CA, US & World
Rising Gas and Diesel Prices Strain Small Businesses and Food Truck Owners
Rising gas and diesel prices are putting increasing pressure on small business owners across California, especially those who rely on transportation to operate.
Food truck vendors, including operators at Modesto’s Grub Hub, say higher fuel costs are significantly cutting into profits as they move equipment, run generators, and travel between locations.
One vendor noted that weekly fuel expenses for transporting equipment alone have jumped sharply over the past year, while additional diesel costs for towing and gasoline usage for generators continue to add up.
According to AAA, the average price for a gallon of gas in California is now over $6, with diesel prices climbing even higher. Some reports indicate diesel is more than $2 higher per gallon than it was a year ago.
Business owners say they are also absorbing increased costs for ingredients and supplies, but many have kept menu prices steady to avoid losing customers.
In Riverside County, gas prices remain elevated at just over $6 per gallon on average, even with slight recent dips.
Owners say if fuel prices continue to rise, they may be forced to raise prices, which could further impact already tight profit margins for small businesses operating across the region.
By: NBC Palm Springs
May 13, 2026
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