The cheapest insurer in Modesto is USAA, with an average rate of $65 per month for liability insurance.
Modesto’s car insurance rates are slightly lower than the California state average of $148 per month.
Modesto is at a high risk of wildfires, so insurance rates tend to be higher to offset the higher risk of disaster-related claims.
How much is car insurance in Modesto, CA?
Modesto drivers pay an average of $191 per month for full coverage and $95 per month for liability-only coverage, Insurify data shows. Modesto’s car insurance rates are similar to the California state average.
Modesto is one of the worst cities in California for crashes involving serious injuries and fatalities, and for hit-and-run accidents, both of which affect insurance premiums.[1] And the city is at high risk of wildfires, so drivers often pay higher rates for comprehensive coverage to offset the higher risk.
Modesto is about 90 miles east of San Francisco, one of the largest cities in California. Coverage in San Francisco is generally much more expensive, with an overall average monthly cost of $171. San Francisco has a much higher population density than Modesto and a higher motor vehicle theft rate.
The table below shows how car insurance rates in Modesto compare to California’s state average.
Car Insurance Costs in Modesto vs. California | Average Monthly Quote |
|---|---|
| Modesto average | $143 |
| California average | $148 |
Cheapest car insurance quotes in Modesto
In Modesto, the cheapest liability insurance is available through USAA, with an average rate of $65 per month.
Aspire General offers the cheapest full-coverage policies, with an average rate of $121 per month.
Find Cheap Car Insurance
Liability quotes in Modesto start at $65/mo.
Driving in Modesto: What to know
Modesto is subject to seasonal congestion changes, which can affect your commute. On average, Modesto residents spend 30 minutes commuting to work, according to U.S. Census data. But during certain times of the year, you can expect to spend more time in traffic.
The Almond Blossom Cruise, which occurs between February and March, attracts thousands of visitors each year who want to see the beautiful tree blossoms.
The summer months are another major tourist draw. In honor of its most famous former resident, George Lucas, Modesto hosts Graffiti Summer, a month-long celebration in June. There are special concerts, mural paintings, and festivals. These events can increase traffic and pedestrian congestion downtown.
Public parking is available at several garages, with rates starting at $1.25 per hour.
Vehicle theft trends in Modesto
For years, Modesto was the worst city in the country based on the volume of motor vehicle thefts.[2] But the Modesto police force established new programs to curtail theft, including new driver education programs to help prevent car theft.
As a result, Modesto now has a much lower rate of theft. As part of Stanislaus County, the rate of motor vehicle thefts dropped by 33% between the first quarter of 2024 and the first quarter of 2025, according to the National Insurance Crime Bureau.
With the lower level of thefts, Modesto’s insurance rates are decreasing. By contrast, Los Angeles is the worst county for car thefts, and residents tend to pay significantly more for car insurance.
Modesto car insurance rates vs. other California cities
Modesto’s car insurance rates are slightly lower than the California state averages. And in comparison to other nearby cities, Modesto is relatively affordable for auto coverage.
For example, Sacramento is about 75 miles north of Modesto, and coverage tends to be much more expensive. This is due in part to Sacramento’s high motor vehicle theft rate and high volume of crashes. On average, Sacramento drivers pay $158 per month for car insurance compared to Modesto’s average of $143 per month.
The table below shows the average rates for other cities in California.
City | Average Monthly Quote |
|---|---|
| Anaheim | $163 |
| Bakersfield | $132 |
| Berkeley | $153 |
| Chula Vista | $128 |
| Elk Grove | $143 |
| Fremont | $138 |
| Fresno | $131 |
| Glendale | $268 |
| Long Beach | $171 |
| Los Angeles | $225 |
| Modesto | $143 |
| Moreno Valley | $147 |
| Oakland | $170 |
| Oxnard | $138 |
| Riverside | $150 |
| Sacramento | $158 |
| San Bernardino | $157 |
| San Diego | $130 |
| San Francisco | $171 |
| San Jose | $136 |
| Santa Ana | $154 |
| Santa Barbara | $120 |
| Santa Clara | $143 |
| Santa Maria | $114 |
| Stockton | $146 |
| Temecula | $130 |
| Victorville | $161 |
How traffic in Modesto affects car insurance rates
Modesto has a relatively high population density compared to the rest of the state, and it’s prone to congestion. On average, Modesto drivers spend about 30 minutes commuting to work, about 5% longer than the state average, according to the U.S. Census.
One of the most common routes for commuters is State Route 99. Currently, this highway experiences annual average daily traffic levels of about 80,500 vehicles, but it’s expected to increase to 127,000 by the year 2047. To handle the increased congestion, a major renovation project is underway to expand the highway.[3]
Another major project is the State Route 132 transformation. State Route 132 is a major highway for truck drivers and commuters, but it’s still only two lanes, making it subject to frequent delays.
A construction project, expected to finish in 2027, will expand it to four lanes. In the meantime, drivers should expect additional traffic, delays, and detours, and leave themselves extra time to get to their destination.
Expert insurance tips from licensed agents
Mallory MooneyLicensed P&C Insurance Agent and Director of Sales and Client Services
Licensed property and casualty insurance agent
10+ years of insurance experience
Mallory has 10+ years of experience in property and casualty insurance. She serves as the director of sales and client services at Insurify, where customer service is central to her leadership style.
Anuj DesaiLicensed Property & Casualty Insurance Agent
Licensed property and casualty insurance agent
25+ years of insurance experience
Anuj has 25+ years of experience in auto, home, and renters insurance. As a digital insurance agent at Insurify, he takes pride in helping customers understand their coverage and in offering risk-management strategies tailored to each customer’s needs.
Austin MoyersLicensed P&C Insurance Agent and Sales Manager
Licensed property and casualty insurance agent
13+ years of insurance experience
Austin has 13+ years of personal lines experience. As a sales manager at Insurify, he mentors agents and partners with leadership to refine sales strategies and improve the customer experience.
Cheapest state-minimum car insurance in Modesto, CA: USAA
The average cost of liability insurance in Modesto is $95 per month, which is slightly lower than California’s state average. But drivers can find the cheapest coverage from USAA.
Modesto drivers must have car insurance that satisfies California’s minimum coverage requirements. All policies must provide at least $30,000 in bodily injury liability coverage per person, $60,000 in bodily injury liability protection per accident, and $15,000 in property damage liability.[4]
The table below shows the cheapest rates for liability coverage in Modesto.
Insurance Company | Average Monthly Quote |
|---|---|
| USAA | $65 |
| Aspire General | $68 |
| GEICO | $70 |
| Sun Coast | $71 |
| Mercury | $73 |
| National General | $73 |
| Dairyland | $80 |
| Root | $87 |
| Direct Auto | $88 |
| Allstate | $89 |
| Farmers | $91 |
| Anchor | $95 |
| State Farm | $99 |
| Bristol West | $100 |
| Kemper Special | $104 |
| Travelers | $104 |
| 21st Century | $114 |
| Kemper Rsvp | $114 |
| Chubb | $177 |
Cheapest full-coverage car insurance in Modesto, CA: Aspire General
The cheapest insurance company for full-coverage policies in Modesto is Aspire General. Modesto is at a high risk of wildfires, so without full coverage, you’re at risk of having to replace your vehicle entirely on your own if it’s destroyed in a fire.[5] Between the weather-related risks, Modesto’s congestion, and motor vehicle theft rate, full-coverage policies can be worthwhile.
The table below shows the cheapest full-coverage rates in Modesto.
Insurance Company | Average Monthly Quote |
|---|---|
| Aspire General | $121 |
| Root | $134 |
| Mercury | $140 |
| GEICO | $143 |
| USAA | $145 |
| Kemper Special | $160 |
| Kemper Rsvp | $162 |
| Sun Coast | $167 |
| Anchor | $179 |
| Dairyland | $191 |
| National General | $195 |
| Allstate | $199 |
| Farmers | $205 |
| Bristol West | $214 |
| Direct Auto | $217 |
| State Farm | $223 |
| Travelers | $233 |
| 21st Century | $254 |
| Chubb | $396 |
Cheapest recent car insurance quotes in California
Recent Modesto, California car insurance prices for Scion, Toyota, KIA, and more.
*Quotes generated for Insurify users in and around Modesto, California within the last 10 days. Last updated on July 18, 2026. Actual quotes may vary based on the policy buyer’s unique driver profile.
*Quotes generated for Insurify users in and around Modesto, California within the last 10 days. Last updated on July 18, 2026. Actual quotes may vary based on the policy buyer’s unique driver profile.
Affordable car insurance for Modesto drivers with a ticket: USAA
In Modesto, about 4% of drivers have a ticket on their records, according to Insurify data. USAA offers the cheapest coverage to Modesto drivers with a speeding ticket.
Depending on how fast you’re going, California speeding tickets can cost anywhere from $35 to nearly $500. Modesto drivers may benefit from attending traffic school after getting a ticket. If you complete an approved course, the points stay on your record, but they’re hidden from insurers, so your insurance rates won’t go up.[6]
This table shows the cheapest rates for drivers with a speeding ticket in Modesto.
Insurance Company | Average Monthly Quote |
|---|---|
| USAA | $84 |
| Aspire General | $86 |
| Sun Coast | $90 |
| National General | $92 |
| GEICO | $92 |
| Dairyland | $100 |
| Mercury | $102 |
| Root | $105 |
| Direct Auto | $112 |
| Allstate | $116 |
| Farmers | $117 |
| Anchor | $118 |
| State Farm | $126 |
| Bristol West | $127 |
| Kemper Special | $132 |
| Travelers | $136 |
| Kemper Rsvp | $145 |
| 21st Century | $151 |
| Chubb | $227 |
Cheap auto insurance with an at-fault accident in Modesto: USAA
Approximately 5.5% of Modesto drivers have at-fault accidents on their records, according to Insurify data. USAA offers the cheapest average rates for Modesto drivers with an accident on their record.
California is an at-fault state, so the driver responsible for the accident is financially responsible for the other party’s damages and injuries. If someone borrows your vehicle and is at fault in an accident, your policy will usually cover the damages.
Shopping around can help you find cheaper coverage. The table below shows the cheapest coverage available after an accident in Modesto.
Insurance Company | Average Monthly Quote |
|---|---|
| USAA | $86 |
| Aspire General | $87 |
| Sun Coast | $91 |
| GEICO | $91 |
| National General | $96 |
| Dairyland | $104 |
| Mercury | $107 |
| Root | $108 |
| Allstate | $118 |
| Direct Auto | $118 |
| Farmers | $120 |
| Anchor | $122 |
| State Farm | $129 |
| Bristol West | $130 |
| Kemper Special | $133 |
| Travelers | $138 |
| Kemper Rsvp | $146 |
| 21st Century | $153 |
| Chubb | $233 |
Cheapest car insurance quotes for Modesto drivers with a DUI: USAA
On average, Modesto drivers with DUIs on their records pay $193 per month for coverage.
Modesto is one of the worst cities in the state for alcohol-involved crashes, according to data from California’s Office of Traffic Safety. Insurify found that approximately 1% of Modesto drivers have a DUI on their records.
A DUI conviction can significantly increase your insurance rates. Besides higher premiums, drivers face other steep consequences, including fines and license suspensions.[7]
The table below shows the cheapest rates for drivers with a DUI on their record in Modesto.
Insurance Company | Average Monthly Quote |
|---|---|
| USAA | $91 |
| Aspire General | $92 |
| Sun Coast | $96 |
| GEICO | $97 |
| National General | $102 |
| Mercury | $108 |
| Dairyland | $112 |
| Root | $121 |
| Direct Auto | $123 |
| Allstate | $124 |
| Farmers | $127 |
| Anchor | $133 |
| State Farm | $138 |
| Bristol West | $140 |
| Kemper Special | $141 |
| Travelers | $145 |
| 21st Century | $153 |
| Kemper Rsvp | $154 |
| Chubb | $247 |
Cheapest car insurance for Modesto teen drivers: USAA
Modesto teens typically pay much higher car insurance premiums than other age groups. On average, Modesto teens pay $171 per month for liability insurance.
Modesto has a higher-than-usual percentage of teens. Approximately 26% of its population is younger than 18, according to U.S. Census data. To help new drivers, the city of Modesto hosts youth driver courses. The course is $40, but financial assistance may be available. The course can help teens stay safe behind the wheel and avoid car accidents.[8]
The table below shows the insurance companies with the lowest rates for teen drivers in Modesto.
Insurance Company | Average Monthly Quote |
|---|---|
| USAA | $119 |
| Aspire General | $122 |
| GEICO | $126 |
| Sun Coast | $128 |
| Root | $130 |
| Mercury | $132 |
| Dairyland | $138 |
| National General | $144 |
| Direct Auto | $170 |
| Allstate | $174 |
| Bristol West | $176 |
| Farmers | $180 |
| Anchor | $181 |
| Kemper Special | $187 |
| State Farm | $190 |
| 21st Century | $203 |
| Kemper Rsvp | $205 |
| Travelers | $214 |
| Chubb | $361 |
Shop for Car Insurance in Modesto
Monthly rates start at $119 for teen drivers
Cheap car insurance quotes for Modesto senior drivers: USAA
Modesto drivers in their 60s pay an average of $86 per month for liability insurance, while senior drivers in California pay a statewide average of $87.
Modesto has a relatively small percentage of senior drivers. Just 14% of its population is 65 or older, according to the U.S. Census data, but drivers in this age group generally have lower premiums since they have more experience driving.
California drivers who are 55 or older can qualify for an insurance discount by completing an approved mature driver improvement course. Previously, the city of Modesto hosted low-cost senior driver courses, so you can visit the city’s events website to find future course information.
The table below shows the cheapest insurance rates for senior drivers in Modesto.
Insurance Company | Average Monthly Quote |
|---|---|
| USAA | $54 |
| GEICO | $57 |
| National General | $59 |
| Mercury | $59 |
| Aspire General | $62 |
| Sun Coast | $64 |
| Dairyland | $70 |
| Direct Auto | $74 |
| Farmers | $74 |
| Allstate | $74 |
| Anchor | $79 |
| State Farm | $80 |
| Root | $82 |
| Travelers | $85 |
| Bristol West | $86 |
| 21st Century | $92 |
| Kemper Special | $94 |
| Kemper Rsvp | $104 |
| Chubb | $138 |
Modesto car insurance FAQs
If you’re shopping for car insurance in Modesto, the following information can help you compare policies and choose an insurer.
How much is car insurance in Modesto, CA?
In Modesto, the overall average cost of car insurance is $143 per month, which is slightly lower than the state average. Your actual cost may vary based on the insurance options you choose, your driving record, and your vehicle.
What’s the cheapest car insurance company in Modesto?
The cheapest insurance company in Modesto is USAA. On average, policyholders pay $65 per month for liability auto coverage.
Does Modesto have a high vehicle theft rate?
It used to. In 2015, Modesto was the worst city in the country for vehicle theft, according to the National Insurance Crime Bureau. Although vehicle theft is still a problem, Modesto police instituted new measures, including consumer education and prevention programs, and now Modesto has a much lower volume of motor vehicle thefts.
Is full-coverage car insurance worth it in Modesto?
Considering the risk of accidents, motor vehicle theft, and wildfires in Modesto, a full-coverage policy can be worth the added cost if you have a new car or if your vehicle would be costly to repair or replace. Full-coverage policies, which include insurance products like collision and comprehensive protection, provide added coverage.
If you’re one of the 26% of Modesto drivers with a loan on your car, you may need to have full coverage.
Can a speeding ticket raise car insurance rates in Modesto?
Yes. If you have a speeding ticket on your record and live in Modesto, you can expect your insurance rates to increase. How much your premiums will go up depends on your overall driving record, age, vehicle, and what insurance coverage options you choose.
How can Modesto drivers lower their car insurance premiums?
Modesto drivers can reduce their car insurance rates by adjusting their coverage limits, raising their deductible, and talking to their insurance agent about potential insurance discounts. For example, you may qualify for a multi-policy discount for bundling auto insurance with home insurance or renters insurance.
You can find the best car insurance rates by comparing quotes from several insurers.
How important is uninsured motorist coverage in Modesto?
In Modesto, uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage is an important add-on to insurance policies. Approximately 20% of drivers in California are uninsured, according to the Insurance Information Institute, so this form of insurance coverage provides an essential safeguard.
Sources
- California Office of Traffic Safety. "OTS Crash Rankings Results."
- NIBC. "Eight California Metro Areas Place in Top 10 For Vehicle Theft."
- Ca.gov. "South Madera 6-Lane."
- California DMV. "Auto Insurance Requirements."
- WildfireRisk.org. "Modesto has a high risk of wildfire—higher than 79% of communities in the US.."
- Ca.gov. "Guide to traffic tickets."
- California DMV. "Driving Under the Influence (DUI)."
- Modesto.gov. "Online Drivers Education."
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
Quotes for Allstate, Farmers, GEICO, State Farm, and USAA are estimates based on Quadrant Information Services’ database of auto insurance rates.
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