If you’ve been asking yourself, “How much is car insurance in California?”, the answer depends on several factors—from your driving record and coverage level to new legislation like Senate Bill 1107. California’s unique laws and dense traffic make its car insurance rates some of the highest in the country. Understanding what affects your premiums can help you make informed decisions and find ways to save.
At Hillstone Law, we’re breaking down the average costs, key factors that impact rates, and how new insurance laws affect your policy.
Average Cost of Car Insurance in California
According to a 2024 Bankrate report, the average cost of full coverage car insurance in California is about $2,973 per year, while minimum coverage averages $715 annually.
- Full coverage includes liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage.
- Minimum coverage only includes the state-required liability protections.
Your actual premium may vary widely based on your age, location, vehicle type, and driving history.
5 Key Factors That Impact California Car Insurance Rates
1. Driving Record
- Clean records usually result in lower rates.
- Traffic violations, DUIs, or accidents significantly increase premiums.
- Taking a defensive driving course may help reduce costs.
2. Coverage Levels
- Minimum coverage is cheaper but provides limited protection.
- Full coverage offers broader protection (and peace of mind) but comes at a higher cost.
- Adding extras like rental reimbursement or roadside assistance also raises premiums.
3. Location
- Drivers in urban areas like Los Angeles or San Francisco pay more due to higher accident and theft rates.
- Rural areas often have lower premiums.
4. Vehicle Type
- Sports cars and luxury vehicles typically cost more to insure due to repair and replacement costs.
- Cars with high safety ratings or anti-theft features may qualify for discounts.
- Some insurers offer discounts for electric or hybrid vehicles.
5. Age & Driving Experience
- Younger drivers (especially under 25) usually pay the highest premiums.
- Rates typically drop with more driving experience and a clean record.
- Senior drivers may face higher rates due to increased accident risk.
Impact of Senate Bill 1107
As of January 1, 2025, Senate Bill 1107 increased California’s minimum liability coverage limits to:
- $30,000 for bodily injury or death per person
- $60,000 for bodily injury or death per accident
- $15,000 for property damage per accident
This is up from the previous 15/30/5 limits.
What This Means for Drivers:
- Higher Premiums – Drivers carrying only minimum coverage will likely see an increase in rates.
- Better Protection – Accident victims will have access to more compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and property damage.
- Automatic Policy Updates – Insurers must update policies at renewal to meet the new minimums, so drivers don’t have to make manual changes.
How to Find Affordable Car Insurance in California
While rates are rising, there are practical ways to keep costs manageable:
- Compare Quotes – Rates vary widely between insurers. Shopping around can save hundreds per year.
- Bundle Policies – Combine auto and home or renter’s insurance for discounts.
- Ask About Discounts – Safe driver, good student, low mileage, or telematics-based discounts can significantly reduce costs.
- Consider Telematics Programs – Devices or apps that monitor safe driving habits can earn you lower premiums.
- Adjust Deductibles – A higher deductible means a lower monthly payment, but be sure you can afford the out-of-pocket cost in case of an accident.
How Hillstone Law Can Help
Even with higher coverage limits, navigating California’s car insurance system can be overwhelming—especially after an accident. At Hillstone Law, we help clients:
- Handle insurance disputes and low settlement offers
- Ensure medical treatment costs are fully covered
- Fight for compensation after serious accidents
- Understand how new laws like SB 1107 affect their coverage
