Find Cheap Car Insurance in San Jose California (2023)


WRITTEN BY: Julia Matseikovich

UPDATED: JULY 07, 2023 | 2 MIN READ

Looking for affordable car insurance in San Jose, California? You’ve come to the right place. Finding cheap car insurance can be daunting, but securing a great deal is possible with the right approach. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to find cheap car insurance in San Jose, California, to help you save money without compromising coverage.

From comparing quotes to exploring discounts, we’ll provide you with valuable tips and resources to make your search for affordable car insurance a breeze. So, let’s dive in and discover how you can find the best and cheapest car insurance options in San Jose, California.

How do the average car insurance rates in San Jose, California, compare to the state and U.S. averages?

When it comes to car insurance rates, San Jose, California, has its own unique factors that can influence the cost. On average, car insurance rates in San Jose are slightly higher compared to the California and U.S. averages.

This is primarily due to factors such as high population density, heavy traffic, and a higher risk of accidents. Additionally, San Jose’s status as a major city can lead to increased costs in terms of vehicle repairs and medical expenses. 

Average Annual Car Insurance Rates In San JoseAverage Annual Car Insurance Rates In CaliforniaAverage Annual Car Insurance Rates In the United States
$1,863$1,868$1,550

However, it’s important to note that car insurance rates can vary depending on several individual factors, such as age, driving history, and the type of vehicle you own. So, while San Jose’s rates may be slightly above average, comparing quotes from different insurance providers to find the best rates tailored to your specific circumstances is always a good idea.

How do the city’s average rates compare to other California cities?

When comparing car insurance rates in San Jose, California, to other cities within the state, it’s important to consider various factors influencing the premiums. While San Jose’s rates may be higher than the state average, they can still vary compared to other cities. Some cities in California, such as Los Angeles and San Francisco, typically have higher car insurance rates due to factors like higher population density, higher rates of accidents, and higher costs of living. 

On the other hand, smaller cities or suburban areas may have slightly lower average rates. It’s crucial to remember various factors, including location-specific variables, individual driving history, and the coverage options influencing car insurance rates. It’s always recommended to obtain personalized quotes from different insurance providers and compare them to understand how San Jose’s average rates compare to other cities within California.

CityAverage California Car Insurance CostDifference From California Average
Fresno$2,055-7%
Los Angeles$2,94535%
San Diego$1,980-11%
San Francisco$2,48514%
San Jose$2,090-6%

Best cheap car insurance in San Jose, California

Finding the best cheap car insurance in San Jose, California, requires a combination of thorough research and careful consideration of your individual needs. Fortunately, some insurance providers offer competitive rates while still providing reliable coverage. Comparing quotes from multiple insurance companies is crucial when searching for the best cheap car insurance.

Look for companies that specialize in providing affordable coverage options and have a good reputation for customer service. Additionally, consider factors such as coverage limits, deductibles, and any available discounts that can help reduce your premium.

Remember that the cheapest option may not always be the best, as it’s important to balance affordability and quality coverage. By taking the time to research and compare options, you can find the best cheap car insurance in San Jose that meets your budget and provides the protection you need on the road.

Cheapest San Jose, California liability-only auto insurance


Minimum coverage car insurance from GEICO is more affordable than from other companies in San Jose.


If you’re looking for the cheapest liability-only auto insurance in San Jose, California, you can employ a few key strategies to find the best rates. Start by comparing quotes from multiple insurance providers, as rates vary significantly between companies. Look for insurers specializing in providing affordable liability coverage with a track record of competitive pricing. 

Additionally, consider adjusting your coverage limits and deductibles to balance affordability and the level of protection you need. It’s important to remember that liability-only coverage protects you financially if you cause damage or injury to others, but it does not cover your vehicle. By exploring different options and customizing your policy to fit your specific needs, you can find the cheapest liability-only auto insurance in San Jose.

California minimum liability requirements

Understanding the minimum liability requirements for car insurance in California is essential for all drivers. These requirements determine the minimum amount of coverage you must carry to comply with state laws and protect yourself financially in case of an accident. Knowing you have the necessary coverage, you can confidently drive by meeting these requirements. 

To help you easily grasp the California minimum liability requirements, look at the chart below, which outlines the mandated minimum coverage limits for bodily injury liability per person, bodily injury liability per accident, and property damage liability. Familiarize yourself with these figures to ensure you have the appropriate coverage to drive legally and responsibly in California.

Please note that the following chart shows the minimum liability coverage limits required in California:

Minimum Liability Requirements in California
Bodily Injury$15,000 per person, $30,000 per accident
Property Damage$5,000

While the minimum coverage limits provide a baseline, it’s important to consider your circumstances and potential risks. Assessing your needs and exploring additional coverage options can provide you with greater financial protection and peace of mind. 

Remember to regularly review your insurance policy to ensure it complies with California’s requirements and reflects any changes in your driving habits or personal situation. By staying informed and maintaining adequate coverage, you can drive confidently, knowing that you are meeting the necessary insurance standards in California.

Cheapest San Jose, California, full coverage auto insurance


GEICO offers the most affordable full coverage car insurance in San Jose, with an average monthly premium of $100. This is 21% less than the citywide average.


When it comes to finding the cheapest full coverage auto insurance in San Jose, California, it’s essential to consider multiple factors. Full coverage insurance provides comprehensive protection, including liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage. To find the most affordable option, compare quotes from different insurers, focusing on those specializing in providing competitive rates for full coverage. 

Liability-only car insurance is the most affordable option in San Jose but may not be the best choice for everyone. If you choose to carry liability-only coverage, consider increasing your limits and adding uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage. However, if your vehicle is worth at least $5,000 or less than ten years old, you should carry full coverage car insurance.

CompanyMonthly Rate
GEICO$100
Mercury$130
Progressive$135
AAA NorCal$141
Allstate$146
State Farm$149
Farmers$193

Average monthly car insurance cost by zip code


In San Jose, car insurance rates can vary by as much as $33 per month, depending on your ZIP code. Cambrian Park is the cheapest neighborhood, with average rates of $129 per month.


If you’re curious about the average monthly cost of car insurance in different San Jose, California areas, you’ve come to the right place. We understand that insurance rates can vary depending on several factors, including zip code. To give you a clearer picture, we have compiled a chart showcasing the average monthly costs of car insurance in various zip codes throughout San Jose. 

Remember that these figures are based on general averages and can vary depending on individual circumstances, such as driving history, age, and the type of vehicle you own. By examining the chart below, you can gain insights into the average costs in different areas of San Jose and make more informed decisions regarding budgeting for your car insurance needs.

Please note that the following chart displays the average monthly costs of car insurance by zip code in San Jose, California:

ZIP codeAverage monthly cost% from average
95008$1345%
95014$1302%
95032$1367%
95101$14413%
95110$15219%
95111$15723%
95112$14816%
95113$16227%
95116$15220%
95117$1399%
95118$1346%
95119$1334%
95120$1334%
95121$14614%
95122$15421%
95123$1388%
95124$1292%
95125$1356%
95126$14715%
95127$14413%
95128$1399%
95129$1302%
95130$1313%
95131$14211%
95132$1378%
95133$14615%
95134$1367%
95135$14010%
95136$1399%
95138$14312%
95139$1346%
95141$1377%
95148$14816%
95192$15017%

San Jose car insurance premiums for people with previous incidents

Avoiding accidents and citations is crucial to maintain affordable auto insurance rates, regardless of location. Violations like speeding, reckless driving, DUIs, and at-fault accidents typically increase insurance rates. 

In San Jose, reckless driving citations can cause an average annual insurance rate increase of $3,090, while a DUI offense results in a $2,977 increase. Comparatively, a speeding ticket leads to a $757 rate hike. It’s essential to drive responsibly to keep your insurance costs low.

Citation TypeAverage Annual Premium
DUI/DWI$4,840
Reckless Driving$4,953
At-fault Accident (damages less than $1,000)$1,872
At-fault Accident (damages less than $2,000)$3,279
Speeding Ticket (16-20 mph over the speed limit)$2.620

Cheapest car insurance options after a speeding ticket


GEICO offers the lowest car insurance rates for people with a speeding ticket on their record.


After receiving a speeding ticket in San Jose, California, you may be concerned about the impact on your car insurance premiums. While speeding tickets can lead to higher rates, there are still options to find affordable coverage. Start by comparing quotes from different insurance providers, as rates vary widely. 

Look for insurers that specialize in providing competitive rates for drivers with speeding tickets or traffic violations. Additionally, consider taking a defensive driving course, as some insurance companies offer discounts for completing these programs. Proactively exploring different options allows you to find the cheapest car insurance coverage in San Jose, even after a speeding ticket.

CompanyAverage Annual Premium
GEICO$1,872
Mercury$2,064
AAA NorCal$2,136
Allstate$2,544
State Farm$2,748
Progressive$3,120
Farmers$3,252

Cheapest car insurance options after an accident


Mercury is the cheapest car insurance company in San Jose for drivers who have caused a car accident


Being involved in an accident in San Jose, California, can impact your car insurance premiums, but it doesn’t mean you can’t find affordable coverage. After an accident, it’s crucial to compare quotes from multiple insurance providers to find the cheapest options. Look for insurers that offer competitive rates for drivers with accident histories. 

Additionally, consider adjusting your coverage limits or deductibles to balance affordability and the level of protection you need. Exploring discounts and maintaining a clean driving record moving forward can also help secure more affordable rates. While an accident may affect your premiums, taking proactive steps and exploring different options can help you find the cheapest car insurance coverage in San Jose, California.

CompanyAverage Annual Premium
Mercury$2,340
GEICO$3,072
Progressive$3,348
AAA NorCal$3,408
State Farm$3,444
Farmers$4,068
Allstate$4,692

Cheapest car insurance options after a DUI


GEICO is a great option for drivers that are looking for insurance after a DUI. 


Obtaining affordable car insurance after a DUI conviction in San Jose, California, can be challenging, as it is considered a serious offense that significantly impacts insurance rates. Insurance providers view DUI convictions as high-risk indicators, resulting in higher premiums. However, finding the cheapest car insurance options is still possible by comparing quotes from various insurers specializing in providing coverage for drivers with DUI convictions

Some insurance companies offer specialized policies tailored to drivers with a DUI, allowing you to find more competitive rates. Maintaining a clean driving record, completing alcohol education programs, and demonstrating responsible behavior can improve your insurance rates over time. While it may take effort and patience, exploring different options can help you find the most affordable car insurance after a DUI in San Jose, California.

CompanyAverage Annual Premium
Mercury$3,012
GEICO$3,012
Progressive$3,876
Farmers$4,068
AAA NorCal$6,048
State Farm$6,324
Allstate$6,816

Average San Jose car insurance rates by gender and marital status

Car insurance rates in San Jose, California, can vary based on factors such as gender and marital status. On average, male drivers pay slightly lower premiums than female drivers. This discrepancy is often attributed to statistics that show female drivers are more likely to be involved in accidents. 

Similarly, marital status can also impact insurance rates, with married individuals generally paying lower premiums than divorced individuals. Insurance companies perceive married drivers as more responsible and statistically less likely to engage in risky driving behavior. However, it’s important to remember that individual circumstances and driving records also significantly determine car insurance rates.

Gender/Marital StatusAverage Annual Car Insurance Premium
Women$1,866
Men$1,863
Single$1,787
Married$1,787
Widowed$1,863
Divorced$1,814

Average San Jose car insurance rates by credit score

Unlike most states nationwide, including Massachusetts, Hawaii, and Michigan, California doesn’t consider credit scores when determining car insurance rates. Credit scores are excluded from insurance companies’ factors in California to calculate premiums. Therefore, drivers in California can take comfort in knowing that their credit scores don’t directly impact their car insurance rates.

Credit ScoreAverage Annual Premium
Poor$2,291
Fair$2,291
Good$2,291
Excellent$2,291

Cheapest car insurance options in San Jose by age

Car insurance options in San Jose, California, vary based on age. Younger drivers, such as teenagers and those in their early 20s, often face higher insurance rates due to their limited driving experience. However, insurance premiums typically decrease as drivers reach their mid-20s and beyond. 

Insurance providers often consider older and more experienced drivers lower risk, leading to more affordable coverage options. Additionally, maintaining a clean driving record and taking advantage of available discounts can help drivers of any age secure cheaper car insurance rates in San Jose.

Best car insurance for young drivers


GEICO’s rates for 18-year-old drivers in San Jose average $90 per month for minimum coverage and $261 per month for full coverage.


Considering the best car insurance for young drivers is crucial as they face higher insurance rates due to their limited driving experience. It’s essential to compare options and consider affordability, coverage, and customer service factors. To help you make an informed decision, we’ve compiled a chart displaying the average annual rates for liability-only and full-coverage insurance from various insurance carriers. 

Please note that these rates are provided as an estimate and can vary based on individual circumstances. By analyzing the chart below, you can gain insights into the average rates offered by different insurance carriers, helping you identify the best car insurance options for young drivers in terms of cost and coverage.

Insurance CarrierAverage Annual Rates for Liability-Only Insurance CoverageAverage Annual Rates for Full-Coverage Insurance
GEICO$1,080$3,132
State Farm$1,224$3,156
Mercury$1,344$3,792
Progressive$1,380$4,932
AAA NorCal$1,416$5,304
Allstate$1,896$4,140
Farmers$2,004$5,124

Factors impacting San Jose car insurance premiums

Several factors can impact car insurance premiums in San Jose, California. These factors include the driver’s age, driving history, credit score, marital status, and the type of vehicle being insured. Younger drivers, individuals with previous accidents or violations, lower credit scores, and single individuals may face higher premiums. 

Additionally, factors such as the vehicle’s make, model, and year, as well as the area’s crime rate and population density, can influence insurance costs. Understanding these factors can help drivers make informed decisions when seeking car insurance and find the most affordable premiums in San Jose.

  • Most Fatal Accidents: 195 out of 300
  • Most Car Thefts: 113 out of 300
  • Most Annual Rain Fall: 211 out of 300
  • Most Rainy Days: 194 out of 300
  • Number Of Drivers Without Insurance (By State): 12 out of 55

FAQ

How much does car insurance cost in San Jose?

In San Jose, full coverage car insurance costs $151 per month or $1,808 per year.

How much is car insurance in California per month?

In California, the average annual cost of full coverage insurance is $1,659, which is approximately $138 per month for a 30-year-old driver with a clean record. For minimum coverage, the average cost is $506 per year or around $42 per month.

What is considered full coverage car insurance in San Jose, CA?

Driving without insurance can result in fines ranging from $100 to $200, with additional penalty assessments. If the court deems it necessary, vehicle impoundment is also risky, even for first-time offenders.

Does insurance get cheaper once you turn 25 in California?

Typically, car insurance rates decrease around age 25, with an average 9% drop at Progressive. However, other factors like claims history can also affect your rates. If you have an accident just before turning 25, your rate may stay the same as expected.

How long can you go without car insurance in California?

If you drive without insurance and are caught, your driving privileges can be reinstated after one year with proof of financial responsibility. However, if you are caught a second time without insurance in an accident, your license can be suspended for up to four years.

Find cheap car insurance in San Jose, CA

finding affordable car insurance in San Jose, CA, is possible. By filling out our online rate form, you can easily compare rates from multiple insurers and secure the best deal for your coverage needs. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to save on your car insurance premiums – take action now and get the rates you deserve.


Methodology

AgileRates extracted and analyzed data from the following to provide data in this article.


Related content