Chula Vista, CA Car Insurance
How much does car insurance cost in Chula Vista?
The cost of car insurance in Chula Vista for a six-month policy is approximately $878 or an average of $146 per month. Based on our analysis for 2023, Wawanesa provides the most inexpensive car insurance rates in Chula Vista, with rates starting at $480, or roughly $80 per month.
In Chula Vista, car insurance costs are slightly below the average for California (at $966 every six months) but above the national average of $742. Given the lower costs compared to other Californian cities, it's no surprise that 32% of our Chula Vista customers said they're just looking for auto insurance. If you're one of these folks or simply want to learn more about coverage and options, keep reading to discover more about fair rates in Chula Vista and the factors that influence insurance costs.
| Car Insurance in Chula Vista vs. California | Avg. 6 Mo. Premium |
|---|---|
| California Average | $966 |
| Chula Vista Average | $878 |
The cheapest car insurance companies in Chula Vista
San Diego-based insurance company Wawanesa is the cheapest option for Chula Vista auto coverage with rates around $80 per month or $480 for a six-month policy.
In second place is GEICOÂ which costs $99 per month, or $591 for a six-month policy.
The third cheapest option on our list is USAA. On average, a USAA policy in Chula Vista costs $790 per six-month policy. Keep in mind that USAA auto insurance is available to members only, so be sure to check your eligibility.
The Zebra's key takeaways about car insurance in Chula Vista:
- The average cost of a car insurance policy in Chula Vista is $878 per six-month policy — $146 per month.
- The cheapest company in Chula Vista is Wawanesa ($480).
- 32% of Zebra customers in Chula Vista stated they used our product because they were just looking for car insurance.
Are you paying too much for auto insurance?
Chula Vista car insurance rates by company
Our 2023 analysis indicates that the most affordable car insurance company for full coverage in Chula Vista, CA, is Wawanesa, which charges $80 per month or $480 for a six-month plan. Wawanesa offers coverage in California and Oregon and has its US headquarters in San Diego. GEICO is the second cheapest company on our list, with a monthly fee of $99 or a six-month rate of $591.
Discover more about the highest-rated car insurance firms as rated by The Zebra's Customer Satisfaction Survey.
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Cheapest car insurance companies in Chula Vista, CA
| Company | Avg. 6 Mo. Premium |
|---|---|
| Wawanesa | $480 |
| GEICO | $591 |
| USAA | $790 |
| MetLife | $822 |
| Progressive | $834 |
| Nationwide | $919 |
| State Farm | $1,001 |
| Allstate | $1,078 |
Dynamic auto insurance data methodology
Methodology: The auto insurance rates displayed above and throughout this page are dynamic, meaning the data will refresh when the most recent information is made available. Rates are based on a sample driver profile — a 30-year-old single male driver with a Honda Accord and full coverage. This profile was adjusted based on common pricing factors used by major car insurance companies, like age, coverage level, driving record and others.
Shop around for the best rates
Comparing rates is the simplest way to secure the best car insurance deals. Let The Zebra handle the legwork for you, as insurance companies are not all equal. Enter your ZIP code to view rates from top insurers like Nationwide, GEICO, Wawanesa, and others in Chula Vista.
Average car insurance in Chula Vista by rating factor
Your customized car insurance rates are determined by rating factors — information about you that insurance companies use to evaluate risk and establish what you will pay for coverage. While most companies use the same rating factors, they may weigh them differently. One company may focus on claims history, while another may give more weight to your credit score or ZIP code.
It's crucial to keep in mind that as life changes, so do your rating factors. It's a smart idea to get new quotes periodically to ensure you're getting the best rates and coverage as your personal situation evolves. For instance, the company that was the best fit for you in your 20s may not be the ideal choice in your 40s. Read on to learn how your rating factors impact your rates and coverage in Chula Vista.
Q: I didn't have an accident — Why is my insurance going up?
A:Â In most cities, including Chula Vista, end-of-year earnings (revenue of premiums versus the cost of paying insureds' claims) is a critical rating factor for determining how much you will pay for car insurance. Even if you are an exceptional driver with no claims, if the cost of doing business in your location has risen, this may not matter. Some companies simply pay more to operate in particular areas, and this expense is passed on to their customers in the form of higher rates.
Auto insurance premiums by age in Chula Vista
As you gain more experience behind the wheel, you may notice that you pay less for car insurance, even though getting older may not always be pleasant. Age is a significant factor in car insurance costs, and teen drivers often face significantly higher premiums than their older peers due to data showing they pose a greater risk of being involved in an accident. In fact, Chula Vista residents see an astounding $2,274 difference per year when comparing rates for teens with those for people in their 20s!
It may seem unfair, but insurance companies must account for these risks when determining prices. One way to reduce some of the added expenses for teens is to be added to their parent or guardian's policy instead of starting from scratch with their own policy in Chula Vista.
Cheapest car insurance companies for teen drivers in Chula Vista, CA
| Company | Avg. 6 Mo. Premium |
|---|---|
| Wawanesa | $801 |
| GEICO | $1,388 |
| USAA | $1,721 |
| State Farm | $1,749 |
| Progressive | $2,041 |
| MetLife | $2,142 |
| Allstate | $2,255 |
| Nationwide | $2,899 |
| Age Bracket | Cheapest Companies | Avg. 6 Mo. Premium |
|---|---|---|
| 20s | Wawanesa | $526 |
| 30s | Wawanesa | $411 |
| 40s | Wawanesa | $411 |
| 50s | Wawanesa | $411 |
| 60s | Wawanesa | $411 |
| 70s | Wawanesa | $404 |
Zebra Tip:Â The cheapest companies for Chula Vista drivers between 20-40 are GEICO, Wawanesa and USAA
Our research shows that drivers aged between 20 and 40 comprise the majority of road users in Chula Vista. On average, this demographic pays $999 every six months for their car insurance, but opting for one of these insurance companies could potentially save them 35%.
Auto insurance premiums for minimum coverage in Chula Vista
In Chula Vista, there are many drivers who only carry state-minimum coverage, putting them at risk of financial hardship in the event of a serious accident. While opting for collision or comprehensive coverage (also known as full coverage) may raise your premiums, it's important to consider the added protection these policies offer.
Raising your deductible level can be a smart way to save on monthly car insurance payments in Chula Vista. While it may mean paying more out of pocket in the event of a claim, it can also help make coverage more affordable for those on a tight budget. Optional extras like roadside assistance and uninsured motorist coverage can provide added peace of mind for drivers in Chula Vista. While they may raise your rates slightly, they can be a worthwhile investment in your safety and security.
Q: Can I lower my car insurance coverage?
A: Possibly — if your vehicle is paid off.
To finance or lease a vehicle, you may need to maintain specific levels of coverage on the car. If you own your car outright and want to save money, it might be worth considering whether eliminating comprehensive or collision coverage is feasible. We strongly recommend obtaining an accurate valuation of your car from a reputable source like Kelley Blue Book, and the general guideline is that collision coverage is unnecessary for cars valued at less than $4,000. If you decide to drop collision coverage, keep in mind that you'll be responsible for any repairs needed in the event of an accident. However, if this is a risk you're willing to take, reducing your coverage can result in significant savings.
Cheapest car insurance companies for minimum coverage in Chula Vista, CA
| Company | Avg. 6 Mo. Premium |
|---|---|
| GEICO | $160 |
| USAA | $214 |
| Wawanesa | $215 |
| Progressive | $237 |
| Nationwide | $287 |
| MetLife | $297 |
| State Farm | $304 |
| Allstate | $308 |
- Minimum: State liability coverage only
- Basic: State liability + collision and comprehensive (full) coverage
- Better: Better liability limits at 50/100/50. Full coverage included with towing and rental car benefits. May include additional personal medical benefits and uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage.
- Best: Best liability limits at 100/300/50. Full coverage included with better towing and rental car benefits and better personal medical benefits and increased uninsured/underinsured coverage.
43% of our customers in Chula Vista opt for the basic level of coverage, but this may not be the best option for everyone. We know that sticking to your budget is important, but it's also important not to sacrifice coverage by only carrying the bare minimum. Carrying only the state minimum required insurance can leave you at risk for damages that exceed your liability limits. California's 15/30/5 liability limits provide coverage for damage you cause up to $15,000 per person in bodily injury, $30,000 per accident in bodily injury and $5,000 for property damage. While this may be enough to cover a small fender-bender, it might not be sufficient for bodily injury claims or multi-vehicle accidents.
Learn more about insurance laws in California.
Chula Vista car insurance rates by credit score
Chula Vista is one of the few places where credit score is not used to determine the price you pay for coverage. Evaluating the risk of loss is typically done by insurance companies using credit scores, and those drivers who are deemed to be at higher risk will pay higher rates. California, along with Hawaii and Michigan, has banned using credit scores as a factor in determining insurance premiums. This policy helps to keep insurance costs lower for drivers, regardless of their credit history.
Auto insurance rates with an at-fault accident
Accidents can happen to anyone at any time on the road, so it's vital to have insurance coverage and the right information. At-fault accidents and collisions are the most frequent insurance claims, and having either on your driving record can cause a significant increase in your insurance rate. According to our 2023 data, at-fault accidents in Chula Vista raised insurance rates by as much as $107 per month. If you're looking for affordable auto insurance after an accident, Wawanesa is the way to go.
One effective approach to steer clear of surcharge hikes is to steer clear of accidents. While we acknowledge that this may not always be feasible, operating your vehicle cautiously is a fundamental aspect that can be managed by you for a large portion of your time. Make an effort to prevent infractions and citations — actions like driving over the speed limit, driving recklessly, and DUI or DWI can lead to rate increases that could persist for three to five years. There are occasions when a DUI can stay with you for even lengthier periods.
Cheapest car insurance companies after an at-fault accident in Chula Vista, CA
| Company | Avg. 6 Mo. Premium |
|---|---|
| Wawanesa | $722 |
| GEICO | $1,069 |
| USAA | $1,118 |
| Nationwide | $1,340 |
| MetLife | $1,414 |
| State Farm | $1,575 |
| Progressive | $1,633 |
| Allstate | $2,369 |
Chula Vista car insurance rates by violation
Below you can see how much different violations and claims will increase your rate in Chula Vista.
Car insurance rate increases after violations and citations in Chula Vista, CA
Why is car insurance in Chula Vista so expensive?
While Chula Vista's insurance rates may not be the highest in the state, it can still seem like a costly expense. Prices of insurance in Chula Vista, and any other city, can be expensive for various reasons. One factor is the high cost of living in a popular city — just like the residents of Chula Vista pay more to reside in this bustling metropolis, insurance companies must also cover their operational expenses, resulting in rate hikes. Auto insurance can also be costly due to other factors, aside from the typical credit score and driving record.
Let's examine why insurance rates can be high, even for responsible drivers.
Your insurance rates will be influenced by your place of residence, and it goes beyond just the city and state. Chula Vista has multiple ZIP codes, and some are more susceptible to theft and crime than others. In some areas, there are more uninsured drivers as well. Drivers who live in higher-crime neighborhoods typically pay more than those who live in safer ones. The good news is that between the cheapest and most expensive ZIP codes in Chula Vista, the difference is only a few dollars per month.
The damage caused by earthquakes, hurricanes and other similar weather-related damage can and has bankrupted insurance companies. California is known for its pleasant climate, but Chula Vista can still experience severe weather from time to time. Damage to your vehicle caused by natural disasters is covered under your comprehensive coverage. If you have a new or nice vehicle, we recommend considering comprehensive coverage as part of your Chula Vista car insurance policy.
Chula Vista, the second largest city in San Diego County, is a bustling city with roads that are often packed with vehicles. As the number of cars on the roads increases, the likelihood of car accidents also goes up. Insurance companies bear the risk of insuring drivers, and this results in higher premiums for everyone. Sometimes, the increased costs have nothing to do with an individual's driving habits. In Chula Vista, approximately 29% of drivers are uninsured, which means that you may have to pay for damages if an uninsured driver hits you.
Zebra Tip: Consider uninsured property damage coverage
It is recommended to consider adding uninsured motorist coverage (UMPD) to your insurance policy if you reside in an area with a high number of uninsured drivers. Your UMPD coverage can be helpful in case you get into an accident with a driver who lacks sufficient insurance to cover the damages. The cost of UMPD is usually lower than collision coverage and might have a lower deductible. Furthermore, the rate increases after filing a UMPD claim are generally less drastic than those for a collision claim.
Bundling insurance policies in Chula Vista
Even with the continuous increase of car insurance across the nation, you can still save on your coverage in Chula Vista. One of the easiest ways to get a discount is by bundling. Most of us have a renters or homeowners policy and our car insurance policy. If they're with different insurance companies, consider combining them. When shopping for new rates, ask about bundling discounts — you could save up to 10% by combining your policies with one insurer. It won't take long to inquire about bundling with your current insurance company or compare rates from others to see what savings you may be missing.
See our guide to bundling home and car insurance to learn more.
Cheapest car insurance companies for bundling home and auto insurance in Chula Vista, CA
| Company | Avg. 6 Mo. Premium |
|---|---|
| Wawanesa | $480 |
| GEICO | $591 |
| MetLife | $657 |
| Nationwide | $696 |
| USAA | $715 |
| Progressive | $716 |
| State Farm | $791 |
| Allstate | $1,058 |
Despite some factors behind your insurance rates in Chula Vista being outside of your control, you can try your best to maintain a good profile while shopping for insurance. Additionally, remember that you have options when it comes to your insurance company! Even if you've been with the same company since you got your first car, it's a great idea to compare other auto insurance quotes to find the most affordable rate that also meets your coverage needs. Switching companies may feel uncomfortable, but some tend to be more expensive than others, and you always have the option to switch.
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About The Zebra
The Zebra is not an insurance company. We publish data-backed, expert-reviewed resources to help consumers make more informed insurance decisions.
- The Zebra’s insurance content is written and reviewed for accuracy by licensed insurance agents.
- The Zebra’s insurance editorial content is not subject to review or alteration by insurance companies or partners.
- The Zebra’s editorial team operates independently of the company’s partnerships and commercialization interests, publishing unbiased information for consumer benefit.
- The auto insurance rates published on The Zebra’s pages are based on a comprehensive analysis of car insurance pricing data, evaluating more than 83 million insurance rates from across the United States.