🚗 Car insurance cost in California (2026)
The estimated average is $2,795 per year — above the national average (+30% vs. the U.S. average of $2,150).
California is home to about 39.0 million people, and car insurance here runs above the national average. Below, estimate a price for your own profile, then drill into your city — rates in a large metro like Los Angeles typically differ from smaller towns.
Estimate your car insurance in California
California car insurance estimator
Starts from the California average. Estimate only — get quotes to confirm.
Car insurance cost in California cities
| City | Population | Est. car insurance |
|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles | 3,822,238 | $3,130 |
| San Diego | 1,381,162 | $3,130 |
| San Jose | 971,233 | $3,019 |
| San Francisco | 808,988 | $3,019 |
| Fresno | 545,716 | $3,019 |
| Sacramento | 526,384 | $3,019 |
| Long Beach | 449,553 | $2,907 |
| Oakland | 430,553 | $2,907 |
| Bakersfield | 410,647 | $2,907 |
| Anaheim | 344,461 | $2,907 |
| Riverside | 316,619 | $2,907 |
| Santa Ana | 308,262 | $2,907 |
California car insurance FAQ
How much is car insurance in California?
The estimated average car insurance in California is $2,795 per year, which is above the national average (+30% vs. the U.S. average of $2,150). California ranks 5 of 51 states from most to least expensive.
Why is car insurance expensive in California?
Car insurance pricing in California reflects local risk factors — weather and catastrophe exposure, accident/claim frequency, repair and medical costs, and state regulation. That’s why costs differ across the West.
How can I save on car insurance in California?
Compare at least three quotes from insurers active in California, bundle policies, and re-shop every year. Use the calculator above to see how your profile changes the price.