Best Car Insurance in California (2026)

State Farm, USAA, and Nationwide are three of the best car insurance companies in California.

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4.7 / 517K reviews
Taylor Milam-Samuel
Writer: Taylor Milam-Samuel Insurance Writer

Qualifications:
  • 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.

Photo of an Insurify author
Editor: John LeachLicensed P&C Agent, Chief Copy Editor

Qualifications:
  • Licensed property and casualty insurance agent

  • 10+ years editing experience

  • NPN: 20461358


John is Insurify’s Chief Copy Editor, helping ensure the accuracy and readability of Insurify’s content. He’s a licensed agent specializing in home and car insurance topics.

Mark Friedlander
Reviewer: Mark FriedlanderSenior Director, Media Relations, Insurance Information Institute

Qualifications:
  • 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.

Updated

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Best car insurance companies in California

Insurify analyzed 120+ companies, considering factors like cost, coverage options, and discounts, to determine the best car insurance in California. If you’re looking for coverage in the Golden State, the insurers below are a great place to start your search.

State Farm: Best overall in California

User Reviews
4.1
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.
$101/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.
$231/mo
Details
4.1
Best choice in CaliforniaBased on 21,453 verified driver reviews and ratings
State Farm's score
Industry average
Coverage options4.13.2
Customer service4.43.6
Discounts3.92.9
Policy transparency3.93.1
Value3.72.9
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.

Based on analysis of verified reviews collected by Insurify

Best in California for
Customer service
Competitive rates
Discounts for safe drivers
Showing 75 reviews from California driversSee all 8,185 State Farm reviews
Sandy
Verified Review
Poor customer service
I would say, "Don’t deal with the Jackson, CA office because they have the worst customer service and don’t credit payments upon receipt, so you get a late notice."
Addie
Verified Review
Well, I'm glad I'm with State Farm
State Farm has good service.
Naveed
Verified Review
I've Been with State Farm for Over 10 Years, and I Love Their Quality and Service
I've been with State Farm for over 10 years, and I absolutely love their quality and service.
JD Power
J.D. Power data measures overall customer satisfaction and claims satisfaction based on a 1,000-point scale.
658
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 is the best overall car insurance company in California. In addition to offering competitive rates, J.D. Power rates the insurer highly for both customer and claims satisfaction. You can get a quote online or work with one of 2,000 local agents across the state.

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

  • Affordable rates in California

  • Various discounts, including ones specifically for young drivers

Cons
  • Payoff Protector (gap) coverage is available only 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: Best for pay-per-mile coverage in California

User Reviews
4.3
Details
4.3
Best choice in CaliforniaBased on 1,033 verified driver reviews and ratings
Nationwide's score
Industry average
Coverage options4.03.2
Customer service4.03.6
Discounts3.72.9
Policy transparency3.93.1
Value3.52.9
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.

Based on analysis of verified reviews collected by Insurify

Best in California for
Usage-based savings
Accident forgiveness
Recreational vehicle coverage
Showing recent national reviewsSee all 530 Nationwide reviews
Maryann
Verified Review
Good
Good company to deal with, but their rates are extremely high.
Brenda
Verified Review
Good Insurance
Nationwide has always been very good about handling all my claims.
William
Verified Review
Average hourly worker being ripped off by an insurance company
I would highly, highly, highly—really, highly—not recommend getting service with National General through Nationwide. For starters, I had a set locked-in monthly rate, and by the second and third month it was raised by $20. What was really disturbing is that I made my second-month payment three days early, and at the same time I set up autopay. Then three days later they tried to take the payment out again, and I didn’t have enough in the account to cover it. They charged me a late fee. When I called and explained that I paid three days early and then set up autopay for future payments, I felt it was a mistake on their end to withdraw the money again. They said it was my fault and that the late fee would stand, and there was nothing they could do. They were willing to let me split the late fee into two payments. On the following month’s payment, I calculated my monthly charge plus half of the late fee, but because they didn’t document what they agreed to, there still wasn’t enough money to cover it. Then I was hit with another late payment. I called again and got the same result: the late fee would stand and there was nothing they could do. I live paycheck to paycheck and work an hourly job, so I calculate what I need in my account for upcoming monthly bills. Please be careful about who you select for auto insurance, but I would definitely not recommend getting any type of insurance through Nationwide.
JD Power
J.D. Power data measures overall customer satisfaction and claims satisfaction based on a 1,000-point scale.
627
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 offers pay-per-mile coverage in California through its SmartMiles program, making it a solid choice 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 one of California’s many college campuses, 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

  • Low rates 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 in California

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.
$66/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.
$150/mo
Details
4.9
Best choice in CaliforniaBased on 4,359 verified driver reviews and ratings
USAA's score
Industry average
Coverage options4.93.2
Customer service4.93.6
Discounts4.92.9
Policy transparency4.93.1
Value4.92.9
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.

Based on analysis of verified reviews collected by Insurify

Best in California for
Members of the military community
Outstanding customer service
Competitive rates
Showing 27 reviews from California driversSee all 1,708 USAA reviews
Edna
Verified Review
USAA Not User-Friendly
It’s extremely difficult to get service at USAA if you’ve forgotten your PIN. Everything feels too complicated, and you don’t get to deal with an agent.
Patricia
Verified Review
There When We Need Them
We’ve had to make two claims since we’ve been with them, and we’ve never had a problem. Customer service was very helpful.
Irving
Verified Review
Fair
My rates went up by $1,000.
JD Power
J.D. Power data measures overall customer satisfaction and claims satisfaction based on a 1,000-point scale.
747
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

Whether you’re a veteran or an active-duty military member stationed at one of California’s 44 military bases, USAA is a solid choice for car insurance. J.D. Power consistently rates the company among the top for customer and claims satisfaction. USAA also offers unique discounts to military members and veterans, such as savings of up to 60% for putting your car in long-term storage on base.

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

  • No 24/7 customer service

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

Safeco: Best for cheap rates in California

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.
$137/mo
Details
4.3
Best choice in CaliforniaBased on 1,081 verified driver reviews and ratings
Safeco's score
Industry average
Coverage options4.13.2
Customer service4.13.6
Discounts4.02.9
Policy transparency4.03.1
Value3.72.9
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.

Based on analysis of verified reviews collected by Insurify

Best in California for
Cash back for being claims free
Optional coverages
Diminishing deductible
Showing 5 reviews from California driversSee all 540 Safeco reviews
Anne
Verified Review
Car insurance is terrible.
Shop around with different companies.
Jon
Verified Review
Shop around
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
For me, they raised rates too much.
JD Power
J.D. Power data measures overall customer satisfaction and claims satisfaction based on a 1,000-point scale.
634
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 the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC)

Amica: Best for customer satisfaction in California

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.
$227/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.
$394/mo
Details
4.5
Best choice in CaliforniaBased on 204 verified driver reviews and ratings
Amica's score
Industry average
Coverage options4.23.2
Customer service4.03.6
Discounts3.62.9
Policy transparency4.23.1
Value3.62.9
How drivers feel about Amica

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

Based on analysis of verified reviews collected by Insurify

Best in California for
24/7 claims service
Bundling discounts
High customer satisfaction
Showing recent national reviewsSee all 107 Amica reviews
Justin
Verified Review
Car insurance
Excellent, very professional and knowledgeable staff.
Scott
Verified Review
Amica is an excellent choice
Excellent customer service.
Sarah
Verified Review
You get great service with car insurance, but you get what you pay for: High price, great service.
Amica is great. Customer service and claims both have great communication. It's just too pricey for my budget right now.
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 the company has 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

How we chose the best car insurance companies in Californiaexpand/collapse

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.

Average cost of car insurance in California

The average cost of car insurance in California is $98 per month for liability coverage and $203 per month for full coverage. This is higher than the national monthly averages of $99 for liability coverage and $187 for full coverage, partly because the state’s insurance price freeze recently 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.[2]

At the end of 2025, the average annual full-coverage premium in California was $2,309, and Insurify data scientists project a 1% increase by the end of 2026.

Find Cheap Car Insurance in California

Liability rates start as low as $66 per month

Excellent
4.7 out of 5 based on 17,481 reviews
Secure. Free. Easy-to-use.
ProgressiveLiberty MutualAllstate

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

    California requires drivers to carry a minimum of $30,000 per person and $60,000 per accident of bodily injury liability coverage, as well as $15,000 in property damage liability.[3] But a full-coverage insurance policy offers more financial protection than liability-only insurance, because it also covers your vehicle repairs if you’re at fault in an accident.

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

    Compare quotes from multiple insurers

    California’s car insurance rates are higher than the national average, in part due to its population density and risk of natural disasters, such as earthquakes and wildfires. Comparing quotes from three to five insurers is the best way to find an affordable policy that meets your coverage needs.

  • illustration card https://a.storyblok.com/f/162273/150x150/885773089c/states_california.svg

    Look into California car insurance discounts

    Asking your insurance agent about eligible discounts, such as a home and auto bundle discount, can help you save on a California car insurance policy. If you’re a member of certain professional organizations, such as the California Medical Association or the California Association for the Education of Young Children, you may qualify for an insurance discount.

    Alumni of California universities, such as Stanford University and the University of Southern California, may also qualify for additional savings.

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 $98 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 and Safeco are the best insurers if you want to prioritize low rates. But if you’re a member of the military community, USAA might be a good choice.

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. 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.

Sources

  1. Jdpower.com. "2023 U.S. Insurance Shopping Study."
  2. KTVU. "California could see car insurance rates soar by more than 50% this year: Here’s why."
  3. California Department of Motor Vehicles. "Insurance Requirements."
Taylor Milam-Samuel
Writer: Taylor Milam-Samuel Insurance Writer

Qualifications:
  • 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.

Photo of an Insurify author
Editor: John LeachLicensed P&C Agent, Chief Copy Editor

Qualifications:
  • Licensed property and casualty insurance agent

  • 10+ years editing experience

  • NPN: 20461358


John is Insurify’s Chief Copy Editor, helping ensure the accuracy and readability of Insurify’s content. He’s a licensed agent specializing in home and car insurance topics.

Mark Friedlander
Reviewer: Mark FriedlanderSenior Director, Media Relations, Insurance Information Institute

Qualifications:
  • 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.