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.
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 FriedlanderSenior Director, Media Relations, Triple-I
Corporate communications director for Insurance Information Institute
20+ years in insurance and communications
As Director, Corporate Communications for Triple-I, 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.
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.
$125/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.
$286/mo
4.1
Best choiceBased on 12,122 verified guest 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 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 For
Customer service
Competitive rates
Discounts for safe drivers
Reviews (6,362)
Denise
Verified Review
Looking for Better Pricing
Reviewed in Georgia on October 2025
Too high priced but good service.
Richard
Verified Review
Excellent
Reviewed in Illinois on October 2025
Your coverage is costly.
Janice
Verified Review
Fifty Years as a Happy State Farm Customer
Reviewed in Michigan on October 2025
I have been a State Farm customer for more than fifty years. I do feel your prices are just a little more than they should be for someone who has been with you for the number of years that I have, but I have never had a problem and will continue to keep State Farm for my insurance needs.
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
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.
$176/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.
$403/mo
4.3
Best choiceBased on 885 verified guest 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 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 For
Usage-based savings
Accident forgiveness
Recreational vehicle coverage
Reviews (496)
Angela
Verified Review
Customer Service
Reviewed in Ohio on October 2025
They always answer the phone, and communication is why I stay.
Edward
Verified Review
Price
Reviewed in Kansas on October 2025
Need lower price.
John
Verified Review
Average
Reviewed in Pennsylvania on October 2025
Been great for a lot of years, but now prices continue to increase.
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
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.
$81/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.
$186/mo
4.9
Best choiceBased on 2,292 verified guest 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 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 For
Members of the military community
Outstanding customer service
Competitive rates
Reviews (1,270)
Edward
Verified Review
USAA
Reviewed in South Carolina on October 2025
It's too high.
Remmington
Verified Review
Sometimes No Discounts - After 34 Years with Them
Reviewed in Arizona on October 2025
Better than most, but charges too much sometimes.
Jared
Verified Review
USAA doesn't give discounts
Reviewed in Florida on October 2025
They offer big discounts but then raise your rate by the amount of the discount, so they don't really give a discount.
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
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.
$87/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.
$143/mo
4.4
Best choiceBased on 913 verified guest 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 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 For
Cash back for being claims free
Optional coverages
Diminishing deductible
Reviews (503)
Gary
Verified Review
Their only shortfall and why I'm shopping around is due to their rate hikes over the past year.
Reviewed in Idaho on October 2025
Excellent company for their coverage, handling claims, etc. Customer service and representatives are absolutely above average.
Ali
Verified Purchase
Choose Insurance Plan
Reviewed in on October 2025
Acceptable, fast, easy.
Thomas
Verified Review
Very satisfied
Reviewed in Tennessee on October 2025
Very satisfied with SafeCo and have been with them for years.
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
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.
$297/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.
$436/mo
4.5
Best choiceBased on 167 verified guest 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 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 For
24/7 claims service
Bundling discounts
High customer satisfaction
Reviews (97)
Kevin
Verified Review
All great but prices too high!
Reviewed in Georgia on October 2025
Rates are too high.
Jim
Verified Review
Amica Premiums Get High Ratings
Reviewed in Delaware on October 2025
Make sure you include an Amica quote when comparing premiums.
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.
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]
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.
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.
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 $148 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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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 $93 per month for liability coverage and $203 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.
Taylor Milam-Samuel is a writer and credentialed educator who is fascinated by how people earn, save, and spend their money. When she's not researching financial terms and conditions, she can be found in the classroom teaching.
Taylor has been a contributor at Insurify since February 2023.
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.
Reviewed byMark FriedlanderSenior Director, Media Relations, Triple-I
Mark FriedlanderSenior Director, Media Relations, Triple-I
Corporate communications director for Insurance Information Institute
20+ years in insurance and communications
As Director, Corporate Communications for Triple-I, Mark serves as the non-profit’s national spokesperson, sharing information and education on a wide array of insurance issues.
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