Southern California gas prices at their highest since September 2015

LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- If you feel like your commute has gotten a bit pricier, you're not imagining things. Gas prices in the Southland are at their highest since September 2015.

The Auto Club of Southern California says gas prices have gone up for 13 straight days. It's 11.8 cents more than one week ago, 27.8 cents higher than one month ago and 57.5 cents greater than one year ago.

The average price has risen 27.8 cents since the start of the year.

The average price for a gallon of unleaded gas in Los Angeles County is now $3.42. Experts say prices are rising due to a drop in crude oil inventories and a stronger demand for gas.

In Orange County, the average price has also gone up to its highest since September 2015, increasing 1.3 cents to $3.40. It has risen 14 consecutive days, increasing 19.4 cents, including 1.5 cents on Tuesday.

The Orange County average price is 12.3 cents more than one week ago, 28.6 cents higher than one month ago and 55.7 cents greater than one year ago. The average price has risen 28.6 cents since the start of the year.

City News Service contributed to this report.