California Cheapest Car Insurance & Best Coverage Options
Geico has California's cheapest car insurance and best coverage options for both minimum and full coverage. Geico's CA minimum coverage rate is an average of $38/mo, while California drivers who want full coverage for better financial protection from Geico will pay an average of $116/mo for insurance.
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Joel Ohman is the CEO of a private equity-backed digital media company. He is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™, author, angel investor, and serial entrepreneur who loves creating new things, whether books or businesses. He has also previously served as the founder and resident CFP® of a national insurance agency, Real Time Health Quotes. He also has an MBA from the University of South Florida. ...
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UPDATED: Feb 7, 2024
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Advertiser Disclosure: We strive to help you make confident auto insurance decisions. Comparison shopping should be easy. We are not affiliated with any one auto insurance provider and cannot guarantee quotes from any single provider. Our partnerships don’t influence our content. Our opinions are our own. To compare quotes from many different companies please enter your ZIP code on this page to use the free quote tool. The more quotes you compare, the more chances to save.
UPDATED: Feb 7, 2024
It’s all about you. We want to help you make the right coverage choices.
Advertiser Disclosure: We strive to help you make confident auto insurance decisions. Comparison shopping should be easy. We are not affiliated with any one auto insurance provider and cannot guarantee quotes from any single provider. Our partnerships don’t influence our content. Our opinions are our own. To compare quotes from many different companies please enter your ZIP code on this page to use the free quote tool. The more quotes you compare, the more chances to save.
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| Advertiser Disclosure: Some of the offers within the content are from companies where AutoInsureSavings.org may receive compensation. This does not influence our analysis of services or products. Our opinions are our own in good faith. |
- Geico has the cheapest car insurance in Californai
- Minimum CA coverage is an average of $38/mo at Geico
- Full CA coverage is an average of $116 at Geico
California’s cheapest car insurance and best coverage options can be found at Geico. Other best auto insurance companies for cheap CA auto insurance include USAA, Mercury, and more.
Continue reading to learn more about how to save on CA insurance. You can also use our quote tool to get free quotes.
Affordable California Car Insurance Rates
The best way drivers in California can save more on car insurance premiums is by comparing quotes by zip code from multiple insurers with the lowest rates from our insurance study. California drivers can find an affordable rate through comparison shopping, an essential part of finding a deal when dealing with the cost of auto insurance.
| Cheapest Car Insurance in California - Key Takeaways |
|---|
 The cheapest California car insurance options are:Cheapest for minimum coverage: Geico Cheapest for full coverage: Geico Cheapest after an at-fault accident: Mercury Cheapest after a speeding ticket: Mercury Cheapest after a DUI: Mercury Cheapest for married drivers: Geico Cheapest for young drivers: State Farm For younger drivers with a speeding violation: Mercury For younger drivers with an at-fault accident: Geico |
Check out this useful guide on California car insurance to find the right coverage and get more details on the average rates from leading insurance providers.
- California Cheapest Car Insurance & Best Coverage Options
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Cheapest Car Insurance in California for Minimum Coverage
Our agents found that Geico Insurance has the most affordable annual averages for drivers in California, with a $451 per year quote for minimum coverage for our sample 30-year-old.
The average California rate for minimum liability auto insurance policies is $629 per year, and Geico’s rate is $178 cheaper or 29% less expensive.
| Insurer | Average annual rate |
|---|---|
| Geico | $451 |
| USAA | $455 |
| CSAA | $468 |
| Progressive | $512 |
| Mercury | $543 |
| 21st Century | $589 |
| State Farm | $627 |
| Liberty Mutual | $699 |
| Allstate | $769 |
| Farmers | $843 |
*USAA is for qualified military members, their spouses, and direct family members. Your auto insurance rates may be different based on the driver’s profile. Read our USAA review for more information.
Drivers in California who only want a minimum coverage policy can drive legally for less by switching to one of the cheapest car insurance companies illustrated above.
| Advertiser Disclosure: Some of the offers within the content are from companies where AutoInsureSavings.org may receive compensation. This does not influence our analysis of services or products. Our opinions are our own in good faith. |
Cheapest Full Coverage Car Insurance in California
Geico offers the cheapest insurance option for those with good driving records in California with a quote at $1,388 per year or $115 per month for affordable full coverage car insurance rates. Geico’s rate is 28% less expensive than California’s average rates of $1,910 per year.
| Insurer | Annual cost | Monthly cost |
|---|---|---|
| Geico | $1,388 | $115 |
| Mercury | $1,427 | $118 |
| Progressive | $1,533 | $127 |
| 21st Century | $1,617 | $134 |
| Esurance | $1,748 | $145 |
| CSAA | $1,822 | $151 |
| State Farm | $1,977 | $164 |
| Liberty Mutual | $2,016 | $168 |
| Allstate | $2,028 | $169 |
| Farmers | $2,175 | $181 |
| California average | $1,910 | $159 |
The average cost of full coverage auto insurance in California is $159 per month or $1,910 annually. Full coverage insurance, which includes comprehensive and collision coverage, can cost as much as three times more than the average car insurance premiums for a minimum liability policy.
| Advertiser Disclosure: Some of the offers within the content are from companies where AutoInsureSavings.org may receive compensation. This does not influence our analysis of services or products. Our opinions are our own in good faith. |
AutoInsureSavings.org licensed agents suggest drivers in California who own a vehicle under 10 years old or worth more than $3,000 should consider a full coverage insurance policy to guarantee they will receive the benefits they need if an auto accident occurs that leaves their car totaled.
Cheapest Insurance With a Speeding Ticket in California
California drivers can find the cheapest car insurance with a speeding ticket on their driving record with Mercury, which has average annual premium costs of $1,818 per year. We found Mercury’s rate is 28% cheaper than California’s mean speeding violation rate of $2,517 per year.
| Insurer | Annual cost | Monthly cost |
|---|---|---|
| Mercury | $1,818 | $151 |
| Geico | $2,170 | $180 |
| CSAA | $2,253 | $187 |
| California average | $2,517 | $209 |
According to the Insurance Information Institute (III.org), drivers in California can expect their car insurance rates to increase by an average of 25% after receiving a traffic violation. The amount your average rates will rise depends on how fast you were going and how many speeding tickets you already have on your driving record in California.
Learn more: How much will my auto insurance go up with a speeding ticket?
Cheapest Car Insurance in California With a Car Accident
Drivers in California with an at-fault accident on their driving records can still save on their car insurance rates with Mercury Insurance, which offers a $179 monthly rate or 39% cheaper than California’s average rates.
We suggest comparing auto insurance quotes with Geico to get the best price, which provided us a $211 monthly rate for drivers with an at-fault accident.
| Insurer | Annual cost | Monthly cost |
|---|---|---|
| Mercury | $2,154 | $179 |
| Geico | $2,543 | $211 |
| State Farm | $2,971 | $247 |
| California average | $3,497 | $291 |
Will car insurance rates increase after an accident? Just one at-fault accident on your record in California can significantly increase your car insurance premium. Our research found that the difference between average auto insurance premiums for a driver with a good driving record than a driver with one accident is $1,579 per year.
Read more: Tips to Get Cheap Car Insurance after an Accident
Cheapest Insurance With a DUI in California
According to our rate analysis, Mercury Insurance offers the cheapest auto insurance rates for California drivers with a DUI with a $2,517 per year rate or $209 per month.
Read more: Best Car Insurance Companies After a DUI
Mercury’s rate is 42% less expensive than California’s average insurance premium for drivers with a DUI in their driving history.
| Insurer | Annual cost | Monthly cost |
|---|---|---|
| Mercury | $2,517 | $209 |
| Geico | $3,139 | $261 |
| Progressive | $3,461 | $288 |
| California average | $4,326 | $360 |
A DUI is a severe offense that can cause numerous consequences for a California car insurance policyholder. Along with their car insurance rates going up by 56%, the driver could also have a temporary driver’s license suspension and an option to have an ignition interlock device (IID) installed or participate in an alcohol treatment program.
| Advertiser Disclosure: Some of the offers within the content are from companies where AutoInsureSavings.org may receive compensation. This does not influence our analysis of services or products. Our opinions are our own in good faith. |
The California Department of Insurance recommends taking a defensive driving course to lower car insurance costs.
Cheapest Car Insurance by Marital Status in California
Married drivers in California can find the best and cheap auto insurance with Geico, which provided our agents a $106 monthly rate for full coverage car insurance. Geico’s rate is 26% lower than average rates for our sample 30-year-old drivers that are hitched.
The next cheapest insurance options are State Farm and Auto Club for drivers in California who are married if you shop around. Both auto insurers are more than 10% lower than average rates.
| Insurer | Annual cost | Monthly cost |
|---|---|---|
| Geico | $1,281 | $106 |
| State Farm | $1,319 | $109 |
| Auto Club | $1,544 | $129 |
| California average | $1,714 | $142 |
Cheapest Car Insurance Coverage in California for Young Drivers
During our comparison shopping study, young California drivers or college students can get the cheapest auto insurance coverage with State Farm, which provided us a $3,413 per year rate for full coverage insurance.
Young or teen drivers who need minimum coverage should compare quotes with State Farm, Mercury, and Geico, as these companies have the best car insurance for teens in CA.
State Farm offers the cheapest minimum liability coverage rate at $1,129 per year for adolescent drivers, while Geico is $1,246 per year, and Mercury’s car insurance rate is $1,265 annually.
All three car insurers are 41% cheaper than California’s state minimum liability rate for younger drivers.
| Insurer | Full coverage | Minimum coverage |
|---|---|---|
| State Farm | $3,413 | $1,129 |
| Mercury | $3,525 | $1,265 |
| Geico | $3,746 | $1,246 |
| Auto Club | $4,189 | $1,470 |
| CSAA | $4,471 | $1,319 |
| Progressive | $4,912 | $1,365 |
| Allstate | $4,919 | $1,859 |
| Farmers | $5,154 | $2,142 |
Young or teen drivers needing coverage in California will pay more for their car insurance premium regardless of what company they choose.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), inexperienced drivers are at a higher risk than older and more experienced drivers.
Our agents recommend teen drivers to go on their parent’s policy (with collision and comprehensive coverage) or have an adult family member on the auto insurance policy to save money.
Cheapest Car Insurance for Young Drivers with Speeding Tickets
Young California drivers with traffic tickets should look to Mercury Insurance to get the best auto insurance rates. The average car insurance cost from Mercury is $3,980 per year for full coverage auto insurance.
Mercury’s speeding ticket rate is 40% cheaper than the $6,548 average rates in California for younger drivers.
| Insurer | Annual cost | Monthly cost |
|---|---|---|
| Mercury | $3,980 | $331 |
| Geico | $4,031 | $335 |
| State Farm | $4,730 | $394 |
| California average | $6,548 | $545 |
Cheapest Car Insurance for Young Drivers in California with a Car Accident
The cheapest auto insurance coverage for younger drivers with an accident in California is Geico, which provided our agents a $363 monthly rate for full coverage or $239 per month less than California’s average rates at $602 per month.
The next cheapest option is Mercury, with a $370 monthly car insurance rate or 39% less expensive than California’s average auto insurance quotes.
| Car Insurance Carrier | Annual cost | Monthly cost |
|---|---|---|
| Geico | $4,356 | $363 |
| Mercury | $4,451 | $370 |
| State Farm | $5,277 | $439 |
| California average | $7,234 | $602 |
Best Car Insurance Companies in California
AutoInsureSavings.org licensed agents found the Geico, State Farm, and Progressive insurance companies offer some of the most affordable rates with excellent customer service and good financial strength to various California drivers.
Read more: Progressive Car Insurance Review
ValuePenguin surveyed with similar insurance company results:
| Car Insurance Carrier | % respondents satisfied with recent claim | % respondents rated customer service as excellent |
|---|---|---|
| Progressive | 75% | 35% |
| State Farm | 74% | 43% |
| Allstate | 72% | 47% |
| Farmers Insurance | 70% | 38% |
| Geico | 64% | 42% |
| CSAA | 61% | 46% |
| Mercury | 59% | 49% |
| AAA | 44% | 32% |
If you are in the market for a new car insurance policy and are only concerned about the price, these three auto insurance companies in California offer some of the state’s best auto insurance rates.
We also used data from the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC), J.D. Power’s claims satisfaction survey, and each car insurance company’s financial strength ratings from A.M. Best.
| Advertiser Disclosure: Some of the offers within the content are from companies where AutoInsureSavings.org may receive compensation. This does not influence our analysis of services or products. Our opinions are our own in good faith. |
NAIC complaint ratio looks at the number of complaints of the best car insurance company based on market share.
The lower the complaint ratio, the better. It is an indication of the quality of the car insurance carrier’s customer service and claims satisfaction.
| Car Insurance Carrier | NAIC Complaint Index | J.D. Power claims satisfaction score | AM Best Financial Strength Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| CSAA | 1.5 | 810 | A+ |
| Mercury | 1.5 | 787 | A |
| Geico | 1.8 | 828 | A++ |
| State Farm | 2.1 | 836 | A++ |
| Auto Club | 2.3 | 848 | A- |
| Farmers | 2.6 | 801 | A |
| Allstate | 3.0 | 819 | A+ |
| Progressive | 3.7 | 823 | A+ |
In this instance, the car insurance carrier who rated the best based on a low amount of complaints is CSAA Insurance Group (AAA) with 1.5, which is higher than the national average of 1.00. Auto Club of Southern California Insurance Group has the best J.D. Power claims satisfaction score at 848 out of 1,000.
When you have more information about what each car insurance provider has to provide you with, it will be easier for you to narrow down your choices and make an informed decision on the best auto insurance company in California is the best option for you.
Average Car Insurance Costs by City in California
Your zip code in California is a significant factor in your average auto insurance rates, along with driver profiles, including driving record, marital status, type of motor vehicle, and coverage levels.
Typically, residents of densely populated areas, high crime areas, or areas with poor road conditions tend to have expensive auto insurance rates, as crashes and claims are more likely.Tracey L. Wells Licensed Insurance Agent & Agency Owner
AutoInsureSavings.org car insurance experts did a study on the most populous California cities.
Cheapest Auto Insurance in Los Angeles, CA
Los Angeles drivers can find the cheapest auto insurance with Geico Insurance who provided our agents a $1,723 per year rate for our 30-year-old driver. Geico’s quote is 35% less expensive than Los Angeles’ average rates.
| Los Angeles Company | Average Premium |
|---|---|
| Geico | $1,723 |
| Auto Club | $1,856 |
| Mercury | $1,970 |
| Los Angeles average | $2,614 |
Cheapest Auto Insurance in San Diego, CA
Drivers in San Diego, California, can find the best coverage rates with CSAA Insurance Group, which provided us a quote at $1,614 per year or $134 per month for a full coverage insurance policy. CSAA’s rate is 38% cheaper than San Diego’s yearly insurance rate of $2,578 per year.
| San Diego Company | Average Premium |
|---|---|
| CSAA | $1,614 |
| Geico | $1,751 |
| Progressive | $1,926 |
| San Diego average | $2,578 |
Cheapest Auto Insurance in San Jose, CA
Our licensed agents found Mercury Insurance is the cheapest car insurance company in San Jose, CA. They provided us a $1,477 annual rate for full coverage, 43% less expensive than San Jose’s yearly average rate of $2,560.
| San Jose Company | Average Premium |
|---|---|
| Mercury | $1,477 |
| Geico | $1,738 |
| State Farm | $1,925 |
| San Jose average | $2,560 |
Cheapest Auto Insurance in San Francisco, CA
Our research found the cheapest auto insurance in San Francisco is with Geico, Auto Club, and CSAA Insurance Group. Geico is the most affordable, with a $144 monthly rate or $1,732 per year. At the same time, Auto Club offers a $1,959 quote, and CSAA offers a $2,043 per year rate for $100,000 in liability coverage with comprehensive and collision coverage $500 deductibles.
| San Francisco Company | Average Premium |
|---|---|
| Geico | $1,732 |
| Auto Club of Southern California Insurance Group | $1,959 |
| CSAA | $2,043 |
| San Francisco average | $2,832 |
Cheapest Auto Insurance in Fresno, CA
People in Fresno can find cheap auto coverage with Progressive, which provided our agents a low annual insurance rate of $1,498 per year for a 30-year-old with full coverage. The next most affordable option is Geico, with an annual $1,536 per year or 36% cheaper than Fresno average rates.
| Fresno Company | Average Premium |
|---|---|
| Progressive | $1,498 |
| Geico | $1,536 |
| CSAA | $1,631 |
| Fresno average | $2,365 |
Cheapest Auto Insurance in Sacramento, CA
Sacramento drivers can find the best full coverage insurance policy with Geico, which provided our agents a $1,573 per year rate or $131 per month for $100,000 in liability insurance with collision and comprehensive insurance $500 deductibles. Geico’s insurance quote is 37% cheaper than average rates for 30-year-old drivers in Sacramento, California.
| Sacramento Company | Average Premium |
|---|---|
| Geico | $1,573 |
| Mercury Insurance | $1,624 |
| State Farm | $1,898 |
| Sacramento average | $2,470 |
Cheapest Car Insurance in Long Beach, CA
Drivers in Long Beach can find the cheapest insurance coverage with CSAA Insurance Group, which provided AutoInsureSavings agents a $1,429 per year quote for full coverage. CSAA’s car insurance quote is 41% cheaper than Long Beach’s average rates.
| Long Beach Company | Average Premium |
|---|---|
| CSAA | $1,429 |
| Auto Club | $1,577 |
| State Farm | $1,740 |
| Long Beach average | $2,417 |
Cheapest Car Insurance in Oakland, CA
Oakland cheap auto insurance is found with Progressive, which offered our licensed agents a $1,631 per year rate for a full coverage insurance policy with $500 deductibles. Progressive’s rate is 36% cheaper than Oakland’s average rates for 30-year-old drivers.
| Oakland Company | Average Premium |
|---|---|
| Progressive | $1,631 |
| Auto Club | $1,687 |
| Geico | $1,963 |
| Oakland average | $2,533 |
Average Insurance Cost for All Cities in California
| City | Annual Premium Cost | City | Annual Premium Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles | $2,614 | El Cerrito | $1,843 |
| San Diego | $2,578 | Sanger | $1,818 |
| San Jose | $2,560 | North Tustin | $1,890 |
| San Francisco | $2,832 | Selma | $1,943 |
| Fresno | $2,365 | San Fernando | $1,911 |
| Sacramento | $2,470 | Riverbank | $2,137 |
| Long Beach | $2,417 | Ashland | $1,953 |
| Oakland | $2,533 | Seal Beach | $1,998 |
| Bakersfield | $2,287 | Loma Linda | $1,871 |
| Anaheim | $2,316 | Dinuba | $2,090 |
| Santa Ana | $2,417 | Calabasas | $2,032 |
| Riverside | $2,288 | Barstow | $2,076 |
| Stockton | $2,370 | Cudahy | $1,843 |
| Irvine | $2,511 | Valinda | $2,004 |
| Chula Vista | $2,477 | Coronado | $1,890 |
| Fremont | $2,319 | Rosemont | $1,818 |
| San Bernardino | $2,227 | Winter Gardens | $2,265 |
| Santa Clarita | $2,420 | West Puente Valley | $1,843 |
| Modesto | $2,411 | Granite Bay | $1,975 |
| Fontana | $2,175 | Laguna Beach | $2,117 |
| Oxnard | $2,213 | Oakdale | $1,818 |
| Moreno Valley | $2,363 | West Rancho Dominguez | $2,044 |
| Huntington Beach | $2,395 | Willowbrook | $1,871 |
| Glendale | $1,890 | Millbrae | $1,953 |
| Santa Rosa | $2,100 | Lathrop | $1,999 |
| Ontario | $2,096 | Corcoran | $1,818 |
| Rancho Cucamonga | $2,183 | Port Hueneme | $2,041 |
| Oceanside | $2,307 | Paradise | $2,117 |
| Garden Grove | $2,317 | West Carson | $1,843 |
| Elk Grove | $2,282 | Patterson | $1,975 |
| Corona | $2,093 | Marina | $1,890 |
| Hayward | $2,142 | South Lake Tahoe | $2,274 |
| Lancaster | $2,242 | Lakeside | $2,041 |
| Palmdale | $1,890 | Bloomington | $1,799 |
| Salinas | $2,276 | Lennox | $1,911 |
| Sunnyvale | $2,181 | Rancho San Diego | $2,513 |
| Pomona | $2,019 | Yucca Valley | $1,871 |
| Escondido | $2,277 | Duarte | $2,181 |
| Torrance | $2,111 | Ramona | $2,230 |
| Pasadena | $2,399 | Arvin | $2,041 |
| Orange | $2,263 | Rosamond | $1,890 |
| Fullerton | $1,890 | South El Monte | $2,242 |
| Roseville | $1,999 | Agoura Hills | $2,082 |
| Visalia | $2,284 | Lomita | $2,230 |
| Concord | $2,059 | Prunedale | $1,843 |
| Thousand Oaks | $2,183 | American Canyon | $1,897 |
| Santa Clara | $2,197 | Linda | $2,017 |
| Simi Valley | $2,226 | East Hemet | $1,799 |
| Victorville | $2,209 | Mead Valley | $1,953 |
| Berkeley | $1,890 | Dixon | $1,975 |
| Vallejo | $2,218 | South San Jose Hills | $2,041 |
| East Los Angeles | $2,599 | Albany | $2,017 |
| El Monte | $2,418 | Montrose | $1,871 |
| Fairfield | $2,194 | Orinda | $1,911 |
| Carlsbad | $2,058 | Blythe | $2,082 |
| Temecula | $1,953 | Hermosa Beach | $1,799 |
| Costa Mesa | $2,077 | Shafter | $2,158 |
| Murrieta | $2,249 | Castaic | $2,041 |
| Downey | $1,953 | Oroville | $1,843 |
| Antioch | $2,237 | Pinole | $2,102 |
| Ventura | $2,181 | Stevenson Ranch | $2,179 |
| Richmond | $1,890 | Cameron Park | $2,230 |
| Inglewood | $2,197 | Chowchilla | $2,082 |
| Clovis | $2,102 | Rancho Mirage | $1,799 |
| Daly City | $2,179 | Arcata | $2,045 |
| West Covina | $2,238 | Arroyo Grande | $2,059 |
| Santa Maria | $2,017 | Mountain House | $1,911 |
| Jurupa Valley | $2,230 | Woodcrest | $1,871 |
| Norwalk | $2,102 | Santa Fe Springs | $1,975 |
| San Mateo | $2,181 | Valle Vista | $2,158 |
| Burbank | $2,230 | Nipomo | $1,799 |
| El Cajon | $1,890 | Moraga | $2,017 |
| Rialto | $2,242 | Imperial | $2,046 |
| Arden-Arcade | $2,188 | Greenfield city | $2,179 |
| Vista | $2,172 | McKinleyville | $1,953 |
| Vacaville | $2,230 | Coalinga | $2,082 |
| Compton | $2,190 | Live Oak | $1,911 |
| Mission Viejo | $2,179 | Rosedale | $2,231 |
| San Marcos | $2,246 | Artesia | $1,799 |
| South Gate | $1,843 | El Segundo | $2,242 |
| Chico | $1,953 | Bostonia | $2,230 |
| Hesperia | $2,179 | Los Osos | $2,047 |
| Carson | $2,242 | Truckee | $2,158 |
| Redding | $2,230 | Rio Linda | $1,871 |
| Santa Monica | $2,059 | Stanford | $1,799 |
| Santa Barbara | $2,511 | East San Gabriel | $2,082 |
| Westminster | $2,186 | Vincent | $1,975 |
| Tracy | $1,890 | Discovery Bay | $2,230 |
| Menifee | $2,059 | Cherryland | $2,181 |
| San Leandro | $2,242 | Laguna Woods | $2,242 |
| Livermore | $1,911 | Phelan | $2,102 |
| Chino | $2,200 | Ukiah | $2,017 |
| Indio | $2,158 | Walnut Park | $1,890 |
| Citrus Heights | $2,102 | Parkway | $2,179 |
| Hawthorne | $2,017 | East Rancho Dominguez | $1,871 |
| Whittier | $1,993 | Ripon | $1,953 |
| Redwood City | $2,059 | Fillmore | $2,041 |
| Newport Beach | $2,132 | La Palma | $1,799 |
| Alhambra | $2,242 | Pacific Grove | $1,975 |
| Hemet | $2,102 | Avocado Heights | $2,230 |
| Lake Forest | $1,843 | Clearlake | $2,158 |
| Merced | $2,179 | Parlier | $2,242 |
| Buena Park | $2,230 | Susanville | $2,082 |
| Pleasanton | $1,890 | Coto de Caza | $2,041 |
| Mountain View city | $2,400 | Alamo | $1,843 |
| Chino Hills | $1,953 | Alpine | $2,017 |
| Lakewood | $1,871 | McFarland | $1,911 |
| Tustin | $2,242 | Kerman | $2,158 |
| Milpitas | $2,059 | Lamont | $2,179 |
| Manteca | $1,799 | Lemon Hill | $1,975 |
| Napa | $2,017 | North Fair Oaks | $2,242 |
| Alameda | $2,181 | Hawaiian Gardens | $1,953 |
| Folsom | $2,047 | Mill Valley | $1,890 |
| Perris | $2,242 | North Auburn | $2,230 |
| Bellflower | $2,059 | Red Bluff | $2,158 |
| Upland | $2,242 | Salida | $2,242 |
| Baldwin Park | $2,102 | Livingston | $2,017 |
| San Ramon | $2,286 | Auburn | $1,871 |
| Union City | $1,953 | King City | $2,082 |
| Rancho Cordova | $2,102 | El Sobrante | $1,911 |
| Turlock | $2,179 | Oak Park | $1,975 |
| Apple Valley | $1,890 | California City | $1,799 |
| Pittsburg | $2,017 | Sun Village | $2,041 |
| Redlands | $2,242 | El Sobrante | $1,953 |
| Lynwood | $2,059 | Grover Beach | $2,181 |
| Walnut Creek | $2,158 | Carpinteria | $2,179 |
| Davis | $1,843 | Olivehurst | $1,871 |
| Camarillo | $2,242 | Big Bear City | $2,102 |
| Yorba Linda | $2,281 | Palos Verdes Estates | $1,799 |
| Redondo Beach | $2,119 | Solana Beach | $2,041 |
| South San Francisco | $2,514 | Lindsay | $2,082 |
| Palo Alto | $2,428 | San Marino | $2,230 |
| Yuba City | $2,059 | Lakeland Village | $2,242 |
| Lodi | $2,102 | Avenal | $2,158 |
| Lake Elsinore | $2,242 | Grass Valley | $1,911 |
| Laguna Niguel | $2,179 | Half Moon Bay | $2,017 |
| Florence-Graham | $2,041 | Commerce | $1,890 |
| San Clemente | $1,953 | Bonita | $2,158 |
| Rocklin | $1,871 | Tehachapi | $2,186 |
| Madera | $1,975 | Malibu | $2,179 |
| Santa Cruz | $2,017 | Muscoy | $1,953 |
| Carmichael | $2,059 | San Anselmo | $2,211 |
| Tulare | $2,230 | Grand Terrace | $2,181 |
| Castro Valley | $1,799 | Marysville | $1,911 |
| Pico Rivera | $2,155 | Larkspur | $1,843 |
| Encinitas | $2,249 | Delhi | $2,041 |
| Montebello | $2,242 | Fortuna | $1,871 |
| Eastvale | $1,890 | Home Gardens | $2,082 |
| Brentwood | $2,242 | Clayton | $2,186 |
| Dublin | $2,059 | Kingsburg | $1,799 |
| National City | $1,975 | Camp Pendleton South | $2,102 |
| Petaluma | $1,953 | Emeryville | $1,890 |
| La Habra | $2,038 | Scotts Valley | $2,155 |
| Monterey Park | $1,871 | Healdsburg | $2,017 |
| South Whittier | $2,179 | Windsor Hills | $1,871 |
| Cupertino | $2,017 | Lake Los Angeles | $1,953 |
| Woodland | $2,249 | Diamond Springs | $2,244 |
| Gardena | $1,843 | Tamalpais-Homestead Valley | $1,799 |
| Porterville | $1,890 | Alum Rock | $2,038 |
| La Mesa | $2,102 | Los Alamitos | $1,890 |
| San Rafael | $1,911 | Mendota | $1,975 |
| Huntington Park | $2,242 | Signal Hill | $2,155 |
| Arcadia | $2,102 | Magalia | $1,871 |
| Santee | $2,059 | Hillsborough | $2,211 |
| Gilroy | $2,186 | Piedmont | $1,890 |
| Hanford | $2,249 | Winton | $2,179 |
| Diamond Bar | $2,082 | Canyon Lake | $1,843 |
| Fountain Valley | $1,799 | Rossmoor | $2,186 |
| Novato | $2,242 | Valley Center | $1,911 |
| Hacienda Heights | $2,155 | Sonoma | $2,219 |
| Highland | $2,233 | Placerville | $2,017 |
| Colton | $1,863 | Sierra Madre | $2,082 |
| Paramount | $2,038 | Soquel | $2,102 |
| Cathedral City | $1,890 | La Riviera | $2,059 |
| Rosemead | $1,953 | Farmersville | $1,843 |
| Watsonville | $2,017 | Morro Bay | $1,799 |
| Yucaipa | $2,102 | Fairview | $2,211 |
| West Sacramento | $2,418 | San Diego Country Estates | $2,582 |
| Delano | $1,975 | Exeter | $1,863 |
| Palm Desert | $2,179 | Oak Hills | $2,155 |
| Placentia | $2,059 | Rodeo | $1,953 |
| Glendora | $2,082 | Anderson | $2,038 |
| Aliso Viejo | $2,230 | East Whittier | $1,799 |
| Rowland Heights | $1,890 | Orange Cove | $1,975 |
| Cerritos | $1,911 | Shasta Lake | $2,186 |
| Azusa | $2,242 | Citrus | $2,221 |
| Poway | $2,059 | Capitola | $2,017 |
| Cypress | $1,843 | Charter Oak | $2,244 |
| La Mirada | $2,186 | Quartz Hill | $1,890 |
| Rancho Santa Margarita | $1,863 | Del Aire | $2,082 |
| Antelope | $2,211 | Country Club | $2,102 |
| Ceres | $2,242 | Garden Acres | $1,843 |
| Covina | $1,799 | Fort Irwin | $2,155 |
| San Jacinto | $2,102 | Madera Acres | $1,863 |
| Palm Springs | $1,890 | Marina del Rey | $1,911 |
| North Highlands | $1,953 | Corte Madera | $2,179 |
| Florin | $2,038 | Mentone | $2,059 |
| Lincoln | $2,242 | West Athens | $2,186 |
| San Luis Obispo | $1,975 | Rio del Mar | $1,890 |
| Newark | $2,017 | Blackhawk | $2,230 |
| Beaumont | $2,179 | Madera Ranchos | $1,975 |
| El Dorado Hills | $1,843 | Taft | $2,242 |
| Coachella | $2,082 | Golden Hills | $1,758 |
| Altadena | $2,155 | Good Hope | $2,230 |
| Morgan Hill | $1,863 | Tiburon | $2,017 |
| Danville | $1,890 | Rio Vista | $2,102 |
| El Centro | $2,102 | Lake Arrowhead | $2,038 |
| Lompoc | $2,242 | Waterford | $1,843 |
| San Bruno | $2,059 | Calimesa | $2,186 |
| Rohnert Park | $1,843 | Cloverdale | $1,863 |
| Brea | $2,230 | Crestline | $2,155 |
| Bell Gardens | $1,911 | Live Oak city | $2,179 |
| Campbell | $2,038 | Earlimart | $1,843 |
| Rancho Palos Verdes | $2,082 | Los Altos Hills | $2,059 |
| Oakley | $1,975 | August | $2,102 |
| La Quinta | $2,155 | Spring Valley Lake | $1,758 |
| San Gabriel | $2,179 | Gonzales | $1,975 |
| La Puente | $2,017 | Westlake Village | $2,038 |
| Calexico | $2,186 | Midway City | $2,082 |
| Culver City | $1,863 | Larkfield | $2,186 |
| Montclair | $2,102 | Alondra Park | $1,890 |
| Pacifica | $2,038 | Montecito | $1,911 |
| Los Banos | $1,975 | Pismo Beach | $2,155 |
| Hollister | $2,211 | Mammoth Lakes | $2,242 |
| Stanton | $2,102 | South San Gabriel | $1,758 |
| Martinez | $1,843 | Cherry Valley | $2,247 |
| La Presa | $2,211 | Vandenberg Village | $2,186 |
| Monrovia | $2,059 | Topanga | $1,953 |
| West Hollywood | $2,082 | Templeton | $1,863 |
| Wildomar | $2,179 | Interlaken | $1,843 |
| Moorpark | $1,758 | Oroville East | $2,038 |
| French Valley | $2,155 | Sebastopol | $1,975 |
| Claremont | $1,890 | Ione | $2,017 |
| Temple City | $2,082 | Boyes Hot Springs | $2,102 |
| San Juan Capistrano | $2,219 | Piñon Hills | $1,758 |
| Foothill Farms | $2,179 | Corning | $2,059 |
| Bell | $1,843 | Joshua Tree | $2,211 |
| Manhattan Beach | $2,102 | Fairfax | $2,082 |
| Westmont | $2,300 | Plumas Lake | $2,242 |
| Pleasant Hill | $1,911 | Yreka | $1,843 |
| Orangevale | $2,017 | Ojai | $2,186 |
| Oildale | $2,040 | Oceano | $1,975 |
| Beverly Hills | $2,488 | Hughson | $2,179 |
| Menlo Park | $1,843 | Cotati | $2,211 |
| San Dimas | $2,155 | Guadalupe | $2,017 |
| Foster City | $1,863 | Calipatria | $1,890 |
| Seaside | $1,758 | Camp Pendleton North | $2,186 |
| Dana Point | $1,953 | University of California-Davis | $2,382 |
| Adelanto | $1,975 | Fort Bragg | $1,911 |
| Lawndale | $1,890 | Alta Sierra | $1,843 |
| La Verne | $2,102 | Acton | $2,039 |
| Paso Robles | $2,082 | Winters | $2,186 |
| Fallbrook | $2,059 | Nuevo | $2,211 |
| Spring Valley | $2,218 | Atherton | $2,240 |
| Laguna Hills | $2,017 | Pollock Pines | $1,863 |
| Orcutt | $2,219 | Sausalito | $2,242 |
| Banning | $1,843 | Huron | $1,905 |
| Fair Oaks | $2,186 | Homeland | $2,155 |
| Goleta | $2,038 | Rancho Calaveras | $1,758 |
| San Pablo | $1,863 | Kentfield | $2,017 |
| Los Gatos | $1,911 | Franklin | $2,059 |
| Saratoga | $1,975 | Thermalito | $2,234 |
| Burlingame | $2,220 | Ben Lomond | $2,082 |
| Los Altos | $2,179 | Lemoore Station | $1,843 |
| San Carlos | $1,905 | San Martin | $2,102 |
| Atascadero | $2,186 | Thousand Palms | $1,953 |
| Santa Paula | $2,082 | Lake Mathews | $1,758 |
| Walnut | $2,102 | Loomis | $1,975 |
| East Palo Alto | $1,953 | Desert Palms | $2,186 |
| Suisun City | $2,155 | Gridley | $1,863 |
| Atwater | $2,017 | Bermuda Dunes | $1,905 |
| Ridgecrest | $2,059 | Marinwood | $1,911 |
| Desert Hot Springs | $1,905 | Crescent City | $2,186 |
| Vineyard | $1,758 | Mecca | $2,059 |
| Monterey | $2,102 | Mira Monte | $2,211 |
| Benicia | $1,843 | Ladera Heights | $2,017 |
| Isla Vista | $2,232 | La Habra Heights | $2,179 |
| Temescal Valley | $1,975 | South Monrovia Island | $1,905 |
| Windsor | $1,863 | Contra Costa Centre | $2,038 |
| Maywood | $2,186 | Keyes | $2,155 |
| Imperial Beach | $2,211 | Holtville | $1,863 |
| Ladera Ranch | $2,082 | Castroville | $2,082 |
| Wasco | $2,112 | Aptos | $2,186 |
| Belmont | $2,017 | El Rio | $1,975 |
| Eureka | $2,179 | East Porterville | $1,758 |
| Lemon Grove | $2,155 | Salton City | $2,112 |
| Norco | $1,905 | East Foothills | $2,082 |
| Los Nietos | $1,911 | Saranap | $2,017 |
| Lafayette | $1,953 | East Pasadena | $2,038 |
| Twentynine Palms | $2,059 | Eucalyptus Hills | $2,201 |
| Lemoore | $2,179 | Fruitridge Pocket | $1,843 |
| Brawley | $1,953 | Colusa | $1,863 |
| Galt | $1,975 | El Granada | $2,179 |
| Bay Point | $2,112 | St. Helena | $1,911 |
| Soledad | $1,758 | Pleasure Point | $2,153 |
| South Pasadena | $2,182 | Willows | $1,908 |
| Hercules | $2,038 | Durham | $2,060 |
| Reedley | $1,863 | Lucerne Valley | $1,905 |
| San Lorenzo | $1,911 | Greenacres | $1,990 |
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Minimum Car Insurance Requirements in California
For vehicle registration, California state laws require all car insurance policies to have bodily injury liability and property damage liability coverage with the liability limits illustrated below.
| Liability insurance | Minimum coverage |
|---|---|
| Bodily injury liability coverage | $15,000 per person / $30,000 per accident |
| Property damage liability coverage | $5,000 per accident |
By getting state minimums in California, you can drastically reduce your monthly insurance cost. Our agents recommend full coverage insurance with uninsured motorist coverage for most drivers in California with a clean driving record, including comprehensive and collision coverage.
AutoInsureSavings.org licensed agents recommend older drivers living in expensive zip codes in the Golden State with sizable investments and assets to increase liability limits and purchase an umbrella policy on top of a standard car insurance policy.
High school or college students can opt for an auto insurance premium comparable to California’s minimum state requirements with comprehensive, collision insurance and uninsured motorist coverage.
To learn more about the most affordable car insurance options in California, enter your zip code in our free quote tool or get expert advice at AutoInsureSavings.org. Our licensed car insurance professionals will be happy to answer any questions you have.
Methodology
AutoInsureSavings.org comparison shopping study used a full-coverage auto policy for a 30-year-old driving a 2018 Honda Accord with the following coverage limits:
Average Coverage Limits for Full-Coverage Auto Policy
| Coverage type | Study limits |
|---|---|
| Bodily injury liability | $50,000 per person / $100,000 per accident |
| Property damage liability | $25,000 per accident |
| Personal injury protection | $10,000 |
| Uninsured / underinsured motorist bodily injury | $50,000 per person / $100,000 per accident |
| Comprehensive and collision coverage | $500 deductible |
We used rates for drivers with an accident history, credit score, and marital status for other California rate analyses. We used car insurance rate data from Quadrant Information Services, which are publicly available for comparative purposes only. Your auto insurance rates may vary when you get quotes.
Sources
– Insurance Information Institute. “Auto Rate Setting.”
– National Association of Insurance Commissioners. “Market Share Reports for Property/Casualty Groups and Car Insurance Companies.”
– California Department of Motor Vehicles. “Car Insurance Requirements.”
– California Department of Insurance. “Auto Insurance Information Guide.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Who has the cheapest car insurance coverage in California?
Geico offers the most affordable car insurance rates to various California drivers at $451 per year for minimum coverage. USAA is cheap coverage ($455 per year). However, if you are not eligible for their coverage, your next best options for low-priced car insurance are CSAA ($468 per year) and Progressive ($512 per year).
To find out who offers affordable car insurance in California, you want to make sure to compare rates by getting quotes from top car insurance companies.
How much is minimum coverage car insurance in California per month?
The average cost of state minimum car insurance in California is $629 annually or $52 per month. Geico’s average rate for minimum coverage is $451 per year or $37 per month. CSAA ($468 per year) and Progressive ($512 per year) are also below the state’s average rates.
How much is full coverage car insurance in California?
The average cost of full coverage auto insurance in California is $159 per month or $1,910 per year. Geico ($1,388 per year), Mercury Insurance ($1,427 per year), and Progressive ($1,533 per year) offer full coverage insurance at an average rate lower than the state’s average by 20%.
Full coverage auto insurance costs significantly more than minimum liability coverage, and for that reason, many drivers will choose an auto policy with less coverage to save money. If you have a newer vehicle or concerns about minimum coverage not providing you with enough protection, you should consider full coverage insurance.
How do I save on car insurance in California?
There are several ways you can save money on your car insurance premium costs in California. Initially, it would be best to compare quotes from multiple providers to determine which car insurance carrier in the area offers the lowest rates for you. After that, you should inquire about a money-saving driver discount provided by each car insurance provider you have in mind.
The more car insurance discounts you are eligible for, the more money you can save. Taking time to make sure you have an appropriate coverage level and practicing safe driving habits are two more things you can do that will help you save on your California car insurance rates.
What is the best auto insurance in California?
The best auto insurance coverage in CA is full coverage insurance policies.
Why is California car insurance so expensive?
California is a very densely populated state. More drivers on the road mean a higher risk of crashing into another car and filing a claim, so insurers charge more in CA.
What is the penalty for not having car insurance in California?
Driving without car insurance in California will result in at least fines.
Can you get same-day car insurance in California?
Yes, most auto insurance companies offer auto insurance that starts the same day you purchase it.
Is California a no-fault state?
At-fault auto insurance laws are in place in California.
Is California a PIP state?
California auto insurance laws do not require drivers to carry PIP insurance.
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Joel Ohman
Certified Financial Planner
Joel Ohman is the CEO of a private equity-backed digital media company. He is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™, author, angel investor, and serial entrepreneur who loves creating new things, whether books or businesses. He has also previously served as the founder and resident CFP® of a national insurance agency, Real Time Health Quotes. He also has an MBA from the University of South Florida. ...
Certified Financial Planner
UPDATED: Feb 7, 2024
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