In California, full coverage car insurance averages $1,574 yearly, while minimum coverage is about $659. These rates are $278 and $64 pricier, respectively, than the national average.
Average Cost of Car Insurance in California
Updated: December 27, 2024
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Key Takeaways
Drivers in the Golden State pay 21% more for full coverage car insurance than the national average.
Californians shell out more for car insurance, with full coverage averaging $1,574 and minimum coverage at $659 annually.
This makes California one of the pricier places for car insurance, so residents might feel the pinch in their pockets.
How Much Is Car Insurance in California?
| Full Coverage | $1,574 | $1,296 | 21% |
| State Minimum Liability Only | $659 | $595 | 11% |
Read More: Average Cost of Car Insurance
California Car Insurance Rates by Coverage Level
Your choice of coverage level impacts your car insurance rate in the Golden State. Opting for higher liability limits and full coverage can raise your rate, while a higher deductible might reduce your premium. Below, see the average rates for state minimum and full coverage policies in California, with different deductibles and liability limits.
| 300/500/300 | Full Coverage | $1,826 | $500 |
| 100/300/100 | Full Coverage | $1,736 | $0 |
| 300/500/300 | Full Coverage | $1,664 | $1,000 |
| 300/500/300 | Full Coverage | $1,595 | $1,500 |
| 100/300/100 | Full Coverage | $1,574 | $1,000 |
| 100/300/100 | Full Coverage | $1,504 | $1,500 |
| State Minimum | Full Coverage | $1,475 | $500 |
| State Minimum | Full Coverage | $1,313 | $1,000 |
| State Minimum | Full Coverage | $1,244 | $1,500 |
| 300/500/300 | Liability Only | $1,010 | $0 |
| 100/300/100 | Liability Only | $919 | $0 |
| State Minimum | Liability Only | $659 | $0 |
Read More: Liability vs. Full Coverage Car Insurance
Average California Car Insurance Cost by City
Car insurance rates in our Golden State cities can differ because of crime, traffic and the cost of healthcare or car fixes. For example, Anaheim's annual full coverage is $1,448, while Bakersfield is more affordable at $1,234, and West Covina lands at $1,478. Compare these to other cities and the state average in the table below.
| Anaheim | $1,448 | -24% | $648 | -41% |
| Antioch | $1,403 | -26% | $570 | -48% |
| Arden-Arcade | $1,430 | -25% | $647 | -41% |
| Bakersfield | $1,234 | -35% | $527 | -52% |
| Berkeley | $1,342 | -30% | $551 | -50% |
| Burbank | $1,733 | -9% | $782 | -29% |
| Carlsbad | $1,225 | -36% | $542 | -51% |
| Chula Vista | $1,189 | -38% | $501 | -54% |
| Clovis | $1,239 | -35% | $549 | -50% |
| Concord | $1,315 | -31% | $558 | -49% |
| Corona | $1,351 | -29% | $589 | -46% |
| Costa Mesa | $1,342 | -30% | $621 | -43% |
| Daly City | $1,528 | -20% | $621 | -43% |
| Downey | $1,531 | -20% | $657 | -40% |
| East Los Angeles | $1,562 | -18% | $677 | -38% |
| El Cajon | $1,285 | -33% | $560 | -49% |
| El Monte | $1,586 | -17% | $693 | -37% |
| Elk Grove | $1,370 | -28% | $598 | -45% |
| Escondido | $1,232 | -35% | $533 | -51% |
| Fairfield | $1,241 | -35% | $520 | -53% |
| Fontana | $1,384 | -27% | $589 | -46% |
| Fremont | $1,296 | -32% | $540 | -51% |
| Fresno | $1,281 | -33% | $549 | -50% |
| Fullerton | $1,480 | -22% | $657 | -40% |
| Garden Grove | $1,488 | -22% | $682 | -38% |
| Glendale | $2,115 | 11% | $913 | -17% |
| Hayward | $1,374 | -28% | $559 | -49% |
| Huntington Beach | $1,349 | -29% | $617 | -44% |
| Inglewood | $1,740 | -9% | $774 | -29% |
| Irvine | $1,411 | -26% | $633 | -42% |
| Jurupa Valley | $1,324 | -31% | $573 | -48% |
| Lancaster | $1,462 | -23% | $659 | -40% |
| Long Beach | $1,497 | -22% | $649 | -41% |
| Los Angeles | $1,877 | -2% | $820 | -25% |
| Modesto | $1,401 | -27% | $608 | -45% |
| Moreno Valley | $1,357 | -29% | $578 | -47% |
| Murrieta | $1,250 | -34% | $554 | -49% |
| Norwalk | $1,460 | -23% | $633 | -42% |
| Oakland | $1,469 | -23% | $598 | -45% |
| Oceanside | $1,246 | -35% | $550 | -50% |
| Ontario | $1,374 | -28% | $594 | -46% |
| Orange | $1,310 | -31% | $587 | -46% |
| Oxnard | $1,260 | -34% | $549 | -50% |
| Palmdale | $1,507 | -21% | $667 | -39% |
| Pasadena | $1,598 | -16% | $704 | -36% |
| Pomona | $1,432 | -25% | $618 | -44% |
| Rancho Cucamonga | $1,330 | -30% | $568 | -48% |
| Rialto | $1,391 | -27% | $585 | -47% |
| Richmond | $1,400 | -27% | $583 | -47% |
| Riverside | $1,351 | -29% | $583 | -47% |
| Roseville | $1,309 | -31% | $587 | -46% |
| Sacramento | $1,331 | -30% | $576 | -47% |
| Salinas | $1,199 | -37% | $496 | -55% |
| San Bernardino | $1,369 | -28% | $583 | -47% |
| San Diego | $1,202 | -37% | $521 | -52% |
| San Francisco | $1,486 | -22% | $613 | -44% |
| San Jose | $1,290 | -32% | $551 | -50% |
| San Mateo | $1,249 | -35% | $537 | -51% |
| Santa Ana | $1,399 | -27% | $622 | -43% |
| Santa Clara | $1,289 | -32% | $559 | -49% |
| Santa Clarita | $1,444 | -24% | $654 | -40% |
| Santa Maria | $1,106 | -42% | $462 | -58% |
| Santa Rosa | $1,326 | -31% | $543 | -50% |
| Simi Valley | $1,352 | -29% | $621 | -43% |
| Stockton | $1,407 | -26% | $590 | -46% |
| Sunnyvale | $1,279 | -33% | $551 | -50% |
| Temecula | $1,270 | -33% | $552 | -50% |
| Thousand Oaks | $1,408 | -26% | $638 | -42% |
| Torrance | $1,351 | -29% | $608 | -45% |
| Vallejo | $1,378 | -28% | $556 | -49% |
| Ventura | $1,189 | -38% | $539 | -51% |
| Victorville | $1,402 | -27% | $594 | -46% |
| Visalia | $1,179 | -38% | $500 | -54% |
| Vista | $1,205 | -37% | $533 | -51% |
| West Covina | $1,478 | -23% | $656 | -40% |
Average California Car Insurance Cost by Age
In California, your age won't affect your car insurance rates. Instead of age, companies look at things like your driving record, car type, and where you live to set prices. This means both young and old drivers are treated fairly, without paying more just because of their age. Other states might charge differently, but here, it's all about your driving and your car.
| 25 | $1,975 | $814 |
| 40 | $1,574 | $659 |
| 65 | $1,525 | $652 |
In most places, how old you are can change your car insurance cost. But in California, Massachusetts, and Hawaii, your age doesn't affect the price of minimum coverage.
Car Insurance Costs in California for Young Drivers by Gender
In California, young drivers typically face higher car insurance costs due to a greater risk of accidents. When added to a family policy, drivers aged 18 to 25 pay about $2,360 annually, which is 7% less than the $2,536 they would pay for an individual policy. Keep in mind, California doesn't allow age to dictate insurance rates, focusing instead on driving history and other factors.
Gender also influences car insurance rates for young drivers in the Golden State. On average, women aged 18 to 25 pay $2,522 per year, which is 7% less than the $2,550 male drivers pay. Below, you'll find the average car insurance costs for young drivers in California, detailed by gender for both individual and family policies.
Car Insurance Costs in California for Young Women
An 18-year-old woman added to a family car insurance policy in California averages $3,383 annually. Going solo with an individual policy can bump the rate up by approximately 13%.
| 18 | $3,903 | $3,383 | -13% |
| 19 | $2,914 | $2,736 | -6% |
| 20 | $2,757 | $2,591 | -6% |
| 21 | $2,401 | $2,272 | -5% |
| 22 | $2,209 | $2,121 | -4% |
| 23 | $2,108 | $2,025 | -4% |
| 24 | $2,019 | $1,942 | -4% |
| 25 | $1,865 | $1,795 | -4% |
Car Insurance Costs in California for Young Men
An 18-year-old man in California typically pays around $3,958 for individual full coverage car insurance. By joining a family policy, he can save about 14% annually, reducing the cost to $3,394.
| 18 | $3,958 | $3,394 | -14% |
| 19 | $2,949 | $2,743 | -7% |
| 20 | $2,791 | $2,597 | -7% |
| 21 | $2,424 | $2,276 | -6% |
| 22 | $2,231 | $2,125 | -5% |
| 23 | $2,129 | $2,028 | -5% |
| 24 | $2,039 | $1,944 | -5% |
| 25 | $1,883 | $1,797 | -5% |
Average California Car Insurance Cost by Driving Record
In California, traffic offenses can hike your car insurance premiums by up to 96%. Below, we compare rates for drivers with at-fault accidents, speeding tickets, and DUIs against those with a spotless record.
| At-Fault Accident | $2,533 | 33% | $1,057 | -4% |
| DUI | $3,745 | 96% | $1,556 | 42% |
| Ticket | $2,227 | 17% | $921 | -16% |
Read More: High-Risk Car Insurance in California
Average California Car Insurance Cost by Company
Car insurance costs can differ a lot from one company to another. In California, CSAA has the cheapest average yearly full coverage at $462. By contrast, Chubb's average is $2,757, which is 68% higher than what most Californians pay.
| CSAA | $462 | $139 |
| AAA | $977 | $437 |
| Progressive | $1,128 | $485 |
| GEICO | $1,274 | $474 |
| Capital Insurance Group | $1,433 | $615 |
| National General | $1,447 | $745 |
| State National | $1,505 | $644 |
| Kemper | $1,523 | $561 |
| Mercury | $1,528 | $630 |
| Hartford | $1,559 | $715 |
| State Farm | $1,648 | $642 |
| Nationwide | $1,759 | $722 |
| Allstate | $1,825 | $1,040 |
| Travelers | $2,029 | $762 |
| Farmers | $2,323 | $660 |
| Chubb | $2,757 | $1,271 |
Average California Car Insurance Cost by Vehicle Age
In California, newer cars have higher insurance premiums because they're worth more and cost more to fix or replace if stolen. On average, full coverage for a new model is $1818 a year, while a 10-year-old car is $1432.
| 10-Year-Old Vehicle | $1,432 | $603 |
| New Model Vehicle | $1,818 | $616 |
ACTUAL CASH VALUE
The actual cash value (ACV) of your car is the worth assigned by your insurance company right before any damage. In cases of comprehensive or collision claims, the insurer uses the ACV to determine the maximum coverage for repairing or replacing your vehicle, minus any deductible. This ensures the claim mirrors the car's fair market value.
Read More: Used Car Insurance
California Car Insurance Rates Explained
In the Golden State, car insurance rates often surpass the national average. We'll show you why and what factors, like your credit-based insurance score, shape the cost for state minimum and full coverage premiums.
Is Car Insurance Expensive in California?
Car insurance in California leans on the expensive side, with average full coverage at $131 monthly. It's 21% higher than the national average for similar coverage.
Read More: Why Car Insurance is So Expensive
Car Insurance Costs in California vs. National Average
National Average Cost
Full Coverage Car Insurance
$108
California Average Cost
Full Coverage Car Insurance
$131CA Car Insurance Is Expensive:$23 more
This is 21% more expensive.
Why Are Car Insurance Rates Expensive in California?
Car insurance in California is pricey due to dense cities and high costs of living. Strict laws also push up prices. This makes finding affordable plans a challenge for Golden State drivers.
Read More: Car Insurance Rates by State
Estimating Your Car Insurance Costs in California
While California's average car insurance rates reflect demographics and economics, your rate depends on personal factors. Consider your driving history, car model, and coverage choices when estimating your car insurance costs in the Golden State.
Driving Record
A spotless driving record can significantly lower insurance rates. Avoid traffic violations and accidents to demonstrate to insurers that you're a low-risk driver.
Age and Gender
Younger drivers and males typically face higher rates. Drivers can potentially lower costs by aging or through discounts for married couples and mature drivers.
Credit History
Maintaining a good credit score can influence car insurance rates. Pay bills on time and reduce debt to enhance your creditworthiness.
Vehicle Type
Insurance costs vary by vehicle type. Choose cars with safety features and a low history of claims to enjoy more affordable rates.
Location Within California
Living in areas with lower crime and accident rates in California can lead to reduced insurance premiums. Consider this when moving or comparing rates.
Coverage Level
Opt for higher deductibles to lower premium costs, but ensure you can afford them. Tailor coverage to your needs and vehicle value.
Marital Status
Married individuals often receive lower rates. Inform your insurer about your marital status change to potentially benefit from reduced premiums.
State Law
California law affects insurance rates. Familiarize yourself with state requirements and consider additional coverage options for comprehensive protection.
Read More: California Car Insurance Calculator
Minimum Car Insurance in California
In California, the average state minimum car insurance rate is $659, about 11% higher than the national average of $595. This minimum coverage is more affordable compared to full coverage, due to lower liability limits. Below is a table outlining these minimum requirements.
California Car Insurance Requirements
In California, the minimum coverage auto insurance includes $15,000 for bodily injury per person, $30,000 for bodily injury per accident, and $5,000 for property damage per accident.
Liability Limits | Description |
|---|---|
$15,000 for bodily injury liability per person. | California mandates a minimum of $15,000 for bodily injury liability per person to cover medical expenses if you're at fault in an accident. |
$30,000 for bodily injury liability per accident. | The state requires $30,000 for bodily injury liability per accident, ensuring coverage for multiple injured parties in a single incident. |
$5,000 for property damage liability per accident. | A minimum of $5,000 for property damage liability per accident is required to cover repairs to another person's property if you're at fault. |
How to Lower Car Insurance Costs in California
To save on Golden State car insurance, compare rates and discounts, and consider a higher deductible.
- 1
Compare Multiple Quotes
Researching multiple insurance providers can help you find affordable car insurance in the area, potentially saving you hundreds of dollars annually.
- 2
Lower Your Risk Profile
A better credit score or a clean driving record, without at-fault accidents or moving violations, can significantly lower insurance premiums because insurers view you as a lower risk.
- 3
Adjust Your Coverage
Reviewing coverage needs can help ensure you're paying only for what you need. Drivers can lower costs by increasing deductibles or opting for usage-based policies if they drive fewer miles.
- 4
Ask for Discounts
Inquire about discounts for safe driving, good grades, anti-theft devices, completing a state-approved defensive driving course, and bundling policies, as these can lead to drastically lower premiums.
- 5
Consider the Car You Drive
Driving a car that's less expensive to insure, such as one with good safety ratings, can lead to lower insurance costs for residents.
Read More: How to Reduce Your Car Insurance Costs
Auto Insurance Rates in California: Bottom Line
In California, full coverage car insurance averages $1574 yearly, which is higher than the national average. Factors like your car's make, driving record, and where you live can change your rate. Compared to other states, California is on the pricier side for car insurance.
California Car Insurance Rates: FAQ
Discover what affects car insurance costs in the Golden State. Factors include your driving record, vehicle type, and coverage level.
California requires minimum coverage, but rates vary. To find affordable options, compare quotes from multiple insurers.
Understand these factors to make informed choices and save money.
What are the minimum car insurance requirements in California?
In California, the minimum car insurance requirements include bodily injury liability of $15,000 per person and $30,000 per accident, along with property damage liability of $5,000 per accident. These are the essential elements of the state minimum car insurance that drivers must carry to operate a vehicle legally.
What is the average cost of full coverage and minimum coverage auto insurance in California?
What is the average cost of car insurance for a 25-year-old in California?
The average cost for a full coverage car insurance policy for a 25-year-old in California is $1,975, slightly above the state average. For minimum coverage, the average is $814, which is below the state average.
What are the cheapest car insurance companies in California?
CSAA offers the most affordable car insurance in California, with full coverage at $462 annually ($39 monthly) and minimum coverage at $139 annually ($12 monthly). While lower rates from the most affordable car insurance in California are enticing, ensure your policy provides sufficient financial protection against significant losses. It's key to find a balance that fits your budget without compromising on coverage.
California Auto Insurance Cost: How We Determine Average Rates
We used a sample driver profile with the following attributes to determine average car insurance rates in California:
- 40-year-old male
- 2012 Toyota Camry LE
- Clean driving record
- 12,000 miles driven annually
We modified this driver profile by age, vehicle, credit score and driving record to determine averages for different driver profiles and needs.
Coverage Levels and Deductibles
Unless otherwise noted, average rates on this page are for a full coverage policy with comprehensive and collision coverage, a $1,000 deductible for each and the following liability limits (100/300/100):
- $100,000 in bodily injury liability per person
- $300,000 in bodily injury liability per accident
- $100,000 in property damage liability per accident
When minimum coverage is specified, we used the following minimum liability-only limits as mandated by California:
- $15,000 for bodily injury liability per person
- $30,000 for bodily injury liability per accident
- $5,000 for property damage liability per accident
Learn more about MoneyGeek's car insurance methodology.
About Mark Fitzpatrick
Mark Fitzpatrick is a Licensed Property and Casualty Insurance Producer and MoneyGeek's Head of Insurance. He has analyzed the insurance market for over five years, conducting original research and creating personalized content for every kind of buyer. He has been quoted in several insurance-related publications, including CNBC, NBC News and Mashable.
Fitzpatrick earned a master’s degree in economics and international relations from Johns Hopkins University and a bachelor’s degree from Boston College. He is passionate about using his knowledge of economics and insurance to bring transparency around financial topics and help others feel confident in their money moves.