Best Car Insurance in California for 2025 [Check Out These 10 Companies]
Geico, Liberty Mutual, and Allstate offer the best car insurance in California from $24 a month. Geico offers a 25% discount and has low rates for drivers. Liberty Mutual and Allstate are highly rated for customer satisfaction, with 696/1,000 and 716/1,000 ratings from J.D. Power, respectively, for their quick claims and helpful agents.
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Jeff Root
Licensed Insurance Agent
Jeff is a well-known speaker and expert in insurance and financial planning. He has spoken at top insurance conferences around the U.S., including the InsuranceNewsNet Super Conference, the 8% Nation Insurance Wealth Conference, and the Digital Life Insurance Agent Mastermind. He has been featured and quoted in Nerdwallet, Bloomberg, Forbes, U.S. News & Money, USA Today, and other leading fina...
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UPDATED: Mar 13, 2025
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3,792 reviewsCompany Facts
Full Coverage in California
A.M. Best Rating
Complaint Level
Pros & Cons
3,792 reviews
11,638 reviewsCompany Facts
Full Coverage in California
A.M. Best Rating
Complaint Level
Pros & Cons
11,638 reviewsGeico, Liberty Mutual, and Allstate have best car insurance in California, offering competitive rates, high-quality coverage, and reliable premiums for as low as $24 per month.
Moreover, these companies offer the most comprehensive premiums, high satisfaction for quick claims, and the best assistance from local agents.
Our Top 10 Company Picks: Best Car Insurance in California
| Company | Rank | Bundling Discount | A.M. Best | Best For | Jump to Pros/Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | #1 | 25% | A++ | Competitive Rates | Geico |
 | #2 | 25% | A | Quick Claims | Liberty Mutual |
 | #3 | 25% | A+ | Local Agents | Allstate |
 | #4 | 10% | A+ | Customizable Policies | Progressive |
 | #5 | 20% | A+ | Strong Satisfaction | Nationwide |
 | #6 | 25% | A | Great Bundling | American Family |
 | #7 | 10% | A++ | Military Focus | USAA |
 | #8 | 13% | A++ | Extensive Coverage | Travelers |
 | #9 | 17% | B | Personalized Service | State Farm |
 | #10 | 20% | A | Flexible Options | Farmers |
This guide will explore more of the top providers, what they are known for, and the different types of car insurance coverage. Continue reading to help you compare quotes today. Enter your ZIP code now to begin.
- Geico, Liberty Mutual, and Allstate offer the best car insurance in California
- Geico is the top provider with rates for only $33 per month
- Get competitive rates from the best companies focused on local service
#1 – Geico: Top Overall Pick
Pros
- Cheaper Rates: Geico helps budget-conscious drivers in California achieve cheap but reliable premiums.
- Multiple Discounts: Combined multiple policies can help drivers maximize their savings to reduce expenses. Read our guide titled, “Will Geico Insure a Car Not in my Name?” for more information.
- Convenient Tools: As an ideal option for California driving enthusiasts, the Geico Quote Tool simplifies the process of looking for the proper coverage.
Cons
- Limited Support of Locals: In handling claims, drivers valuing face-to-face service may find the limited local support negative.
- Limitations on Customization: More limited premiums in comparison to other companies can be a drawback to California local drivers.
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#2 – Liberty Mutual: Best for Quick Claims
Pros
- Quick Support and Assistance: The trust and reassurance of California drivers are being molded by the immediate response and quick assistance.
- Comprehensive Coverage Options: With diverse packages, the expected flexibility caters to the needs of drivers.
- Exceptional Service: High ratings from the fulfillment of customers is from the excellent service. To understand better their exceptional service, read and visit our Liberty Mutual car insurance review.
Cons
- Expensive Rates: Rates may feel less competitive for drivers looking for affordability when there are no discounts.
- ZIP Code Sensitivity: Location is a factor why prices vary, which can impact fluctuations, specially drivers in high-risk areas.
#3 – Allstate: Best for Local Agents
Pros
- Local Agent Network: Provides personal touch with an extensive agent network for California drivers to easily access tailored guidance.
- Claims Handling Reliability: Drivers in California feel secure with the strong brand identity for resolving claims efficiently on busy roads.
- Variety of Policy Options: Customizable plans allow drivers to adjust coverage to suit their needs. Understand better through our Allstate car insurance review.
Cons
- Costly Premiums: Allstate’s rates may look more expensive than other providers offering cheaper options.
- Complex Discounts: Understanding the discount structure is indeed challenging especially to drivers looking for big savings.
#4 – Progressive: Best for Customizable Policies
Pros
- Customizable Policies: When looking for flexible options for drivers to build their coverages, Progressive is the most ideal option.
- Snapshot Program: This feature provides 16% usage-based discounts which reward safe driving habits.
- Broad Availability: The wide accommodation for both urban and rural drivers across California made it a provider of competitive rates.
Cons
- Mixed Claims Experiences: Our guide entitled “Progressive Car Insurance Review” suggests that drivers may file unhappiness with their claims handling process.
- Costly Add-ons: Adding coverage options can significantly impact cost, making it a drawback for drivers.
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#5 – Nationwide: Best for Strong Satisfaction
Pros
- Increased Satisfaction Ratings: As the best provider of customer service, the California’s diverse regions are being supported by Nationwide’s reliability.
- Vanishing Deductible: California drivers may find reduced deductible beneficial incentivizing safe driving habits.
- Wide Range of Discounts: Unique discounts are being offered like multi-policy savings, perfect for cost-conscious drivers in California.
Cons
- Costly Initial Rates: Younger or less-experienced drivers in California may experience less competitive entry rates. Understand more through our Nationwide car insurance review.
- Limited Local Agents: Fewer representatives in some of the areas in California may be a drawback for drivers seeking in-person assistance.
#6 – American Family: Best for Great Bundling
Pros
- Excellent Bundling Options: Significant savings can be enjoyed when drivers bundled their auto insurance with home or renters insurance.
- Tailored Coverage: This feature offers customized options ideal for multi-car households in California, ensuring comprehensive protection for their needs.
- Essential Digital Tools: Online apps that are user-friendly make managing policies efficient.
Cons
- Restricted Availability: Compared to other providers, it is not widely available in California. See comparison through our American Family vs. State Farm car insurance review.
- Higher Rates for Non-Bundlers: Premiums are less competitive when drivers do not bundle their policies.
#7 – USAA: Best for Military Focus
Pros
- Military-Focused Benefits: Military members can enjoy the provided comprehensive benefits and competitive rates for them and their families.
- Consistently Low Rates: Offers the most affordable yet reliable options for qualified California local drivers.
- Excellent Customer Service: Praised for its dedication and support to implementing good customer service.
Cons
- Membership Restrictions: Benefits are limited to only military members, veterans, and their families. See details in our USAA car insurance review.
- Limited Local Offices: There is too much reliance on digital tools, which doesn’t suit some of the drivers in California.
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#8 – Travelers: Best for Extensive Coverage
Pros
- Extensive Coverage Options: A broad range of coverage types are offered, including options for California drivers with unique needs.
- Green Discounts: Uplifting eco-friendly driving with coverages for hybrid and electric vehicles. See our guide entitled “Car Insurance with Telematics” for guidance.
- Strong Financial Ratings: This feature provides assurance and peace that claims will be handled efficiently and without issues by ensuring stability and reliability.
Cons
- Premium Costs: Higher cost of premiums compared to other companies, especially for high-risk drivers.
- Limited Marketing Presence: Travelers is not well-known in California, which makes it harder for drivers to know their offerings.
#9 – State Farm: Best for Personalized Service
Pros
- Personalized Service: With its flexible agent network, providing a hands-on approach creates tailored policies for California local drivers.
- Safe Driver Discounts: Safe driving behaviors are being rewarded, making it one of the best attractions for local drivers looking for huge savings.
- Claims Handling Reliability: Bold reputation for adequate claims support, even in high-traffic California areas. Read details through our State Farm car insurance review.
Cons
- New Customer Higher Premiums: Entry rates may not be as affordable compared to companies targeting budget-conscious local drivers.
- Fewer Tech Features: Tools and applications are samples of tech features which are not user-friendly compared to other competitors, potentially impacting convenience.
#10 – Farmers: Best for Flexible Options
Pros
- Options of Coverages Flexibility: Numerous rules were offered to cater the requirements of California local drivers and enthusiasts.
- Discount Opportunities: Savings for safe driving and bundling are included in the numerous discounts provided.
- Support of Local Agent: Focuses on more personal service through a local support network.
Cons
- Higher Average Rates: The higher rates of premiums might deter price-sensitive drivers. See other information through our Farmers car insurance review.
- Complex Policies: To ensure protection, significant effort is required to fully understand coverage options, exclusions, and terms.
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Average California Car Insurance Coverage and Rates
To save more time, we have gathered below California’s monthly auto insurance rates by provider and coverage level.
California Auto Insurance Monthly Rates by Provider & Coverage Level
| Insurance Company | Minimum Coverage | Full Coverage |
|---|---|---|
| $65 | $199 |
| $45 | $138 |
| $54 | $167 |
| $33 | $101 |
| $70 | $216 |
| $47 | $142 |
| $43 | $132 |
| $35 | $108 |
| $40 | $122 |
| $24 | $74 |
Car insurance requirements in California can vary; for instance, minimum liability coverage is mandatory, while collision and comprehensive coverage are optional.
Top California Auto Insurance Discount Savings by Provider
| Insurance Company | Anti-Theft | Bundling | Good Driver | Good Student | UBI |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10% | 25% | 20% | 8% | 15% |
| 12% | 20% | 22% | 9% | 14% |
| 10% | 25% | 20% | 8% | 12% |
| 15% | 15% | 22% | 10% | 18% |
| 10% | 20% | 20% | 8% | 15% |
| 12% | 20% | 22% | 10% | 14% |
| 12% | 20% | 21% | 9% | 16% |
 | 15% | 25% | 20% | 10% | 17% |
| 10% | 20% | 20% | 8% | 13% |
| 10% | 15% | 23% | 10% | 12% |
Keep reading below for tips on saving money on your car insurance in some of the major cities in California, like San Diego and Sacramento. Moreover, we will provide insights into how to keep your insurance and car safe.
Minimum Car Insurance Coverage Requirement in California
Like in most states, California has a minimum car insurance coverage requirement to drive in the state legally. Comprehensive and collision insurance are not required in California.
Liability coverage, however, is the required minimum coverage in the state. If you damage property or injure a person in an accident, you’re liable for the costs incurred. Liability coverage helps you pay for that.
California Minimum Auto Insurance Coverage Requirements
| Coverage | Limits |
|---|---|
| Bodily Injury Liability | $15,000 / $30,000 |
| Property Damage Liability | $5,000 |
Now, before we go any further, we want to make a case for getting a higher level of coverage. If you’ve been to a hospital recently, you know how expensive it is.
Paying out-of-pocket for a hospital visit isn’t worth getting cheap car insurance. Enter your ZIP code to now begin comparing quotes and rates.
Additional Liability Available in California
It’s essential and vital to consider various coverage options if you want road security and protection when looking for the best car insurance in California. For example, medical payments (MedPay), coverage helps cover medical costs after an accident, minimizing out-of-pocket hospital bills.
The Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM), a type of insurance that pays for your injuries if you’re involved in a crash with a driver who either lacks insurance or doesn’t carry enough coverage, is another coverage that can also be considered.
In California, the minimum required property damage liability is just $5,000, which may not be enough if your vehicle is worth more than that. UMPD coverage helps cover the difference when the other party’s insurance, or lack thereof, fails to meet your needs.
California Report Card: Auto Insurance Premiums
| Category | Grade | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| Average Claim Size | B | Higher-than-average repair costs |
| Weather-Related Risk | B- | Risk of wildfires, minimal winter storms |
| Traffic Density | C+ | High congestion in urban areas |
| Uninsured Drivers Rate | C- | Above-average percentage of uninsured drivers |
| Vehicle Theft Rate | D | Among the highest in the U.S. |
Given that California has an uninsured motorist rate of 15.2%—higher than most states—having uninsured motorist coverage can be an essential protection. Without it, you could face significant out-of-pocket costs in an uninsured driver accident.
For comprehensive protection, consider these coverage options to ensure you have the best car insurance in California. Enter your ZIP code now to start.
Read More: How the States Rank on Uninsured Drivers
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Factors Affecting Your Car Insurance in California
Until 2019, car insurance companies in California used gender for auto insurance rate adjustments. The resulting differences in prices between men and women sometimes favored men and sometimes favored women. However, gender as a factor in adjusting insurance rates is no longer legal in California.
Universally, 17-year-old males paid significantly more for car insurance than their female counterparts. The statistics for male teen drivers support the argument that they present more risk to the insurance company. More risk equals higher rates.
Genderless car insurance rates are one of the natural outcomes of California’s law that adds a third choice to the gender options for driver’s licenses and birth certificates. The choices are:
- Male
- Female
- Non-binary
This law was enacted on January 1, 2019, and car insurance companies were given six months to comply with gender-neutral rates.
California Auto Insurance Monthly Rates by Provider, Age, & Gender
| Insurance Company | Age: 17 Female | Age: 17 Male | Age: 25 Female | Age: 25 Male | Age: 35 Female | Age: 35 Male | Age: 60 Female | Age: 60 Male |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | $350 | $400 | $180 | $200 | $120 | $130 | $100 | $110 |
 | $340 | $390 | $175 | $195 | $115 | $125 | $95 | $105 |
 | $360 | $410 | $185 | $205 | $125 | $135 | $105 | $115 |
 | $320 | $370 | $170 | $190 | $110 | $120 | $90 | $100 |
 | $370 | $420 | $190 | $210 | $130 | $140 | $110 | $120 |
 | $330 | $380 | $175 | $195 | $115 | $125 | $95 | $105 |
 | $325 | $375 | $172 | $192 | $112 | $122 | $92 | $102 |
 | $310 | $360 | $165 | $185 | $105 | $115 | $85 | $95 |
 | $335 | $385 | $177 | $197 | $117 | $127 | $97 | $107 |
 | $300 | $350 | $160 | $180 | $100 | $110 | $80 | $90 |
For the most part, residents haven’t experienced a huge impact on their rates, as already, the rates were split, with some males paying slightly more and some females paying slightly more.
The demographic that will see the biggest financial impact is teen females. Despite their statistically lower risk than males, they will be charged identical rates as their male counterparts.
California Accidents & Claims per Year by City
| City | Accidents per Year | Claims per Year |
|---|---|---|
| Anaheim | 12,000 | 9,500 |
| Bakersfield | 10,000 | 7,800 |
| Chula Vista | 8,000 | 6,500 |
| Fresno | 14,000 | 11,000 |
| Irvine | 7,500 | 6,000 |
| Long Beach | 15,000 | 12,500 |
| Los Angeles | 50,000 | 40,000 |
| Oakland | 15,000 | 12,000 |
| Riverside | 11,000 | 8,800 |
| Sacramento | 20,000 | 16,000 |
| San Diego | 25,000 | 20,000 |
| San Francisco | 18,000 | 14,500 |
| San Jose | 22,000 | 17,000 |
| Santa Ana | 13,000 | 10,200 |
| Stockton | 9,000 | 7,200 |
We have averaged the male and female rates to give you a more accurate idea of the rates you can expect under current laws.
One thing that stands out about California car insurance rates is the older you get, the less you pay. The only exception to this in our data is that with USAA, 35-year-olds pay about seven dollars less than 60-year-olds.
If you’re a younger driver, USAA or Safeco may be best for you, while as you get older, Geico and United Financial offer the lowest rates by age.
Read more: Best Car Insurance Companies
Best California Car Insurance Companies
Seeking the best car insurance in California, like the top providers, Geico, Liberty Mutual, and Allstate, involves comparing quotes, learning available coverage options, and evaluating factors like ZIP codes, age, and additional protections such as MedPay or uninsured motorist coverage.
5 Most Common Auto Insurance Claims in California
| Claim Type | Portion of Claims | Cost per Claim |
|---|---|---|
| Rear-End Collisions | 25% | $4,000 |
| Single-Vehicle Accidents | 20% | $3,500 |
| Parked Vehicle Damage | 18% | $1,200 |
| Weather-Related Claims | 15% | $2,800 |
| Theft or Vandalism | 12% | $2,500 |
You can secure budget-friendly and comprehensive car insurance by exploring these options and tailoring your policy to your needs.
It is significant to prioritize customer satisfaction and financial ratings to ensure reliable service and a better experience with your car insurance provider.Kristine Lee Licensed Insurance Agent
Start by entering your ZIP code today to compare and save.
Read more: Common Risks Faced by New Drivers
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top three car insurance companies in California, and what makes them stand out?
Geico, Liberty Mutual, and Allstate are considered the best auto insurance in California for their affordable rates and reliable services, with Geico offering competitive options like the Geico quote car tool.
What is the minimum car insurance coverage required by law in California?
California insurance rates require a minimum of $15,000 for injury/death per person, $30,000 per accident, and $5,000 for property damage liability. To begin, enter your ZIP code now.
How does Geico offer competitive rates and discounts to California drivers?
Geico is known for offering low California auto insurance rates, starting at $24/month, with a Geico quote car tool for fast estimates. Read our car insurance basics to understand better.
What are the advantages of adding uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage to your policy?
Adding this coverage protects you from financial loss, a key feature when seeking the best full-coverage car insurance in California.
How do California’s gender-neutral car insurance laws affect insurance rates?
Gender-neutral laws ensure CA car insurance providers calculate rates fairly without using gender, making it easier to access the best insurance company in California based on value, not demographics. Enter your ZIP code now to know more.
Which insurance companies provide the best options for younger drivers in California?
For younger drivers, USAA and Safeco are among the best auto insurance companies in Southern California because they offer tailored discounts and affordable California insurance rates. See our car insurance guide for assistance.
What additional coverages, like MedPay or collision insurance, are worth considering in California?
MedPay and collision insurance are essential for creating the best full-coverage car insurance in California, particularly in areas like Costa Mesa car insurance.
How do ZIP codes influence car insurance rates in California, and why?
ZIP codes significantly affect car insurance rates in California, with high-traffic regions like Southern California or urban areas influencing premiums due to risks. Understand more by entering your ZIP code below.
What are the pros and cons of bundling car insurance with other policies, like home insurance?
Bundling can lower California auto insurance costs and simplify policy management, making it an attractive option when exploring the best insurance company in California.
Read more: Driving Tips Archives
Why is it important to compare car insurance quotes from multiple providers in California?
Comparing quotes, including those from Freeway Insurance or the Geico quote car tool, helps you find the best auto insurance in California tailored to your needs and budget.