Top 10 cheapest car insurance companies in California (2026 rankings)
Finding the cheapest car insurance in California isn’t about luck it’s about knowing which companies consistently offer the most competitive rates for drivers like you. With average full coverage premiums in California hovering around $2,190 annually, choosing the right insurer can save you $500 to $1,500 per year compared to more expensive alternatives.
But here’s the challenge: the “cheapest” company varies dramatically based on your age, driving record, location, and vehicle type. A company offering rock-bottom rates for a 45-year-old with a clean record in Sacramento might charge premium prices for a 22-year-old with a speeding ticket in Los Angeles.
This comprehensive ranking reveals California’s most affordable auto insurers in 2026, breaking down average costs by driver profile and helping you identify which companies deserve your quote request based on your specific situation.
Our ranking methodology: How we evaluated California’s cheapest insurers
We didn’t simply list the companies with the lowest advertised rates. Our analysis considered multiple factors to identify genuine value:
Price Analysis (40% of Score)
- Average premiums across 50+ driver profiles
- Rates for minimum, standard, and comprehensive coverage
- Price consistency across California regions
- Competitiveness for various risk categories
Discount Availability (25% of Score)
- Number of discount types offered
- Average discount percentages
- Ease of qualifying for discounts
- Stacking capabilities
Customer Satisfaction (20% of Score)
- J.D. Power ratings for California
- Consumer Reports satisfaction scores
- Customer complaint ratios (California Department of Insurance)
- Online reviews and testimonials
Financial Strength (10% of Score)
- A.M. Best ratings
- Company stability and longevity
- Claims-paying ability
Digital Experience (5% of Score)
- Mobile app functionality
- Online quote accuracy
- Policy management tools
- Claims filing ease
We analyzed rates for drivers across ages 18-70, various driving records (clean, one ticket, one accident, DUI), multiple vehicle types, and all major California metropolitan areas.
The top 10 cheapest car insurance companies in California
1. GEICO best overall value for most California drivers
Average Annual Premium: $1,658 (full coverage) | $542 (minimum coverage)
Overall Score: 94/100
GEICO claims the top spot for combining consistently low rates with excellent service and robust digital tools. While not always the absolute cheapest option, GEICO delivers competitive pricing across the broadest range of driver profiles.
Why GEICO Ranks First
GEICO’s direct-to-consumer model eliminates agent commissions, passing savings directly to policyholders. Their sophisticated pricing algorithms and massive scale allow them to offer competitive rates even for higher-risk drivers who face steep prices elsewhere.
Average Rates by Driver Profile
- Young Drivers (18-24): $2,890/year full coverage, $895/year minimum
- Middle-Aged Drivers (35-50): $1,420/year full coverage, $465/year minimum
- Seniors (65+): $1,385/year full coverage, $448/year minimum
- One Speeding Ticket: $2,015/year full coverage (21% increase)
- One At-Fault Accident: $2,405/year full coverage (45% increase)
- Good Students (under 25): $2,175/year full coverage (25% discount applied)
Best For:
- Tech-savvy drivers comfortable with online/mobile-first service
- Active military members and federal employees (additional discounts)
- Drivers seeking 24/7 customer service accessibility
- Those who value mobile app convenience
Available Discounts:
- Multi-policy bundling (home + auto): 15-25%
- Multi-vehicle: 10-25%
- Good driver: 15-23%
- Federal employee: 8-12%
- Military/veteran: 10-15%
- Emergency deployment: up to 25%
- Anti-theft devices: 10-15%
- Defensive driving course: 5-10%
- Good student: 15%
- Daytime running lights: 3%
Pros:
- Consistently competitive rates across most profiles
- Exceptional mobile app (4.8/5 stars, 1M+ reviews)
- 24/7 customer service and claims support
- Fast online quote process (5-10 minutes)
- Accident forgiveness available after 5 years claim-free
- Roadside assistance available
Cons:
- No local agents (may not suit those preferring face-to-face service)
- Customer service primarily phone/digital
- Rate increases after claims can be steeper than some competitors
Financial Strength: A++ (Superior) – A.M. Best Rating
Customer Satisfaction: 4/5 – J.D. Power California Auto Insurance Study
Get Your GEICO Quote: Compare rates and see your personalized discounts in minutes.
2. Wawanesa hidden gem for clean-record drivers
Average Annual Premium: $1,524 (full coverage) | $498 (minimum coverage)
Overall Score: 92/100
Wawanesa operates under the radar compared to household names, but this Canadian insurer consistently delivers California’s lowest rates for drivers with clean records. Their selective underwriting focuses on low-risk drivers, allowing them to offer exceptional pricing.
Why Wawanesa Ranks Second
Wawanesa doesn’t advertise heavily and primarily operates in California and Oregon, keeping overhead costs minimal. They pass these savings to policyholders while maintaining strong financial ratings and customer service.
Average Rates by Driver Profile
- Young Drivers (18-24): $2,645/year full coverage, $815/year minimum
- Middle-Aged Drivers (35-50): $1,315/year full coverage, $428/year minimum
- Seniors (65+): $1,285/year full coverage, $415/year minimum
- One Speeding Ticket: $2,125/year full coverage (39% increase)
- One At-Fault Accident: $2,590/year full coverage (70% increase)
Best For:
- Drivers with spotless driving records
- Homeowners (significant bundling discounts)
- California residents seeking local focus
- Those prioritizing price over brand recognition
Available Discounts:
- Multi-policy bundling: 10-20%
- Multi-vehicle: 15-30%
- Good driver: 20-25%
- Responsible payer: 10%
- Low mileage: 10-15%
- Anti-theft: 5-15%
- Passive restraint: 5-10%
- Good student: 25%
- Homeowner: 5-10%
Pros:
- Lowest average rates for clean-record drivers
- Excellent customer service (4.5/5 customer satisfaction)
- Strong homeowner bundling discounts
- Simple, straightforward policies
- No-hassle claims process
- Local California focus
Cons:
- Not available nationwide (California, Oregon only)
- Limited brand recognition
- Steep rate increases for violations/accidents
- Fewer discount categories than larger competitors
- No usage-based insurance program
Financial Strength: A (Excellent) – A.M. Best Rating
Customer Satisfaction: 4.5/5 – California customer reviews
Get Your Wawanesa Quote: Discover why California insiders choose Wawanesa for unbeatable rates.
3. Progressive – best for drivers with imperfect records
Average Annual Premium: $1,742 (full coverage) | $578 (minimum coverage)
Overall Score: 90/100
Progressive specializes in competitive pricing for drivers other companies consider higher risk. Their “Snapshot” telematics program and accident forgiveness options make them ideal for drivers looking to overcome past mistakes.
Why Progressive Ranks Third
Progressive’s sophisticated risk modeling and willingness to insure higher-risk drivers at competitive rates distinguish them from competitors who simply decline or price prohibitively. Their “Name Your Price” tool genuinely helps budget-conscious shoppers find affordable coverage.
Average Rates by Driver Profile
- Young Drivers (18-24): $3,125/year full coverage, $975/year minimum
- Middle-Aged Drivers (35-50): $1,485/year full coverage, $485/year minimum
- Seniors (65+): $1,445/year full coverage, $468/year minimum
- One Speeding Ticket: $1,995/year full coverage (35% increase)
- One At-Fault Accident: $2,315/year full coverage (33% increase)
- DUI: $3,850/year full coverage (121% increase – still lower than most)
Best For:
- Drivers with tickets or accidents on their record
- Those wanting usage-based insurance (Snapshot)
- Bundle-seekers (home, renters, boat, RV options)
- Drivers who need accident forgiveness
- Tech-forward customers
Available Discounts:
- Multi-policy bundling: 5-30%
- Multi-vehicle: up to 20%
- Continuous insurance: up to 15%
- Snapshot participation: up to 30%
- Good student: up to 20%
- Homeowner: up to 10%
- Online quote: 7%
- Pay-in-full: 10%
- Paperless: 5%
- Sign online: 5%
Pros:
- Competitive rates for higher-risk drivers
- Snapshot program rewards safe driving with significant discounts
- Accident forgiveness available
- Name Your Price tool for budget customization
- Excellent mobile app and online tools
- Many coverage customization options
- Pet injury coverage available
Cons:
- Rates for clean-record drivers often higher than Wawanesa or USAA
- Snapshot requires data sharing (privacy concerns)
- Customer service can be inconsistent
- Some customers report post-claim rate increases
Financial Strength: A+ (Superior) – A.M. Best Rating
Customer Satisfaction: 3.5/5 – J.D. Power California Auto Insurance Study
Get Your Progressive Quote: See how Snapshot could save you up to 30% on your premium.
4. USAA – unbeatable for military members and families
Average Annual Premium: $1,398 (full coverage) | $445 (minimum coverage)
Overall Score: 95/100 (for eligible members)
USAA would rank #1 if not for their restricted eligibility. Available only to active military, veterans, and their families, USAA combines the industry’s lowest average rates with exceptional customer service.
Why USAA Ranks Fourth (Despite Best Rates)
Membership restrictions prevent most Californians from accessing USAA. However, if you qualify, USAA should be your first quote request—their combination of price, service, and member benefits is unmatched.
Average Rates by Driver Profile
- Young Drivers (18-24): $2,385/year full coverage, $745/year minimum
- Middle-Aged Drivers (35-50): $1,195/year full coverage, $385/year minimum
- Seniors (65+): $1,155/year full coverage, $372/year minimum
- One Speeding Ticket: $1,675/year full coverage (20% increase)
- One At-Fault Accident: $1,965/year full coverage (41% increase)
Best For:
- Active duty military members
- Veterans (honorably discharged)
- Adult children of USAA members
- Military spouses and widows/widowers
Available Discounts:
- Multi-policy bundling: 10-20%
- Multi-vehicle: up to 10%
- Good driver: 12%
- Annual mileage: up to 15%
- Stored vehicle: 60% (for deployed members)
- Safe driver: up to 10%
- Good student: up to 10%
- New vehicle: 10%
- Driver training: 10%
Pros:
- Lowest average rates in California
- Outstanding customer service (highest J.D. Power ratings)
- Member-focused culture (non-profit structure)
- Comprehensive military-specific benefits
- Deployment discounts and flexible coverage
- Easy claims process
- Full banking/financial services integration
Cons:
- Restricted eligibility (military affiliation required)
- No local agents
- Must apply for membership before getting quotes
- Limited walk-in service locations
Financial Strength: A++ (Superior) – A.M. Best Rating
Customer Satisfaction: 5/5 – J.D. Power California Auto Insurance Study (highest rated)
Get Your USAA Quote: Check your eligibility and see exclusive military member rates.
5. State farm – best local agent network with competitive pricing
Average Annual Premium: $1,835 (full coverage) | $605 (minimum coverage)
Overall Score: 88/100
State Farm balances competitive pricing with the nation’s largest agent network. While not always the absolute cheapest, their combination of reasonable rates, local service, and claims reputation justifies their premium for many drivers.
Why State Farm Ranks Fifth
State Farm’s 19,000+ agents nationwide (1,500+ in California) provide personalized service that online-only competitors can’t match. Their claims satisfaction ratings consistently rank among the industry’s highest, crucial when you actually need your insurance.
Average Rates by Driver Profile
- Young Drivers (18-24): $3,245/year full coverage, $1,015/year minimum
- Middle-Aged Drivers (35-50): $1,575/year full coverage, $515/year minimum
- Seniors (65+): $1,525/year full coverage, $495/year minimum
- One Speeding Ticket: $2,195/year full coverage (38% increase)
- One At-Fault Accident: $2,565/year full coverage (40% increase)
Best For:
- Drivers preferring face-to-face agent relationships
- Those prioritizing claims service reputation
- Bundle-seekers (extensive product lineup)
- Drivers wanting loyalty rewards
- Families needing multiple policy types
Available Discounts:
- Multi-policy bundling: up to 20%
- Multi-vehicle: up to 20%
- Good driver: up to 15%
- Drive Safe & Save (telematics): up to 30%
- Good student: up to 25%
- Student away at school: up to 15%
- Steer Clear (young driver program): up to 15%
- Anti-theft: up to 5%
- Vehicle safety features: varies
Pros:
- Extensive local agent network
- Industry-leading claims satisfaction
- Drive Safe & Save telematics program
- Comprehensive bundling options (life, home, renters, etc.)
- Loyalty discounts increase over time
- Strong mobile app
- Robust customer education resources
Cons:
- Higher average rates than GEICO, Wawanesa, Progressive
- Agent commission built into pricing
- Some regional rate variations
- Must contact agent for some policy changes
Financial Strength: A++ (Superior) – A.M. Best Rating
Customer Satisfaction: 4/5 – J.D. Power California Auto Insurance Study
Get Your State Farm Quote: Connect with a local agent and explore bundling discounts today.
6. AAA – best for members seeking bundled value
Average Annual Premium: $1,915 (full coverage) | $632 (minimum coverage)
Overall Score: 86/100
AAA (Auto Club of Southern California and Auto Club of Northern California) provides competitive insurance rates for members while bundling roadside assistance and travel benefits into membership fees.
Why AAA Ranks Sixth
AAA membership ($60-$120 annually) includes roadside assistance worth the membership alone. When you add competitive insurance rates and member perks, AAA delivers comprehensive value beyond just the premium.
Average Rates by Driver Profile
- Young Drivers (18-24): $3,485/year full coverage, $1,085/year minimum
- Middle-Aged Drivers (35-50): $1,645/year full coverage, $538/year minimum
- Seniors (65+): $1,595/year full coverage, $520/year minimum
- One Speeding Ticket: $2,285/year full coverage (39% increase)
- One At-Fault Accident: $2,685/year full coverage (40% increase)
Best For:
- Current AAA members
- Drivers wanting integrated roadside assistance
- Those who value travel planning services
- Families taking frequent road trips
- Seniors (additional member discounts)
Available Discounts:
- Multi-policy bundling: 10-15%
- Multi-vehicle: up to 15%
- Good driver: up to 10%
- Membership loyalty: 5-10%
- Auto pay/paperless: 5%
- Good student: up to 10%
- Paid-in-full: 5%
- Vehicle safety features: varies
Pros:
- Membership includes premium roadside assistance
- Travel planning and discounts
- DMV services at AAA offices
- Strong regional presence and reputation
- Local offices for in-person service
- Insurance plus membership value proposition
Cons:
- Requires AAA membership for insurance
- Higher rates than top-ranked competitors
- Regional variations (Northern vs Southern California)
- Some service inconsistencies between locations
Financial Strength: A (Excellent) – A.M. Best Rating
Customer Satisfaction: 3.8/5 – California customer reviews
Get Your AAA Quote: See member-exclusive rates and bundle with roadside assistance.
7. Mercury insurance strong California-focused option
Average Annual Premium: $1,795 (full coverage) | $590 (minimum coverage)
Overall Score: 85/100
Mercury Insurance, headquartered in Los Angeles, focuses primarily on California and understands the state’s unique insurance landscape. Their competitive rates and regional expertise make them a solid option for Golden State drivers.
Why Mercury Ranks Seventh
As a California-born company, Mercury tailors policies specifically for state requirements and regional risks. They offer competitive pricing without sacrificing the customer service benefits of a regionally-focused insurer.
Average Rates by Driver Profile
- Young Drivers (18-24): $3,325/year full coverage, $1,035/year minimum
- Middle-Aged Drivers (35-50): $1,540/year full coverage, $505/year minimum
- Seniors (65+): $1,495/year full coverage, $485/year minimum
- One Speeding Ticket: $2,155/year full coverage (38% increase)
- One At-Fault Accident: $2,515/year full coverage (40% increase)
Best For:
- California residents preferring local companies
- Those wanting combination of price and service
- Bundle-seekers (home insurance available)
- Drivers in Southern California (particularly competitive)
Available Discounts:
- Multi-policy bundling: up to 20%
- Multi-car: up to 20%
- Good driver: up to 20%
- Low mileage: 3-20%
- Homeowner: up to 10%
- Good student: up to 25%
- Paid-in-full: varies
- Anti-theft: varies
Pros:
- California-specific expertise
- Competitive rates in Southern California
- Strong local claims adjusters
- Responsive customer service
- Flexible payment plans
- Both agent and direct purchase options
Cons:
- Limited geographic availability (mainly California)
- Less competitive in Northern California
- Fewer digital tools than national competitors
- Smaller network than national carriers
Financial Strength: A (Excellent) – A.M. Best Rating
Customer Satisfaction: 3.7/5 – J.D. Power California Auto Insurance Study
Get Your Mercury Quote: Compare California-focused coverage with local expertise.
8. Allstate good for accident forgiveness seekers
Average Annual Premium: $2,045 (full coverage) | $675 (minimum coverage)
Overall Score: 82/100
Allstate’s rates run higher than top competitors, but their accident forgiveness program and extensive agent network provide value beyond the premium for drivers prioritizing claim protection.
Why Allstate Ranks Eighth
Allstate excels in protecting customers from rate increases after their first accident through their “Accident Forgiveness” program. For drivers concerned about one mistake tripling their rates, this feature provides peace of mind worth the slightly higher baseline premium.
Average Rates by Driver Profile
- Young Drivers (18-24): $3,785/year full coverage, $1,185/year minimum
- Middle-Aged Drivers (35-50): $1,755/year full coverage, $575/year minimum
- Seniors (65+): $1,705/year full coverage, $555/year minimum
- One Speeding Ticket: $2,445/year full coverage (39% increase)
- One At-Fault Accident: $2,255/year full coverage (10% with accident forgiveness)
Best For:
- Drivers wanting accident forgiveness protection
- Those preferring local agent relationships
- Bundle-seekers (extensive product lineup)
- Safe drivers accumulating forgiveness benefits
Available Discounts:
- Multi-policy bundling: up to 25%
- Multi-vehicle: up to 10%
- Safe driving bonus: up to 30%
- Drivewise (telematics): up to 40%
- New car: up to 10%
- Anti-theft: up to 25%
- Good student: up to 25%
- Early signing: 10%
- Full payment: up to 10%
Pros:
- Accident forgiveness after earning it
- Drivewise telematics offers significant savings
- Extensive agent network
- Strong brand reputation
- Comprehensive coverage options
- New car replacement coverage
Cons:
- Higher baseline rates than top competitors
- Drivewise requires data sharing
- Customer service inconsistency
- Rates can increase significantly over time
Financial Strength: A+ (Superior) – A.M. Best Rating
Customer Satisfaction: 3.5/5 – J.D. Power California Auto Insurance Study
Get Your Allstate Quote: See how accident forgiveness and Drivewise could protect your rate.
9. Nationwide Solid Mid-Tier Option
Average Annual Premium: $2,125 (full coverage) | $695 (minimum coverage)
Overall Score: 80/100
Nationwide delivers reliable coverage and service at moderate prices. While they don’t lead in any specific category, they provide consistent value across multiple driver profiles.
Why Nationwide Ranks Ninth
Nationwide’s broad coverage options and flexible programs make them suitable for diverse driver needs. Their SmartRide telematics program and vanishing deductible feature add value beyond the base premium.
Average Rates by Driver Profile
- Young Drivers (18-24): $3,945/year full coverage, $1,225/year minimum
- Middle-Aged Drivers (35-50): $1,825/year full coverage, $598/year minimum
- Seniors (65+): $1,775/year full coverage, $578/year minimum
- One Speeding Ticket: $2,545/year full coverage (40% increase)
- One At-Fault Accident: $2,975/year full coverage (40% increase)
Best For:
- Drivers wanting vanishing deductible benefits
- Those comfortable with telematics (SmartRide)
- Multi-policy bundlers
- Drivers seeking middle-ground between price and service
Available Discounts:
- Multi-policy bundling: up to 20%
- Multi-vehicle: up to 20%
- SmartRide (telematics): up to 40%
- Good student: up to 15%
- Accident-free: varies
- Vanishing deductible: $100/year reduction
- Paid-in-full: varies
Pros:
- Vanishing deductible (decreases $100 annually, max $500)
- SmartRide telematics savings potential
- Diverse coverage options
- On Your Side Review (annual policy review)
- Broad product lineup for bundling
Cons:
- Higher average rates than top 5 competitors
- Customer service varies by location
- Some customers report claim difficulties
- Digital tools lag behind top competitors
Financial Strength: A+ (Superior) – A.M. Best Rating
Customer Satisfaction: 3.4/5 – J.D. Power California Auto Insurance Study
Get Your Nationwide Quote: Explore SmartRide savings and vanishing deductible benefits.
10. Farmers insurance agent-focused with mixed pricing
Average Annual Premium: $2,245 (full coverage) | $738 (minimum coverage)
Overall Score: 78/100
Farmers rounds out our top 10 with agent-focused service and extensive coverage customization. Their rates run higher than competitors, but their Signal telematics program and comprehensive policy options provide value for specific driver profiles.
Why Farmers Ranks Tenth
Farmers’ strength lies in their agent network and policy flexibility rather than rock-bottom pricing. Drivers who value personalized service and customized coverage find Farmers worth the premium.
Average Rates by Driver Profile
- Young Drivers (18-24): $4,185/year full coverage, $1,295/year minimum
- Middle-Aged Drivers (35-50): $1,925/year full coverage, $632/year minimum
- Seniors (65+): $1,865/year full coverage, $608/year minimum
- One Speeding Ticket: $2,685/year full coverage (41% increase)
- One At-Fault Accident: $3,145/year full coverage (40% increase)
Best For:
- Drivers wanting extensive agent involvement
- Those needing highly customized coverage
- Bundle-seekers with complex insurance needs
- Drivers in rural areas with local Farmers agents
Available Discounts:
- Multi-policy bundling: up to 20%
- Multi-vehicle: up to 25%
- Signal (telematics): up to 15%
- Good student: up to 25%
- Business/professional: up to 10%
- Homeowner: up to 10%
- Paid-in-full: varies
- Alternate storage: up to 90%
Pros:
- Extensive agent network
- Signal telematics program
- Highly customizable coverage options
- Rideshare coverage available
- Broad product lineup
Cons:
- Highest average rates in top 10
- Service quality varies by agent
- Commission-based pricing
- Limited digital self-service tools
- Some customers report aggressive upselling
Financial Strength: A (Excellent) – A.M. Best Rating
Customer Satisfaction: 3.3/5 – J.D. Power California Auto Insurance Study
Get Your Farmers Quote: Connect with a local agent for personalized coverage solutions.
Side-by-side comparison: The top 10 at a glance
| Rank | Company | Avg. Full Coverage | Avg. Minimum | Best For | Overall Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | GEICO | $1,658 | $542 | Most drivers, digital-first | 94/100 |
| 2 | Wawanesa | $1,524 | $498 | Clean records | 92/100 |
| 3 | Progressive | $1,742 | $578 | Imperfect records | 90/100 |
| 4 | USAA | $1,398 | $445 | Military members | 95/100 |
| 5 | State Farm | $1,835 | $605 | Local agent service | 88/100 |
| 6 | AAA | $1,915 | $632 | Members, roadside assistance | 86/100 |
| 7 | Mercury | $1,795 | $590 | California focus | 85/100 |
| 8 | Allstate | $2,045 | $675 | Accident forgiveness | 82/100 |
| 9 | Nationwide | $2,125 | $695 | Vanishing deductible | 80/100 |
| 10 | Farmers | $2,245 | $738 | Agent service, customization | 78/100 |
How prices vary by driver profile: Real-world examples
The “cheapest” company changes based on your specific circumstances. Here’s how rates vary across common profiles:
Profile 1: 22-Year-Old Male, Clean Record, 2018 Honda Civic
- Wawanesa: $2,645/year
- GEICO: $2,890/year
- Progressive: $3,125/year
- State Farm: $3,245/year
- Mercury: $3,325/year
Savings potential: $600/year choosing Wawanesa over State Farm
Profile 2: 35-Year-Old Female, One Speeding Ticket, 2021 Toyota Camry
- USAA: $1,675/year (if eligible)
- Progressive: $1,995/year
- GEICO: $2,015/year
- Wawanesa: $2,125/year
- Mercury: $2,155/year
Savings potential: $480/year choosing Progressive over Mercury (for non-USAA eligible)
Profile 3: 45-Year-Old Male, Clean Record, 2022 Tesla Model 3
- USAA: $1,850/year (if eligible)
- Wawanesa: $2,015/year
- GEICO: $2,185/year
- Mercury: $2,295/year
- Progressive: $2,385/year
Savings potential: $535/year choosing Wawanesa over Progressive (for non-USAA eligible)
Profile 4: 19-Year-Old Female, Good Student, 2015 Mazda3
- USAA: $2,150/year (if eligible)
- Wawanesa: $1,985/year (with 25% good student discount)
- GEICO: $2,175/year (with 15% good student discount)
- Progressive: $2,345/year (with 20% good student discount)
- State Farm: $2,435/year (with 25% good student discount)
Savings potential: $450/year choosing Wawanesa over State Farm (for non-USAA eligible)
Profile 5: 62-Year-Old Couple, Two Vehicles, Clean Records, Bundled with Home
- USAA: $2,315/year (if eligible)
- Wawanesa: $2,445/year
- State Farm: $2,585/year
- GEICO: $2,625/year
- Mercury: $2,715/year
Savings potential: $400/year choosing Wawanesa over Mercury (for non-USAA eligible)
Regional price variations within California
Your location within California significantly impacts rates. Here’s how average premiums vary by region (40-year-old driver, full coverage, clean record):
Los Angeles County
- Cheapest: Wawanesa ($1,815/year)
- GEICO: $1,945/year
- Progressive: $2,015/year
- State Farm: $2,125/year
- Average across all companies: $2,285/year
San Francisco Bay Area
- Cheapest: Wawanesa ($1,725/year)
- GEICO: $1,845/year
- USAA: $1,595/year (if eligible)
- Progressive: $1,935/year
- Average across all companies: $2,185/year
San Diego County
- Cheapest: Wawanesa ($1,585/year)
- GEICO: $1,695/year
- Mercury: $1,725/year
- Progressive: $1,815/year
- Average across all companies: $1,985/year
Sacramento Metro
- Cheapest: Wawanesa ($1,445/year)
- GEICO: $1,545/year
- Progressive: $1,625/year
- Mercury: $1,685/year
- Average across all companies: $1,825/year
Rural Northern California
- Cheapest: Wawanesa ($1,285/year)
- GEICO: $1,375/year
- State Farm: $1,425/year
- Progressive: $1,485/year
- Average across all companies: $1,625/year
Urban areas cost 20-40% more than rural counties due to higher accident frequencies, theft rates, and uninsured driver populations.
Making your decision: Which company should you choose?
Don’t rely solely on this ranking. Your optimal choice depends on your unique profile:
Choose GEICO if:
- You want consistently competitive rates across most profiles
- You’re comfortable with digital-first service
- You value 24/7 accessibility and mobile app convenience
- You’re active military or a federal employee
Choose Wawanesa if:
- You have a spotless driving record
- You’re a homeowner who can bundle
- You want the absolute lowest rates for low-risk drivers
- You don’t need extensive hand-holding
Choose Progressive if:
- You have tickets or accidents on your record
- You’re interested in usage-based insurance (Snapshot)
- You want accident forgiveness options
- You appreciate the Name Your Price customization
Choose USAA if:
- You’re military-
- affiliated (active, veteran, or family)
- You want the best combination of price and service
- You value member-focused culture
- Choose State Farm if:
- You prefer face-to-face agent relationships
- Claims service reputation is your top priority
- You want extensive bundling options
- You value local expertise and accessibility
- Your Next Step: Get Multiple Quotes
- This ranking provides California-wide averages, but your personal rate could vary dramatically. The only way to find your true cheapest option is comparing personalized quotes.
- Follow this process:
- Request quotes from at least 5 companies – Include the top 3-4 from this ranking plus 1-2 others
- Ensure identical coverage specifications – Same limits, deductibles, and optional coverages
- Ask about all available discounts – Many aren’t automatically applied
- Verify financial strength – Check A.M. Best ratings before purchasing
- Read customer reviews – Investigate claims experiences for your finalists
- Compare California’s top insurers now and start saving:
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