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California Insurance Guide
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Insurance in California
California is the largest insurance market in the United States. As a California resident, you have access to a wide range of coverage options and strong consumer protections.
Not sure what coverage you need? Take our Coverage Quiz for personalized recommendations.
Key Facts
- Insurance Regulator: California Department of Insurance
- Health Marketplace: Covered California
- Population: ~39 million residents
- Unique Requirements: Earthquake insurance considerations, strict auto insurance laws
Insurance Types in California
Explore coverage options available to California residents across all insurance categories.
How California Compares
Understanding how California stacks up against national averages helps you evaluate your insurance costs and coverage options.
| Metric | California | National Avg | Comparison |
|---|---|---|---|
| Auto Insurance (annual) | $2,234 | $1,935 | +15% (well above average) |
| Health Insurance (monthly) | $456 | $477 | -4% (below average) |
| Home Insurance (annual) | $1,312 | $2,377 | -45% (below average) |
| Uninsured Rate | 7.4% | 9.5% | -22% (better than average) |
Key Insights
- Auto insurance costs in California are among the highest in the nation (#45). Shopping around and comparing quotes is especially important.
Related Insurance Types
- Health Insurance - Medical coverage options
- Auto Insurance - Vehicle coverage requirements
- Homeowners Insurance - Home protection
- Life Insurance - Financial protection for your family
- Business Insurance - Coverage for business owners
Official Resources
- California Department of Insurance (opens in new tab) - State insurance regulator, file complaints, verify licenses
- Covered California (opens in new tab) - State health insurance marketplace
- California Earthquake Authority (opens in new tab) - Earthquake insurance for California homeowners
- FEMA Flood Map Service Center (opens in new tab) - Check flood zones for any California address
Contact Your State Insurance Department
Have questions about insurance coverage, need to file a complaint, or want to verify an agent's license? Contact your state regulator:
- Agency
- California Department of Insurance
- Phone
- 800-927-4357
- Website
- Visit Official Website
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average car insurance cost in California?
California drivers pay an average of $2,000-$2,500 per year for full coverage auto insurance, making it one of the more expensive states. Rates vary significantly by city, with Los Angeles and San Francisco having higher premiums than rural areas.
Do I need earthquake insurance in California?
Earthquake damage is not covered by standard homeowners insurance. Given California’s seismic activity, the California Earthquake Authority (CEA) and private insurers offer earthquake policies. While not legally required, it’s highly recommended for homeowners, especially in high-risk zones.
How does Covered California work?
Covered California is the state’s health insurance marketplace where residents can compare and purchase ACA-compliant health plans. Open enrollment runs November through January. Many Californians qualify for premium subsidies based on income, and the state offers some of the most generous assistance in the nation.
What are California's minimum auto insurance requirements?
California requires 15/30/5 liability coverage: $15,000 per person for bodily injury, $30,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $5,000 for property damage. These are among the lowest minimums in the country, so higher coverage is recommended.
Is renters insurance required in California?
California law does not require renters insurance, but landlords can require it as a lease condition. A typical policy costs $15-$30 per month and covers personal belongings, liability, and additional living expenses if your rental becomes uninhabitable.
What is Proposition 103 and how does it affect my insurance?
Proposition 103 (1988) requires California insurers to get approval before raising rates, prohibits using credit scores for auto insurance pricing, and mandates good driver discounts. This gives California some of the strongest consumer protections for insurance in the country.
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[california] Insurance Types
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Neighboring State Guides
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