Cheapest Auto Insurance in Santa Maria, California (2026)
Santa Maria drivers can find the cheapest car insurance rates from USAA. The insurer’s liability-only rates start at just $66 per month.
Secure. Free. Easy-to-use.
Excellent
)
Written byDanny Smith
)
Danny SmithInsurance Writer
Licensed auto and home insurance agent
4+ years in content creation and marketing
As Insurify’s home and pet insurance editor, Danny also specializes in auto insurance. His goal is to help consumers navigate the complex world of insurance buying.
Featured in
){kind=small}
)
Edited byTaylor Milam-Samuel
)
Taylor Milam-Samuel Insurance Writer
8+ years writing for major outlets, including MarketWatch and Business Insider
Master’s in Education
Taylor Mlam-Samuel is a personal finance writer and credentialed educator. When she’s not helping readers better save and spend money, she can be found teaching.
Featured in
){kind=logo}
){kind=small}
){kind=logo}
)
Reviewed byDavid Marlett
)
David MarlettAdvisor
David Marlett is the Managing Director of the Brantley Risk and Insurance Center. He is a professor in the Department of Finance, Banking, and Insurance at Appalachian State University and holds the IIANC Distinguished Professorship. David also serves on the Board of Directors for the Invest program and previously chaired the Loman Advisory Committee for the CPCU Society.
David has taught courses in Risk Management and Insurance for the last 25 years, starting at Florida State University while in the doctoral program. Prior to graduate school, David worked as a commercial lines underwriter for USF&G in Tampa.
He serves as a resource on insurance issues and is a frequent media contributor. He has been quoted by a wide range of outlets, including The New York Times, CNN, Reuters, and NPR.
David has been reviewing articles for Insurify since March 2025.
Updated
Why you can trust Insurify: Comparing accurate insurance quotes should never put you at risk of spam. We earn an agent commission only if you buy a policy based on our quotes. Our editorial team follows a rigorous set of editorial standards and operates independently from our insurance partners. Learn more.
Advertiser Disclosure
At Insurify, our goal is to help customers compare insurance products and find the best policy for them. We strive to provide open, honest, and unbiased information about the insurance products and services we review. Our hard-working team of data analysts, insurance experts, insurance agents, editors and writers, has put in thousands of hours of research to create the content found on our site.
We do receive compensation when a sale or referral occurs from many of the insurance providers and marketing partners on our site. That may impact which products we display and where they appear on our site. But it does not influence our meticulously researched editorial content, what we write about, or any reviews or recommendations we may make. We do not guarantee favorable reviews or any coverage at all in exchange for compensation.
Table of contents
Drivers in Santa Maria can expect to pay an average of $115 per month for car insurance. The city’s rates are lower than the monthly average of $142 and the national average of $136 per month.
Drivers in Santa Maria pay less likely in part because of the city’s location and comparatively smaller population.[1] Even so, you can find cheaper coverage if you compare car insurance quotes from multiple insurers before buying.
Here’s how you can find the most competitive rates from the best insurers in Santa Maria, California.
Quick Facts
USAA, National General, and Sun Coast are the cheapest car insurance companies for Santa Maria residents.
Your credit history doesn’t affect your insurance coverage rates in California.
Low-income drivers can secure affordable coverage through the California Low-Cost Auto Insurance (CLCA) program.
Cheapest car insurance companies in Santa Maria
Drivers in Santa Maria have affordable coverage options, and the best insurer for you depends on your coverage needs. Driving records, location, average mileage, vehicle type, and age can help determine which insurer offers the best deal.
Clearcover, USAA, and Mile Auto are some of the top picks for drivers in the city. Here’s why.
Insurance Company  | 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. | Full Coverage | Liability Only | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mercury | 7.5 | $191 | $99 | Affordability |
| USAA | 9.1 | $188 | $83 | Military members, veterans, and their families |
| Mile Auto | 8.8 | $108 | $63 | Pay-per-mile insurance |
Disclaimer: Table data sourced from real-time Santa Maria car insurance quotes from Insurify's 500+ partner insurance providers and quote estimates from Quadrant Information Services. Actual car insurance quotes in Santa Maria may vary based on the policy buyer's unique driver profile.
Our editorial team spent more than 350 hours developing the Insurify Quality (IQ) Score and scoring insurance companies. The IQ Score objectively analyzes and calculates a score for insurers using more than 15 crucial criteria. The team weighted criteria by importance to the consumer — factors such as customer reviews and affordability influence the score more than availability and third-party ratings.
We rate each company on a 1 to 10 scale based on five categories: financial ratings, customer satisfaction, affordability, customer support and transparency, and availability. Insurify updates ratings once a year or as more recent information becomes available.
- Third-party financial ratings: Insurify uses data from AM Best, S&P, Moody’s, and more to compare insurance companies’ credit and ability to pay out future claims.
- Customer satisfaction: To calculate this score, Insurify analyzed more than 55,000 customer reviews across 155 car insurance companies. We also consider third-party ratings from J.D. Power, the National Association of Insurance Commissioners, and Trustpilot.
- Affordability: Our data scientists analyzed more than 90 million real-time auto insurance rates from our partners across the U.S., as well as available discounts, to calculate an affordability score.
- Customer support and transparency: This measures coverage options, ease of claims filing, and the insurer's transparency surrounding discounts, coverages, and claims process.
- Availability and reach: Insurify scores availability and reach by identifying the number of states in which insurers offer coverage and company size by market share.
Best insurer for affordability: Mercury
| 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. | $79/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. | $152/mo |
4.0
Best choiceBased on 620 verified guest reviews and ratings
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.
AI-generated from the text of verified reviews collected by Insurify
Best For
Competitive rates
Rideshare drivers
Numerous discounts
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.
AI-generated from the text of verified reviews collected by Insurify
Best For
Competitive rates
Rideshare drivers
Numerous discounts
Reviews (314)
Karen
Verified Review
My Experience with Mercury Insurance
Reviewed in California on February 1, 2026
My experience with Mercury is excellent. I have had the same agent ever since I first signed up with them, I believe, in the late 1990s. They have discounts I had never heard of and answer all questions immediately. My car is a 2016 Toyota Rav4 LE. I've always had full coverage, I drive very little, I bought it brand new, and I only have 37,389 miles on it, no tickets, no accidents, and no DUI ever. However, my insurance has doubled! I'm retired and live on Social Security. I can't afford insurance that used to be $645.76 per year in 2022, $908.76 per year in 2024, and $1,289.76 in 2025! My question is why is my insurance going up so much when I'm a good driver, have very low mileage, no accidents, and no tickets?
Howard
Verified Review
Automobile Insurance for Older Car with Low Mileage and Older Driver
Reviewed in California on January 20, 2026
The premium is very good in comparison with other more popular car insurance companies, especially when insuring a 28-year-old car with comparatively low miles and a driver over 70 years old.
Fred
Verified Review
Mercury Rates
Reviewed in California on January 16, 2026
No one has offered a lower rate than what I currently pay.
JD Power
J.D. Power data measures overall customer satisfaction and claims satisfaction based on a 1,000-point scale.
596NAIC Index
Average amount of customer complaints relative to competitors on a 0-5 scale. A lower score represents fewer complaints.
0.95A.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).
AWhy we picked this company
Mercury sells auto, home, condo, renters, and business insurance. In addition to standard car insurance coverages, Mercury also offers rental car reimbursement, roadside assistance, rideshare insurance, and more. Mercury customers can save with multiple discounts, including bundling auto with home or renters coverage. The company has an A rating from AM Best for financial stability. Mercury has nearly twice as many complaints as expected in the National Association of Insurance Commissioners Complaint Index.
Pros
Numerous coverage options, discounts, and bundling opportunities
Competitive auto insurance rates
Offers gap, custom equipment, and rideshare coverage add-ons
Cons
Only available in 11 states (including California)
Low claims satisfaction score from J.D. Power
Bad 1.6/5 Trustpilot score
Best insurer for military members, veterans, and their families: USAA
| 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 choiceBased on 2,945 verified guest reviews and ratings
How drivers feel about USAA
Customers appreciate the insurer’s reliable customer service and claim handling but express concerns about high rates and frequent price increases. Some also find the insurer’s security protocols and communication methods frustrating.
AI-generated from the text of verified reviews collected by Insurify
Best For
Members of the military community
Outstanding customer service
Competitive rates
How drivers feel about USAA
Customers appreciate the insurer’s reliable customer service and claim handling but express concerns about high rates and frequent price increases. Some also find the insurer’s security protocols and communication methods frustrating.
AI-generated from the text of verified reviews collected by Insurify
Best For
Members of the military community
Outstanding customer service
Competitive rates
Reviews (1,447)
Russell
Verified Review
Good insurance - Super expensive premiums
Reviewed in Florida on February 14, 2026
The product is good. The price is not. Very expensive. The service is excellent, but the insurance is expensive. Customer service is very good, but the price is expensive.
Edward
Verified Review
Veterans' Best Insurance Company
Reviewed in Nebraska on February 14, 2026
USAA gave me a favorable price over the competition, and I’ve been with them for 1 1/2 years now.
Paul
Verified Review
Premiums Too High
Reviewed in Pennsylvania on February 14, 2026
As a disabled veteran, I find USAA’s premiums to be too high.
JD Power
J.D. Power data measures overall customer satisfaction and claims satisfaction based on a 1,000-point scale.
739NAIC Index
Average amount of customer complaints relative to competitors on a 0-5 scale. A lower score represents fewer complaints.
1.31A.M. Best
A.M. Best analyzes an insurer’s financials, operating performance, business profile, and other factors to generate an opinion-based rating of a company’s financial and credit strength. Ratings range from A++ (exceptional) to D (poor).
A++Why we picked this company
USAA offers various financial products, including affordable car insurance. The bank serves military personnel, making it a popular option in Santa Maria since Vandenberg Space Force Base is only a few miles away. Customers appreciate the extensive coverage options and competitive rates.
However, policies are only available for select clients due to strict membership criteria. You must be an active military member, retired, or connected through an immediate family member.
Pros
High J.D. Power customer satisfaction rating in California
Multiple available discounts
Cons
Strict membership criteria
Limited customer service availability
Best insurer for pay-per-mile insurance: Mile Auto
| 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. | 8.8 /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. | $70/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. | $119/mo |
4.5
Best choiceBased on 188 verified guest reviews and ratings
How drivers feel about Mile Auto
Drivers appreciate the quality service but find the rates high and claim processing slow.
AI-generated from the text of verified reviews collected by Insurify
Best For
Low-mileage drivers
Senior drivers
Cheap full coverage
How drivers feel about Mile Auto
Drivers appreciate the quality service but find the rates high and claim processing slow.
AI-generated from the text of verified reviews collected by Insurify
Best For
Low-mileage drivers
Senior drivers
Cheap full coverage
Reviews (65)
Leroy
Verified Review
Why was I canceled?
Reviewed in Texas on February 9, 2026
1/14/26: Liked what I saw and purchased Auto Insurance.
1/29/26: Received an email requesting a "Physician's opinion statement." I did not see this requirement in the many pages of fine print. Was given 30 days to submit.
1/31/26: Via email, I requested information on how to cancel my policy and stated that I do not release medical data to anyone. I did not request the policy be canceled.
2/01/26: Relented.
2/03/26: Hand-delivered request to primary care doctor and made an appointment for an Ophthalmologist for 02/10/26.
2/07/26: Received a USPS letter from MileAuto stating the policy would be canceled effective 3/01/26. The reason given was that "Policy no longer meets underwriting requirements." I have no idea what requirements this refers to.
Ronald
Verified Purchase
Monthly Insurance for the Price of Takeout
Reviewed in Ohio on January 11, 2026
I don't drive much, so it makes sense to me. I feel like I would like to have more coverage than just liability. I know they offer more coverage.
Hiram
Verified Purchase
Try Them, Then You Will See
Reviewed in Tennessee on December 22, 2025
You won't know until you try them. They are good.
JD Power
J.D. Power data measures overall customer satisfaction and claims satisfaction based on a 1,000-point scale.
NRNAIC Index
Average amount of customer complaints relative to competitors on a 0-5 scale. A lower score represents fewer complaints.
2.18A.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).
NRWhy we picked this company
As a pay-per-mile insurance company, Mile Auto determines rates based on how much you drive. If you drive more, you have to pay more. Since Santa Maria is a smaller city, pay-per-mile insurance can be an excellent option for drivers who stay local.
However, you must submit odometer readings and provide access to location services, which can be a dealbreaker for some privacy-conscious drivers. If you regularly commute to San Luis Obispo or Santa Barbara for your job or business, you can likely find better rates elsewhere.
Pros
Easy-to-understand pricing
Pay less for driving less
Cons
Limited nationwide availability
Must submit odometer checks
Find Cheap Car Insurance in Santa Maria, California
Rates start at $66 per month for liability coverage
Excellent
4.7 out of 5 based on 11,844 reviews
Secure. Free. Easy-to-use.
How to get the cheapest car insurance in Santa Maria
Your location and where you live within a city can affect how much you pay for car insurance. Factors like your driving history, age, and vehicle type also affect insurance costs.
But you have ways to save:[2]
Ask about discounts. Most car insurance companies offer discounts for bundling policies, including home insurance, renters insurance, or life insurance. But many insurers also offer rate deductions for good driving, driving fewer miles, and being a student. Ask insurance agents or representatives what discounts apply.
Consider your car’s value. The value of your vehicle determines how much insurance you need. If you have a new or high-value car, it usually makes sense to opt for higher coverage. But if your vehicle is old or worth less, you might need less extensive protection.
Compare quotes. Comparing quotes from at least three companies is the most effective way to save money on car insurance. It’s easier to gauge whether or not you’re getting a good deal once you review more than one offer.
Cheapest liability-only car insurance in Santa Maria: USAA
Most states, including California, mandate liability-only car insurance. Liability coverage helps pay for vehicle repairs and medical expenses for the other driver when you cause an accident.[3] But there are limitations, and it doesn’t cover your repair costs.
USAA offers the cheapest quotes for liability-only coverage in Santa Maria, with a cost of $66 per month. You can find the most competitive rates from the following insurers.
The below rates in Santa Maria, CA, are estimated rates current as of: Thursday, February 12 at 11:00 AM PST.
Insurance Company | Average Monthly Quote |
|---|---|
| USAA | $66 |
| National General | $70 |
| Sun Coast | $72 |
| Dairyland | $75 |
| Mercury | $79 |
| GEICO | $81 |
| Root | $84 |
| Allstate | $92 |
| Direct Auto | $94 |
| Farmers | $94 |
| Anchor | $95 |
| Bristol West | $96 |
| State Farm | $102 |
| Travelers | $107 |
| 21st Century | $116 |
| Nationwide | $143 |
| Chubb | $181 |
Disclaimer: Table data sourced from real-time Santa Maria car insurance quotes from Insurify's 500+ partner insurance providers and quote estimates from Quadrant Information Services. Actual car insurance quotes in Santa Maria may vary based on the policy buyer's unique driver profile.
Cheapest full-coverage car insurance in Santa Maria: Root
Full-coverage car insurance typically includes liability, comprehensive, and collision coverage. If you cause an accident or hit an object, collision coverage can help pay for your vehicle repairs. Comprehensive coverage helps cover costs associated with non-collision damages like theft, vandalism, and natural disasters.
Root offers the cheapest quotes for full-coverage policies in Santa Maria, with rates of $146 per month. The following insurance companies also offer affordable rates.
The below rates in Santa Maria, CA, are estimated rates current as of: Thursday, February 12 at 11:00 AM PST.
Insurance Company | Average Monthly Quote |
|---|---|
| Root | $146 |
| USAA | $150 |
| Mercury | $152 |
| GEICO | $160 |
| Anchor | $162 |
| Sun Coast | $181 |
| Dairyland | $187 |
| Allstate | $206 |
| National General | $206 |
| Farmers | $212 |
| Bristol West | $224 |
| State Farm | $229 |
| Travelers | $241 |
| Direct Auto | $247 |
| 21st Century | $263 |
| Nationwide | $323 |
| Chubb | $409 |
Disclaimer: Table data sourced from real-time Santa Maria car insurance quotes from Insurify's 500+ partner insurance providers and quote estimates from Quadrant Information Services. Actual car insurance quotes in Santa Maria may vary based on the policy buyer's unique driver profile.
Cheapest recent rates near Santa Maria, California
Drivers in and around Santa Maria, California have found policies from Root, Bristol West, State Farm, and more, through Insurify in the last few days.
*Quotes generated for Insurify users in and around Santa Maria, California within the last 10 days. Last updated on February 16, 2026. Actual quotes may vary based on the policy buyer’s unique driver profile.
Rates shown are real-time Insurify user quotes from 500+ insurance companies and Quadrant Information Services data. Insurify’s algorithm excludes anomalous quotes and anonymizes personal details, then displays refined quotes by price, date, and insurer popularity up to 10 days ago from February 16, 2026. Actual quotes may vary based on the policy buyer’s unique driver profile.
*Quotes generated for Insurify users in and around Santa Maria, California within the last 10 days. Last updated on February 16, 2026. Actual quotes may vary based on the policy buyer’s unique driver profile.
Rates shown are real-time Insurify user quotes from 500+ insurance companies and Quadrant Information Services data. Insurify’s algorithm excludes anomalous quotes and anonymizes personal details, then displays refined quotes by price, date, and insurer popularity up to 10 days ago from February 16, 2026. Actual quotes may vary based on the policy buyer’s unique driver profile.
Car insurance requirements in California
Drivers in California must have liability insurance, which helps pay for vehicle repairs and medical costs for the other driver. In California, liability insurance includes bodily injury and property damage liability coverage.[3]
State lawmakers approved an increase in coverage limits, which will take effect on Jan. 1, 2025. The table below reflects this change and the types and amount of coverage all Santa Maria drivers need to carry:[4]
Coverage | 2024 Coverage Limits | 2025 Coverage Limits |
|---|---|---|
| Bodily injury liability | $15,000 per person / $30,000 per accident | $30,000 per person / $60,000 per accident |
| Property damage liability | $5,000 per accident | $15,000 per accident |
As you determine your coverage needs, consider the following policies:
Comprehensive coverage
Cars can sustain damage from incidents other than accidents, including theft, vandalism, and natural disasters. Comprehensive insurance ensures you have coverage in those situations.
Collision coverage
If you hit another object, like a car or tree, collision coverage helps pay for repairs.
Personal injury protection (PIP) coverage
Collision and comprehensive help pay for repairs to your vehicle but don’t help pay for necessary medical treatment. PIP helps fill the gap and covers medical care related to an accident.
Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage
Even though California mandates coverage, some drivers don’t follow the law and don’t purchase auto insurance. If a driver without insurance — or without enough insurance — causes damage, uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage helps cover your costs.
California’s Low-Cost Auto Insurance Program
California offers low-income drivers affordable liability-only coverage through the Low-Cost Auto Insurance (CLCA) program. Drivers can work with select companies to secure coverage amounts lower than the state-mandated limits.[5]
To qualify, you must earn less than the income thresholds set by the state. The size of your family and total income determines eligibility. For example, families of four must make less than $75,000 per year, which is lower than the federal poverty guidelines. You also need a clean driving record, and your car can’t be worth more than $25,000.[6]
Cheapest car insurance for drivers with an incident
Driving incidents cause your insurance premiums to increase. Car insurance companies determine rates based on your driving record.
Drivers without any incidents can secure lower rates since insurers consider them less risky to insure. However, insurers charge more if you have a speeding ticket, driving under the influence (DUI) violation, or at-fault car accident.
Here’s how each type of incident affects your car insurance rates.
Shop for Car Insurance in Santa Maria, CA
Monthly rates start at $82 for drivers with an incident
Excellent
4.7 out of 5 based on 11,844 reviews
Secure. Free. Easy-to-use.
Cheapest car insurance for drivers with a speeding ticket: USAA
Speeding tickets indicate risky driving, which signifies to insurers that you might be more likely to file a claim. Insurance companies charge more for coverage to compensate for the potential cost of future claims. However, it’s still possible to find competitive rates.
The cheapest insurer for drivers with a speeding ticket in Santa Maria is USAA, with a cost of $85 per month. Here are the cheapest car insurance companies in Santa Maria after a speeding ticket.
The below rates in Santa Maria, CA, are estimated rates current as of: Thursday, February 12 at 11:00 AM PST.
Insurance Company | Clean Driving Record | With Speeding Ticket |
|---|---|---|
| USAA | $66 | $85 |
| National General | $70 | $87 |
| Sun Coast | $72 | $90 |
| Dairyland | $75 | $93 |
| Mercury | $79 | $110 |
| GEICO | $81 | $106 |
| Root | $84 | $112 |
| Allstate | $92 | $120 |
| Direct Auto | $94 | $118 |
| Farmers | $94 | $120 |
| Anchor | $95 | $118 |
| Bristol West | $96 | $121 |
| State Farm | $102 | $129 |
| Travelers | $107 | $139 |
| 21st Century | $116 | $153 |
| Nationwide | $143 | $185 |
| Chubb | $181 | $230 |
Disclaimer: Table data sourced from real-time Santa Maria car insurance quotes from Insurify's 500+ partner insurance providers and quote estimates from Quadrant Information Services. Actual car insurance quotes in Santa Maria may vary based on the policy buyer's unique driver profile.
Cheapest car insurance for drivers with an at-fault accident: USAA
Car insurance companies determine rates based on how likely drivers are to file future claims. If you have an at-fault accident on your driving record, it indicates that you’re more likely to do so. Even though past behavior isn’t always an indicator of future behavior, insurance companies prefer to err on the side of caution.
The cheapest insurer for drivers with an at-fault accident in Santa Maria is USAA, with a cost of $86 per month.
Here’s how much you can expect your car insurance rates to increase with different companies after you cause a car accident.
The below rates in Santa Maria, CA, are estimated rates current as of: Thursday, February 12 at 11:00 AM PST.
Insurance Company | Clean Driving Record | With Accident |
|---|---|---|
| USAA | $66 | $86 |
| National General | $70 | $90 |
| Sun Coast | $72 | $89 |
| Dairyland | $75 | $96 |
| Mercury | $79 | $116 |
| GEICO | $81 | $102 |
| Root | $84 | $109 |
| Allstate | $92 | $119 |
| Direct Auto | $94 | $124 |
| Farmers | $94 | $121 |
| Anchor | $95 | $120 |
| Bristol West | $96 | $122 |
| State Farm | $102 | $130 |
| Travelers | $107 | $139 |
| 21st Century | $116 | $152 |
| Nationwide | $143 | $186 |
| Chubb | $181 | $232 |
Disclaimer: Table data sourced from real-time Santa Maria car insurance quotes from Insurify's 500+ partner insurance providers and quote estimates from Quadrant Information Services. Actual car insurance quotes in Santa Maria may vary based on the policy buyer's unique driver profile.
Cheapest car insurance for drivers with a DUI: USAA
Driving under the influence (DUI) is a serious violation that causes your car insurance costs to skyrocket. If you get a DUI in California, convictions remain on your driving record for 10 years. You might also have to pay fines, lose your license, spend time in jail, and face non-renewal from your insurance company.[7]
If you’re navigating the aftermath of a DUI, seek out insurance companies that specialize in coverage. The cheapest insurer for drivers with a DUI in Santa Maria is USAA, with a monthly cost of $91.
Here’s how much you can expect your rates to increase after a DUI.
The below rates in Santa Maria, CA, are estimated rates current as of: Thursday, February 12 at 11:00 AM PST.
Insurance Company | Clean Driving Record | With DUI |
|---|---|---|
| USAA | $66 | $91 |
| National General | $70 | $96 |
| Sun Coast | $72 | $93 |
| Dairyland | $75 | $103 |
| Mercury | $79 | $114 |
| GEICO | $81 | $111 |
| Root | $84 | $117 |
| Allstate | $92 | $126 |
| Direct Auto | $94 | $129 |
| Farmers | $94 | $129 |
| Anchor | $95 | $131 |
| Bristol West | $96 | $132 |
| State Farm | $102 | $140 |
| Travelers | $107 | $147 |
| 21st Century | $116 | $150 |
| Nationwide | $143 | $197 |
| Chubb | $181 | $249 |
Disclaimer: Table data sourced from real-time Santa Maria car insurance quotes from Insurify's 500+ partner insurance providers and quote estimates from Quadrant Information Services. Actual car insurance quotes in Santa Maria may vary based on the policy buyer's unique driver profile.
Cheapest car insurance for seniors: USAA
Your age affects your car insurance costs. Young drivers can expect higher insurance costs throughout their teenage years and young adulthood. Around age 35, prices begin to decrease and continue doing so throughout retirement age. However, rates start to increase again around age 70.
The cheapest insurer for senior drivers in Santa Maria is USAA, with a monthly cost of $55.
Here’s the cheapest car insurance in Santa Maria for seniors.
The below rates in Santa Maria, CA, are estimated rates current as of: Thursday, February 12 at 11:00 AM PST.
Insurance Company | Liability Only | Full Coverage |
|---|---|---|
| USAA | $55 | $124 |
| National General | $56 | $165 |
| Mercury | $64 | $124 |
| Sun Coast | $64 | $162 |
| Dairyland | $65 | $162 |
| GEICO | $66 | $130 |
| Root | $72 | $125 |
| Allstate | $76 | $171 |
| Farmers | $76 | $172 |
| Direct Auto | $77 | $203 |
| Anchor | $79 | $134 |
| Bristol West | $81 | $190 |
| State Farm | $82 | $184 |
| Travelers | $87 | $196 |
| 21st Century | $93 | $211 |
| Nationwide | $112 | $252 |
| Chubb | $140 | $315 |
Disclaimer: Table data sourced from real-time Santa Maria car insurance quotes from Insurify's 500+ partner insurance providers and quote estimates from Quadrant Information Services. Actual car insurance quotes in Santa Maria may vary based on the policy buyer's unique driver profile.
Cheapest car insurance for teens: USAA
Teenage drivers spend significantly more on car insurance due to inexperience and risky behavior behind the wheel. Since most teenagers have insurance through parents or guardians, the costs can affect the family budget.
But you can take steps to save money. Ask about good student discounts, buy a car with additional safety features, and keep your teenager on the family insurance plan as long as possible.
With a cost of $123 per month, the cheapest insurer for teen drivers in Santa Maria is USAA.
Here are the cheapest car insurance quotes for teenage drivers in Santa Maria.
The below rates in Santa Maria, CA, are estimated rates current as of: Thursday, February 12 at 11:00 AM PST.
Insurance Company | Liability Only | Full Coverage |
|---|---|---|
| USAA | $123 | $280 |
| Dairyland | $128 | $319 |
| Sun Coast | $134 | $336 |
| National General | $143 | $421 |
| GEICO | $147 | $290 |
| Root | $147 | $255 |
| Mercury | $148 | $284 |
| Anchor | $169 | $287 |
| Bristol West | $173 | $404 |
| Direct Auto | $183 | $482 |
| Allstate | $184 | $412 |
| Farmers | $189 | $425 |
| State Farm | $200 | $448 |
| 21st Century | $212 | $480 |
| Travelers | $224 | $504 |
| Nationwide | $282 | $638 |
| Chubb | $378 | $855 |
Disclaimer: Table data sourced from real-time Santa Maria car insurance quotes from Insurify's 500+ partner insurance providers and quote estimates from Quadrant Information Services. Actual car insurance quotes in Santa Maria may vary based on the policy buyer's unique driver profile.
Find Car Insurance in Santa Maria
Quote comparison is the key to unlocking cheap car insurance rates
Excellent
4.7 out of 5 based on 11,844 reviews
Secure. Free. Easy-to-use.
Is car insurance more expensive in Santa Maria?
No. Average rates in Santa Maria are also lower than the state average, possibly due to the city’s agricultural-heavy setting and comparatively smaller population size. Drivers in bigger nearby cities like Santa Barbara and Moreno Valley pay slightly more per month.
Santa Maria drivers pay an average of $115 per month for car insurance, lower than the state average of $142 and much lower than the national average of $136 per month.
More cities in California
Drivers in nearby California cities pay slightly more for car insurance. For example, drivers in Santa Barbara pay an average of $98 per month, about $20 more. Similarly, Moreno Valley residents pay about $10 more than Santa Maria drivers.
Here are the average quotes for some other California cities.
City | Average Quote: Liability Only | Average Quote: Full Coverage |
|---|---|---|
| Anaheim | $107 | $206 |
| Berkeley | $99 | 215 |
| Fresno | $84 | $177 |
| Long Beach | $114 | $231 |
| Los Angeles | $154 | $297 |
| Oakland | $101 | $232 |
| Sacramento | $103 | $208 |
| San Diego | $84 | $173 |
| San Francisco | $104 | $248 |
| San Jose | $88 | $189 |
Disclaimer: Table data is based on real-time Santa Maria quotes from Insurify’s network of 500+ insurance partners. Actual rates may vary depending on the policyholder’s individual profile and coverage needs.
Santa Maria car insurance FAQs
Finding the right car insurance can be challenging. Below are answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about car insurance in Santa Maria.
How much is car insurance in Santa Maria?
On average, car insurance in Santa Maria costs $159 per month for full coverage and $70 for liability-only insurance. Your exact premium will depend on factors like your location, driving record, age, and gender.
Which company has the cheapest car insurance in Santa Maria?
USAA offers the cheapest car insurance rates in Santa Maria, starting at $66 for liability-only coverage. Santa Maria drivers can also find cheap rates from National General and Sun Coast, which have liability rates as low as $70 and $72, respectively.
What are the best car insurance companies in Santa Maria?
Nationwide, State Farm, and USAA are the best car insurance companies in Santa Maria. All boast IQ Scores of above 8 out of 10 and have strong financial strength ratings.
However, the best car insurance company for you may be different, as everyone has unique insurance needs and financial situations. Always be sure to compare quotes from multiple insurers before buying a policy.
Can insurers in California consider your credit score when setting car insurance rates?
No. California law forbids insurers from using your credit history as a factor when setting car insurance rates.
How much does the average person pay for car insurance in California?
The average person pays $142 per month for car insurance in California.
Methodology
Insurify data scientists analyzed more than 190 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.
Related articles
)
Cheap Car Insurance Quotes in California Starting at $83
February 16, 2026
)
Register and Insure a Salvage Title Vehicle in CA
February 16, 2026
)
Why Is Car Insurance So Expensive in California?
July 8, 2025
)
Uninsured Motorist Coverage in California
September 18, 2025
)
Non-Owner Car Insurance in California
February 15, 2026
)
Best Car Insurance for New Drivers in California
February 15, 2026
)
Cheapest Liability Car Insurance in California
February 12, 2026
)
Cheapest Full-Coverage Car Insurance in California
February 12, 2026
)
How Much Is Car Insurance for a 17-Year-Old in California?
February 12, 2026
)
How Much Is Car Insurance for a 16-Year-Old in California?
February 12, 2026
)
Best Car Insurance in California
February 15, 2026
)
Car Insurance Discounts for California Drivers
February 12, 2026
Temporary Car Insurance in California
February 16, 2026
)
Cheap SR-22 Insurance in California
February 16, 2026
)
Rideshare Insurance in California
February 16, 2026
Car Insurance Requirements in California
February 16, 2026
)
)
)
)
)
Cheap Car Insurance in Anaheim, CA, Starting at $90
February 16, 2026
)
Best Cheap Car Insurance in Victorville, CA, From $91
February 16, 2026
)
Cheap Car Insurance in Temecula, CA, Starting at $77
February 16, 2026
)
Best Cheap Car Insurance in Stockton, CA, From $82
February 16, 2026
)
Best Cheap Car Insurance in Santa Ana, CA, From $86
February 16, 2026
)
Cheap Car Insurance in Santa Barbara, CA, Starting at $72
February 16, 2026
)
Best Cheap Car Insurance in San Jose, CA, From $79
February 16, 2026
Cheap Car Insurance in San Francisco, CA, From $100
February 16, 2026
)
Cheap Car Insurance in San Diego, CA, Starting at $74
February 16, 2026
Best Cheap Car Insurance in San Bernardino, CA, From $89
February 16, 2026
)
Cheap Car Insurance in Sacramento, CA, Starting at $89
February 16, 2026
)
Best Cheap Car Insurance in Riverside, CA, From $85
February 16, 2026
)
Best Cheap Car Insurance in Oxnard, CA, From $78
February 16, 2026
)
Best Cheap Car Insurance in Oakland, CA, From $95
February 16, 2026
)
Cheap Car Insurance in Moreno Valley, CA, Starting at $83
February 16, 2026
)
Cheap Car Insurance in Modesto, CA, Starting at $82
February 16, 2026
)
Cheap Car Insurance in Los Angeles, California, From $129
February 16, 2026
)
Best Cheap Car Insurance in Long Beach, CA, From $99
February 16, 2026
)
Best Cheap Car Insurance in Glendale, CA, From $158
February 16, 2026
)
Best Cheap Car Insurance in Fremont, CA, From $80
February 16, 2026
)
Best Cheap Car Insurance in Fresno, CA, From $75
February 16, 2026
)
Best Cheap Car Insurance in Elk Grove, CA, From $82
February 16, 2026
)
Cheap Car Insurance in Chula Vista, CA, Starting at $71
February 16, 2026
)
Cheap Car Insurance in Berkeley, CA, Starting at $89
February 16, 2026
)
Sources
- Neighborhood Scout. "Santa Maria, CA."
- Insurance Information Institute. "How to save money on car insurance."
- California DMV. "Auto Insurance Requirements."
- California Department of Insurance. "BULLETIN 2023-1."
- Ca.gov. "California's Low Cost Auto Insurance Program."
- California's Low Cost Auto Insurance. "Get Reliable Insurance For Less."
- California DMV. "Section 9: Alcohol and Drugs."
)
Danny SmithInsurance Writer
Danny is a Brooklyn-based writer with a producer’s license for property and casualty insurance. A former editor at Insurify, he specializes in auto, home, and pet insurance. He works to translate his insurance expertise into digestible, easy-to-understand content for drivers, homeowners, and pet owners alike.
Danny has been a contributor at Insurify since March 2022.
Taylor Milam-Samuel Insurance Writer
8+ years writing for major outlets, including MarketWatch and Business Insider
Master’s in Education
Taylor Mlam-Samuel is a personal finance writer and credentialed educator. When she’s not helping readers better save and spend money, she can be found teaching.
Featured in
David MarlettAdvisor
David Marlett is the Managing Director of the Brantley Risk and Insurance Center. He is a professor in the Department of Finance, Banking, and Insurance at Appalachian State University and holds the IIANC Distinguished Professorship. David also serves on the Board of Directors for the Invest program and previously chaired the Loman Advisory Committee for the CPCU Society.
David has taught courses in Risk Management and Insurance for the last 25 years, starting at Florida State University while in the doctoral program. Prior to graduate school, David worked as a commercial lines underwriter for USF&G in Tampa.
He serves as a resource on insurance issues and is a frequent media contributor. He has been quoted by a wide range of outlets, including The New York Times, CNN, Reuters, and NPR.
David has been reviewing articles for Insurify since March 2025.