Geico, Progressive, Travelers and State Farm are the best car insurance companies in California. CarInsurance.com evaluated the companies’ annual car insurance rates, financial strength ratings and customer satisfaction ratings to curate a list of the Best Car Insurance Companies in California in 2024.
Use our guide to determine which insurance company is best for your needs and budget. Learn how to navigate your insurance options in California with confidence and ease.
Our takeGeico is the best car insurance company in California. With an A++ financial rating from AM Best and competitive rates, it is an ideal choice for those seeking affordability and comprehensive coverage.
Geico’s car insurance costs an average of $1,919 annually. Its J.D. Power score is 830/1,000 and its overall rating is 4.02 out of 5.
Based on CarInsurance.com’s analysis, Geico provides the most affordable car insurance premiums at $1,919 annually.
Check out our experts recommendations for the best car insurance coverage
What are the best car insurance companies in California?
California drivers have various top-rated car insurance companies to choose from. Whether you seek the best overall experience, the most affordable rates or exceptional customer service, there’s an insurer that fits your needs.
Here’s a breakdown of the best auto insurance companies in California by category.
| Category | Company |
|---|---|
| Best overall | Geico |
| Most affordable | Geico |
| Highest customer satisfaction | Auto Club Enterprises (AAA) |
| Best for teen | State Farm |
| Best for young adults | Geico |
| Best for adults | Geico |
| Best for seniors | Geico |
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Compare the best auto insurance companies in California
Comparing car insurance companies in California is important because it helps you find the best coverage at the most affordable price. Insurance companies offer different rates and benefits, so by shopping around, you can choose a policy that fits your needs and budget.
To assist you, we’ve thoroughly reviewed the top insurers in the state. Find below the list of the best auto insurance providers in California.
| Company | Annual cost | AM Best | J.D. Power | NAIC | Overall score out of 5 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Geico | $1,919 | A++ | 830 | 0.91 | 4.02 |
| Progressive | $2,179 | A+ | 809 | 0.65 | 3.69 |
| Travelers | $2,460 | A++ | 810 | 0.49 | 3.65 |
| State Farm | $2,701 | A++ | 826 | 0.70 | 3.47 |
| Mercury Insurance | $2,031 | A | 794 | 0.84 | 3.47 |
| Allstate | $2,627 | A+ | 816 | 0.65 | 3.35 |
| CSAA Insurance (AAA) | $2,600 | A | 822 | 0.75 | 3.28 |
| Nationwide | $2,799 | A+ | 794 | 0.64 | 3.20 |
| Farmers | $3,035 | A | 810 | 0.80 | 2.91 |
| Auto Club Enterprises (AAA) | $2,466 | A+ | 832 | 2.21 | 2.89 |
| Kemper Insurance | $2,429 | A- | 736 | 2.16 | 2.05 |
Best car insurance companies by age group in California
As you age, your driving habits and insurance needs change, influencing your car insurance rates and the type of coverage you require. The best insurer for a teen is likely not the best choice for a senior, as each age group has unique needs and priorities when it comes to auto insurance.
Teenagers, viewed as high-risk due to their inexperience, often benefit from policies with extensive coverage options, digital tools and discounts for good grades and safe driving habits. Seniors, on the other hand, might prioritize higher liability limits and prefer personalized customer service.
Additionally, while teen drivers’ insurance needs change rapidly as they gain experience, seniors typically focus on maintaining comprehensive coverage as they age. Thus, the best insurer for one may not meet the unique requirements of the other.
Select your age group and coverage level below to see the list of best car insurance companies and their annual average rates.
| Company | Annual rates | Customer satisfaction rating |
|---|---|---|
- Full coverage: 100/300/100 liability with $500 comprehensive/collision deductible
- Liability only: 50/100/50 liability only
- State minimum: State minimum coverage
Check out our detailed guide on average car insurance rates by age group
Best for teen drivers in California
Insurance premiums are typically higher for teen drivers because of their increased risk and inexperience. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, teen drivers are more likely to misjudge or not notice risky situations than older drivers.
Teen drivers are also more likely to make serious mistakes that can lead to major accidents. In 2022, 2,883 teenagers between the ages of 13 and 19 lost their lives in car accidents, according to a report from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.
Finding insurance companies that offer competitive rates and benefits for teen drivers, like good student discounts, driver training discounts and accident forgiveness, can help manage these costs.
Known for its lower-than-average rates for teen drivers, State Farm is a great option for teenagers looking to save on premiums at $4,961 a year.
When determining the best car insurance companies for teen drivers, several key factors were considered to ensure a comprehensive evaluation. The overall score for each company is derived from a weighted analysis of four main factors:
- The average annual full-coverage car insurance cost (25%)
- J.D. Power score (30%)
- AM Best rating (25%)
- NAIC rating (20%)
Each factor is assigned a specific percentage weight based on how they performed in each category.
Here are some top choices for teens aged 16-19 based on our analysis:
| Company | Annual cost | AM Best | J.D. Power | NAIC | Overall score out of 5 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| State Farm | $4,961 | A++ | 826 | 0.7 | 4.06 |
| Travelers | $5,079 | A++ | 810 | 0.49 | 4.03 |
| Geico | $4,836 | A++ | 830 | 0.91 | 4.02 |
| Allstate | $5,881 | A+ | 816 | 0.65 | 3.71 |
| Progressive | $6,546 | A+ | 809 | 0.65 | 3.58 |
| Mercury Insurance | $5,095 | A | 794 | 0.84 | 3.51 |
| Farmers | $6,766 | A | 810 | 0.8 | 3.44 |
| CSAA Insurance (AAA) | $8,578 | A | 822 | 0.75 | 3.14 |
| Auto Club Enterprises (AAA) | $6,242 | A+ | 832 | 2.21 | 3.07 |
| Nationwide | $9,683 | A+ | 794 | 0.64 | 3.01 |
| Kemper Insurance | $7,425 | A- | 736 | 2.16 | 1.1 |
Best for young adults in California
Young drivers must find the right insurance company, as they usually encounter higher premiums due to their perceived risk. According to an analysis by the National Safety Council, drivers aged 20 to 24 were involved in 7,300 fatal crashes in 2022, which accounts for 11.2% of the total number of drivers involved in these incidents.
Companies like Geico and Travelers offer competitive rates that are more affordable for younger drivers aged 20-24.
To determine the best car insurance companies for young adults in 2024, we analyzed four key factors: average annual full coverage cost (25%), J.D. Power score (30%), AM Best rating (25%) and NAIC rating (20%). Each factor was given a specific percentage weight to calculate the overall performance.
| Company | Annual cost | AM Best | J.D. Power | NAIC | Overall score out of 5 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Geico | $2,531 | A++ | 830 | 0.91 | 4.02 |
| Travelers | $3,370 | A++ | 810 | 0.49 | 3.76 |
| State Farm | $3,529 | A++ | 826 | 0.70 | 3.70 |
| Allstate | $3,485 | A+ | 816 | 0.65 | 3.54 |
| Progressive | $3,617 | A+ | 809 | 0.65 | 3.48 |
| CSAA Insurance (AAA) | $4,029 | A | 822 | 0.75 | 3.24 |
| Mercury Insurance | $3,393 | A | 794 | 0.84 | 3.23 |
| Farmers | $4,357 | A | 810 | 0.80 | 3.09 |
| Nationwide | $4,834 | A+ | 794 | 0.64 | 3.01 |
| Auto Club Enterprises (AAA) | $3,798 | A+ | 832 | 2.21 | 2.84 |
| Kemper Insurance | $4,216 | A- | 736 | 2.16 | 0.93 |
Best for adult drivers in California
Different age groups have varying needs and priorities when it comes to car insurance. The key considerations for adult drivers aged 25 to 60 are coverage options, better customer service and premium costs.
In California, Geico stands out as the best car insurance provider for adult drivers. It offers full coverage at an average annual cost of $1,937 and boasts the highest overall rating of 4.02 among the companies analyzed.
We have evaluated and curated a list of the best car insurance companies for adult drivers based on four key factors: average annual full coverage car insurance cost in California (25%), J.D. Power score (30%), AM Best rating (25%), and NAIC rating (20%).
Experienced drivers are generally considered low-risk compared to younger drivers. This age group typically benefits from lower insurance premiums due to their experience and lower accident rates.
Below is a list of the best insurance companies in California for adults aged 25-60 and annual premiums.
| Company | Annual cost | AM Best | J.D. Power | NAIC | Overall score out of 5 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Geico | $1,937 | A++ | 830 | 0.91 | 4.02 |
| Progressive | $2,185 | A+ | 809 | 0.65 | 3.70 |
| Travelers | $2,478 | A++ | 810 | 0.49 | 3.66 |
| State Farm | $2,704 | A++ | 826 | 0.70 | 3.50 |
| Mercury Insurance | $2,085 | A | 794 | 0.84 | 3.45 |
| Allstate | $2,594 | A+ | 816 | 0.65 | 3.40 |
| CSAA Insurance (AAA) | $2,599 | A | 822 | 0.75 | 3.31 |
| Nationwide | $2,835 | A+ | 794 | 0.64 | 3.20 |
| Farmers | $3,079 | A | 810 | 0.80 | 2.91 |
| Auto Club Enterprises (AAA) | $2,539 | A+ | 832 | 2.21 | 2.86 |
| Kemper Insurance | $2,693 | A- | 736 | 2.16 | 0.99 |
Best for senior drivers in California
Geico provides the cheapest car insurance premiums among the companies analyzed at an average cost of $1,935 a year. It is an affordable option for senior drivers.
As drivers enter their senior years, insurance companies may raise premiums based on the risk associated with changes that can affect driving, such as slower reflexes and vision impairment. Besides, senior drivers might face difficulty finding a policy that offers adequate coverage at reasonable rates, given that insurers often view older drivers as high-risk due to their increased likelihood of being involved in accidents.
Finding the best car insurance companies for senior drivers necessitates a thorough evaluation of several factors. Each insurer’s overall score is determined through a weighted analysis of four different parameters: the average annual cost of full-coverage car insurance (25%), J.D. Power score (30%), AM Best rating (25%), and NAIC rating (20%). The weight assigned to each factor reflects its significance in assessing an insurance provider’s financial stability, affordability, customer satisfaction and complaint index.
Here are the best auto insurance companies in California for senior drivers aged 65 to 75.
| Company | Monthly cost | AM Best | J.D. Power | NAIC | Overall score out of 5 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Geico | $161 | A++ | 830 | 0.91 | 4.02 |
| State Farm | $188 | A++ | 826 | 0.70 | 3.86 |
| Travelers | $205 | A++ | 810 | 0.49 | 3.70 |
| Progressive | $200 | A+ | 809 | 0.65 | 3.56 |
| Allstate | $201 | A+ | 816 | 0.65 | 3.56 |
| Mercury Insurance | $173 | A | 794 | 0.84 | 3.46 |
| Nationwide | $226 | A+ | 794 | 0.64 | 3.33 |
| CSAA Insurance (AAA) | $219 | A | 822 | 0.75 | 3.32 |
| Farmers | $248 | A | 810 | 0.80 | 3.03 |
| Auto Club Enterprises (AAA) | $198 | A+ | 832 | 2.21 | 3.00 |
| Kemper Insurance | $263 | A- | 736 | 2.16 | 0.70 |
Learn more about how to shop for car insurance for seniors
Best overall car insurance company in state
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Selecting the right insurance company is heavily influenced by your driver profile. Here’s how to choose the best insurer to meet your specific needs:
For budget-conscious drivers in California
Look for companies that offer various car insurance discounts, such as safe driver discounts, multi-policy discounts, or discounts for automatic payments. These can significantly reduce your premiums. Some insurers offer flexible payment plans that can ease the financial burden, such as monthly, quarterly or bi-annual payments.
Find below the list of the best insurance companies and their annual rates for different coverage levels.
| Company | State-minimum | Liability-only | Full coverage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Geico | $367 | $591 | $1,919 |
| Mercury Insurance | $458 | $766 | $2,031 |
| Progressive | $433 | $637 | $2,179 |
| Kemper | $492 | $803 | $2,429 |
| Travelers | $629 | $954 | $2,460 |
| Auto Club Enterprises (AAA) | $623 | $974 | $2,466 |
| CSAA Insurance (AAA) | $457 | $627 | $2,600 |
| Allstate | $717 | $1,104 | $2,627 |
| State Farm | $569 | $900 | $2,701 |
| Nationwide | $712 | $1,123 | $2,799 |
| Farmers | $774 | $1,280 | $3,035 |
| USAA | $410 | $653 | $1,827 |
Notes:
- Full coverage car insurance limit is 100/300/100 with a $500 deductible.
- Liability-only car insurance limit is 50/100/50.
- State minimum car insurance is 15/30/5.
For high-risk drivers in California
If you’re a high-risk driver or someone with traffic violations or DUIs, seek insurance companies specializing in high-risk policies. To help lower your rates, try to improve your driving record by taking a defensive driving course. These actions can help you save money on your insurance over time.
High-risk status isn’t forever. Work toward earning a clean driving record, improving your risk profile and comparing insurance quotes to find better rates.
| Company | 6-month cost | Annual cost |
|---|---|---|
| Mercury Insurance | $1,642 | $3,283 |
| Geico | $1,817 | $3,634 |
| Progressive | $1,871 | $3,741 |
| Travelers | $2,081 | $4,162 |
| Auto Club Enterprises (AAA) | $2,172 | $4,343 |
| CSAA Insurance (AAA) | $2,227 | $4,453 |
| State Farm | $2,524 | $5,048 |
| Farmers | $2,812 | $5,624 |
| Nationwide | $2,833 | $5,665 |
| Allstate | $2,909 | $5,818 |
| USAA | $1,529 | $3,057 |
By thoroughly researching and understanding their specific driver profiles, high-risk drivers can find an insurance company that meets their needs and offers the best value.
In conversation with experts
CarInsurance.com editors interviewed James Brau, Joel C. Peterson, professor of finance at Brigham Young University. See his responses below.
How important is customer service when deciding the right car insurance company?
Customer service is critical – it should be one of the top factors consumers consider. All else equal, meaning similar premiums, coverage, riders, etc., customer service is often the deciding factor. If a customer gets to speak to a cheerful human without 10 minutes of robot phone trees, especially when stressed out after a wreck or theft, it makes life a lot better.
What are the key factors that consumers should consider when selecting a car insurance company in their state?
Customers should do research pertaining to coverage, premiums, reputation, how many stars on reviews, etc. Make sure to compare apples to apples – that you’re getting the same coverage amounts, for example. Shop around – competition helps the consumer.
How often should policyholders review and adjust their car insurance policies?
Every six months is a good rule of thumb because most people pay in semi-annual installments. If you keep your company on its toes, they are more likely to stay competitive and offer special pricing, deals, incentives, etc.
Frequently asked questions
What is the average cost of car insurance in California?
In California, the average yearly cost of car insurance is $2,416. The cost can differ based on factors like the driver’s age, driving history and coverage limits.
How much car insurance coverage do I need in California?
When evaluating your car insurance requirements in California, it’s important to know the state’s minimum required coverage. Typically, it includes $15,000 for bodily injury per person, $30,000 for bodily injury per accident and $5,000 for property damage liability.
If you have valuable assets to protect, it’s advisable to exceed California’s minimum car insurance requirements and choose higher liability limits. CarInsurance.com editors recommend opting for full coverage car insurance with limits of 100/300/100 and a $500 deductible for collision and comprehensive coverage.
Here’s what it means:
- $100,000 in bodily injury liability per person. This coverage pays for injuries that you, as the policyholder, cause to one person in an accident.
- $300,000 in bodily injury liability per accident: This is the total amount your insurance will cover for bodily injuries per accident, covering costs if multiple people are injured.
- $100,000 in property damage liability per accident: This covers damage you cause to another person’s property in an accident.
These higher limits are recommended because they offer greater financial protection. Additionally, consider your driving habits, vehicle value and financial situation when choosing the coverage limit.
Which company has the best car insurance rates in California?
According to CarInsurance.com’s analysis, Geico provides the most affordable car insurance for California drivers at $160 per month or $1,919 annually.
Resources & Methodology
Sources
- Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. “Fatality Facts 2022 Teenagers.” Accessed September 2024.
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “Risk Factors for Teen Drivers.” Accessed September 2024.
- National Safety Council. “Age of Driver.” Accessed September 2024.
Methodology
CarInsurance.com collected insurance rate data from Quadrant Information Services for California drivers. The rate data is for drivers of different age groups:
- Teens: Age 16-19
- Young adults: Age 20-24
- Adults: 25- 60
- Seniors: 60-75
The different coverage levels include:
- Annual full coverage car insurance with a coverage limit of $100,000 in bodily injury per person, $300,000 in bodily injury coverage per accident, $100,000 in property damage coverage per accident and a $500 collision/comprehensive deductible.
- A six-month car insurance policy with limits of 100/300/100-500 coll/comp deductible.
- Liability-only car insurance rates with a limit of 50/100/50.
- State minimum coverage limit of 15/30/5.
Car insurance rates are calculated by evaluating the sample profile of a 40-year-old male and female driver with the following incidents applied:
- 1 at-fault property damage accident over $2K
- 1 at-fault property damage accident under $2K
- At-fault bodily injury accident
- Poor credit
- DUI/DWI first offense
- Speeding 30+ over limit
- Speeding ticket 1-10 mph over limit
- Speeding ticket 11-29 mph over limit
The editors created a rating system to determine the best insurance companies in each sector. For auto insurers, we took the following and gave each a weight.
- Average annual cost: 25%
- J.D. Power score: 30%
- AM Best rating: 25%
Each insurer was awarded an overall rating of 0.5 to 5. No insurer in our overall rating received less than 1 rating and 5 was the most any insurer could receive.
To evaluate the rates, we have compared 51,088,003 insurance quotes from 167 national & regional insurance companies across 29,152 cities and 34,588 ZIP codes.
Note: USAA is only available to military community members and their families.
Ask the Insurance Expert
Laura Longero
Executive Editor
Laura Longero is an insurance expert and Executive Editor at CarInsurance.com, where she specializes in helping consumers navigate the complexities of the financial and insurance industries. She has 15 years of experience educating people about finance and car insurance. Prior to joining CarInsurance.com, she worked as a reporter and editor at the USA Today Network. Her expertise provides readers with practical guidance, helping them make informed choices about their financial and insurance needs.
Ask the Insurance Expert
John McCormick
Editorial Director
John is the editorial director for CarInsurance.com, Insurance.com and Insure.com. Before joining QuinStreet, John was a deputy editor at The Wall Street Journal and had been an editor and reporter at a number of other media outlets where he covered insurance, personal finance, and technology.
Ask the Insurance Expert
Leslie Kasperowicz
Executive Editor
Leslie Kasperowicz is an insurance educator and content creation professional with nearly two decades of experience first directly in the insurance industry at Farmers Insurance and then as a writer, researcher, and educator for insurance shoppers writing for sites like ExpertInsuranceReviews.com and InsuranceHotline.com and managing content, now at CarInsurance.com.
Ask the Insurance Expert
Nupur Gambhir
Managing Editor
Nupur Gambhir is a content editor and licensed life, health, and disability insurance expert. She has extensive experience bringing brands to life and has built award-nominated campaigns for travel and tech. Her insurance expertise has been featured in Bloomberg News, Forbes Advisor, CNET, Fortune, Slate, Real Simple, Lifehacker, The Financial Gym, and the end-of-life planning service.
Guide to car insurance (with rates) in cities of California