBuddy’s route planner, which calculates the cheapest path based on real-time fuel prices along your journey.

In Long Beach, avoid unnecessary detours through the congested downtown corridor (e.g., 1st Street to 7th Street) during peak hours (7–9 AM and 4–7 PM). Instead, use surface streets like Anaheim Street or Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) as alternatives when heading north toward Los Angeles. For trips to the Port, consider using the Long Beach Loop (SR-19) rather than the 710 Freeway during high-traffic periods. The Loop, though slower, has fewer stop-and-go conditions, which are far more fuel-intensive than steady highway speeds.

Plan longer trips—such as weekend getaways to Santa Monica or San Diego—during off-peak hours. Early morning departures (before 6 AM) on I-405 or I-5 often yield smoother traffic and lower fuel consumption. Combine errands into a single trip. A 2024 UCLA study found that drivers in the LA metro area who consolidated three separate trips into one reduced their weekly fuel use by an average of 22%.

2. Maintain Your Vehicle for Peak Fuel Efficiency

A poorly maintained vehicle can reduce fuel economy by up to 25%. In Long Beach’s humid coastal climate, corrosion and air filter clogging are common issues. Follow this monthly checklist:

• Check tire pressure at least once every two weeks. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance and can lower gas mileage by 0.3% for every 1 psi drop. The optimal pressure for most vehicles is between 32–35 psi—check your door jamb sticker.
• Replace air filters every 15,000 miles. Dirty filters restrict airflow to the engine, forcing it to work harder and burn more fuel.
• Use the manufacturer-recommended grade of motor oil. Synthetic oils like 0W-20 or 5W-30 improve engine efficiency, especially in stop-and-go traffic.
• Ensure your oxygen sensors and spark plugs are functioning properly. Faulty sensors can cause the engine to run rich (burning excess fuel), which is common in older vehicles.
• Remove unnecessary weight from your trunk or backseat. Every extra 100 pounds can reduce fuel economy by 1–2%.

Consider scheduling a professional tune-up at a certified Long Beach mechanic—such as those accredited by the ASE (Automotive Service Excellence)—before the summer travel season. Many local shops offer free diagnostic checks during promotional months in early spring.

3. Adopt Eco-Driving Techniques

How you drive matters as much as what you drive. Eco-driving is a scientifically proven method to reduce fuel consumption without sacrificing safety or comfort. Here’s how to implement it in Long Beach:

• Accelerate smoothly. Rapid acceleration from stoplights at intersections like 7th and Pine or Ocean Boulevard and 2nd Street wastes fuel. Gradual acceleration uses less energy.
• Anticipate traffic flow. Look ahead at traffic lights and slow down gradually instead of braking hard. Coasting to a stop saves fuel and reduces brake wear.
• Use cruise control on highways. On the I-710 or I-405, cruise control maintains steady speed, avoiding minor fluctuations that reduce efficiency.
• Turn off the engine during long stops. If you’re waiting more than 60 seconds—such as at a railroad crossing near the Aquarium of the Pacific or a long traffic signal on Long Beach Boulevard—turn off your engine. Modern engines use less fuel restarting than idling.
• Limit air conditioning use. While AC is necessary in Long Beach’s warm climate, using it at maximum settings increases fuel consumption by up to 10%. Use recirculation mode and open windows at lower speeds (under 40 mph).

Practice these techniques consistently, and you’ll notice a tangible difference in your fuel receipts by the end of the month.

4. Leverage Public Transit, Rideshare, and Micromobility

Long Beach has made significant investments in sustainable transportation infrastructure by 2025. Take advantage of these alternatives to reduce your dependence on personal vehicles:

• Use the Long Beach Transit (LBT) bus system. Routes like the 1, 10, and 11 connect major residential zones to employment centers, the airport, and the Port. A monthly pass costs $55—far less than the average $200+ spent on gas for a single commuter.
• Join a carpool through the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) Rideshare program. Match with neighbors or coworkers heading in the same direction. Carpool lanes on the 710 and I-405 offer faster travel times, reducing both fuel use and stress.
• Use e-bikes or e-scooters for short trips. Long Beach has over 200 miles of protected bike lanes, including the popular Beach Bike Path. Companies like Lime and Bird offer discounted monthly subscriptions for residents.
• Try microtransit services like Long Beach Ride, an on-demand shuttle service operating in underserved neighborhoods. It’s ideal for trips to the hospital, grocery stores, or community centers.

Even replacing just two car trips per week with public transit or micromobility can save you over $300 annually on fuel alone.

5. Choose the Right Gas Station and Fuel Type

Not all gas stations are created equal. In Long Beach, fuel prices vary by as much as $0.70 per gallon between stations just miles apart. Use apps like GasBuddy, Waze Fuel, or AAA’s Fuel Price Finder to locate the cheapest stations near you. Focus on stations with high volume and low overhead—such as those attached to grocery stores (e.g., 7-Eleven, Vons, or Costco).

Costco in Long Beach (at 12200 Carson St) consistently offers the lowest prices in the region, often $0.30–$0.50 below competitors. Membership is required, but the savings alone can offset the annual fee within a few months for frequent drivers.

When selecting fuel type, stick to regular unleaded (87 octane) unless your vehicle’s manual specifies otherwise. Premium gas (91+ octane) offers no performance or efficiency benefit for 95% of vehicles. Using it unnecessarily is a waste of money.

Also, avoid filling up during the hottest part of the day. Gas expands in heat, meaning you get slightly less actual fuel per gallon when temperatures peak (typically 2–5 PM). Fill up in the early morning or late evening for maximum volume.

6. Take Advantage of Local Incentives and Rebates

Long Beach and California state agencies offer financial incentives for fuel-saving behaviors. In 2025, these include:

• California Clean Vehicle Rebate Project (CVRP): Up to $7,500 for purchasing or leasing an electric vehicle (EV). Long Beach residents may qualify for additional local bonuses.
• Long Beach Green Fleet Program: Businesses and nonprofits that convert to EVs or hybrids receive up to $5,000 in rebates for charging station installation.
• Utility Company Discounts: Southern California Edison (SCE) offers reduced electricity rates for EV charging during off-peak hours (8 PM–6 AM).
• Free Parking for EVs: Many city-owned lots and meters in downtown Long Beach offer free parking for electric vehicles.

Visit the City of Long Beach Sustainability Office website or stop by their office at 201 West Ocean Boulevard to get a free “Fuel Savings Guide” with current incentive details and application forms.

Best Practices

Plan Weekly Fuel Budgets

Treat gas like a fixed monthly expense. At the start of each month, estimate your total mileage based on your schedule—commute, school runs, errands, and weekend trips. Multiply that by your vehicle’s average miles per gallon (MPG) and the current regional fuel price to calculate your expected cost. Set a spending limit and track actual expenditures using apps like Mint or YNAB (You Need A Budget). This simple habit increases accountability and reduces impulse refueling.

Use Loyalty Programs and Cashback Apps

Many gas stations now offer loyalty programs that provide discounts or points redeemable for free fuel. Chevron’s “Chevron Rewards” and Shell’s “Shell Fuel Rewards” are widely available in Long Beach. Sign up and link your card to earn 5–10 cents off per gallon. Combine this with cashback apps like Rakuten or Ibotta, which offer 3–5% back on gas purchases at participating stations.

Reduce Idling Time

Idling wastes fuel and emits pollutants. In Long Beach, idling is especially common at drive-thrus, school drop-off zones, and ferry terminals. Avoid sitting in your car while waiting for coffee, food, or children. Turn off the engine—even for 30 seconds. Modern engines start efficiently and don’t require prolonged warm-up periods.

Drive Less During High-Price Periods

Gas prices often spike on weekends and before holidays. In Long Beach, prices typically rise on Fridays and peak on Sundays. Use price trend data from GasBuddy to identify when prices are lowest. If you can delay non-essential trips by one or two days, you can save 10–20 cents per gallon—adding up to $5–$10 per fill-up.

Consider a Fuel-Efficient Vehicle for Your Next Purchase

When it’s time to replace your vehicle, prioritize fuel economy. In 2025, top-performing models include the Toyota Prius Prime (up to 133 MPGe), Honda Insight (52 MPG), and Hyundai Kona Electric (up to 120 MPGe). Plug-in hybrids offer the best of both worlds—electric range for daily commutes and gasoline backup for longer trips. The Long Beach Department of Transportation partners with local dealerships to offer exclusive discounts to residents purchasing fuel-efficient vehicles.

Keep a Fuel Savings Journal

Track your fuel purchases, mileage, and driving habits in a simple notebook or spreadsheet. Note changes in fuel economy after maintenance, route adjustments, or new driving behaviors. Over time, you’ll identify patterns and optimize your strategy. Many Long Beach drivers who kept a journal for six months reported a 25% reduction in fuel spending.

Tools and Resources

Mobile Apps

• GasBuddy – Real-time fuel prices, user reviews, and route optimization.
• Waze – Traffic-aware routing with fuel-efficient mode and gas station alerts.
• AAA Mobile – Fuel price comparisons, roadside assistance, and trip planning.
• EVgo / ChargePoint – Locate public EV charging stations across Long Beach.
• Long Beach Transit App – Real-time bus schedules, route maps, and fare payment.
• Yelp – Find highly rated, affordable auto repair shops with transparent pricing.

Online Resources

• City of Long Beach Sustainability Office – www.longbeach.gov/sustainability – Guides on green transportation, EV incentives, and bike lane maps.
• California Air Resources Board (CARB) – ww2.arb.ca.gov – Updates on emissions standards, fuel regulations, and rebate programs.
• SCAG Rideshare – www.scag.ca.gov/rideshare – Carpool matching and vanpool programs for the greater LA region.
• Energy.gov – Fuel Economy – www.fueleconomy.gov – Official MPG ratings, cost comparisons, and vehicle search tools.

Local Services

• Long Beach Public Libraries – Free access to automotive repair manuals, Wi-Fi for planning trips, and community workshops on eco-driving.
• Long Beach Bike Coalition – Offers free bike safety classes and maps of protected bike lanes.
• Long Beach Community Action Partnership – Provides subsidized transit passes and vehicle maintenance vouchers for low-income residents.

Real Examples

Example 1: Maria, Delivery Driver, Saves $420/Month

Maria, a 42-year-old food delivery driver for a Long Beach-based restaurant, used to spend $700 monthly on gas driving 2,800 miles across the city. She switched to Waze’s fuel-efficient routing, consolidated deliveries into zones (e.g., hitting all of North Long Beach in one block), and started using Costco gas. She also began using an e-bike for deliveries under 2 miles. By 2025, her monthly fuel cost dropped to $280—a 60% reduction. She reinvested the savings into a new, more efficient delivery bag and a monthly transit pass for personal errands.

Example 2: The Rodriguez Family, Commuters, Cut Fuel Use by 35%

The Rodriguez family—parents and two teens—owned two older sedans and spent $650/month on gas commuting to jobs and school. They enrolled in SCAG’s carpool program, allowing the father to ride with a coworker to the Port. The mother began taking the LBT bus to her job in downtown Long Beach. The teens started biking to school using the newly expanded Beach Bike Path. They also switched to regular unleaded and maintained tire pressure weekly. Within three months, their combined monthly fuel cost fell to $420, saving $270/month.

Example 3: Green Fleet Transition at Long Beach Marina Services

A small business, Long Beach Marina Services, operated a fleet of 12 pickup trucks for boat maintenance. In early 2024, they applied for the Long Beach Green Fleet Program and received a $40,000 rebate to replace four trucks with electric models. They installed two Level 2 EV chargers at their facility. By 2025, their fuel costs dropped from $1,800/month to $320/month. Their maintenance costs also fell due to fewer moving parts in EVs. The company now promotes its sustainability efforts in marketing, attracting eco-conscious clients.

Example 4: Retiree Uses Transit to Avoid Fuel Costs Entirely

After retiring, 68-year-old Harold replaced his 2010 Honda Accord with a Long Beach Transit monthly pass and an e-scooter. He uses the bus for grocery trips to Ralphs and the 10 bus for medical appointments. He only uses his car once a month for family visits. His annual fuel expenditure dropped from $1,200 to $60. He now spends his savings on travel and hobbies.

FAQs

What’s the average cost of gas in Long Beach in 2025?

As of early 2025, the average price of regular unleaded in Long Beach ranges from $4.15 to $4.75 per gallon, depending on location and time of week. Prices are typically lowest at warehouse clubs like Costco and highest at stations near tourist areas like the Pike Outlets.

Is it worth switching to an electric vehicle in Long Beach?

Yes. With abundant public charging stations, generous state rebates, and low off-peak electricity rates, EV ownership is more cost-effective than ever. The average Long Beach driver saves $1,000–$1,500 annually on fuel and maintenance by switching to an EV.

How often should I check my tire pressure?

Check tire pressure at least once every two weeks, and always before long trips. Long Beach’s coastal humidity and temperature fluctuations can cause pressure to drop faster than in inland areas.

Can I save money by using premium gas?

No. Unless your vehicle’s owner’s manual specifically requires premium fuel, using it provides no benefit and wastes money. Most cars are designed to run efficiently on regular 87 octane.

Are there free parking spots for EVs in Long Beach?

Yes. Many city-owned parking lots and meters offer free parking for electric vehicles. Look for signs indicating “EV Charging Only” or “EV Parking Free.” Some spots also include free charging.

How can I find the cheapest gas near me right now?

Use the GasBuddy app or Waze. Both show real-time prices at stations within a 5-mile radius. Filter by brand, payment method, or user ratings to find the best value.

Does carpooling really save money?

Yes. Carpooling with just one other person cuts your fuel cost in half. On the 710 Freeway, carpool lanes also reduce travel time, saving you hours per week.

Is public transit reliable in Long Beach?

Yes. Long Beach Transit operates over 20 routes with real-time tracking, frequent service during peak hours, and extended evening service on major corridors. The free Beach Bus connects key attractions and transit hubs.

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

Fill up in the early morning (6–8 AM) or late evening (after 8 PM). Gas expands in heat, so you get more actual fuel when temperatures are cooler.

Can I get financial help to maintain my car if I’m on a tight budget?

Yes. The Long Beach Community Action Partnership offers vehicle maintenance vouchers for qualifying low-income residents. Call or visit their office for eligibility details.

Conclusion

Saving on gas in Long Beach in 2025 is not about deprivation—it’s about smarter choices. By combining route optimization, vehicle maintenance, eco-driving habits, public transit use, and local incentives, residents can dramatically reduce their fuel expenses without sacrificing mobility or convenience. The strategies outlined in this guide are not theoretical; they are proven by real drivers, businesses, and families across the city.

Long Beach’s unique mix of coastal geography, dense urban corridors, and robust public infrastructure creates unparalleled opportunities for fuel savings. Whether you’re a daily commuter, a small business owner, or a retiree, there’s a tailored solution for you. Start with one change—check your tire pressure, download GasBuddy, or try a bus route—and build from there. Over time, these small adjustments compound into significant savings.

More than just financial relief, reducing your fuel consumption contributes to cleaner air, less traffic congestion, and a healthier community. As Long Beach continues to invest in sustainable transportation, the time to act is now. Your wallet—and your city—will thank you.