Car Insurance for High-Risk Drivers in California (2026)
USAA is the cheapest insurer for high-risk drivers in California, with an average monthly liability rate of $84.
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Writer: Taylor Milam-Samuel Insurance Writer
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.
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Editor: MacKenzie KorrisLicensed P&C Agent, Senior Insurance Copy Editor
Editor: MacKenzie KorrisLicensed P&C Agent, Senior Insurance Copy Editor
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Licensed property and casualty insurance agent
10+ years editing experience
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MacKenzie Korris is an insurance copy editor with a producer’s license for property and casualty insurance in Missouri.
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Reviewer: Mark FriedlanderSenior Director, Media Relations, Insurance Information Institute
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.
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Quick Facts
USAA offers the lowest rates for high-risk drivers in California, with liability policies costing an average of $84 per month.
Roughly 9% of drivers in California fall into the high-risk category, according to Insurify data.
Programs like MercuryGO use telematics to help you save up to 40% on car insurance, even if you have a violation on your record.
Average cost of high-risk car insurance in California
High-risk drivers in California, such as those with an at-fault accident, DUI, ticket, or similar incident, pay an average of $246 per month for full-coverage car insurance. Liability-only coverage costs $119 per month, but it’s still more expensive than liability coverage for drivers with a clean record.
If an insurer labels you a high-risk driver in California, your car insurance costs could go up by as much as 28% per year, according to Insurify data. Below, you’ll find a closer look at what different types of drivers pay for liability and full coverage in California.
Driver Profile | Average Monthly Cost: Liability Only | Average Monthly Cost: Full Coverage |
|---|---|---|
| Clean record | $98 | $203 |
| Speeding ticket | $125 | $258 |
| At-fault accident | $126 | $261 |
| DUI | $134 | $278 |
| SR-22 | $112 | $232 |
Disclaimer: Table data is based on real-time California quotes from Insurify’s network of 500+ insurance partners. Actual rates may vary depending on the policyholder’s individual profile and coverage needs.
Find Cheap Car Insurance in California
Liability rates for high-risk drivers average $119 per month
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Cheapest car insurance in California by violation
USAA, GEICO, and Aspire General offer some of the most affordable car insurance for drivers with violations.
The kind of violation you have will affect your insurance costs. For instance, liability coverage costs an average of $134 per month if you have a DUI, while a policy for drivers with an at-fault accident costs about $126 per month. Keep your specific violation in mind when looking for the most affordable insurance.
Cheapest rates for high-risk drivers with DUIs in California
USAA offers the lowest average monthly rate for drivers with a DUI in California, at $92.
Insurify data shows that fewer than 1% of drivers in the state have a DUI. While DUIs are the least common violation in California, the rate drivers with a DUI pay for liability coverage is still higher than the national average.
Below, you can compare the cheapest rates for high-risk drivers with DUIs in California.
The below rates in California are estimated rates current as of: Wednesday, September 30 at 5:00 PM PDT.
Insurance Company | Average Monthly Quote: Liability Only | Average Monthly Quote: Full Coverage |
|---|---|---|
| USAA | $92 | $210 |
| Aspire General | $93 | $168 |
| GEICO | $96 | $201 |
| Sun Coast | $97 | $236 |
| National General | $101 | $280 |
| Progressive | $101 | $203 |
| Mercury | $107 | $216 |
| Dairyland | $113 | $284 |
| Direct Auto | $117 | $291 |
| Root | $120 | $190 |
| Anchor | $130 | $250 |
| Farmers | $130 | $298 |
| Kemper Special | $140 | $225 |
| Bristol West | $141 | $309 |
| State Farm | $141 | $323 |
| Travelers | $148 | $338 |
| Kemper Rsvp | $155 | $229 |
| 21st Century | $158 | $359 |
| First Acceptance | $210 | $477 |
| Chubb | $252 | $575 |
Disclaimer: Table data sourced from real-time California car insurance quotes from Insurify's 500+ partner insurance providers and quote estimates from Quadrant Information Services. Actual car insurance quotes in California may vary based on the policy buyer's unique driver profile.
Cheapest rates for CA drivers with at-fault accidents
According to Insurify, 5.26% of California drivers have an at-fault accident on their record, which is higher than the national average of 4.72%.
USAA offers the lowest car insurance rates in California for drivers with an at-fault accident, averaging $88 per month. See the cheapest insurers for California drivers with an at-fault accident below.
The below rates in California are estimated rates current as of: Wednesday, September 30 at 5:00 PM PDT.
Insurance Company | Average Monthly Quote: Liability Only | Average Monthly Quote: Full Coverage |
|---|---|---|
| Aspire General | $87 | $158 |
| USAA | $88 | $200 |
| GEICO | $89 | $186 |
| Sun Coast | $91 | $221 |
| National General | $95 | $263 |
| Progressive | $95 | $190 |
| Dairyland | $105 | $264 |
| Mercury | $106 | $213 |
| Root | $106 | $168 |
| Direct Auto | $113 | $280 |
| Anchor | $119 | $229 |
| Farmers | $123 | $283 |
| Kemper Special | $131 | $211 |
| Bristol West | $132 | $290 |
| State Farm | $133 | $304 |
| Travelers | $142 | $324 |
| Kemper Rsvp | $145 | $215 |
| 21st Century | $157 | $357 |
| First Acceptance | $197 | $447 |
| Chubb | $238 | $544 |
Disclaimer: Table data sourced from real-time California car insurance quotes from Insurify's 500+ partner insurance providers and quote estimates from Quadrant Information Services. Actual car insurance quotes in California may vary based on the policy buyer's unique driver profile.
Cheapest rates for drivers with speeding tickets in California
USAA offers the lowest car insurance rates in California for drivers with a speeding ticket, averaging $85 per month. Speeding tickets are less common in California than the national average, with only 3.14% of drivers having one, according to Insurify data.
Here are the cheapest insurance companies for California drivers with a speeding ticket.
The below rates in California are estimated rates current as of: Wednesday, September 30 at 5:00 PM PDT.
Insurance Company | Average Monthly Quote: Liability Only | Average Monthly Quote: Full Coverage |
|---|---|---|
| USAA | $85 | $194 |
| Aspire General | $87 | $157 |
| GEICO | $90 | $187 |
| Sun Coast | $90 | $219 |
| National General | $90 | $251 |
| Progressive | $94 | $188 |
| Mercury | $100 | $201 |
| Dairyland | $101 | $253 |
| Root | $103 | $163 |
| Direct Auto | $107 | $264 |
| Anchor | $115 | $222 |
| Farmers | $120 | $274 |
| Bristol West | $129 | $281 |
| State Farm | $129 | $294 |
| Kemper Special | $130 | $209 |
| Travelers | $138 | $315 |
| Kemper Rsvp | $144 | $213 |
| 21st Century | $154 | $350 |
| First Acceptance | $195 | $443 |
| Chubb | $231 | $527 |
Disclaimer: Table data sourced from real-time California car insurance quotes from Insurify's 500+ partner insurance providers and quote estimates from Quadrant Information Services. Actual car insurance quotes in California may vary based on the policy buyer's unique driver profile.
Best California auto insurance companies for high-risk drivers
The below rates in California are estimated rates current as of: Wednesday, September 30 at 5:00 PM PDT.
Insurance Company | Average Monthly Quote |
|---|---|
| USAA | $84 |
| GEICO | $88 |
| Mercury | $101 |
Disclaimer: Table data sourced from real-time California car insurance quotes from Insurify's 500+ partner insurance providers and quote estimates from Quadrant Information Services. Actual car insurance quotes in California may vary based on the policy buyer's unique driver profile.
Mercury, GEICO, and USAA stand out as the best companies for high-risk drivers in California. They have strong financial ratings, good customer satisfaction scores, and offer discounts. Below is a closer look at what each company offers.
Mercury: Best for drivers on a budget
| 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. | 7.5 /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. | $72/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. | $145/mo |
4.0
Best choice in CaliforniaBased on 707 verified driver reviews and ratings
Mercury's score | Industry average | |
|---|---|---|
| Coverage options | 3.7 | 3.2 |
| Customer service | 3.2 | 3.6 |
| Discounts | 3.2 | 2.9 |
| Policy transparency | 3.6 | 3.1 |
| Value | 3.3 | 2.9 |
How drivers feel about Mercury
Drivers appreciate the attentive customer service and claim handling but dislike the consistent rate increases and lack of transparency in pricing. Some also found the company to be lacking in empathy and flexibility.
Based on analysis of verified reviews collected by Insurify
Best in California for
Showing 21 reviews from California driversSee all 332 Mercury reviews
Verified Review
Reviewed in California on October 2, 2026
Excellent coverage, service, and rates.
Verified Purchase
Reviewed in California on September 28, 2026
I've already told a few people how much I appreciate the prices and the savings I’ve gotten since I got rid of State Farm and switched to Mercury.
Verified Review
Reviewed in California on September 27, 2026
Trying to lower my rates. I contacted my agent but still haven’t heard back.
JD Power
J.D. Power data measures overall customer satisfaction and claims satisfaction based on a 1,000-point scale.
596
NAIC Index
Average amount of customer complaints relative to competitors on a 0-5 scale. A lower score represents fewer complaints.
0.95
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
Mercury began in Los Angeles and is a familiar name in California. It’s often the most affordable insurer for high-risk drivers with any type of violation. The company has strong financial ratings, and its safe driving program can help you save on coverage. You can find stronger financial strength ratings with other insurers, but you may not find cheaper rates.
Pros
Some of the cheapest rates in California for high-risk drivers
Strong financial standing
Special discounts available for federal government employees, active-duty military and veterans
Cons
Below-average J.D. Power customer satisfaction rating in California
Reserves the biggest discounts for drivers with clean records
Doesn’t offer accident forgiveness
GEICO: Best for claim confidence
| 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. | 9.2 /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. | $68/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. | $142/mo |
4.0
Best choice in CaliforniaBased on 21,110 verified driver reviews and ratings
GEICO's score | Industry average | |
|---|---|---|
| Coverage options | 4.0 | 3.2 |
| Customer service | 4.1 | 3.6 |
| Discounts | 3.9 | 2.9 |
| Policy transparency | 4.0 | 3.1 |
| Value | 3.9 | 2.9 |
How drivers feel about GEICO
Customers appreciate the reliability and customer service but find the rates to be high and increase frequently, even without claims or accidents. The app has improved, but some find the claims process lacking.
Based on analysis of verified reviews collected by Insurify
Best in California for
Showing 75 reviews from California driversSee all 8,266 GEICO reviews
Verified Review
Reviewed in California on October 4, 2026
It’s OK. It’s specifically designed for EV cars.
Verified Review
Reviewed in California on September 30, 2026
Shop around before you sign. I tapped the back of a car in a drive-through at a fast-food restaurant—no damage. I took two pictures of the bumper (not a mark anywhere) and submitted them to GEICO, and followed up with a call to an agent. The driver of the other car filed a claim for damage, GEICO paid out $1,532, and doubled my premium. I called them and said it was a fraudulent claim and to look at the pictures as proof, but I got no response. The only thing good about GEICO that I can rely on is the roadside service.
Verified Review
Reviewed in California on September 30, 2026
GEICO is there when you need them and is very responsive. You can get better rates when you bundle. I’ve been fortunate—other than a rock ding in the windshield, I’ve never had to file a claim. However, rates tend to go up every year, even with no claims.
JD Power
J.D. Power data measures overall customer satisfaction and claims satisfaction based on a 1,000-point scale.
626
NAIC Index
Average amount of customer complaints relative to competitors on a 0-5 scale. A lower score represents fewer complaints.
0.59
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
GEICO may not offer the lowest rates, but its strong record for handling claims and keeping customers happy makes it a great choice for California drivers. The company offers a wide range of discounts that can help you save money even if you have a violation on your record. GEICO also has a team ready to help with more complicated coverage needs, like SR-22 insurance.
Pros
Highest possible financial strength rating of A++ (Superior)
Above-average J.D. Power customer satisfaction rating in California
Large number of discounts for every type of driver
Cons
Coverage for high-risk drivers is more expensive
Doesn't offer gap coverage
No local agent network
USAA: Best for military families
| 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 |
4.9
Best choice in CaliforniaBased on 4,393 verified driver reviews and ratings
USAA's score | Industry average | |
|---|---|---|
| Coverage options | 4.9 | 3.2 |
| Customer service | 4.9 | 3.6 |
| Discounts | 4.9 | 2.9 |
| Policy transparency | 4.9 | 3.1 |
| Value | 4.9 | 2.9 |
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
Showing 28 reviews from California driversSee all 1,714 USAA reviews
Verified Review
Reviewed in California on October 5, 2026
They are unprofessional, and their prices are high compared to other insurance companies.
Verified Review
Reviewed in California on September 26, 2026
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.
Verified Review
Reviewed in California on September 22, 2026
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.
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
If you’re an active-duty military member, a veteran, or an immediate family member, USAA is a top choice for high-risk drivers in California. It has some of the lowest rates in the state and a reputation as one of the most trustworthy insurers in the country. The main drawback is that you must meet membership requirements to get coverage.
Pros
Returned $3.8 billion to members last year through rate reductions, dividends, and financial relief programs
J.D. Power rates it highest for customer satisfaction in every region
Low rates for high-risk drivers in California
Cons
Available only to active-duty military members, veterans, and their immediate families
Bundling discount is lower than what many other insurers offer
Doesn't have local agents
How we chose the best car insurance companies for high-risk drivers 
When choosing the best car insurance companies for high-risk drivers, we compared factors like costs for drivers with an incident, available discounts, customer service options, customer satisfaction ratings, and overall financial stability. The companies we’ve listed above offer competitive rates, a range of discounts, accessible customer service teams, and high customer satisfaction and financial stability ratings.
How to find cheaper car insurance for high-risk drivers in California
Even if your insurer considers you a high-risk driver, you can still find affordable coverage in California. Here are things you can do to get started:
Consider California’s high-risk insurance pool (CAARP). This state-run program matches you with a licensed insurance company, and all companies in the program charge the same premium. You can pay in installments without any extra fees. While it may not be the cheapest choice, it ensures you will have coverage.[1] But, CAARP is only an option for drivers who can’t obtain coverage through the private market.
Utilize California’s Good Driver Law. By law, insurers must offer a Good Driver Discount policy to anyone who has had a license for at least three years in a row, has no more than one point on their driving record, and was not mainly at fault in an accident that caused injury or death.
Sign up for a mileage-based or telematics program. Telematics programs, like MercuryGO, can help you earn lower rates if you drive safely. This is one of the few ways to reduce your rate while a violation is still on your record. But, telematics programs are prohibited in the state of California.
California minimum car insurance requirements for high-risk drivers
In most states, including California, drivers with serious violations, such as a DUI, must show additional insurance verification. If you’re convicted of a DUI in California, the DMV will suspend or revoke your license. To get your driving privileges back, you need to file a California Insurance Proof Certificate, also known as an SR-22.
You must keep an SR-22 on file for three years in California. If you cancel your insurance during this time, your insurer will notify the DMV right away. If you don’t get new insurance within 45 days, the DMV will suspend your vehicle registration.[2]
The chart below shows the minimum coverage requirements you need in California.
Coverage Type | California Minimum Requirement | What It Covers |
|---|---|---|
| Bodily injury liability per person | $30,000 | Medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses for one person injured by you in an accident where you are at fault |
| Bodily injury liability per accident | $60,000 | This is the maximum amount your insurer will pay for injuries to everyone hurt in one accident where you are at fault |
| Property damage liability | $15,000 | The cost to repair or replace someone else’s vehicle or property if you damage it in an accident where you are at fault |
| SR-22 | Required for 3 years following a DUI conviction or license suspension | A certificate your insurer files with the California DMV to show you have at least the minimum liability coverage required by the state |
Who is a high-risk driver in California?
California has a Negligent Operator Point System. Every traffic conviction adds points to your driving record, and each violation brings more serious consequences.[3]
If you get a DUI in California, the DMV will suspend or revoke your license if your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is 0.08% or higher in a non-commercial vehicle, or 0.01% or higher if you’re on DUI probation. After a DUI conviction, you must file a California Insurance Proof Certificate (SR-22) and keep it for three years.
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How long will California consider you a high-risk driver?
Most minor violations, such as speeding tickets or at-fault accidents, stay on your record for three or five years in California. Serious offenses can remain on your record for 10 years, and insurers can access that information during that time.
The good news is that the financial impact of a violation usually gets smaller over time as long as you avoid new violations. Keeping your record clean after an incident is the best way to reduce your costs.
California high-risk drivers insurance FAQs
The following questions and answers can help you find the right coverage if you’re a high-risk driver in California.
How much is high-risk car insurance in California?
On average, high-risk car insurance in California costs $181 per month, Insurify data shows. Your exact rate will depend on the type of violation on your record.
What is the best company for high-risk drivers in California?
Mercury, USAA, and GEICO are the best insurance companies for high-risk drivers in California.
Will Progressive insure high-risk drivers in California?
Yes, Progressive offers insurance coverage for high-risk drivers in California. The company also provides SR-22 insurance, which is often required if you have a DUI.
How can high-risk drivers in California get lower car insurance rates?
High-risk drivers in California can lower their car insurance rates by comparing quotes, asking about discounts, and enrolling in a telematics program that rewards safe driving.
Sources
- California Department of Insurance. "Introduction to Auto Insurance."
- California Department of Motor Vehicles. "DUI First Offenders."
- California Department of Motor Vehicles. "The Negligent Operator Treatment System (NOTS)."
Methodology
Insurify data scientists analyzed more than 250 million quotes served to car insurance applicants in Insurify’s proprietary database to calculate the premium averages displayed on this page. These premiums are real quotes that come directly from Insurify’s 500+ partner insurance companies in all 50 states and Washington, D.C. Quote averages represent the median price for a quote across the given coverage level, driver subset, and geographic area.
Unless otherwise specified, quoted rates reflect the average cost for drivers between 20 and 70 years old with a clean driving record and average or better credit (a credit score of 600 or higher).
Liability-only premium averages correspond to policies with the following coverage limits:
- Bodily injury limits between state-minimum rates and $50,000 per person, $100,000 per accident
- Property damage limits between $10,000 and $50,000
- No additional coverage
- Comprehensive coverage with a $1,000 deductible
- Collision coverage with a $1,000 deductible
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California doesn’t have a set grace period for car insurance when you buy a new car. Grace periods vary by insurer and typically range from seven to 30 days.
Non-Owner Car Insurance in California
Non-owner car insurance provides California drivers with liability coverage when they borrow or rent cars, and it can also satisfy SR-22 requirements. The average cost of non-owner coverage in California is $47 per month.
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Uninsured Motorist Coverage in California: What to Know
Uninsured motorist coverage helps pay for your medical expenses and property damage if an uninsured driver hits you. It’s optional in California, but insurers must offer it.
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Why Is Car Insurance So Expensive in California?
The average annual cost of car insurance in California is $2,309, which is 7% higher than the U.S. average of $2,144.
Cheapest Car Insurance Quotes in California
Drivers in California can often find the cheapest car insurance through smaller regional and select national insurers. USAA offers the cheapest rates in California, averaging $66 per month.
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Cheapest Car Insurance Quotes in Anaheim, California (October 2026)
The cheapest car insurer in Anaheim is USAA, with an average monthly premium of $73 for state-minimum coverage. Anaheim drivers pay higher insurance rates than drivers in other nearby cities due to high accident rates and the area’s natural disaster risks.
Cheap Car Insurance Quotes in Antioch, California (October 2026)
USAA offers Antioch drivers the cheapest insurance, with an average rate of $67 per month. High theft rates and long commutes likely contribute to Antioch’s relatively high car insurance costs.
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Cheap Car Insurance Quotes in Bakersfield, California (October 2026)
USAA offers the best price for minimum coverage in Bakersfield, charging an average of $59 per month. Driving under the influence is a common issue in Bakersfield, which can affect average car insurance rates in the area.
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Cheap Car Insurance Quotes in Berkeley, California (October 2026)
USAA offers the cheapest car insurance in Berkeley, at $69 per month for liability-only coverage. Berkeley sits within the San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont metro area, which has the fourth-highest vehicle theft rate in the nation, potentially increasing coverage costs.
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Cheapest Car Insurance Quotes in Chula Vista, California (October 2026)
USAA offers the cheapest auto insurance in Chula Vista, with an average liability premium of $58 per month. Rates in Chula Vista are lower than in some nearby cities because drivers have fewer speeding tickets and accidents.
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Cheapest Car Insurance Quotes in Citrus Heights, California (October 2026)
USAA has the cheapest auto insurance in Citrus Heights, averaging $66 per month for liability-only coverage. The city’s declining motor vehicle theft rate may help explain why its full-coverage rates are slightly below the state average.
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Cheap Car Insurance Quotes in Compton, California (October 2026)
The cheapest insurer in Compton is USAA, with drivers paying a monthly average of $91 for liability coverage. Due to heavy traffic congestion and high vehicle theft rates, insurance premiums in Compton are higher than in other parts of the state.
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Cheap Car Insurance Quotes in Corona, California (October 2026)
The cheapest car insurance in Corona is a liability-only policy from USAA, at an average monthly rate of $68. Heavy regional traffic along state Route 91 influences Corona’s higher-than-average car insurance rates.
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Cheap Car Insurance Quotes in Elk Grove, California (October 2026)
USAA is the cheapest car insurance company in Elk Grove, with an average monthly liability rate of $64. State Route 99 cuts through Elk Grove, and its heavy commuter traffic can have an effect on car insurance rates.
Cheap Car Insurance Quotes in Escondido, California (October 2026)
USAA offers the cheapest car insurance in Escondido, with an average monthly rate of $62 for liability insurance. The city’s longer commute times and heavy congestion lead to higher premiums than in surrounding areas.
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Cheap Car Insurance Quotes in Fairfield, California (October 2026)
USAA offers the cheapest car insurance in Fairfield, with liability-only quotes averaging $62 per month. Heavy traffic on Interstate 80 and one of the nation’s higher metro vehicle-theft rates are among the local factors shaping Fairfield’s rates.
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Cheapest Car Insurance Quotes in Fontana, California (October 2026)
USAA is the cheapest car insurance company in Fontana, with liability policies averaging $71 per month. Fontana’s average rates are above the state average, partly due to the city’s high vehicle theft rate.
Cheapest Car Insurance Quotes in Fremont, California (October 2026)
USAA offers the cheapest insurance coverage in Fremont, with an average monthly liability rate of $61. The city’s risk of flooding could affect its average car insurance rates.
Cheapest Car Insurance Quotes in Fresno, California (October 2026)
USAA is the cheapest insurer in Fresno, with average liability rates of $59 per month. Drivers in Fresno likely pay higher rates due to the city’s high vehicle theft rate.
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Cheap Car Insurance Quotes in Garden Grove, California (October 2026)
Garden Grove drivers can find the cheapest rates from USAA, averaging $71 per month for liability coverage. The city’s population density and congestion on the 22 freeway may contribute to its higher car insurance costs.
Cheapest Car Insurance Quotes in Glendale, California (October 2026)
USAA offers the cheapest insurance in Glendale, with an average liability rate of $121 per month. Glendale’s high population density, high rate of vehicle theft, and exposure to multiple weather risks affect insurance premiums.
Cheap Car Insurance Quotes in Hayward, California (October 2026)
The cheapest car insurance company in Hayward, California, is USAA, with an average monthly rate of $68 for liability-only coverage. Hayward’s heavy traffic congestion on Interstate 880, high volume of vehicle thefts, and increased flood risk mean higher-than-average insurance rates.
Cheap Car Insurance Quotes in Hemet, California (October 2026)
The cheapest insurer in Hemet is USAA, with a monthly average of $60 for liability coverage. Located in the San Jacinto Valley, Hemet’s smaller population may contribute to its lower-than-average rates.
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Cheap Car Insurance Quotes in Hesperia, California (October 2026)
The cheapest car insurance company in Hesperia is USAA, with an average monthly premium of $72 for liability coverage. Hesperia car insurance is relatively expensive due to natural disaster risks, such as wildfires, earthquakes, and flash flooding.
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Cheap Car Insurance Quotes in Huntington Beach, California (October 2026)
USAA has the cheapest car insurance in Huntington Beach, with an average monthly cost of $67 for liability-only coverage. Heavy traffic along the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) and the area’s DUI rates may influence premiums.
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Cheapest Car Insurance Quotes in Inglewood, California (October 2026)
The cheapest car insurance in Inglewood is USAA, at an average of $92 per month for liability-only coverage. Inglewood’s major sports and entertainment venues and proximity to LAX lead to heavy traffic congestion and a greater chance for collisions, which increases rates.
Cheap Car Insurance Quotes in Lancaster, California (October 2026)
USAA has the cheapest liability-only insurance rates in Lancaster, at $80 per month. Lancaster’s high wildfire risk can influence insurance rates.
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Cheap Car Insurance Quotes in Long Beach, California (October 2026)
USAA offers the cheapest car insurance in Long Beach, with an average cost of $77 per month for liability-only coverage. Heavy traffic and vehicle theft can contribute to the city’s high rates.
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Cheapest Car Insurance Quotes in Los Angeles (October 2026)
USAA has the cheapest car insurance rates in Los Angeles, at an average of $101 per month for liability-only policies. The city’s notorious traffic costs drivers an average of 87 hours per year in congestion.
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Cheap Car Insurance Quotes in Menifee, California (October 2026)
USAA and GEICO have some of the cheapest rates for Menifee drivers. The growing city’s heavy traffic and elevated car theft rates likely contribute to its above-average car insurance costs.
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Cheapest Car Insurance Quotes in Modesto, California (October 2026)
USAA is the cheapest insurer for liability coverage in Modesto, with an average rate of $63 per month. But drivers in Modesto may benefit from full coverage due to the city’s high risk of wildfires.
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Cheapest Car Insurance Quotes in Moreno Valley, California (October 2026)
USAA offers the cheapest car insurance in Moreno Valley, at $68 per month. A long average commute of 41 minutes keeps Moreno Valley drivers on congested freeways longer than most Californians, which can contribute to higher local rates.
Cheapest Car Insurance Quotes in Murrieta, California (October 2026)
USAA offers the lowest liability car insurance rates for Murrieta drivers, at an average of $66 per month. Heavy traffic from I-15 and I-215 brings plenty of driving challenges to the city, but overall, it’s a relatively safe place for drivers.
Cheapest Car Insurance Quotes in Oakland, California (October 2026)
USAA offers the cheapest minimum-coverage car insurance in Oakland, at an average of $77 per month. Oakland drivers often pay more than many other Californians because of dense traffic around I-880, I-580, and the MacArthur Maze.
Cheap Car Insurance Quotes in Oceanside, California (October 2026)
USAA offers the cheapest car insurance in Oceanside, with an average rate of $59 per month. Interstate 5, one of Oceanside’s busiest highways, carries more than 200,000 vehicles, on average, per day.
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Cheapest Car Insurance Quotes in Oxnard, California (October 2026)
USAA offers the cheapest car insurance in Oxnard, at an average of $61 per month. Oxnard’s typical commute time is below the state average in California, which may help keep rates lower.
Cheap Car Insurance Quotes in Palmdale, California (October 2026)
The cheapest liability car insurance in Palmdale is from USAA, with an average rate of $83 per month. Palmdale’s above-average commute time and weather hazards influence auto rates in the city.
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Cheap Car Insurance Quotes in Pasadena, California (October 2026)
USAA offers the cheapest car insurance in Pasadena, with liability premiums averaging $83 per month. Los Angeles County, where Pasadena is located, has the highest rate of vehicle thefts by volume in the nation, which may affect your monthly premiums.
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Cheapest Car Insurance Quotes in Perris, California (October 2026)
USAA is the cheapest car insurance company in Perris, with an average liability rate of $69 per month. Perris has more expensive car insurance rates than some nearby cities due to heavy traffic on Interstate 215.
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Cheap Car Insurance Quotes in Pomona, California (October 2026)
The cheapest car insurance company in Pomona is USAA, with an average monthly liability rate of $76. Car insurance rates are higher than average in Pomona because the city has a higher number of serious collisions, especially at night.
Cheap Car Insurance Quotes in Rancho Cucamonga, California (October 2026)
USAA offers the cheapest insurance in Rancho Cucamonga, with an average liability rate of $73 per month. High vehicle theft rates and severe weather risks affect insurance rates in Rancho Cucamonga.
Cheap Car Insurance Quotes in Redding, California (October 2026)
The cheapest insurer in Redding is GEICO, with liability-only coverage averaging $50 per month. Redding’s short average commute time and smaller population may contribute to the city’s affordable rates.
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Cheapest Car Insurance Quotes in Rialto, California (October 2026)
The cheapest car insurance company in Rialto is USAA, with an average monthly premium of $71 for liability coverage. Greater population density and higher vehicle theft rates may help explain why Rialto’s rates are more expensive than in nearby smaller cities.
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Cheap Car Insurance Quotes in Riverside, California (October 2026)
USAA has the cheapest car insurance in Riverside, with an average liability rate of $68 per month. Frequent vehicle theft and traffic congestion can influence premiums in Riverside.
Cheapest Car Insurance Quotes in Roseville, California (October 2026)
USAA is the cheapest insurer in Roseville, with an average monthly liability rate of $63. Heavy congestion at the I-80/Highway 65 interchange can raise car insurance costs in the city.
Cheap Car Insurance Quotes in Sacramento, California (October 2026)
In Sacramento, USAA is the cheapest car insurance company, with average liability insurance rates of $71 per month. Car insurance rates are high due to Sacramento’s extremely high crash rate and climate risks.
Cheapest Car Insurance Quotes in San Bernardino, California (October 2026)
At $71 per month, USAA offers San Bernardino drivers the cheapest average liability-only rates. High vehicle theft rates and dense commuter traffic keep insurance prices above the state average.
Cheapest Car Insurance Quotes in San Diego (October 2026)
USAA offers the cheapest car insurance in San Diego, averaging $59 per month for minimum coverage. Numerous interstates pass through the city, increasing accident risks and insurance rates.
Cheap Car Insurance Quotes in San Francisco (October 2026)
The cheapest insurer in San Francisco is USAA, with an average liability-only rate of $76 per month. San Francisco’s high car theft rates and population density affect its car insurance rates.
Cheap Car Insurance Quotes in San Jose, California (October 2026)
USAA has the cheapest average liability coverage in San Jose, at $62 per month. Insurance costs in San Jose are slightly higher than the national average because traffic is often heavy, especially during rush hour on Interstate 280 and U.S. Route 101.
Cheapest Car Insurance Quotes in Santa Ana, California (October 2026)
USAA is the cheapest insurer in Santa Ana, with an average rate of $70 per month for liability coverage. Congested roadways may contribute to the city’s car insurance costs.
Cheap Car Insurance Quotes in Santa Barbara, California (October 2026)
USAA has the cheapest auto insurance in Santa Barbara, with liability policies averaging $54 per month. Santa Barbara is a tourist destination that welcomes more than 6.5 million visitors every year, and additional drivers on the road can affect insurance costs.
Cheap Car Insurance Quotes in Santa Clara, California (October 2026)
USAA offers the cheapest auto insurance in Santa Clara, at $64 per month. Santa Clara’s average liability rates are lower than the state average, despite the county’s very high vehicle theft rate.
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Cheap Car Insurance Quotes in Santa Maria, California (October 2026)
Santa Maria drivers can find the cheapest liability-only car insurance quotes through GEICO, with coverage averaging $51 per month. The city’s relatively small population and low vehicle theft rate may influence car insurance costs.
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Cheap Car Insurance Quotes in Santa Rosa, California (October 2026)
USAA is the cheapest insurer for liability-only coverage in Santa Rosa, with an average monthly rate of $57. Santa Rosa’s short average commute times may help keep its car insurance premiums low.
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Cheap Car Insurance Quotes in Simi Valley, California (October 2026)
USAA is the cheapest insurer for liability coverage in Simi Valley, with an average rate of $75 per month. But drivers may want to opt for full-coverage insurance due to the city’s high risk of wildfires and congestion.
Cheap Car Insurance Quotes in Stockton, California (October 2026)
USAA offers Stockton drivers the cheapest car insurance, averaging $66 per month for liability-only coverage. Living in a city with relatively high car theft rates and a large percentage of “super commuters,” Stockton drivers face higher average car insurance rates than much of the Golden State.
Cheap Car Insurance Quotes in Temecula, California (October 2026)
USAA offers the cheapest liability-only car insurance in Temecula, at $60 per month. Heavy northbound congestion on Interstate 15 influences Temecula insurance rates.
Cheap Car Insurance Quotes in Torrance, California (October 2026)
The cheapest car insurance company in Torrance, CA, is USAA, with an average liability-only rate of $77 per month. Premiums in Torrance are higher than state average, likely due to its high levels of traffic and vehicle theft.
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Cheap Car Insurance Quotes in Vallejo, California (October 2026)
USAA has the cheapest liability rates in Vallejo, averaging $67. Vallejo’s location near the San Francisco Bay makes it very vulnerable to flooding, which increases insurance rates.
Cheapest Car Insurance Quotes in Victorville, California (October 2026)
USAA is the cheapest car insurer in Victorville, CA, with an average liability premium of $73 per month. Car insurance in Victorville is slightly above the state average due to the area’s high population density and vehicle theft rate.
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Cheap Car Insurance Quotes in Visalia, California (October 2026)
USAA is the cheapest car insurance company in Visalia, with an average liability rate of $52 per month. Car insurance in Visalia tends to be affordable thanks to the city’s smaller population.
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Writer: Taylor Milam-Samuel Insurance Writer
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.
Editor: MacKenzie KorrisLicensed P&C Agent, Senior Insurance Copy Editor
Editor: MacKenzie KorrisLicensed P&C Agent, Senior Insurance Copy Editor
Qualifications:
Licensed property and casualty insurance agent
10+ years editing experience
NPN: 21630969
MacKenzie Korris is an insurance copy editor with a producer’s license for property and casualty insurance in Missouri.
Reviewer: Mark FriedlanderSenior Director, Media Relations, Insurance Information Institute
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.