California, August 19, 2025
News Summary
California residents are facing significant differences in auto insurance rates, with findings by Way.com highlighting cheap providers and the influence of traffic violations. CSAA provides the lowest liability insurance at $26/month, while AAA leads in full coverage at $81/month. City-based rates vary greatly, with Mount Shasta having the lowest average premium at $126/month, contrasting with Beverly Hills’ highest at $269. Traffic infractions can substantially elevate premiums, making it crucial for consumers to compare options for potential savings.
California residents are witnessing a significant variance in auto insurance rates, with extensive research by Way.com revealing the cheapest providers and the impact of traffic violations on premiums. This comprehensive analysis has uncovered the stark differences in rates across various cities and the financial repercussions of driving infractions.
CSAA offers the lowest liability insurance in California, priced at $26 per month, making it the most affordable option for drivers seeking minimal coverage. Following closely, USAA provides liability coverage at $43 per month, while Progressive comes in at $49. AAA NorCal and Wawanesa round out the top five cheapest liability insurance options with monthly premiums of $50 and $51, respectively.
When it comes to full coverage insurance, AAA is the leader in affordability, charging $81 per month. CSAA offers a competitive rate of $112 for full coverage, while other providers such as Capital Insurance Group, National General, and State National have monthly premiums ranging from $119 to $123.
The location of a driver significantly influences auto insurance rates. For instance, Mount Shasta boasts the lowest average monthly insurance premium in California at $126. Other cities with lower rates include Weed and Yreka at $128, Montague at $131, and Dunsmuir at $132. In stark contrast, Beverly Hills leads with the highest average monthly rate of $269, followed by Glendale at $266 and Tarzana at $264.
Traffic violations can dramatically elevate insurance premiums. Rates change significantly depending on the nature of the infraction. For example, individuals without violations or in a not-at-fault accident pay an average of $183 monthly. However, a seatbelt violation raises the average to $247. More severe infractions like speeding (6-10 MPH over the limit or 21-25 MPH over) result in premiums of $260. The most significant hikes occur with DUIs at $476 and reckless driving at $452. A suspended license leads to a $371 rate, while leaving the scene of an accident incurs an average of $459 per month.
Looking ahead, imported parts could see tariffs that might raise California auto insurance rates by up to 7% in the latter part of 2025. Currently, the state’s average annual premium stands at approximately $1,910. Some drivers, qualifying for California’s Low Cost Auto Insurance program, can benefit significantly, with premiums around $450 annually. Eligibility for this program requires maintaining a good driving record and adhering to income limits, set at $39,125 for individuals and $80,375 for families of four.
Amid the fluctuating rates, consumers are encouraged to thoroughly shop around for auto insurance. Comparison of coverage policies is essential for accurately assessing options and securing savings.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the cheapest auto insurance providers in California?
The cheapest auto insurance providers in California are CSAA ($26/month), USAA ($43/month), Progressive ($49/month), AAA NorCal ($50/month), and Wawanesa ($51/month) for liability coverage.
How do traffic violations affect insurance premiums?
Traffic violations can significantly increase insurance premiums, with the monthly average rising from $183 for those without violations to $476 for DUIs and up to $459 for leaving the scene of an accident.
Which city has the lowest auto insurance rates in California?
Mount Shasta has the lowest average auto insurance rate in California at $126 per month.
What is the average annual auto insurance premium in California?
The average annual auto insurance premium in California is approximately $1,910.
How can one qualify for the Low Cost Auto Insurance program in California?
To qualify for California’s Low Cost Auto Insurance program, individuals must have a good driving record and meet income limits of $39,125 for individuals and $80,375 for families of four.
Key Features of California Auto Insurance Rates
| Insurance Provider | Liability Coverage (Monthly) | Full Coverage (Monthly) |
|---|---|---|
| CSAA | $26 | $112 |
| USAA | $43 | N/A |
| Progressive | $49 | N/A |
| AAA NorCal | $50 | $81 |
| Wawanesa | $51 | N/A |
| Capital Insurance Group | N/A | $119 |
| National General | N/A | $121 |
| State National | N/A | $123 |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- KEYT News: Car Insurance Rates in California – August 2025
- Santa Fe New Mexican: Car Insurance Rates in California – August 2025
- NBC Bay Area: Car Insurance Premiums Going Up
- Axios: Car Insurance Rates in California and Tariffs in 2025
- Wikipedia: Car Insurance
Author: STAFF HERE MISSION VIEJO WRITER
MISSION VIEJO STAFF WRITER The MISSION VIEJO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREMissionViejo.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Mission Viejo, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Oso Fit 5K Fun Run and Community Health Fair, Walk Against Drugs & Community Fair, and National Night Out. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Mission Viejo Chamber of Commerce and Providence Mission Hospital Mission Viejo, plus leading businesses in retail and education that power the local economy such as The Shops at Mission Viejo, Capistrano Unified School District, and Amazon Delivery Station. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HERECostaMesa.com, HERECoronado.com, HEREHollywood.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, HERELosAngeles.com, HERESanDiego.com, and HERESantaAna.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into California's dynamic landscape.
