How Much is Car Insurance in California?

California car insurance rates — quick facts

• The average auto insurance cost in California is $1,713 per year — 20% more than the national average.

• Drivers in their 60s have the cheapest car insurance rates in California on average.
• A DUI will raise your insurance rates by nearly $3,000 per year.
• California is one of the few states that doesn't use credit score as a rating factor.

How are insurance rates determined in California?

Your car insurance rates are impacted by more than just your location. Auto insurance rates comprise myriad factors, including a driver's age and driving history. We reviewed average California car insurance rates by each of the most common rating factors. Read on to learn how much auto insurance costs in your state — or submit your zip to receive personalized quotes from popular insurers.

Average Car Insurance Expenditure in California by Age Bracket

It’s a fact of life: as you age, your auto insurance premiums change. Typically, auto insurance is pricier for young drivers and teens, as auto insurance companies see newer drivers as less responsible. Rates are cheapest for California drivers in their 60s. Have a look at average rates by age below.

Average Car Insurance Rates in California by Marriage Status

One benefit of getting hitched — aside from the honeymoon — is the better deal you may receive on your car insurance policy. In the state of California, married drivers save $73 per year on car insurance policies. This is less than the national savings of $76.

CALIFORNIA CAR INSURANCE RATES BY MARITAL STATUS

Car insurance coverage for divorced drivers in California is the 9th most expensive in the nation. If you are paying too much for your car insurance policy, don't be afraid to shop around. You never know what savings you'll find!

Average Auto Insurance Costs in California by Credit Score

Car insurance companies use credit score to get an idea of a potential customer's reliability. Data trends show drivers with good credit histories are often more dependable car insurance customers: they are less likely to file claims covered by auto insurance. However, California outlaws the use of credit score as an insurance rating factor, meaning you'll pay the same car insurance rate no matter your credit history.

Median Car Insurance Costs for High-Risk Drivers in California

If you’re determined to be at fault in a car accident or found guilty of a driving infraction, your auto insurance premiums are bound to rise. The more red flags you rack up, the pricier your auto insurance becomes.

In California, your first minor at-fault crash leads to a penalty of $862.80 per year in auto insurance premiums. A DUI — considered among the most grievous driving violations — may grow your insurance rates in California by as much as $2,977.05.

Median Auto Insurance Prices by Coverage Amount in California

How much you pay per month for car insurance depends on the tier of coverage you purchase. Liability-only coverage typically costs less, while low-deductible comprehensive coverage costs more. In California, the rate difference between state-minimum liability-only coverage and comprehensive coverage with a $500 deductible is $908.

CALIFORNIA AUTO INSURANCE RATES BY COVERAGE LEVEL

If you're facing above-average auto insurance costs, think about comparing policies to get inexpensive coverage that covers your vehicle appropriately.