Car Insurance in California
- CSAA offers the cheapest liability at $38/mo.
- GEICO has the cheapest full coverage at $131/mo.
Enter your ZIP code to start your search for California car insurance:
The Zebra works with 100+ insurance partners to connect you with the best coverage in California at the right price.
About The Zebra's recommendations
Renata joined The Zebra in 2020 as a Customer Experience Agent. Since 2021, she has worked as a licensed insurance professional and content strategis…
Credentials
- Licensed Insurance Agent — Property and Casualty
- 5 years of experience in the insurance industry
Kristine joined The Zebra in 2019 as an in-house content researcher and writer, with a property and casualty insurance license. Before joining The Ze…
Credentials
- Licensed Insurance Agent — Property and Casualty
- 6+ years of Experience in the Insurance Industry
Car insurance quotes in California
The average car insurance rate in California is $1,224 for a six-month policy — 5% more expensive than the U.S. average.[1] But don’t be fooled — your location is just one piece of the puzzle. Car insurance rates in California are shaped by a variety of factors, including your age and driving history.
According to our data, 40% of Californians believe they’re overpaying for car insurance.[2] Yet, many are still open to paying a premium for exceptional customer service and more extensive coverage options.
Cheapest liability coverage in CA
- CSAA offered the cheapest liability coverage in California at $38/mo.
Cheapest full coverage in CA
- GEICO offered the cheapest full coverage in California at $131/mo.
Best customer service in CA
- Wawanesa scored 678 in JD Power's 2026 study — the highest in California.
Cheap liability insurance in California
The average cost for liability insurance in California is $423 for a 6-month policy.[1] For our user profile, CSAA offers the most affordable liability insurance options in the state.
If you opt for better coverage, you can choose a policy with comprehensive and collision, which will protect against the costs of car accidents, theft, vandalism, or weather incidents. But better coverage comes with a cost: in California, a full coverage insurance policy with a $500 deductible costs $1,224, considerably more than liability-only car insurance.
Updating data...
| Company | Avg. 6 Mo. Premium | Avg. Monthly Premium |
|---|---|---|
| CSAA | $229 | $38 |
| GEICO | $242 | $40 |
| USAA | $306 | $51 |
| National General | $353 | $59 |
| Progressive | $374 | $62 |
| Auto Club | $462 | $77 |
| California Capital | $479 | $80 |
| Allstate | $492 | $82 |
| Farmers | $513 | $86 |
| State Farm | $527 | $88 |
| Bristol West | $537 | $89 |
| Nationwide | $586 | $98 |
| Travelers | $613 | $102 |
| The Hartford | $646 | $108 |
| Pure Insurance | $691 | $115 |
Source: The Zebra
The Zebra’s Dynamic Insurance Rating Tool data methodology
The Zebra’s Dynamic Insurance Rating Tool for home and auto insurance rates utilizes the latest ZIP code-level rate filings from across the U.S., sourced from Quadrant Information Services and S&P Global. These filings, typically updated annually or biennially by insurers, are verified through Quadrant’s QA process and then integrated into The Zebra’s estimator.
The displayed rates are based on a dynamic home and auto profile designed to reflect the content of the page. This profile is tailored to match specific factors such as age, location, and coverage level, which are adjusted based on the page content to show how these variables can impact premiums.
For a comprehensive understanding, see our detailed methodology.
According to our data, 51% of California drivers carry only the state-required liability coverage.[2] In California, the law mandates minimum liability limits of 30/60/15. Learn more about car insurance requirements in the state of California with our helpful guide.
If you're a qualifying good driver in California, insurers are required by Proposition 103 to give you at least a 20% discount on your auto insurance premium.[4] To qualify, you generally must:
- Have been licensed for at least three years
- Have no more than one DMV violation point in the past three years
- No at-fault accidents causing injury or death in the past three years
- No DUI or vehiclular manslaughter convictions in the past 10 years
Proposition 103 also requires insurers to base rates primarily on your driving record, annual mileage, and years of driving experience rather than where you live.
Renata Balasco, licensed agent and insurance writer at The Zebra
Updating data...
| Company | Liability Coverage - 6mo | Full Coverage - 6mo |
|---|---|---|
| Wawanesa | $388 | $1,027 |
| USAA | $306 | $1,101 |
| Travelers | $613 | $1,465 |
| The Hartford | $646 | $1,595 |
| State Farm | $527 | $1,572 |
| Pure Insurance | $691 | $1,976 |
| Progressive | $374 | $1,125 |
| Nationwide | $586 | $1,755 |
| National General | $353 | $940 |
| MetLife | $340 | $946 |
| Mercury | $409 | $1,185 |
| Infinity | $472 | $1,408 |
| Grange | $387 | $1,104 |
| GEICO | $242 | $787 |
| Farmers | $513 | $1,467 |
| Chubb | $522 | $1,516 |
| California Capital | $479 | $1,253 |
| CSAA | $229 | $841 |
| Bristol West | $537 | $1,880 |
| Auto Club | $462 | $1,290 |
| Allstate | $492 | $1,377 |
| 21st Century | $382 | $1,092 |
Source: The Zebra
Cheap full coverage insurance in California
In 2026, the average cost of full coverage insurance in California is $1,224 for a six-month policy. Full coverage is a popular choice here, with 49% of The Zebra’s California customers opting for quotes that offer this more comprehensive protection.[2]
While full coverage may cost more than basic liability insurance, it’s worth the investment for peace of mind. If you’re looking to get the best deal on full coverage, start by checking out quotes from GEICO — they’re known for offering some of the most competitive rates in the state.
Updating data...
| Company | Avg. 6 Mo. Premium | Avg. Monthly Premium |
|---|---|---|
| GEICO | $787 | $131 |
| National General | $940 | $157 |
| USAA | $1,101 | $183 |
| Progressive | $1,125 | $187 |
| California Capital | $1,253 | $209 |
| Auto Club | $1,290 | $215 |
| Allstate | $1,377 | $230 |
| Travelers | $1,465 | $244 |
| Farmers | $1,467 | $244 |
| State Farm | $1,572 | $262 |
| The Hartford | $1,595 | $266 |
| Nationwide | $1,755 | $292 |
| Bristol West | $1,880 | $313 |
| Pure Insurance | $1,976 | $329 |
Source: The Zebra
Local insights
Drivers near you in California weigh in
"Wawanesa, Amica, 21st Century. They are usually good for drivers with good records in CA."
-Reddit user on r/California
"If you have military background or your family has military background, I use USAA. I've found them to be cheaper than AAA, who I also hear isn't bad. They have been super reliable and fantastic customer service."
-Reddit user on r/California
Compare car insurance rates from the best companies in California.
What are the best car insurance companies in California?
We’ve named Wawanesa as California's top car insurance provider. Our decision is based on a combination of consumer feedback, expert evaluations from sources like J.D. Power, Trustpilot, and AM Best, as well as a thorough review of their discounts and coverage options.
Below are other top companies in California aside from Wawanesa to consider.
You've done your research. Let us take it from here
Way to go—this part isn’t easy! We’ll make the next step as simple as we can. Tell us a little more about yourself to start a quote.
Car insurance in popular California cities
Car insurance companies calculate your rate based on many factors, the location of the vehicle being an important one. Have a look at the table below to see average car insurance costs in some of California's biggest cities.
Source: The Zebra
Updating data...
Source: The Zebra
Licensed. Knowledgeable. Helpful.
Erica began at The Zebra in 2020 as a Licensed Service Agent, bringing six years of insurance experience from her career at Progressive where she spe…
Credentials
- Licensed Insurance Agent — Property and Casualty
- 10+ years in the insurance industry
Riliey brings 10 years of insurance experience, starting her career at a commercial brokerage before moving into personal lines at State Farm, where …
Credentials
- Licensed Insurance Agent — Property and Casualty
- Licensed Insurance Agent — Life and Health
Amber Vigil has three years of experience in the insurance industry and joined The Zebra in 2024. As manager, she leads a group of sales agents, ensu…
Credentials
- Licensed Insurance Agent — Property and Casualty
California auto insurance quotes after an accident or ticket
Your driving history plays a major role in what you’ll pay for car insurance in California. Even one at-fault accident can send your premiums soaring. Insurers see your past accidents as a sign of risk, so even a single incident can lead to a steep rate increase. Check out the average cost of coverage from top California insurers after an at-fault accident.
Source: The Zebra
Source: The Zebra
The Zebra's guide to California car insurance laws for high-risk drivers
For high-risk drivers in California with serious infractions like a DUI or reckless driving, the consequences extend far beyond fines — they can significantly impact your car insurance. These violations often lead to higher premiums, potential policy cancellations, and challenges in finding coverage.
Understanding California's insurance requirements is crucial for staying on the road legally. Our comprehensive guide breaks down the essentials, from mandatory coverage to the penalties for non-compliance, helping you navigate the complexities of high-risk auto insurance in the state.
California DUI laws
In California, a DUI offense can increase your annual car insurance premium substantially. Finding affordable auto insurance in the wake of a DUI violation isn’t simple. In fact, a DUI often brings about a bigger premium increase than any single road violation — more than an at-fault accident, racing, or reckless driving.
Low-cost car insurance after a DUI in California
If you're convicted of a DUI or DWI violation in California, it’s key to mull over each of your insurance choices carefully. Auto insurance premiums following a DUI can vary substantially by insurer. Check out the table below to see average rates by top insurers in California.
Updating data...
| Company | Avg. 6 Mo. Premium | Avg. Monthly Premium |
|---|---|---|
| National General | $1,323 | $220 |
| GEICO | $1,987 | $331 |
| California Capital | $2,269 | $378 |
| Progressive | $2,287 | $381 |
| Bristol West | $2,519 | $420 |
| Farmers | $2,604 | $434 |
| CSAA | $3,014 | $502 |
| Travelers | $3,209 | $535 |
| USAA | $3,456 | $576 |
| Auto Club | $4,129 | $688 |
| Nationwide | $5,042 | $840 |
| Pure Insurance | $5,140 | $857 |
| Allstate | $5,462 | $910 |
| State Farm | $5,538 | $923 |
| The Hartford | $6,767 | $1,128 |
Source: The Zebra
There is no car insurer in particular that offers inexpensive DUI car insurance. The recommended way to save in the wake of a DUI citation is to shop around.
California SR-22 insurance
An SR-22 is a routine legal requirement triggered by a violation such as a DUI conviction, a ticket for driving without insurance, an at-fault collision, driving with a suspended license, or accumulating too many points on your license. It is not a type of insurance policy, but a form issued by your insurance company with the state of California to ensure that you remain insured.
Finding cheap auto insurance with an SR-22 in California might be tricky, but some research could pay off in the end.
How to get an SR-22 in California
An SR-22 is often required for drivers with serious violations on their driving record, most often related to drinking and driving offenses. The SR-22 is a form issued by your insurance company that must be filed with the state of California as proof of continued insurance coverage. Below you'll find the steps to getting this coverage.
Already insured
With an active insurance policy, requesting an SR-22 might be easy. Just call your insurance company and request that they file an SR-22 request on your behalf. If your current insurer declines to request a certificate, you should shop around for a new insurance company.
Currently uninsured?
When filing for car insurance, you'll be billed extra to cover the cost of the SR-22 request form and your high-risk driving profile. An SR-22 requirement may disqualify you from buying insurance from some carriers, while others would be happy to sell you a policy.
For drivers without a vehicle
Not having a vehicle makes it more difficult to obtain an SR-22, as you will need to furnish proof of insurance to receive the certificate. If this is the case, you should buy a non-owners car insurance policy before filing for an SR-22. A non-owners policy is typically less expensive than a standard policy since it won’t provide protection for physical damage sustained by your vehicle.
Find an affordable policy in California in minutes!
How have car insurance costs in California changed?
Californias auto insurance market has experienced notable ups and downs in recent years, with premiums shifting alongside economic conditions, regulatory changes, and evolving risk factors. Rates have seen periods of sharp increases, often tied to rising claim costs and broader inflation trends, as well as occasional slowdowns or declines.
This kind of volatility highlights why it pays to shop around—insurance prices can vary widely depending on timing, market conditions, and individual factors, making regular comparison one of the easiest ways for drivers to avoid overpaying.
| Year | Avg. Annual Premium — California |
|---|---|
| 2026 | $2,220 |
| 2025 | $2,470 |
| 2024 | $1,941 |
| 2023 | $1,833 |
| 2022 | $1,932 |
| 2021 | $1,810 |
| 2020 | $1,822 |
| 2019 | $1,862 |
| 2018 | $1,838 |
| 2017 | $1,736 |
| 2016 | $1,448 |
| 2015 | $1,477 |
Save money on your next car insurance policy!
California car insurance FAQs
Below you'll find answers to some of the most commonly asked questions regarding California auto insurance.
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Data Methodology. The Zebra’s Dynamic Insurance Rating Tool
Data Methodology. The Zebra’s Dynamic Insurance Rating Tool
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Anonymized User Surveys. The Zebra
Anonymized User Surveys. The Zebra
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2026 U.S. Auto Insurance Study. J.D. Power
2026 U.S. Auto Insurance Study. J.D. Power
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California Guarantees a Good Driver Discount. Proposition 103
California Guarantees a Good Driver Discount. Proposition 103
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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.
