How to fill up your tank without breaking the bank

California is known for having the highest gas prices in the country, and Orange County is no exception. The average price per gallon for regular, unleaded gasoline is currently around $5.78. With the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, prices are not going down anytime soon. 

For college students living on a budget, these high prices can pose a serious financial burden. While the best thing students can do to save money at the pump is to cut down on time spent behind the wheel, this simply is not possible for many students. 

To help students in their search for an affordable place to fuel up, The Panther has put together a list of some of the best and most affordable local gas stations throughout the county.  

7-Eleven: 2937 E Chapman Ave, Orange

Keep driving past the In-N-Out on E Chapman Ave, and you’ll eventually reach 7-Eleven gas station — The Panther’s current pick for the most cost-effective tank of gas locally. 

With prices as low as $5.45 per gallon for regular, unleaded gas and $5.75 per gallon for premium, unleaded gas, this station is perfect for a quick stop with affordable prices. 

Anthem Oil: 105 E Lincoln Ave, Orange

The Anthem Oil on 105 E Lincoln Ave offers regular, unleaded fuel for $5.49 a gallon and premium, unleaded fuel for $5.79. The station also has amenities like a car wash, ATM machine and clean bathrooms. 

Costco Gas Station: 2700 Park Ave, Tustin 

At $5.49 a gallon for regular, unleaded gas and $5.79 per gallon for premium, unleaded gas, the gas station attached to the Costco Wholesale on 2700 Park Ave boasts a competitive price equal to Anthem Oil. However, be prepared for the station to get extremely crowded, even with the fast pumps offered. 

In order to use the machines, customers must also be Costco members, which requires a minimum of a $60 annual membership fee.

Berri Brothers: 8221 Garden Grove Blvd, Garden Grove

Berri Brothers offers regular, unleaded gas at $5.58 per gallon and premium, unleaded gas at  $5.78 per gallon. Founded in 1976 by the Berri family in Westminster, Berri Brothers operates 10 stations in Orange County. 

This independent gas company is known not just for its low prices, but also for its stellar car washes and convenience stores. Their store offers clean bathrooms, prompt service and even free coffee. 

Ralphs Fuel: 2345 W Chapman Ave

Located just a few blocks down from Ralphs supermarket, Ralphs Fuel on 2345 W Chapman Ave sells regular, unleaded gasoline at $5.59 per gallon and premium, unleaded gas at $5.89 per gallon.

Individuals who enroll in the Kroger Co. Family of Stores Loyalty Program will earn Fuel Points to save money when filling up their tank when they shop at stores owned by the Kroger company like Ralphs and Pay-Less groceries.

Even with nearby options providing slightly more cost-effective alternatives, there is no denying that gas prices are at an all-time-high. 

Driving smarter by slowing down and cruising at a steady pace can help save the gas used in frequent acceleration. Turning off the air conditioner and avoiding the car being idle can also help in conserving fuel. 

Apps like GasBuddy are also useful in locating the most affordable stations nearby, and signing up for their free card can even help users score an extra discount at the pump.