In San Bernardino, California, GEICO is the cheapest provider for minimum coverage car insurance. Progressive offers the lowest rates for full coverage, and Farmers is the least expensive insurer for families with teens. When considering customer service, Chubb is the leading choice with excellent customer care. It is also the overall best insurer, balancing price with service, and caters to those who value excellence and comprehensive protection.
Cheapest and Best Car Insurance in San Bernardino, CA (2024)
GEICO offers the cheapest minimum coverage in San Bernardino at $449 per year. Chubb provides the best blend of affordability and service, with a MoneyGeek score of 82 out of 100.
Find out if you're overpaying for car insurance below.
Updated: December 24, 2024
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Key Takeaways
In San Bernardino, California, GEICO offers the most affordable minimum coverage car insurance at $449 per year, while Chubb provides the most expensive at $777 per year, highlighting a potential annual savings of $328 by comparing insurers.
In San Bernardino, comparing full coverage car insurance premiums reveals potential savings of $961 annually when choosing Progressive at $1,155 per year over the most expensive option from Travelers at $2,116 per year, emphasizing the financial benefits of rate comparison.
In San Bernardino, California, Progressive offers the most affordable full coverage car insurance for military drivers at $1,155 per year, slightly cheaper than USAA's $1,235, a provider known for specializing in services for active-duty military personnel.
Compare Auto Insurance Rates
Ensure you're getting the best rate for your auto insurance. Compare quotes from the top insurance companies.
Why Trust MoneyGeek? We analyzed 352,910 quotes in California from 18 companies, used six sources and conducted original research to rate the cheapest companies and develop a scoring system for CITY insurance providers based on ZIP codes in the city only. Our scores are based on affordability, customer satisfaction, claims experience, coverages offered and financial stability.
These rates reflect the cheapest car insurance quotes in San Bernardino, CA, as of July 2024.
Cheapest Minimum Coverage Car Insurance in San Bernardino
MoneyGeek found that GEICO offers the cheapest car insurance in San Bernardino.
- GEICO: $449 per year
- Progressive: $485 per year
Chubb offers the most expensive minimum coverage policy in San Bernardino, with an annual premium of $777. When comparing the cheapest and most expensive options, the difference is $328 per year, highlighting the benefit of comparing car insurance rates to ensure financial savings.
GEICO | $449 | $37 |
Progressive | $485 | $40 |
Mercury | $513 | $43 |
AAA | $538 | $45 |
Kemper | $541 | $45 |
Farmers | $624 | $52 |
Capital Insurance Group | $629 | $52 |
State National | $664 | $55 |
National General | $669 | $56 |
Travelers | $670 | $56 |
Nationwide | $687 | $57 |
State Farm | $688 | $57 |
Hartford | $692 | $58 |
Allstate | $702 | $58 |
Chubb | $777 | $65 |
State Minimum Liability Requirements
In California, including cities like San Bernardino, state law requires that all drivers carry minimum coverage car insurance with the following limits:
- $15,000 for bodily injury per person
- $30,000 for bodily injury per accident
- $5,000 for property damage liability per accident
If you cause an accident, your basic policy will cover up to $15,000 for a single individual's injuries in an accident and a total of $30,000 for injuries to all persons per accident. Should damages exceed these amounts, you'll be financially responsible for the difference, potentially paying out of pocket.
Cheapest Full Coverage Car Insurance in San Bernardino
MoneyGeek found that Progressive offers the cheapest option in San Bernardino for those seeking the cheapest full coverage car insurance.
- Progressive: $1,155 per year
- AAA: $1,250 per year
Travelers has the most expensive full coverage policy in San Bernardino, with annual rates reaching $2,116. That's a significant difference of $961 when compared to Progressive. This wide price range underscores the importance of shopping around for full coverage car insurance, which tends to be pricier than minimum coverage due to its comprehensive protection.
Progressive | $1,155 | $96 |
AAA | $1,250 | $104 |
GEICO | $1,253 | $104 |
Mercury | $1,350 | $113 |
Allstate | $1,376 | $115 |
National General | $1,437 | $120 |
Capital Insurance Group | $1,473 | $123 |
Kemper | $1,495 | $125 |
State National | $1,509 | $126 |
Hartford | $1,579 | $132 |
Nationwide | $1,685 | $140 |
State Farm | $1,734 | $144 |
Chubb | $1,830 | $152 |
Farmers | $2,115 | $176 |
Travelers | $2,116 | $176 |
Do You Need Full Coverage in California?
Full coverage policies have higher liability limits. They also include comprehensive and collision coverage.
Collision Insurance: This insures your automobile against damages incurred during a collision with another car or an object like a tree or light pole. It also covers rollover accidents and pothole damage.
Comprehensive Insurance: This provides payment for damages to your car resulting from non-collision events, such as theft, vandalism, fires, natural disasters or being hit by an animal like a deer.
For owners of new vehicles, full coverage insurance is advisable to protect your monetary investment. The cost of such a policy can be offset as it covers significant unforeseen expenses. However, if your car is older, the additional fee for full coverage, which may amount to several hundred dollars more, can exceed the benefits. When checking how much car insurance you need, carefully weigh your options: higher coverage brings heftier premiums, yet opting for less can leave you inadequately insured in the event of an accident.
Cheapest Car Insurance in San Bernardino After a Driving Offense
MoneyGeek found that National General offers San Bernardino's most affordable auto insurance for drivers with a poor driving record. Here's how different violations affect annual premium rates:
- Speeding Ticket: National General ($1,506 per year)
- At-Fault Accident: Capital Insurance Group ($1,731 per year)
- DUI: National General ($1,506 per year)
Those looking for full coverage after a DUI will find Hartford to be the most expensive, with an annual premium of $5,806. This highlights how much more severe offenses like DUIs can increase auto insurance rates vs. lower-severity offenses like speeding. The annual premium difference between National General for a speeding ticket and Hartford after a DUI is $4,300, showcasing the economic consequences of driving violations.
National General | $1,506 | $126 |
AAA | $1,618 | $135 |
Capital Insurance Group | $1,696 | $141 |
Mercury | $1,784 | $149 |
GEICO | $1,860 | $155 |
Kemper | $1,985 | $165 |
Allstate | $2,002 | $167 |
State National | $2,147 | $179 |
Progressive | $2,184 | $182 |
Hartford | $2,371 | $198 |
Chubb | $2,401 | $200 |
State Farm | $2,572 | $214 |
Nationwide | $2,913 | $243 |
Farmers | $2,930 | $244 |
Travelers | $3,206 | $267 |
In San Bernardino, insurance premiums increase significantly with the severity of a driving offense due to increased risk perceived by insurers. For instance, the average annual insurance rate for someone with a speeding ticket is approximately $2,212, while it soars to around $3,696 for those with a DUI. This disparity highlights the crucial need for drivers with infractions to diligently compare insurance rates, as shopping around could yield substantial savings.
Cheapest Car Insurance in San Bernardino for Teens and Their Families
MoneyGeek found that Farmers offers the cheapest car insurance for teens in San Bernardino, ensuring both affordability and protection for families.
- Farmers: $3,079 per year for female and male teens
- GEICO: $3,167 per year for female teens; State Farm: $3,171 per year for male teens
These rates cover the combined cost of a policy for two parents with a teen driver. Nationwide is at the higher end of the spectrum in San Bernardino, with an average annual premium of $5,147 for female and male teen drivers. The substantial price difference of $2,068 between Farmers and Nationwide highlights the importance of comparing options to secure economical insurance for high-risk teen drivers.
Farmers | $3,079 | $4,539 |
GEICO | $3,167 | $3,576 |
State Farm | $3,171 | $3,511 |
Allstate | $3,379 | $3,641 |
Capital Insurance Group | $3,450 | $3,369 |
Progressive | $3,604 | $3,960 |
Travelers | $4,131 | $3,734 |
Kemper | $4,584 | $6,119 |
Nationwide | $5,147 | $7,306 |
In San Bernardino, young drivers may face steep financial challenges when seeking car insurance. On average, a teen acquiring an individual policy can expect to pay $4,488 annually, whereas being added to a family plan substantially lowers the premium to approximately $3,765. The significant rate disparity is driven by insurers' risk assessment of inexperienced drivers, who are statistically more prone to accidents. Consequently, it's often difficult for teens to secure individual policies without established driving records or financial independence, making a family plan a more viable and economical option.
Cheapest Car Insurance in San Bernardino for Military Drivers
MoneyGeek found that Progressive offers the cheapest car insurance for those with military backgrounds in San Bernardino, offering a great deal on full coverage car insurance. For military members seeking affordable options, consider the following providers for the most competitive rates:
- Progressive: $1,155 per year
- USAA: $1,235 per year
Although USAA is not the least expensive, it's noteworthy that it offers competitive rates and specializes in services that cater specifically to the needs of active-duty military members. These features make it a highly valuable option for those qualified to use its services.
Progressive | $1,155 | $96 |
USAA | $1,235 | $103 |
AAA | $1,250 | $104 |
GEICO | $1,253 | $104 |
Mercury | $1,350 | $113 |
Allstate | $1,376 | $115 |
National General | $1,437 | $120 |
Capital Insurance Group | $1,473 | $123 |
Kemper | $1,495 | $125 |
State National | $1,509 | $126 |
Hartford | $1,579 | $132 |
Nationwide | $1,685 | $140 |
State Farm | $1,734 | $144 |
Chubb | $1,830 | $152 |
Farmers | $2,115 | $176 |
Travelers | $2,116 | $176 |
How to Compare Cheap San Bernardino Car Insurance Quotes Online
In San Bernardino, securing the best car insurance rates is crucial for savings, yet comparing costs typically takes 15 minutes per company. When evaluating three or more companies, this process can exceed an hour.
MoneyGeek's car insurance calculator streamlines this task. You can receive tailored rate estimates by inputting key factors such as age, driving record, credit score and desired coverage.
Car Insurance Calculator
MoneyGeek's car insurance calculator will give you a customized estimate of your auto insurance cost. It's free to use, requires no personal information and we won't send you any spam.
Rates updated:
Dec 24, 2024
Although MoneyGeek partners with some of the companies we recommend, our content is written and reviewed by an independent team of writers, editors and licensed agents. Learn more about our editorial policies and expert editorial team.
Best Car Insurance in San Bernardino: Overview
Choosing the finest auto insurance depends on your valuation of service quality, cost-effectiveness and coverage. MoneyGeek's distinct scoring system for each category leads to tailored top picks for San Bernardino. Here are the standout providers:
- Best overall: Chubb (MoneyGeek score 82 out of 100)
- Best for service: Chubb (MoneyGeek score 94 out of 100)
- Best cheap: Mercury (MoneyGeek score 77 out of 100)
Chubb is the superior option in San Bernardino, offering the best overall value and top-tier service without compromising affordability or quality. Mercury is the leading insurer if budget is your main concern, offering competitive pricing while maintaining a commendable service experience.
Overall Best Car Insurance in San Bernardino
MoneyGeek found that Chubb offers the best option for car insurance in San Bernardino, providing a comprehensive full coverage policy. When considering the best car insurance providers, these are the top two companies:
- Chubb: MoneyGeek score of 82 out of 100 ($1,829 per year)
- Capital Insurance Group: MoneyGeek score of 82 out of 100 ($1,473 per year)
Chubb stands out mainly due to its high satisfaction and coverage scores, which signal that customers are generally pleased with its service and find the coverage options outstanding. Customers often prioritize these elements, making Chubb's performance in these areas particularly notable.
Chubb's impressive MoneyGeek score is largely attributed to excellent claims handling and customer satisfaction ratings. The company offers the common coverage rental car and/or travel reimbursement, providing customers with comprehensive support in case of an accident or vehicle issues. Additionally, Chubb offers diminished value coverage, which ensures you receive fair compensation if your car loses value after an accident.
Chubb's original equipment manufacturer (OEM) coverage is a rare coverage that benefits many drivers by guaranteeing that vehicle repairs use original factory parts. Another notable offering includes agreed value coverage, which protects your car's value without depreciation in a total loss scenario. These coverages demonstrate Chubb's commitment to delivering tailored options that resonate with varied insurance needs.
- Ranks first in the city for claims handling
- Ranks second for key coverages
- Offers rare coverages like OEM coverage
- Ranks 13th in the city for affordability, with an average annual premium of $1,830
- Does not offer roadside assistance or gap insurance
MoneyGeek ranks San Bernardino car insurance providers by prioritizing customer satisfaction and affordability, while also considering claims service, coverage options and financial stability.
Best Car Insurance in San Bernardino for Customer Service
MoneyGeek found that Chubb is the best car insurance option in San Bernardino based on overall customer service. This is determined independently of its rates, focusing on general customer satisfaction, efficient claims handling and the comprehensiveness of its coverages.
- Chubb: MoneyGeek score of 94 out of 100 ($1,830 per year)
- Capital Insurance Group: MoneyGeek score of 82 out of 100 ($1,473 per year)
Chubb is the premier choice due to its superior claims process and broad coverage options. Its ranking is supported by an impressive balance of customer satisfaction and industry stability.
Chubb excels in customer satisfaction and claims handling, factors that contribute heavily to its high MoneyGeek score. The company offers a common car insurance coverage: rental car insurance and/or travel reimbursement, which benefits consumers looking for comprehensive protection.
Chubb's car insurance policies extend beyond common coverages, including rare options that could benefit many drivers. The original equipment manufacturer (OEM) coverage is notable, ensuring that repairs use original factory parts — vital for maintaining vehicle integrity and value. Its diminished value coverage can safeguard your investment if your car loses value after an accident. Furthermore, its antique/classic car insurance is excellent for enthusiasts seeking specialized protection. These coverages and high scores make Chubb a prime choice for consumers wanting comprehensive and customizable car insurance.
- Ranks second in the city for general customer satisfaction
- Ranks first in the city for claims handling
- Offers rare OEM coverage and common rental car/travel reimbursement
MoneyGeek ranks San Bernardino car insurance by focusing on customer satisfaction, claim processing, coverage options and financial stability.
Best Cheap Car Insurance in San Bernardino
MoneyGeek found that Mercury is the best option for cheap car insurance in San Bernardino. This company leads with its balance of affordability and quality service, providing consumers with well-rounded policies they can depend on.
The top providers by MoneyGeek scores are:
- Mercury: MoneyGeek score of 77 ($513 per year)
- GEICO: MoneyGeek score of 75 ($449 per year)
Mercury stands out primarily due to its exceptional customer satisfaction and claims processing, which contribute significantly to its high MoneyGeek score. Its affordable minimum coverage policies also cement its place as the foremost choice for San Bernardino drivers seeking value in their car insurance.
Mercury is distinguished by its exceptional affordability and coverage scores, which significantly contribute to its high MoneyGeek score. With an annual premium averaging only $513, the average driver pays remarkably little per year for minimum coverage. Mercury offers anti-theft, paperless, automatic payment and senior driver discounts.
Mercury stands out for its breadth of discounts, providing all the most common discounts, including bundling, multiple car and safe driving. The bundling discount can substantially reduce policy costs by combining different insurance products. The safe driving discount rewards those with clean driving records, promoting safe driving habits and offering financial benefits.
- Offers discounts for bundling, multiple car and safe driving
- Has rare rare discounts like automatic payment and senior driver
- Ranks third in the city for affordability, with an average annual premium of $513 for for minimum coverage
- Ranks third for customer satisfaction
MoneyGeek ranks San Bernardino's best car insurance by focusing on affordability and customer satisfaction, while also considering claims service, coverage options and financial strength.
Average Cost of Car Insurance in San Bernardino
In San Bernardino, the average car insurance cost is $1,567 per year. This is slightly higher by $5 than the average cost of car insurance in California, which is $1,562. The state's average is under the national average of $1,781. This indicates that California residents pay $219 less per year for their auto insurance than the national average.
Car insurance premiums vary significantly based on numerous factors, with location playing a substantial role. Urban areas with dense traffic patterns usually experience higher rates due to increased risks of accidents and theft. Conversely, rural or less populated areas tend to enjoy lower premiums. Santa Maria, California, has the most affordable average annual premium at $1,251, while Glendale has the highest average annual cost at $2,433. This $1,182 difference highlights the influence of location on insurance costs, with less congested areas potentially having even lower rates than urban centers.
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.