Cheapest Car Insurance In California For 2024

GEICO is renowned for its reliable and competitively priced minimum coverage car insurance in California, priced at $42 monthly.

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Updated: 14 November 2024
Written by Bob Phillips
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Affordable car insurance in California may seem like a difficult find, but it doesn’t have to be. GEICO, a reputable insurance provider, is known for its competitive pricing and solid coverage, from basic plans to full protection. With costs increasing, finding the right coverage at the right price has become more important than ever.

Whether you’re a new driver, a regular commuter, or a family looking for savings, understanding what impacts insurance rates and knowing how to locate the best deals can make a big difference. With over a decade of research, this guide is here to help you find affordable options in California.

Cheapest Car Insurance Companies In California

Cheapest Car Insurance In California For Minimum Coverage

GEICO’s pricing for minimal car insurance in California is notably competitive, averaging merely $42 per month.

Provider Average Monthly Cost Average Annual Cost

Progressive

$45

$538

GEICO

$42

$501

Farmers

$60

$718

Mercury

$45

$538

State Farm

$43

$514

California law requires drivers to carry basic car insurance to drive legally, which generally includes liability coverage for bodily injury and property damage. Bodily injury liability helps with medical costs and legal fees if you cause an accident that injures others, while property damage liability covers expenses for repairing or replacing someone else’s property or vehicle if you’re at fault. These minimum coverage levels are determined by state regulations and may be adjusted based on your driving history or the type of vehicle you drive. Understanding these requirements is essential to ensure proper financial protection.

Cheapest Car Insurance In California For Young Drivers

Car insurance rates for young adults in California are often lower than those for teenagers, as they tend to drive more safely as they age. With fewer accidents and claims, insurers reward young adults with reduced premiums based on their safer driving habits.

Cheapest California Car Insurance For 16-Year-Olds

USAA presents the best pricing options for sixteen-year-olds, with an average monthly rate of $448.

Provider Average Monthly Cost Average Annual Cost
Mercury $603 $7,237
Progressive $608 $7,297
Allstate $630 $7,557
USAA $448 $5,374
Geico $476 $5,706

Cheapest California Car Insurance For 17-Year-Olds

Insurance costs for seventeen-year-olds are cheapest with USAA, averaging approximately $441.

Provider Average Monthly Cost Average Annual Cost
Mercury $529 $6,344
State Farm $608 $7,298
Progressive $610 $7,315
USAA $441 $5,283
Geico $470 $5,631

Cheapest California Car Insurance For 18-Year-Olds

For 18-year-olds, USAA offers the most economical insurance rates, with a standard monthly premium of $435.

Provider Average Monthly Cost Average Annual Cost
Mercury $505 $6,050
State Farm $577 $6,921
Allstate $602 $7,218
USAA $435 $5,212
Geico $436 $5,215

Cheapest California Car Insurance For 21-Year-Olds

Choosing Geico can save 21-year-olds money, as the average monthly premium is $243.

Provider Average Monthly Cost Average Annual Cost
Progressive $337 $4,037
Allstate $342 $4,097
Mercury $343 $4,110
Geico $243 $2,911
USAA $268 $3,209

Cheapest Car Insurance In California For Full Coverage

CSAA provides the most economical full coverage car insurance in California, with monthly premiums averaging around $50.

Provider Average Monthly Cost Average Annual Cost
Capital Insurance Group

$114

$1,366

CSAA

$50

$598

Progressive

$90

$1,078

AAA

$85

$1,018

GEICO

$96

$1,150

California drivers can opt for full coverage car insurance, which not only meets the state’s liability insurance requirements but also includes additional protections like collision and comprehensive coverage. Collision coverage pays for repairs to your vehicle after an accident, regardless of fault, while comprehensive coverage protects against non-accident-related damages such as theft or fire. Choosing full coverage provides both financial security and peace of mind, ensuring readiness for diverse risks. It’s important to review policy details, including coverage limits and deductibles, to confirm they suit your needs.

 

Cheapest Car Insurance In California For Drivers With Poor Credit

GEICO is distinguished in California for its economical insurance plans aimed at drivers with subpar credit, costing approximately $42 per month.

Provider Average Monthly Cost Average Annual Cost

Orion Indemnity

$52

$622

AAA

$48

$574

State Farm

$46

$550

Travelers

$55

$658

GEICO

$42

$502

Car insurance rates in California are heavily influenced by credit scores. Insurers analyze credit history to assess risk, potentially resulting in higher premiums for those with lower scores. Drivers with poor credit are often deemed more likely to submit claims. However, they can still minimize expenses by comparing quotes and investigating discount opportunities.

Cheapest Car Insurance In California For Seniors

CSAA’s California plan for seniors is priced at an average of $45 per month, making it a cost-effective choice.

Provider Average Monthly Cost Average Annual Cost

Mercury

$122

$1,462

AAA

$75

$898

Progressive

$79

$946

State Farm

$100

$1,198

CSAA

$45

$538

Older adults may qualify for reduced car insurance rates, as they’re often considered careful and experienced drivers. Many seniors drive shorter distances, which decreases their accident risk. Insurance companies sometimes offer discounts based on age and safe driving, with additional savings for seniors who complete a defensive driving course aimed at improving safety.

Cheapest Car Insurance In California For Good Drivers

California residents who are good drivers can secure insurance with CSAA for just $50 monthly, the most affordable option.

Provider Average Monthly Cost Average Annual Cost
Capital Insurance Group

$114

$1,366

CSAA

$50

$598

Progressive

$90

$1,078

AAA

$85

$1,018

GEICO

$96

$1,150

In California, car insurance prices for safe drivers can vary depending on their driving history, age, and preferred coverage. Typically, individuals with a clean driving record may qualify for lower premiums since insurers view them as lower risk. They may also be eligible for discounts for maintaining a good driving record over time. Safe drivers should compare quotes from multiple insurers to find competitive rates and suitable coverage options.

Cheapest Car Insurance In California For Drivers With Prior Incidents

Securing inexpensive car insurance in California can be problematic for those with a history of accidents, speeding tickets, or DUIs. These incidents mark them as high-risk customers, resulting in higher premiums to compensate for potential claims. This issue is particularly pronounced in California due to its high frequency of traffic accidents. Insurers base their pricing strategies on statistical analyses that link past driving incidents with an increased likelihood of future claims.

Cheapest Car Insurance In California After A Speeding Ticket

Opting for AAA could save you cash if you’ve got speeding tickets; their average premiums are just $175.

Provider Average Monthly Cost Average Annual Cost
GEICO $194 $2,326
AAA $175 $2,098
State Farm $250 $2,998
Progressive $210 $2,518
Farmers $306 $3,670

Cheapest Car Insurance In California After An At-Fault Accident

For motorists dealing with speeding tickets, Mercury stands out as the budget-friendly choice, averaging premiums at $200.

Provider Average Monthly Cost Average Annual Cost
Allstate $460 $5,518
GEICO $310 $3,718
Progressive $242 $2,902
Mercury $200 $2,398
AAA NorCal $290 $3,478

Cheapest Car Insurance In California For Drivers After A DUI

Choosing Mercury could save DUI-impacted drivers money, with premiums averaging just $227.

Provider Average Monthly Cost Average Annual Cost
Mercury $227 $2,722
AAA NorCal $545 $6,538
Progressive $324 $3,886
Farmers $390 $4,678
State Farm $572 $6,862
 

Average Cost Of Auto Insurance In California – By Age

Age Average Monthly Cost Average Annual Cost
16 $725 $8,692
17 $665 $7,973
18 $636 $7,623
19 $492 $5,900
21 $396 $4,745
25 $221 $2,652
35 $212 $2,539
45 $177 $2,116
55 $164 $1,968
65 $262 $3,140

Average Cost Of Car Insurance In California – By Gender & Marital Status

Gender Marital Status Average Annual Cost
Female Single $2,000
Male Single $2,090
Female Married $2,100
Male Married $2,184

Average Cost Of Auto Insurance In California – By Credit Tier

Credit Tier Average Monthly Cost Average Annual Cost
Excellent $210 $2,518
Good $175 $2,098
Poor $174 $2,086

Cheapest Car Insurance In California By City

City Average Monthly Cost Average Annual Cost
Redlands $143 $1,714
San Diego $126 $1,510
Danville $125 $1,498
Santa Ana $147 $1,762
Fresno $132 $1,582

Minimum Car Insurance Requirements In California

In California, drivers must carry minimum car insurance that includes liability coverage at 15/30/5: $15,000 per injured person, $30,000 per accident, and $5,000 for property damage. Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage is also required at $15,000 per person and $30,000 per accident. Additionally, Personal Injury Protection (PIP) helps cover medical costs and lost income, although some drivers may choose Health Insurance Primary (HIP) if eligible.

Car Insurance Discounts In California

Investigating car insurance discounts could lead to great savings, and your agent might know of other options. Typical discounts include:

  • Safe Driver Discount: For accident-free drivers.
  • Multi-Vehicle Discount: Adding multiple vehicles to one policy can reduce costs.
  • Bundling Discount: Save by combining auto insurance with other types, like home insurance.
  • Good Student Discount: Students with high grades often get lower rates.
  • Defensive Driving Discount: A defensive driving course may qualify you for a discount.
 

Our Methodology

During my investigation, I adopted a systematic approach to gather and analyze data on different car insurance providers and their policies. Initially, I identified crucial aspects to examine, such as coverage options, pricing, customer satisfaction, and financial stability. Next, I sourced information from reputable outlets like insurance company websites, consumer review platforms, and industry analyses. Once compiled, I categorized the data and evaluated each insurer based on predetermined benchmarks. This included comparing coverage choices, premium rates, discounts, and customer reviews to ascertain the strengths and weaknesses of each provider.

159

Quotes Analyzed

15+

Years Of Industry Experience

37

Brands Reviewed

35+

Research Hours

FAQs

How much is car insurance a month in California?

In California, the monthly expense for car insurance can differ based on factors such as age, driving history, and chosen coverage.

What is the minimum car insurance one must have in California?

Car owners in California must carry insurance that includes liability coverage for injuries and property damage, as well as mandatory Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage.

Which insurance is better in California?

The best insurance in California varies by individual, as it depends on factors like coverage needs, driving style, and personal preferences. Checking quotes from multiple insurers can help you find the right policy.

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