We believe everyone should be able to make financial decisions with confidence. And while our site doesn’t feature every company or financial product available on the market, we’re proud that the guidance we offer, the information we provide and the tools we create are objective, independent, straightforward — and free.
So how do we make money? Our partners compensate us. This may influence which products we review and write about (and where those products appear on the site), but it in no way affects our recommendations or advice, which are grounded in thousands of hours of research. Our partners cannot pay us to guarantee favorable reviews of their products or services. Here is a list of our partners.
The Best Home Insurance in California for 2023
See the best and cheapest insurers in the Golden State.
Sarah Schlichter Lead Writer | Home insurance, renters insurance, pet insurance
Sarah Schlichter is a NerdWallet authority on homeowners, renters and pet insurance. Prior to joining NerdWallet, she spent more than 15 years in digital media as a writer, editor and spokesperson. Sarah enjoys delving into complicated topics and helping readers understand the ins and outs of their insurance coverage. She lives in the Washington, D.C., metro area.
Caitlin Constantine Assigning Editor | Home insurance, renters insurance, pet insurance
Caitlin Constantine is an assigning editor at NerdWallet, focusing on homeowners, renters and pet insurance. She has more than 15 years of experience in digital media, including as the deputy managing editor at The Penny Hoarder and as a digital producer for a 24/7 news station based in the Tampa Bay area. Caitlin enjoys exploring the ways technology can help people become better informed about the world. She currently lives outside Asheville, North Carolina.
Many or all of the products featured here are from our partners who compensate us. This influences which products we write about and where and how the product appears on a page. However, this does not influence our evaluations. Our opinions are our own. Here is a list of our partners and here's how we make money.
You’re following Sarah Schlichter Visit your My NerdWallet Settings page to see all the writers you're following.
Earthquakes. Wildfires. Floods. California has its share of natural disasters, which means it’s important to find the best homeowners insurance to cover your home.
The average cost of homeowners insurance in California is $1,300 per year, or $108 per month. That’s less than the national average of $1,820. NerdWallet analyzed rate and policy information from several companies to determine the cheapest and best insurance options in California.
Note: Due to underwriting practices and market volatility, some companies in this article may no longer write new policies in your area.
Why you can trust NerdWallet
Our writers and editors follow strict editorial guidelines to ensure fairness and accuracy in our writing and data analyses. You can trust the prices we show you because our data analysts take rigorous measures to eliminate inaccuracies in pricing data and may update rates for accuracy as new information becomes available.
We include rates from every locale in the country where coverage is offered and data is available. When comparing rates for different coverage amounts and backgrounds, we change only one variable at a time, so you can easily see how each factor affects pricing.
Our sample homeowner had good credit, $300,000 of dwelling coverage, $300,000 of liability coverage and a $1,000 deductible.
Get home insurance quotes in minutes
Answer a few questions to see custom quotes and find the right policy for you.
Looking for a policy from a well-rated national brand? Consider one of these insurers from NerdWallet’s list of the Best Homeowners Insurance Companies.
More about the best home insurance companies in California
See more details about each company to help you decide which one is best for you.
NerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula takes into account consumer complaint and customer satisfaction data.
Farmers includes some coverage that other companies charge extra for.
Coverage optionsRatings are based on the number of coverage options a company offers in comparison to other insurers.
More than average
DiscountsRatings are based on the number of discounts a company offers in comparison to other insurers.
Average set of discounts
NAIC complaintsRatings are based on complaints to state regulators relative to a company’s size, according to three years’ worth of data from the National Association of Insurance Commissioners. NerdWallet conducts its data analysis and reaches conclusions independently and without the endorsement of the NAIC.
Fewer than expected
Pros
Several standard features can help save money.
Less common coverage options are available.
Discounts for nonsmokers and members of certain professions.
Cons
Farmers was ranked near the bottom for customer satisfaction in J.D. Power’s 2022 U.S. Home Insurance Study.
Farmers’ three tiers of home insurance coverage make its policies suitable for a variety of homeowners.
NerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula takes into account consumer complaint and customer satisfaction data.
Farmers includes some coverage that other companies charge extra for.
Coverage optionsRatings are based on the number of coverage options a company offers in comparison to other insurers.
More than average
DiscountsRatings are based on the number of discounts a company offers in comparison to other insurers.
Average set of discounts
NAIC complaintsRatings are based on complaints to state regulators relative to a company’s size, according to three years’ worth of data from the National Association of Insurance Commissioners. NerdWallet conducts its data analysis and reaches conclusions independently and without the endorsement of the NAIC.
Fewer than expected
Pros
Several standard features can help save money.
Less common coverage options are available.
Discounts for nonsmokers and members of certain professions.
Cons
Farmers was ranked near the bottom for customer satisfaction in J.D. Power’s 2022 U.S. Home Insurance Study.
Farmers’ three tiers of home insurance coverage make its policies suitable for a variety of homeowners.
Homeowners policies from Farmers may include two valuable types of insurance: extended dwelling and replacement cost coverage. Extended dwelling coverage gives you extra insurance for the structure of your house, while replacement cost coverage offers higher reimbursement for stolen or destroyed belongings.
Some Farmers policies also come with perks that can save you money. For example, with claim forgiveness, Farmers won’t raise your rate for a claim as long as you haven’t filed one within the past five years.
NerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula takes into account consumer complaint and customer satisfaction data.
Perks and high coverage limits for affluent homeowners.
Coverage optionsRatings are based on the number of coverage options a company offers in comparison to other insurers.
About average
DiscountsRatings are based on the number of discounts a company offers in comparison to other insurers.
Great set of discounts
NAIC complaintsRatings are based on complaints to state regulators relative to a company’s size, according to three years’ worth of data from the National Association of Insurance Commissioners. NerdWallet conducts its data analysis and reaches conclusions independently and without the endorsement of the NAIC.
Far fewer than expected
Pros
Significantly fewer consumer complaints than expected for a company of its size.
Standard coverage includes features that many companies only offer as extras.
Large number of discounts.
Cons
Tends to be more expensive than other insurers.
Most consumers aren't able to get a quote online and will instead need to contact a local agent.
NerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula takes into account consumer complaint and customer satisfaction data.
Perks and high coverage limits for affluent homeowners.
Coverage optionsRatings are based on the number of coverage options a company offers in comparison to other insurers.
About average
DiscountsRatings are based on the number of discounts a company offers in comparison to other insurers.
Great set of discounts
NAIC complaintsRatings are based on complaints to state regulators relative to a company’s size, according to three years’ worth of data from the National Association of Insurance Commissioners. NerdWallet conducts its data analysis and reaches conclusions independently and without the endorsement of the NAIC.
Far fewer than expected
Pros
Significantly fewer consumer complaints than expected for a company of its size.
Standard coverage includes features that many companies only offer as extras.
Large number of discounts.
Cons
Tends to be more expensive than other insurers.
Most consumers aren't able to get a quote online and will instead need to contact a local agent.
Chubb generally serves affluent policyholders with high-value homes, offering lofty coverage limits and plenty of perks. For example, the company covers water damage from backed-up sewers and drains, and pays to bring your home up to the latest building codes during reconstruction after a claim. (Many insurers charge more for these types of coverage.)
California homeowners can also sign up for free Wildfire Defense Services. These services include personalized recommendations for protecting your home and deployment of firefighters to your house if a wildfire is approaching.
NerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula takes into account consumer complaint and customer satisfaction data.
Travelers offers strong coverage and decent discounts.
Coverage optionsRatings are based on the number of coverage options a company offers in comparison to other insurers.
About average
DiscountsRatings are based on the number of discounts a company offers in comparison to other insurers.
Average set of discounts
NAIC complaintsRatings are based on complaints to state regulators relative to a company’s size, according to three years’ worth of data from the National Association of Insurance Commissioners. NerdWallet conducts its data analysis and reaches conclusions independently and without the endorsement of the NAIC.
Fewer than expected
Pros
User-friendly features on website and app.
Discounts for eco-friendly homeowners.
Draws fewer consumer complaints than expected for a company of its size.
Cons
Doesn’t insure mobile or manufactured homes.
One of the largest home insurers in the nation, Travelers may especially appeal to eco-conscious homeowners looking to score discounts for owning a new or “green” home.
NerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula takes into account consumer complaint and customer satisfaction data.
Travelers offers strong coverage and decent discounts.
Coverage optionsRatings are based on the number of coverage options a company offers in comparison to other insurers.
About average
DiscountsRatings are based on the number of discounts a company offers in comparison to other insurers.
Average set of discounts
NAIC complaintsRatings are based on complaints to state regulators relative to a company’s size, according to three years’ worth of data from the National Association of Insurance Commissioners. NerdWallet conducts its data analysis and reaches conclusions independently and without the endorsement of the NAIC.
Fewer than expected
Pros
User-friendly features on website and app.
Discounts for eco-friendly homeowners.
Draws fewer consumer complaints than expected for a company of its size.
Cons
Doesn’t insure mobile or manufactured homes.
One of the largest home insurers in the nation, Travelers may especially appeal to eco-conscious homeowners looking to score discounts for owning a new or “green” home.
Travelers offers a robust online experience. You can use the website to get a homeowners insurance quote, file and track claims, make payments and learn about insurance basics.
Its coverage offerings are similarly strong. For example, you may be able to add extra coverage in case the dwelling limit on your home isn’t enough to rebuild your house after a disaster. One unique option is Travelers’ green home coverage, which pays extra if you want to use eco-friendly materials when repairing or rebuilding your home after a covered claim.
NerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula takes into account consumer complaint and customer satisfaction data.
For shoppers seeking a broad range of coverage options, Nationwide may fit the bill.
Coverage optionsRatings are based on the number of coverage options a company offers in comparison to other insurers.
More than average
DiscountsRatings are based on the number of discounts a company offers in comparison to other insurers.
Great set of discounts
NAIC complaintsRatings are based on complaints to state regulators relative to a company’s size, according to three years’ worth of data from the National Association of Insurance Commissioners. NerdWallet conducts its data analysis and reaches conclusions independently and without the endorsement of the NAIC.
Close to expected
Pros
Offers some coverage standard that other companies charge extra for.
Lots of discounts available.
Website offers lots of useful features and information.
Cons
Not available in Alaska, Hawaii or Louisiana.
Doesn't insure mobile or manufactured homes.
Nationwide's policies are widely available across the country and offer a variety of useful coverage choices. The company also has a robust list of discounts to help you save on your policy.
NerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula takes into account consumer complaint and customer satisfaction data.
For shoppers seeking a broad range of coverage options, Nationwide may fit the bill.
Coverage optionsRatings are based on the number of coverage options a company offers in comparison to other insurers.
More than average
DiscountsRatings are based on the number of discounts a company offers in comparison to other insurers.
Great set of discounts
NAIC complaintsRatings are based on complaints to state regulators relative to a company’s size, according to three years’ worth of data from the National Association of Insurance Commissioners. NerdWallet conducts its data analysis and reaches conclusions independently and without the endorsement of the NAIC.
Close to expected
Pros
Offers some coverage standard that other companies charge extra for.
Lots of discounts available.
Website offers lots of useful features and information.
Cons
Not available in Alaska, Hawaii or Louisiana.
Doesn't insure mobile or manufactured homes.
Nationwide's policies are widely available across the country and offer a variety of useful coverage choices. The company also has a robust list of discounts to help you save on your policy.
Nationwide’s standard homeowners policies include ordinance or law coverage, which pays to bring your home up to the latest building codes after a covered claim. They also include coverage for unauthorized credit or debit transactions. For an extra cost, you may be able to add coverage for things like water backup, identity theft and stronger materials to replace your roof.
The Nationwide website offers plenty of ways to manage your policy, including filing and tracking claims, paying bills and getting quotes.
NerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula takes into account consumer complaint and customer satisfaction data.
Sells homeowners policies through local independent agents across the U.S.
Coverage optionsRatings are based on the number of coverage options a company offers in comparison to other insurers.
More than average
DiscountsRatings are based on the number of discounts a company offers in comparison to other insurers.
Average set of discounts
NAIC complaintsRatings are based on complaints to state regulators relative to a company’s size, according to three years’ worth of data from the National Association of Insurance Commissioners. NerdWallet conducts its data analysis and reaches conclusions independently and without the endorsement of the NAIC.
Far fewer than expected
Pros
Many coverage options.
Far fewer complaints than expected for a company of its size.
Has special coverage packages for higher-value homes.
Cons
No online quotes.
Offers customizable homeowners insurance with special options for higher-value homes.
NerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula takes into account consumer complaint and customer satisfaction data.
Sells homeowners policies through local independent agents across the U.S.
Coverage optionsRatings are based on the number of coverage options a company offers in comparison to other insurers.
More than average
DiscountsRatings are based on the number of discounts a company offers in comparison to other insurers.
Average set of discounts
NAIC complaintsRatings are based on complaints to state regulators relative to a company’s size, according to three years’ worth of data from the National Association of Insurance Commissioners. NerdWallet conducts its data analysis and reaches conclusions independently and without the endorsement of the NAIC.
Far fewer than expected
Pros
Many coverage options.
Far fewer complaints than expected for a company of its size.
Has special coverage packages for higher-value homes.
Cons
No online quotes.
Offers customizable homeowners insurance with special options for higher-value homes.
Cincinnati Insurance sells homeowners policies through independent agents, with various options for standard and high-value homes. You may be able to add coverage for things like identity theft, personal cyberattacks or certain types of water damage.
Cincinnati may offer you a discount for bundling home and auto insurance, having a newer home, installing a centrally monitored alarm system or going a certain amount of time without filing a claim.
NerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula takes into account consumer complaint and customer satisfaction data.
Offers perks and affordable rates for the military community.
Coverage optionsRatings are based on the number of coverage options a company offers in comparison to other insurers.
Below average
DiscountsRatings are based on the number of discounts a company offers in comparison to other insurers.
Average set of discounts
NAIC complaintsRatings are based on complaints to state regulators relative to a company’s size, according to three years’ worth of data from the National Association of Insurance Commissioners. NerdWallet conducts its data analysis and reaches conclusions independently and without the endorsement of the NAIC.
Far fewer than expected
Pros
Policies include standard coverage that often costs extra elsewhere.
Far fewer customer complaints to state regulators than expected for a company of its size.
Average rates are below the national average, according to NerdWallet’s analysis.
Cons
Available only to active military members, veterans and their families.
With generous coverage at rates below the national average, USAA offers good value for homeowners.
NerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula takes into account consumer complaint and customer satisfaction data.
Offers perks and affordable rates for the military community.
Coverage optionsRatings are based on the number of coverage options a company offers in comparison to other insurers.
Below average
DiscountsRatings are based on the number of discounts a company offers in comparison to other insurers.
Average set of discounts
NAIC complaintsRatings are based on complaints to state regulators relative to a company’s size, according to three years’ worth of data from the National Association of Insurance Commissioners. NerdWallet conducts its data analysis and reaches conclusions independently and without the endorsement of the NAIC.
Far fewer than expected
Pros
Policies include standard coverage that often costs extra elsewhere.
Far fewer customer complaints to state regulators than expected for a company of its size.
Average rates are below the national average, according to NerdWallet’s analysis.
Cons
Available only to active military members, veterans and their families.
With generous coverage at rates below the national average, USAA offers good value for homeowners.
USAA sells homeowners insurance to veterans, active military members and their families. If that description fits you, you may want to consider a USAA policy. That’s because the company’s homeowners insurance has certain features that other insurers may charge extra for.
For example, USAA automatically covers your personal belongings on a “replacement cost” basis. Many companies pay out only what your items are worth at the time of the claim, which means you may not get much for older items. USAA pays enough for you to buy brand-new replacements for your stuff.
How much does homeowners insurance cost in California?
The average cost of homeowners insurance in California is $1,300 per year, or about $108 per month.
That’s 29% less than the national average of $1,820.
The amount you pay will vary depending on where you live in the state. For example, the average cost of homeowners insurance in Los Angeles is $1,645 per year, while Sacramento homeowners pay $1,170 per year, on average.
Average cost of homeowners insurance in California by city
NerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula incorporates discounts, coverage options, website transparency, financial strength, complaint data and more.
NerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula incorporates discounts, coverage options, website transparency, financial strength, complaint data and more.
NerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula incorporates discounts, coverage options, website transparency, financial strength, complaint data and more.
NerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula incorporates discounts, coverage options, website transparency, financial strength, complaint data and more.
NerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula incorporates discounts, coverage options, website transparency, financial strength, complaint data and more.
NerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula incorporates discounts, coverage options, website transparency, financial strength, complaint data and more.
$1,145
*USAA homeowners policies are available only to active military, veterans and their families.
What you need to know about California homeowners insurance
Homeowners in California face unique circumstances that factor into decisions about home insurance.
Wildfires
California wildfires have caused billions of dollars of damage to homes and other buildings across the state over the past few years.
More than a dozen insurance companies offer discounts for California homeowners who have made efforts to reduce the risk of fire on their property, according to the California Department of Insurance
. Such efforts could include things like rebuilding your roof with fire-resistant materials and limiting vegetation near your home.
Most homeowners policies cover fire and smoke damage, but insurers may be reluctant to cover those in high-risk areas. California’s insurance commissioner has issued several moratoriums to keep insurers from dropping the policies of homeowners affected by recent fires. But once those moratoriums expire, you could find yourself scrambling for coverage.
If you have trouble finding a policy, you can turn to the California FAIR Plan, the state’s insurer of last resort. FAIR Plan coverage is currently limited, paying only for damage due to fire, lightning, smoke and internal explosions.
The insurance commissioner has ordered the FAIR Plan to offer more comprehensive coverage, similar to a traditional homeowners policy, but the change has been tied up in litigation. In the meantime, a “difference in conditions” policy can help fill the coverage gaps. An independent insurance agent can help you find one.
A standard home insurance policy doesn’t cover earthquake damage, so California residents should consider adding a separate earthquake insurance policy. Homeowners can get one through a private insurer or turn to the California Earthquake Authority for coverage. Read our guide to earthquake insurance.
Flooding
California is prone to flooding throughout the state, and homeowners insurance won’t cover flood damage. To cover costs related to flooding, homeowners can purchase flood insurance from the National Flood Insurance Program or a private insurer.
Not sure if you’re at risk for flooding? Enter your address into the Federal Emergency Management Agency's flood maps or visit RiskFactor.com, a website from the nonprofit First Street Foundation.
If you want to file a complaint against your insurance company or get more information about your rights as a policyholder, the California Department of Insurance may be able to help. The department’s website has useful resources such as a home insurance finder tool and a list of companies offering difference in conditions policies. Assistance is available in English and Spanish at 800-927-4357.
If you have a mortgage on your home, your lender will likely require hazard insurance — the part of a homeowners policy that covers the house’s structure. Those who buy homes with cash or have paid off their mortgage could legally go without homeowners insurance. However, it’s a risky proposition in a state prone to wildfires and other natural disasters.
Does homeowners insurance cover fire in California?
Coverage for fires is a standard part of most homeowners policies. But in California, you may have trouble finding a company willing to insure you if your home is in a high-risk zone for wildfires. You can turn to the California FAIR Plan for fire coverage as a last resort.
Why is homeowners insurance so expensive in California?
Following recent wildfires in California, insurance companies have found themselves paying billions of dollars in claims. They’ve responded by passing their costs along to policyholders in the form of higher rates. Additionally, inflation and supply chain issues have raised building costs across the country. That means it would cost more to rebuild your home if it were damaged — another factor leading to higher homeowners insurance prices.
— the part of a homeowners policy that covers the house’s structure. Those who buy homes with cash or have paid off their mortgage could legally go without homeowners insurance. However, it’s a risky proposition in a state prone to wildfires and other natural disasters.
Does homeowners insurance cover fire in California?
Coverage for fires is a standard part of most homeowners policies. But in California, you may have trouble finding a company willing to insure you if your home is in a high-risk zone for wildfires. You can turn to the California FAIR Plan for fire coverage as a last resort.
Why is homeowners insurance so expensive in California?
Following recent wildfires in California, insurance companies have found themselves paying billions of dollars in claims. They’ve responded by passing their costs along to policyholders in the form of higher rates. Additionally, inflation and supply chain issues have raised building costs across the country. That means it would cost more to rebuild your home if it were damaged — another factor leading to higher homeowners insurance prices.
To save on your premium, ask your insurer if you qualify for any
NerdWallet averaged rates for 40-year-old homeowners from a variety of insurance companies in every ZIP code across the state. All rates are rounded to the nearest $5.
Sample homeowners were nonsmokers with good credit living in a single-family, two-story home built in 1984. They had a $1,000 deductible and the following coverage limits:
$300,000 in dwelling coverage.
$30,000 in other structures coverage.
$150,000 in personal property coverage.
$60,000 in loss of use coverage.
$300,000 in liability coverage.
$1,000 in medical payments coverage.
We made minor changes to the sample policy in cases where rates for the above coverage limits or deductibles weren’t available.
These are sample rates generated through Quadrant Information Services. Your own rates will be different.
Star rating methodology
NerdWallet’s homeowners insurance ratings reward companies for customer-first features and practices. Ratings are based on weighted averages of scores in several categories, including financial strength, consumer complaints, coverages, discounts and online experience. These ratings are a guide, but we encourage you to shop around and compare several insurance quotes to find the best rate for you. NerdWallet does not receive compensation for any reviews. Read our full homeowners insurance rating methodology.
Complaint methodology
NerdWallet examined complaints received by state insurance regulators and reported to the National Association of Insurance Commissioners in 2019-2021. To assess how insurers compare to one another, the NAIC calculates a complaint index each year for each subsidiary, measuring its share of total complaints relative to its size, or share of total premiums in the industry. To evaluate a company’s complaint history, NerdWallet calculated a similar index for each insurer, weighted by market shares of each subsidiary, over the three-year period. NerdWallet conducts its data analysis and reaches conclusions independently and without the endorsement of the NAIC. Ratios are determined separately for auto, home (including renters and condo) and life insurance.
