Cheapest Car Insurance Quotes In Riverside, California

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Updated: 03 August 2024
Written by Bob Phillips
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Riverside boasts a plethora of renowned sites, such as the Mission Inn, Mount Rubidoux, and the Riverside Metropolitan Museum. Nonetheless, this charming city also hosts relatively higher car insurance costs. On average, drivers here pay around $1,728 annually, with the California’s average at $1,1750 and surpassing the national average.

Locating the most economical car insurance in Riverside remains a priority for local drivers. After thorough investigation, we’ve identified that Riverside residents can find budget-friendly options with Wawanesa, which offers the most affordable rates overall.

Moreover, we’ll furnish you with insights regarding the most economical car insurance companies in other crucial categories: the most affordable for comprehensive coverage (Mercury), the most economical for minimum coverage (GEICO), the least expensive for drivers with violations (CIG), the budget-friendly choice for young drivers (State Farm), and the pocket-friendly option for seniors (21st Century).

Cheapest And Best Car Insurance Companies In Riverside, California 2024

Best Car Insurance, Riverside 2024

Compare The Cheapest Car Insurance Companies In Riverside, California

Overall Rating Best For J.D. Power Rating (California) Average Annual Cost AM Best Rating Get A Quote
Wawanesa
4.9

Cheapest Overall

879

$1,146

A-

Instant Quote
Mercury
4.7

Cheapest Full Coverage

827

$1,199

A

Instant Quote
GEICO
4.9

Cheapest Minimum Coverage

824

$387

A++

Instant Quote
CIG
4.6

Cheapest For Driving Violations

Not Rated

$2,635

A

Instant Quote
State Farm
4.9

Young Drivers

817

$1,518

A++

Instant Quote
21st Century
4.3

Seniors

Not Rated

$1,190

A

Instant Quote
Scroll to see comparisons

Our Methodology

Scouring for the most budget-friendly car insurance rates in Riverside led us to an extensive evaluation of insights from multiple car insurance review platforms. A portion of these insights stems from public records acquired through Quadrant Information Services. While constructing this assessment, we've computed an average of these rates. It's crucial to acknowledge that the rates offered by each company are in constant flux and are contingent upon your specific circumstances.

Further contributing to the comprehensive rating is my personal judgment, cultivated through fifteen years of practicing as a licensed insurance agent, a sixteen-year residency in California, and a spanning history of over thirty years devoted to procuring car insurance.

82

Quotes Analyzed

15+

Years Of Industry Experience

19

Brands Reviewed

40+

Research Hours

Cheapest Car Insurance Companies In Riverside, California


Cheapest Overall

Overall Rating
4.9

Key Statistics

10/10 Affordability
10/10 Customer Reviews
8/10 Claims
9/10 Coverage Level

Why We Like Them

During our evaluation of the most economical car insurance options in Riverside, California, Wawanesa emerged as a strong contender across all facets. Notably, their mean rate, encompassing both minimum and comprehensive coverage, stood out as the most budget-friendly choice overall.

Exclusive to California, Wawanesa’s standard coverage encompasses the essential state-mandated bodily injury and property damage liability. Additionally, they provide supplementary perks, including specialized vehicle equipment coverage. This feature assures that any aftermarket customizations or enhancements incorporated into the vehicle are protected with original equipment manufacturer (OEM) components, diverging from standard or aftermarket parts.

In our pursuit of the ultimate comprehensive choice, we went beyond mere rates to evaluate the insurer’s overall quality. Our standpoint is that the most affordable option might not always be the optimal selection for a specific category. Within this classification, Wawanesa emerged with rates that competed effectively, along with comprehensive coverage and an array of available choices.

Benefits & Drawbacks

Benefits
  • Consistently receives high customer satisfaction ratings from J.D. Power.
  • Offers an extensive range of additional options.
  • Distributed by a substantial network of independent agents throughout California.
Drawbacks
  • Wawanesa operates solely within California, which could be inconvenient for out-of-state travel.
  • Support for claims and policy inquiries is limited to regular business hours.
  • The mobile app is exclusively accessible for Android users.

Cheapest Overall Rates In Riverside

Company Rate Per Year
Wawanesa $1,146
GEICO $1,272
USAA $1,478
Progressive $2,094
State Farm $2,228

Cheapest For Full Coverage

Overall Rating
4.7

Key Statistics

10/10 Affordability
7/10 Customer Reviews
8/10 Claims
8/10 Coverage Level

Why We Like Them

Mercury clinched the lead for the most cost-effective full coverage in Riverside. Mercury excels not only with a broad range of typical discounts that most car insurance companies provide, but also introduces a couple of distinctive ones: Mercury RealDrive and MercuryGO.

Mercury RealDrive functions by monitoring your mileage, granting a potential rate reduction of up to 5% for drivers who cover fewer miles. This is especially advantageous for individuals working from home or those with brief commutes.

On the other hand, MercuryGO extends the potential to save up to 40% (with a 10% reduction for teenagers) for drivers who showcase secure driving behaviors. This encompasses factors like maintaining smooth driving habits, avoiding speeding, and refraining from phone usage while driving.

Opting for minimum coverage results in the most affordable rates, but embracing full coverage delivers the highest degree of financial safeguarding for both your assets and liability liabilities.

Benefits & Drawbacks

Benefits
  • Presents competitive rates across all age groups.
  • Provides mechanical breakdown insurance as an option.
Drawbacks
  • Numerous negative online reviews concerning customer service.
  • Distributed by a smaller number of agents compared to many competitors.

Cheapest Full Coverage In Riverside

Company Rate Per Year
Mercury $1,300
Nationwide $1,780
State Farm $1,640
Travelers $2,060
Farmers $2,220

Cheapest For Minimum Coverage

Overall Rating
4.9

Key Statistics

10/10 Affordability
9/10 Customer Reviews
10/10 Claims/Payouts
9/10 Coverage Level

Why We Like Them

In Riverside, our investigation reveals that GEICO stands out by providing the most affordable average rates for state minimum coverage. According to California regulations, drivers must uphold at least $15,000 in bodily injury liability coverage per individual and $30,000 per accident. Additionally, a minimum of $5,000 in property damage liability per accident is mandatory.

These rates are attractive for those content with minimal coverage. However, if you drive frequently, possess a record of driving violations, or desire heightened protection, considering additional coverage is advisable.

GEICO consistently garners high ratings for customer service, claims management, customer endorsements, policy renewals, and customer loyalty. As the second-largest auto insurance company in the United States, GEICO is renowned for its budget-friendly offerings accessible online and via phone.

GEICO extends a plethora of discounts and emerges as the most economical choice for Riverside drivers who own older vehicles and seek cost reduction by adhering to California’s minimum mandatory auto insurance coverage. Their user-friendly website and mobile app enable easy policy management.

Opting for minimum coverage might be suitable when you possess an older vehicle model with substantial mileage and have no requirement for comprehensive or collision coverage. However, it’s important to acknowledge that in case of an accident, you expose yourself to heightened financial risk due to the limited coverage.

Benefits & Drawbacks

Benefits
  • Earns an above-average customer satisfaction score according to J.D. Power.
  • Features a comprehensive website and mobile app.
  • Presents a variety of available discounts.
Drawbacks
  • Doesn't provide gap or rideshare insurance options.
  • Maintains a restricted number of local agents for customer support.

Cheapest For Minimum Coverage

Company Rate Per Year
GEICO $460
Nationwide $720
State Farm $660
Allstate $710
Farmers $630

Cheapest For Driving Violations

Overall Rating
4.6

Key Statistics

9/10 Affordability
8/10 Customer Reviews
8/10 Claims
9/10 Coverage Level

Why We Like Them

In California, accruing driving violations can promptly elevate your rates. However, we’ve identified that Capital Insurance Group (CIG) provides the most economical rates for drivers with violations in the state.

CIG stands as a prominent property and casualty insurer on the West Coast. It exclusively provides auto insurance across five states, with California included in its coverage area. Its insurance offerings are distributed through an array of independent agents affiliated with various car insurance companies.

Interestingly, CIG boasts a comprehensive mobile app. Regrettably, this app is solely accessible through iTunes and Google Play, excluding Android users. This exclusion limits the service accessibility for numerous drivers in Riverside.

In the Bay Area, receiving driving violations leads to a noticeable surge in rates. Therefore, it’s crucial to pinpoint insurers that maintain a reasonable stance, preventing car insurance from becoming financially burdensome for Riverside drivers with violations

Benefits & Drawbacks

Benefits
  • Offers around-the-clock customer service availability.
  • Boasts over 120 years of experience in the field.
  • Holds an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau (BBB).
Drawbacks
  • Operates exclusively in five states, which might be limiting for Californians relocating.
  • Lacks the availability of online quotes for potential customers.

Cheapest For Driving Violations

Company Annual Increase
CIG $1,730
Nationwide $3,070
GEICO $1,780
State Farm $2,420
Allstate $1,970

Cheapest For Seniors

Overall Rating
4.3

Key Statistics

9/10 Affordability
6/10 Customer Reviews
8/10 Claims
8/10 Coverage Level

Why We Like Them

Senior drivers usually get some of the lowest car insurance rates in Riverside compared to other age groups. Our research indicates that 21st Century offers the most affordable rates for seniors.

As part of Farmers Insurance, 21st Century holds an A (Excellent) rating for financial strength from AM Best. While J.D. Power hasn’t ranked their customer service in California, there are numerous negative online reviews.

Although 21st Century includes roadside assistance in their standard policy, they offer limited coverage options and exclusively provide car insurance in California. This could be inconvenient for customers moving out of state, requiring them to change insurers.

Discovering affordable coverage holds significance for senior individuals, especially those living on a fixed income, as rates tend to increase with age.

Benefits & Drawbacks

Benefits
  • Supported by the backing of Farmers Insurance.
  • Provides access to a mobile app for convenience.
  • Holds a robust financial rating.
Drawbacks
  • Accumulates a substantial volume of complaints online.
  • Operates exclusively within the state of California.

Cheapest Coverage For Seniors

Company Rate Per Year
21st Century $1,190
Nationwide $1,221
CIG $1,370
Travelers $1,492
Farmers $1,634

Cheapest For Young Drivers

Overall Rating
4.9

Key Statistics

9/10 Affordability
9/10 Customer Reviews
10/10 Claims
10/10 Coverage Level

Why We Like Them

Given that teen drivers are statistically more prone to accidents and possess limited road experience, they face the highest car insurance costs among all age groups. For young drivers in Riverside, we identified State Farm as the provider offering the most budget-friendly rates.

Beyond being the most economical choice for young drivers, State Farm extends comprehensive coverage accompanied by a multitude of available discounts. One such discount accessible to young drivers is the “Good Student” discount. This concession allows student drivers with a “B” average or higher to enjoy up to 25% off the standard rate.

Furthermore, State Farm boasts an extensive network of local offices, augmenting sales and service accessibility. Additionally, the company maintains multiple claims centers in the Bay Area. State Farm consistently secures commendable positions in annual customer service rankings by J.D. Power. Moreover, it attains an A++ rating for financial strength from AM Best, signifying the highest level of rating.

Young drivers in Riverside pay the highest car insurance rates due to their lack of experience and increased chance of accidents.

Benefits & Drawbacks

Benefits
  • Offers a variety of discounts, including a good student discount.
  • Incorporates generous rental car coverage as a standard feature.
  • Garners high ratings for customer satisfaction and financial strength.
Drawbacks
  • Solely distributed through State Farm agents, excluding brokers.
  • Doesn't include gap insurance within its offerings.

Cheapest Coverage For Young Drivers

Company Rate Per Year
State Farm $1,518
Mercury $1,598
Nationwide $1,884
Travelers $1,854
Chubb $2,879

Average Cost Of Car Insurance In Riverside

Average Cost In Riverside– By Age

Age Group Average Yearly Rate
Teenagers $3,240
20s $2,040
30s $1,560
40s $1,500
50s $1,476
60s $1,490
70s $1,740

Average Cost In Riverside – By Gender

Gender Average Annual Rate
Male $2,398
Female $2,398

Average Cost In Riverside – By Marital Status

Marital Status Average Monthly Rate
Single $134
Married $134

 Largest Rate Increases In Riverside – By Violation

Violation Average % Increase
DUI 158%
Refusing Chemical Test 158%
Leaving Accident Scene 152%
Racing 151%
Reckless Driving 148%

Average Cost In Riverside – By Zip Code

ZIP Code Average Rate
92501 $1,658
92503 $1,836
92505 $1,032
92513 $1,523
92518 $1,518
92521 $1,830

Minimum Car Insurance Requirements In California

While exploring car insurance options, it’s essential to consider California’s mandatory minimum coverage:

  • Bodily injury liability: $15,000 per person / $30,000 per accident
  • Property damage liability: $5,000 per accident

These figures represent the baseline requirement in California. Depending on your vehicle and driving habits, you might consider raising these limits and adding collision and comprehensive insurance.

How To Buy Car Insurance In Riverside

For those in the process of purchasing car insurance in Riverside, adhering to these five steps is advisable:

  1. Assemble driver and vehicle details: Gather necessary information such as names and birthdates of all drivers, driver’s license numbers, vehicle’s VIN, current mileage, present insurance details, and the registered owner’s name.
  2. Determine your method: Choose between online purchase or utilizing an agent. The choice hinges on personal preference and your confidence in understanding the required coverage type and amount.
  3. Obtain quotes from a minimum of three companies. Ensure that the coverage amounts and deductibles being compared are similar.
  4. Explore available discounts: Numerous discounts can contribute to making car insurance in Riverside more affordable for you.
  5. Terminate your previous policy: After selecting a carrier and confirming your new coverage, contact your former insurer to cancel the existing policy. This prevents you from paying for overlapping coverage.

Factors That Impact The Cost Of Your Car Insurance Policy In Riverside

Riverside’s elevated cost of living extends to its car insurance rates. The city’s steep hills and severe storms add to accident frequency, pushing rates upwards. Naturally, your vehicle type and driving history also influence your rates.

Here are three more explanations for the costly auto insurance in Riverside:

  1. Population density: As one of the largest U.S. cities, Riverside is densely populated. Urban congestion, common to metropolitan areas, raises accident odds. Rates are also influenced by the population variations across different ZIP codes.
  2. Crime rates: Some parts of the city experience higher crime rates, encompassing theft and vandalism. Residing or working in such areas amplifies rates beyond the city’s average.
  3. Accident frequency: Daily reports of accidents on Riverside’s roads and highways highlight the city’s high accident rate. Insurers counterbalance this surge by imposing higher rates, especially for drivers with extensive commutes over the Bay or Golden Gate bridges.

California Car Insurance Laws To Know

● As outlined by the California Department of Insurance, you’re required to demonstrate financial responsibility for any vehicle you own. This ensures coverage for injuries to others or damage to their property. Most individuals fulfill this responsibility by obtaining auto liability insurance. The law in California stipulates, “All drivers and vehicle owners must maintain the ability to demonstrate financial responsibility and must carry evidence of the effective form of financial responsibility in the vehicle.”

Failure to possess auto liability insurance can result in fines, potential license suspension, and even vehicle impoundment.

● In California, insurance companies are prohibited from employing an individual’s credit history or credit score to determine insurability and rates. This safeguard ensures that insurance costs remain equitable across various economic classes.

In The News

As reported by CBS News, prominent auto insurers are scaling back their operations in the California marketplace, citing the high costs associated with insuring the state’s drivers.

Despite the pandemic, Californians are maintaining their pre-pandemic driving habits, but not necessarily their driving performance. Consequently, auto accidents have surged, leading some insurance companies to experience a deficit in payouts compared to their earnings.

The American Property Casualty Insurance Association states that between 2020 and 2021, auto insurance losses witnessed a notable 25% increase, while premium rates saw a modest rise of only 4.5%. This discrepancy highlights the escalated frequency and intensity of auto accidents, contributing to elevated coverage costs.

Information About Riverside

If you’ve explored the “Visit California” promotions and their website, you’ll recognize their enthusiasm for Riverside. They proclaim, “Stretching along the Santa Ana River, Riverside showcases a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. From its historic Mission Inn to the stunning landscapes and engaging museums, Riverside offers a truly captivating experience.”

With an array of culinary delights, spanning upscale dining to quirky food trucks; a vibrant arts scene encompassing symphonies, ballet, theater, and more; coupled with an abundance of outdoor escapades, Riverside undoubtedly asserts its position as a destination worth exploring on any traveler’s agenda.”

Car Insurance Discounts In Riverside

Hunting for discounts becomes crucial if you’re aiming to trim expenses on car insurance in Riverside. Here are the prevalent discounts you’re likely to encounter:

  • Being a “safe driver” with a good driving history
  • Installing vehicle safety features
  • Customer loyalty discount for staying with the insurer for a specified period
  • Being claims-free for a specified period
  • Driving fewer than average miles
  • Having a short commute to work
  • Being a student with at least a “B” average
  • Being in the military
  • Being age 55+ and retired

FAQs

What is the cheapest car insurance in the State of California?  

For minimum liability coverage, GEICO offers the most affordable car insurance in California, priced at $387 annually.

How much does car insurance cost in Riverside on average?  

The average annual cost for full coverage car insurance in Riverside amounts to $1,728.

Do I need car insurance in Riverside?  

By law, California mandates auto liability insurance, a requirement that applies to Riverside drivers as well.

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