As gas prices continue to climb, student drivers are having to pay more and more for gas. With the prices refusing to stabilize, students stress about the financial responsibilities of paying for their own gas while driving to school, work or other activities.

“Honestly, [gas prices are] too high. It costs too much to fill a tank,” senior Thatcher Roethle said.

Roethle works as a city lifeguard, which helps cover fuel costs, though gas expenses limit how much money he has for other purchases, like off-campus lunch.

Some students look for ways to reduce those costs by taking advantage of memberships, rewards programs or discount stations.

“I go to Sam’s since my parents have the membership; it makes gas cheaper,” senior JJ Yegres said.

For many student drivers, finding the lowest gas prices has become an important part of managing their budgets. Even small discounts over time can add up, especially for those who drive frequently.

Not every student has their own income to offset rising fuel costs. Some rely on family members to cover expenses, which can affect how much spending money they have for other activities.

“I don’t have a job so my parents pay for my gas, leaving me with no money to spend on anything else,” junior Joselin Hernandez said. 

As gas takes up a larger portion of expenses, students often have to make trade-offs between driving and other spending habits.

 “I spend over $200 a week on gas,” sophomore Kaylee Summers said.

Expenses like Summers’ show how quickly fuel costs can add up. For students balancing school, jobs and extracurricular activities, keeping a vehicle on the road can be a large part of their income.