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Best Car Insurance in California (2026)

The best car insurance in California includes State Farm and USAA. Here’s how to find the best insurer for you.

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Taylor Milam-Samuel
Taylor Milam-Samuel Insurance Writer
  • 8+ years writing for major outlets, including MarketWatch and Business Insider

  • Master’s in Education

Taylor Mlam-Samuel is a personal finance writer and credentialed educator. When she’s not helping readers better save and spend money, she can be found teaching.

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Sara Getman
Edited bySara Getman
Sara Getman
Sara GetmanAssociate Editor

Sara Getman is an Associate Editor at Insurify and has been with the company since 2022. Prior to joining Insurify, Sara completed her undergraduate degree in English Literature at Simmons University in Boston. At Simmons, she was the Editor-in-Chief for Sidelines Magazine (a literary and art publication), and wrote creative non-fiction.

Outside of work, Sara is an avid reader, and loves rock climbing, yoga, and crocheting.

Mark Friedlander
Reviewed byMark Friedlander
Mark Friedlander
Mark FriedlanderSenior Director, Media Relations, Insurance Information Institute
  • Media relations director for Insurance Information Institute

  • 20+ years in insurance and communications

  • Impartial, independent expert

As Senior Director, Media Relations, for Insurance Information Institute, Mark serves as the non-profit’s national spokesperson, sharing information and education on a wide array of insurance issues.

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Shopping for car insurance can be difficult since every driver has different priorities. But the good news is that knowing what you want to prioritize — affordability, coverage options, discounts, or customer service — can help you find the best fit.

Our editorial team analyzed 50 car insurance companies to determine the best insurers in California. Here are the top picks.

Best car insurance companies in California

The best car insurance companies in California offer affordable pricing, solid coverage, and high customer satisfaction. The following insurers stand out as some of the top insurers in the state. Depending on your priorities, one might be a better fit than the others.

State Farm: Best overall

User Reviews
4.0
IQ Score
The Insurify Quality (IQ) Score uses more than 15 criteria to objectively rate insurance companies on a one-to-ten scale. The Insurify editorial team researches insurer data to determine the final scores.
9.3 /10
Liability Only
Liability-only insurance, sometimes called minimum-coverage insurance, pays for bodily injury and property damage to others in an accident the policyholder causes. It does not pay for the insured’s own damages.
$128/mo
Full Coverage
Full-coverage car insurance generally includes liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage, and may include other optional coverages such as uninsured motorist coverage. Collision covers a policyholder’s repair or replacement costs in case of an accident. Comprehensive covers damages caused by non-accident events. The average quote displayed here reflects policies with the following coverage limits: $50,000 bodily injury liability per person; $100,000 bodily injury liability per accident; $50,00 property damage liability per accident; $1,000 collision deductible; and a $1,000 comprehensive deductible.
$288/mo
4.0
Best choice in CaliforniaBased on 15,788 verified driver reviews and ratings
How drivers feel about State Farm

Customers appreciate the insurer’s excellent customer service and personal attention but dislike the high prices and frequent rate increases. They also express frustration with the claims process.

AI-generated from the text of verified reviews collected by Insurify
Best in California for
Customer service
Competitive rates
Discounts for safe drivers
How drivers feel about State Farm

Customers appreciate the insurer’s excellent customer service and personal attention but dislike the high prices and frequent rate increases. They also express frustration with the claims process.

AI-generated from the text of verified reviews collected by Insurify
Best in California for
Customer service
Competitive rates
Discounts for safe drivers
Showing 75 reviews from California drivers - See all 7,176 State Farm reviews
Vance
Verified Review
Too Expensive
Reviewed in California on March 2, 2026
The only problem I have is the cost of my insurance.
Sandy
Verified Review
Insurance Review
Reviewed in California on February 27, 2026
Too expensive.
Marvin
Verified Review
Nothing special. My experience has been average.
Reviewed in California on February 25, 2026
Service is average so far. I am disappointed with the premium.
Glenda
Verified Review
Excellent service and good communication. However, I'm not happy with the premium as it keeps increasing monthly and yearly.
Reviewed in California on February 25, 2026
Excellent service and good communication. However, I'm not happy with the premium as it keeps increasing monthly and yearly.
Luis
Verified Review
I have an awesome customer service team. I can't complain; they are understanding and willing to help.
Reviewed in California on February 23, 2026
I have an awesome customer service team. I can't complain; they are understanding and willing to help.
George
Verified Review
Average
Reviewed in California on February 21, 2026
Service is average, and pricing is higher than their direct competitors.
Na
Verified Review
Getting Expensive
Reviewed in California on February 20, 2026
I have multiple cars and am being charged as if I drive all the vehicles every day.
David
Verified Review
Rising Rates
Reviewed in California on February 17, 2026
I've been with State Farm for 60 years. Very few claims, but they continue to raise rates, just like everyone else. I only have insurance to protect myself.
Roger
Verified Review
Quite happy
Reviewed in California on February 10, 2026
They always answer the phone, and we have dealt with them for 25 years. They assure us regarding our policies.
JD Power
J.D. Power data measures overall customer satisfaction and claims satisfaction based on a 1,000-point scale.
657
NAIC Index
Average amount of customer complaints relative to competitors on a 0-5 scale. A lower score represents fewer complaints.
0.84
A.M. Best
A.M. Best analyzes an insurer’s financials, operating performance, business profile, and other factors to generate an opinion-based rating of a company’s financial and credit strength. Ratings range from A++ (exceptional) to D (poor).
A++
Why we picked this company

State Farm holds a very high Insurify Quality (IQ) Score. The company also stands out by earning the No. 4 spot for customer satisfaction in J.D. Power’s 2024 Insurance Shopping survey.[1]

State Farm also offers affordable rates, extensive discounts, and various coverage options. You can get a quote online or work with a local agent in 48 states and Washington, D.C., making it accessible for drivers in California and beyond.

Pros
  • Above-average J.D. Power customer satisfaction score

  • Affordable rates

  • Various discounts, including ones specifically for young drivers

Cons
  • Only offer Payoff Protector (gap) coverage to policyholders who originate an auto loan with State Farm bank

  • Quotes and policies can only be issued through State Farm exclusive agents

  • Doesn't offer accident forgiveness coverage

Nationwide SmartMiles: Best for pay-per-mile coverage

User Reviews
4.2
IQ Score
The Insurify Quality (IQ) Score uses more than 15 criteria to objectively rate insurance companies on a one-to-ten scale. The Insurify editorial team researches insurer data to determine the final scores.
9 /10
Liability Only
Liability-only insurance, sometimes called minimum-coverage insurance, pays for bodily injury and property damage to others in an accident the policyholder causes. It does not pay for the insured’s own damages.
$180/mo
Full Coverage
Full-coverage car insurance generally includes liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage, and may include other optional coverages such as uninsured motorist coverage. Collision covers a policyholder’s repair or replacement costs in case of an accident. Comprehensive covers damages caused by non-accident events. The average quote displayed here reflects policies with the following coverage limits: $50,000 bodily injury liability per person; $100,000 bodily injury liability per accident; $50,00 property damage liability per accident; $1,000 collision deductible; and a $1,000 comprehensive deductible.
$406/mo
4.2
Best choice in CaliforniaBased on 948 verified driver reviews and ratings
How drivers feel about Nationwide

Drivers appreciate the helpful and knowledgeable customer service but dislike the frequent and significant rate increases. Some also found the claims process to be slow and frustrating.

AI-generated from the text of verified reviews collected by Insurify
Best in California for
Usage-based savings
Accident forgiveness
Recreational vehicle coverage
How drivers feel about Nationwide

Drivers appreciate the helpful and knowledgeable customer service but dislike the frequent and significant rate increases. Some also found the claims process to be slow and frustrating.

AI-generated from the text of verified reviews collected by Insurify
Best in California for
Usage-based savings
Accident forgiveness
Recreational vehicle coverage
Showing 5 reviews from California drivers - See all 512 Nationwide reviews
Nicholas
Verified Review
Poor
Reviewed in California on May 14, 2025
Nationwide is very overpriced for what they offer.
Steve
Verified Review
Could Have Done Better
Reviewed in California on April 9, 2025
They were great until they decided not to renew my policies. The way they notified my wife and I was not very good at all.
David
Verified Review
Unhappy Customer
Reviewed in California on April 7, 2025
It's too expensive.
Rocky
Verified Review
Increasing Insurance Cost
Reviewed in California on March 26, 2025
They keep raising auto rates for no apparent reason. It's costing me way too much.
Sant
Verified Review
Be Careful Using Nationwide
Reviewed in California on March 16, 2025
I've been with them for 30 years. I made no claims and was designated as an elite driver by them. However, I made an improper U-turn against a signal and was given 1 point in March 2023. This was two years ago and I was dropped.
JD Power
J.D. Power data measures overall customer satisfaction and claims satisfaction based on a 1,000-point scale.
641
NAIC Index
Average amount of customer complaints relative to competitors on a 0-5 scale. A lower score represents fewer complaints.
0.7
A.M. Best
A.M. Best analyzes an insurer’s financials, operating performance, business profile, and other factors to generate an opinion-based rating of a company’s financial and credit strength. Ratings range from A++ (exceptional) to D (poor).
A+
Why we picked this company

Nationwide’s SmartMiles offers pay-per-mile coverage in California, making it a solid option for drivers who want to prioritize affordability. With SmartMiles, you’re eligible for a 10% safe driving discount and all the coverage options Nationwide offers.

SmartMiles charges a base rate plus a per-mile rate and records mileage using an in-car tracking device. If you work from home, are a retiree, walk or bike to work, or are a student on campus, SmartMiles might be a good choice.

Pros
  • Highest J.D. Power customer satisfaction score for usage-based insurance

  • Discount of 10% for safe driving after first renewal

  • Cheap option for low-mileage drivers

Cons
  • Not the cheapest company for high-mileage drivers

  • Requires in-vehicle tracking device

  • Rates fluctuate month to month

USAA: Best for military members

User Reviews
4.9
IQ Score
The Insurify Quality (IQ) Score uses more than 15 criteria to objectively rate insurance companies on a one-to-ten scale. The Insurify editorial team researches insurer data to determine the final scores.
9.1 /10
Liability Only
Liability-only insurance, sometimes called minimum-coverage insurance, pays for bodily injury and property damage to others in an accident the policyholder causes. It does not pay for the insured’s own damages.
$83/mo
Full Coverage
Full-coverage car insurance generally includes liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage, and may include other optional coverages such as uninsured motorist coverage. Collision covers a policyholder’s repair or replacement costs in case of an accident. Comprehensive covers damages caused by non-accident events. The average quote displayed here reflects policies with the following coverage limits: $50,000 bodily injury liability per person; $100,000 bodily injury liability per accident; $50,00 property damage liability per accident; $1,000 collision deductible; and a $1,000 comprehensive deductible.
$188/mo
4.9
Best choice in CaliforniaBased on 3,128 verified driver reviews and ratings
How drivers feel about USAA

Customers appreciate the insurer’s reliable customer service and claim handling but express concerns about high rates and frequent price increases. Some also find the insurer’s security protocols and communication methods frustrating.

AI-generated from the text of verified reviews collected by Insurify
Best in California for
Members of the military community
Outstanding customer service
Competitive rates
How drivers feel about USAA

Customers appreciate the insurer’s reliable customer service and claim handling but express concerns about high rates and frequent price increases. Some also find the insurer’s security protocols and communication methods frustrating.

AI-generated from the text of verified reviews collected by Insurify
Best in California for
Members of the military community
Outstanding customer service
Competitive rates
Showing 22 reviews from California drivers - See all 1,477 USAA reviews
Harold
Verified Review
Good Insurance Company
Reviewed in California on January 16, 2026
Lower rates for seniors as other insurance companies advertise.
Josie
Verified Review
Average
Reviewed in California on January 6, 2026
Price increases over the last few years have been terrible.
Richard
Verified Review
World Value
Reviewed in California on December 29, 2025
I have lived all over the world, and this is a great service and value!
Janice
Verified Review
Excellent
Reviewed in California on December 27, 2025
I really don't use it except for the need to be insured to get renewal of registration.
Evie
Verified Review
Very good
Reviewed in California on December 21, 2025
They've been very good to me. I just wish I could get a card to show I have insurance with them.
Steven
Verified Review
Good Claim Service
Reviewed in California on December 19, 2025
Initially contacting them can be a pain, but great service once you do.
Daniel
Verified Review
USAA has always provided my family with excellent service.
Reviewed in California on December 17, 2025
I have had USAA Automobile Insurance since 1963. Great company!
Gernomino
Verified Review
The Best of the Rest
Reviewed in California on November 30, 2025
Very professional.
Tameika
Verified Review
Why I Chose to Leave USAA After 17 Years
Reviewed in California on November 19, 2025
USAA insurance company is great for filing claims quickly and easily. They pay claims promptly and are super helpful. However, when it comes to truly caring about their members, it's disappointing. I have credit cards, bank accounts, my car loan, and car insurance all under USAA. Personally, after battling cancer and health issues, getting USAA to show compassion for my situation was nonexistent. They only seem to care about active duty members, which is the only group they will help in a financial crisis. For that reason, I am really disappointed in USAA as a whole. I think for the money, it's not worth it. There are other companies that will insure my car just the same for cheaper. I don't need to carry the USAA brand and overpay when they won't do anything for a member going through something catastrophic.
JD Power
J.D. Power data measures overall customer satisfaction and claims satisfaction based on a 1,000-point scale.
739
NAIC Index
Average amount of customer complaints relative to competitors on a 0-5 scale. A lower score represents fewer complaints.
1.31
A.M. Best
A.M. Best analyzes an insurer’s financials, operating performance, business profile, and other factors to generate an opinion-based rating of a company’s financial and credit strength. Ratings range from A++ (exceptional) to D (poor).
A++
Why we picked this company

USAA consistently ranks among the top insurance companies for customer satisfaction and service through J.D. Power. The company earns an impressive IQ Score due to its generous discounts and extensive coverage options.

The only downside is that you have to be a member of the military community. Because of that, USAA isn’t an option for every driver. But if you have a military connection that makes you eligible for membership, it’s a solid option for California drivers.

Pros
  • High J.D. Power score for customer satisfaction

  • Generous discounts

  • All-in-one banking and insurance

Cons
  • Must be a member of the military community

  • Does not offer 24/7 customer service

  • Only has three brick-and-mortar office locations in California

Safeco: Best for cheap rates

User Reviews
4.3
IQ Score
The Insurify Quality (IQ) Score uses more than 15 criteria to objectively rate insurance companies on a one-to-ten scale. The Insurify editorial team researches insurer data to determine the final scores.
8.1 /10
Liability Only
Liability-only insurance, sometimes called minimum-coverage insurance, pays for bodily injury and property damage to others in an accident the policyholder causes. It does not pay for the insured’s own damages.
$85/mo
Full Coverage
Full-coverage car insurance generally includes liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage, and may include other optional coverages such as uninsured motorist coverage. Collision covers a policyholder’s repair or replacement costs in case of an accident. Comprehensive covers damages caused by non-accident events. The average quote displayed here reflects policies with the following coverage limits: $50,000 bodily injury liability per person; $100,000 bodily injury liability per accident; $50,00 property damage liability per accident; $1,000 collision deductible; and a $1,000 comprehensive deductible.
$139/mo
4.3
Best choice in CaliforniaBased on 1,010 verified driver reviews and ratings
How drivers feel about Safeco

Drivers appreciate the smooth claims process and periodic safe driving checks but dislike the frequent and significant rate increases without clear explanation.

AI-generated from the text of verified reviews collected by Insurify
Best in California for
Cash back for being claims free
Optional coverages
Diminishing deductible
How drivers feel about Safeco

Drivers appreciate the smooth claims process and periodic safe driving checks but dislike the frequent and significant rate increases without clear explanation.

AI-generated from the text of verified reviews collected by Insurify
Best in California for
Cash back for being claims free
Optional coverages
Diminishing deductible
Showing 8 reviews from California drivers - See all 535 Safeco reviews
Jon
Verified Review
Shop around
Reviewed in California on February 4, 2026
Shop around. I believe insurers give an initial lower rate and then increase it over time, knowing that most people just keep paying the higher rate. You have to shop every time renewal comes up.
Farid
Verified Review
Analysis
Reviewed in California on January 26, 2026
For me, they raised rates too much.
Randy
Verified Review
Safeco Review
Reviewed in California on January 23, 2026
Generally good - handles the few claims we have submitted well.
Jon
Verified Review
From $650 to $2300 in 2 years, no driving violations, no policy change
Reviewed in California on January 5, 2026
Raised rate 100% in 2025 and another 100% in 2026. No tickets, claims, DUI, etc. No change in coverage. Low miles driven. Safeco doesn't want me, so I'm gone in 2026.
Carolyn
Verified Review
Paying too much!
Reviewed in California on May 7, 2025
I have asked to lower my rates as the amount I pay for the amount I drive is outrageous!
Deborah
Verified Review
Excellent
Reviewed in California on April 26, 2025
Insurance is very good, but the cost is expensive.
Rhonda
Verified Review
Shopping around for lower insurance
Reviewed in California on April 23, 2025
I really don't know how they are since I've only been with them for a month. I was with Liberty Mutual and it got switched to Safeco. I was paying $63 and now my first payment was $95. Because of the price increase, I'm not happy. So now I'm shopping for lower insurance.
Charles
Verified Review
Good
Reviewed in California on April 17, 2025
It's been good now that we understand what each of us needs.
JD Power
J.D. Power data measures overall customer satisfaction and claims satisfaction based on a 1,000-point scale.
613
NAIC Index
Average amount of customer complaints relative to competitors on a 0-5 scale. A lower score represents fewer complaints.
1.72
A.M. Best
A.M. Best analyzes an insurer’s financials, operating performance, business profile, and other factors to generate an opinion-based rating of a company’s financial and credit strength. Ratings range from A++ (exceptional) to D (poor).
A
Why we picked this company

Safeco offers some of the lowest rates for California drivers. Liberty Mutual, one of the largest insurers, owns Safeco. Even though discounts are limited, the company excels at offering budget-friendly insurance. Plus, you don’t have to sacrifice coverage to save money since Safeco offers unique perks, like accident forgiveness, for free.

You must work with a local independent agent to get a quote and set up coverage, which might be a dealbreaker for drivers who prefer a digital experience.

Pros
  • Standardizes some optional coverages that usually cost extra

  • Cash back for claims-free drivers

  • Competitive pricing

Cons
  • Low J.D. Power score for customer satisfaction

  • Can only get quotes and purchase policies through independent agents

  • Above-average number of complaints filed with NAIC

Amica: Best for customer satisfaction

User Reviews
4.5
IQ Score
The Insurify Quality (IQ) Score uses more than 15 criteria to objectively rate insurance companies on a one-to-ten scale. The Insurify editorial team researches insurer data to determine the final scores.
8.6 /10
Liability Only
Liability-only insurance, sometimes called minimum-coverage insurance, pays for bodily injury and property damage to others in an accident the policyholder causes. It does not pay for the insured’s own damages.
$263/mo
Full Coverage
Full-coverage car insurance generally includes liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage, and may include other optional coverages such as uninsured motorist coverage. Collision covers a policyholder’s repair or replacement costs in case of an accident. Comprehensive covers damages caused by non-accident events. The average quote displayed here reflects policies with the following coverage limits: $50,000 bodily injury liability per person; $100,000 bodily injury liability per accident; $50,00 property damage liability per accident; $1,000 collision deductible; and a $1,000 comprehensive deductible.
$432/mo
4.5
Best choice in CaliforniaBased on 189 verified driver reviews and ratings
How drivers feel about Amica

Customers appreciate the excellent customer service and claims processing but are frustrated by the frequent and significant premium increases.

AI-generated from the text of verified reviews collected by Insurify
Best in California for
24/7 claims service
Bundling discounts
High customer satisfaction
How drivers feel about Amica

Customers appreciate the excellent customer service and claims processing but are frustrated by the frequent and significant premium increases.

AI-generated from the text of verified reviews collected by Insurify
Best in California for
24/7 claims service
Bundling discounts
High customer satisfaction
Showing recent national reviews - See all 103 Amica reviews
Therese
Verified Review
Fast Work Taking Care of Claims
Reviewed in Massachusetts on March 1, 2026
Easy to work with.
Matt
Verified Review
Getting Expensive
Reviewed in Texas on February 26, 2026
Customer service is pretty good, but rates have gone up enough to make me look around.
Mary
Verified Review
Amica is an excellent company. However, it is very expensive. I am on a fixed income and am looking to see how I might reduce my monthly payments. I am seriously considering giving up car ownership. I am not looking to buy until at the soonest September.
Reviewed in Connecticut on February 1, 2026
Amica is an excellent company. However, it is very expensive. I am on a fixed income and am looking to see how I might reduce my monthly payments. I am seriously considering giving up car ownership. I am not looking to buy until at the soonest September.
JD Power
J.D. Power data measures overall customer satisfaction and claims satisfaction based on a 1,000-point scale.
709
NAIC Index
Average amount of customer complaints relative to competitors on a 0-5 scale. A lower score represents fewer complaints.
0.57
A.M. Best
A.M. Best analyzes an insurer’s financials, operating performance, business profile, and other factors to generate an opinion-based rating of a company’s financial and credit strength. Ratings range from A++ (exceptional) to D (poor).
A+
Why we picked this company

Amica is a top choice for California drivers who want a strong customer service experience. The company consistently earns high J.D. Power customer satisfaction ratings and a below-average number of NAIC complaints, making it an excellent choice for drivers who prioritize customer service.

Amica offers unique policy perks, like premium packages and dividend-paying policies. You can also save money with the company’s long list of discounts and safe driving incentives. But if you prefer an in-person experience with an agent, you might not be able to find that in California since there are only two Amica offices in the state.

Pros
  • Above-average J.D. Power customer satisfaction rating

  • Unique policy perks

  • Extensive list of discounts

Cons
  • Only two offices in California

  • No pay-per-mile option

  • Doesn’t offer rideshare insurance

  • Our editorial team analyzed regional and national auto insurance companies that sell policies in California to assess which offer the best rates, coverage options, customer service, and savings to drivers. We prioritized competitive rates, 24/7 customer service, low-mileage discounts or programs, safe driving discounts, homeownership discounts or bundling options, and specialty or supplemental coverages.

How to get the best car insurance in California

The best car insurance in California depends on your priorities, and a few considerations can make it easier to decide. Here’s what to consider when determining which company is the best option.

  • illustration card https://a.storyblok.com/f/162273/150x150/6a92eb6099/insurify-icons-auto-green-96x96_005-insurance.svg

    Consider how much coverage you need

    Most insurance experts recommend full-coverage car insurance, which includes liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage. But depending on your needs, you might want more or less insurance.

    For example, drivers with an older car that isn’t worth much might only need liability insurance. But drivers with an expensive loan might opt for additional coverage, like gap insurance. Once you determine the coverage you need, it’s easier to compare insurers.[2]

  • illustration card https://a.storyblok.com/f/162273/x/c1eabd846f/rating.svg

    Read reviews from policyholders

    Reading customer reviews can help you understand what it’s like to have a policy with each insurer. Consider reading reviews on reputable sites like Trustpilot and Insurify. You can also check the National Association of Insurance Commissioners’ Consumer Complaint Index to see if the number of customer complaints is above or below average. J.D. Power’s annual Auto Insurance Study provides a snapshot of customer feedback, which is helpful if you want to minimize research.

  • illustration card https://a.storyblok.com/f/162273/150x150/8329623678/money-96x96-blue_025-online-money.svg

    Compare quotes from multiple insurers

    The cost of coverage is an important factor for most drivers. The best way to compare quotes is to get estimates from multiple insurers. Car insurance quotes provide an estimate of premiums based on your location, driving history, coverage needs, and more. Quotes are free, and you can usually get a quote online within a few minutes.

  • illustration card https://a.storyblok.com/f/162273/150x150/13c17bd678/car-service-96x96-orange_027-car-lift.svg

    Prioritize your needs

    Every driver has unique priorities when it comes to auto insurance. For instance, you might have a strict budget and want cheap car insurance. But another driver might need a specific type of coverage, like gap insurance or pet injury protection. Understanding your individual needs is key to finding the right insurer for you.

Average cost of car insurance in California

The average cost of car insurance in California is $141 per month. Coverage in the Golden State is more expensive than the national average, partly because the state’s insurance price freeze just ended.

California Gov. Gavin Newsom imposed a price hike freeze during the pandemic, which prevented insurers from raising rates. But now that it’s over, experts predict that insurance costs could increase as much as 50% over the next few years.[3] California drivers who want to reduce costs can consider switching insurers, qualifying for discounts, or choosing a pay-per-mile policy.

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Check quotes from 120+ top insurance companies

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Best car insurance in California FAQs

The best car insurance company in California depends on what you need from your coverage. Here’s more information about auto policies in the Golden State.

  • How much is car insurance in California?

    On average, Californians pay $92 per month for liability coverage and $190 for full coverage.

  • What are the best car insurance companies in California?

    California’s best car insurance companies include USAA, Nationwide, and State Farm. Once you determine your top priorities, finding the right fit is easier. For example, Nationwide’s SmartMiles program and Safeco are the best options if you want to prioritize low rates. But if you are a member of the military community, USAA might be a good option.

  • What is the required auto insurance coverage in California?

    The state of California mandates liability insurance that includes $30,000 in bodily injury liability coverage per person, $60,000 in bodily injury liability per accident, and $15,000 in property damage liability.[4] A policy from a reputable insurer meets these minimum coverage requirements. You can also choose to add more coverage for additional protection, like uninsured motorist coverage.

Related articles

Sources

  1. J.D. Power. "2024 U.S. Insurance Shopping Study."
  2. III. "Auto insurance basics—understanding your coverage."
  3. KTVU. "California could see car insurance rates soar by more than 50% this year: Here’s why."
  4. California DMV. "Auto Insurance Requirements."
Taylor Milam-Samuel
Written byTaylor Milam-Samuel Insurance Writer
Taylor Milam-Samuel
Taylor Milam-Samuel Insurance Writer
  • 8+ years writing for major outlets, including MarketWatch and Business Insider

  • Master’s in Education

Taylor Mlam-Samuel is a personal finance writer and credentialed educator. When she’s not helping readers better save and spend money, she can be found teaching.

Featured in

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Taylor Mlam-Samuel is a personal finance writer and credentialed educator. When she’s not helping readers better save and spend money, she can be found teaching.

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Sara Getman
Edited bySara GetmanAssociate Editor
Sara Getman
Sara GetmanAssociate Editor

Sara Getman is an Associate Editor at Insurify and has been with the company since 2022. Prior to joining Insurify, Sara completed her undergraduate degree in English Literature at Simmons University in Boston. At Simmons, she was the Editor-in-Chief for Sidelines Magazine (a literary and art publication), and wrote creative non-fiction.

Outside of work, Sara is an avid reader, and loves rock climbing, yoga, and crocheting.

Mark Friedlander
Reviewed byMark FriedlanderSenior Director, Media Relations, Insurance Information Institute
Mark Friedlander
Mark FriedlanderSenior Director, Media Relations, Insurance Information Institute
  • Media relations director for Insurance Information Institute

  • 20+ years in insurance and communications

  • Impartial, independent expert

As Senior Director, Media Relations, for Insurance Information Institute, Mark serves as the non-profit’s national spokesperson, sharing information and education on a wide array of insurance issues.

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