Finding affordable car insurance in Carlsbad means assessing various factors. State Farm offers the lowest premiums for minimum coverage. For full coverage, National General emerges as the most cost-effective, while families with teen drivers may find State Farm better suited for their needs. Meanwhile, Chubb stands out for customer service excellence as well as being the best overall. The ideal insurer is influenced by individual preferences and coverage necessities.
Cheapest and Best Car Insurance in Carlsbad, CA (June 2024)
State Farm offers Carlsbad, California's cheapest minimum coverage at $399 annually. The best car insurance, with a MoneyGeek score of 81 (out of 100), is Chubb.
Mark Fitzpatrick
Head of Insurance, MoneyGeek
Mark Fitzpatrick is a Licensed Property and Casualty Insurance Producer and MoneyGeek's Head of Insurance. He has analyzed the insurance market for over five years, conducting original research and creating personalized content for every kind of buyer. He has been quoted in several insurance-related publications, including [CNBC](https://www.cnbc.com/2020/04/15/cant-keep-up-with-insurance-premiums-heres-what-to-do.html), [NBC News](https://www.nbcnews.com/business/autos/flooded-cars-are-problem-their-owners-future-car-buyers-n1278493) and [Mashable](https://mashable.com/article/tesla-insurance-rates). Fitzpatrick earned a master’s degree in economics and international relations from Johns Hopkins University and a bachelor’s degree from Boston College. He is passionate about using his knowledge of economics and insurance to bring transparency around financial topics and help others feel confident in their money moves.
Mark Friedlander
Director, Corporate Communications, Insurance Information Institute
Mark Friedlander has over 30 years of experience in financial services and insurance. He is the Director of Corporate Communications at the [Insurance Information Institute (III)](https://www.iii.org/) — a New York-based nonprofit research and education organization focused on providing consumers with a better understanding of insurance — serving as a national insurance industry media spokesperson for broadcast, digital and print outlets. Before joining the III, Friedlander held senior communications roles at Main Street America Insurance, Arthur Andersen LLP and Prudential Financial. His recent contributions and appearances include The Washington Post, The New York Times, Bloomberg, CNN, Fox Weather, the Associated Press, Reuters, National Public Radio (NPR), NBC News, ABC News, CNBC and many more national and regional news outlets. Friedlander holds a bachelor's degree in journalism and public relations from the Ohio State University.
Rae Osborn
Content Editor
Dr. Rae Osborn is a MoneyGeek content editor with over seven years of editing experience and over 20 years of experience in publishing and writing science content. She also works as a science researcher, writer and editor and a professional reviewer for Science Reviews and Advances in Entomology.
Mark Fitzpatrick
Head of Insurance, MoneyGeek
Mark Fitzpatrick is a Licensed Property and Casualty Insurance Producer and MoneyGeek's Head of Insurance. He has analyzed the insurance market for over five years, conducting original research and creating personalized content for every kind of buyer. He has been quoted in several insurance-related publications, including [CNBC](https://www.cnbc.com/2020/04/15/cant-keep-up-with-insurance-premiums-heres-what-to-do.html), [NBC News](https://www.nbcnews.com/business/autos/flooded-cars-are-problem-their-owners-future-car-buyers-n1278493) and [Mashable](https://mashable.com/article/tesla-insurance-rates). Fitzpatrick earned a master’s degree in economics and international relations from Johns Hopkins University and a bachelor’s degree from Boston College. He is passionate about using his knowledge of economics and insurance to bring transparency around financial topics and help others feel confident in their money moves.
Mark Friedlander
Director, Corporate Communications, Insurance Information Institute
Mark Friedlander has over 30 years of experience in financial services and insurance. He is the Director of Corporate Communications at the [Insurance Information Institute (III)](https://www.iii.org/) — a New York-based nonprofit research and education organization focused on providing consumers with a better understanding of insurance — serving as a national insurance industry media spokesperson for broadcast, digital and print outlets. Before joining the III, Friedlander held senior communications roles at Main Street America Insurance, Arthur Andersen LLP and Prudential Financial. His recent contributions and appearances include The Washington Post, The New York Times, Bloomberg, CNN, Fox Weather, the Associated Press, Reuters, National Public Radio (NPR), NBC News, ABC News, CNBC and many more national and regional news outlets. Friedlander holds a bachelor's degree in journalism and public relations from the Ohio State University.
Rae Osborn
Content Editor
Dr. Rae Osborn is a MoneyGeek content editor with over seven years of editing experience and over 20 years of experience in publishing and writing science content. She also works as a science researcher, writer and editor and a professional reviewer for Science Reviews and Advances in Entomology.
Updated: October 3, 2024
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Cheapest and Best Car Insurance in Carlsbad
Why Trust MoneyGeek? We analyzed 352,910 quotes in California, including the city of Carlsbad, from 18 companies. We used six sources and original research to rate the cheapest companies and develop a scoring system for Carlsbad insurance providers based on ZIP codes in the city only. Our scores are based on affordability, customer satisfaction, claims experience, coverages offered and financial stability.
These rates reflect the cheapest car insurance quotes in Carlsbad, CA, as of June 2024.
Cheapest Minimum Coverage Car Insurance in Carlsbad
MoneyGeek found that State Farm offers the cheapest car insurance option in Carlsbad for minimum coverage policies.
- State Farm: $399 per year
- GEICO: $430 per year
While State Farm and GEICO provide the most affordable options, Chubb offers the most expensive minimum coverage policy in Carlsbad at $695 annually. The difference in annual rates is significant, with a $296 gap between the cheapest and most expensive, illustrating why it's essential to compare car insurance rates to ensure you're getting the best deal.
- 22-29
- 30-59
- 60 +
- Full Coverage
- Minimum Coverage
State Farm | Annual Premium$399 | Monthly Premium$33 |
GEICO | Annual Premium$430 | Monthly Premium$36 |
Progressive | Annual Premium$433 | Monthly Premium$36 |
Mercury | Annual Premium$442 | Monthly Premium$37 |
AAA | Annual Premium$457 | Monthly Premium$38 |
National General | Annual Premium$518 | Monthly Premium$43 |
Kemper | Annual Premium$536 | Monthly Premium$45 |
Nationwide | Annual Premium$551 | Monthly Premium$46 |
Travelers | Annual Premium$560 | Monthly Premium$47 |
State National | Annual Premium$565 | Monthly Premium$47 |
Farmers | Annual Premium$566 | Monthly Premium$47 |
Hartford | Annual Premium$640 | Monthly Premium$53 |
Allstate | Annual Premium$660 | Monthly Premium$55 |
Capital Insurance Group | Annual Premium$683 | Monthly Premium$57 |
Chubb | Annual Premium$695 | Monthly Premium$58 |
State Minimum Liability Requirements
In California, from Carlsbad to Cupertino, state law prescribes the mandatory car insurance coverages every driver needs. Here they are:
- $15,000 bodily injury per person
- $30,000 bodily injury per accident
- $5,000 property damage liability per accident
Should you carry the baseline policy, it would cover up to $15,000 for injuries to one person in an accident and up to $30,000 for all persons combined. In the event that medical expenses surpass these amounts, you would be responsible for those costs.
Cheapest Full Coverage Car Insurance in Carlsbad
MoneyGeek found that National General offers the cheapest full coverage car insurance in Carlsbad, ensuring significant savings.
- National General: $897 per year
- Progressive: $959 per year
Farmers charges the most for full coverage in Carlsbad at $1,901 per year, which highlights the need for consumers to compare policies; full coverage typically costs more because it offers extensive protection beyond minimum liability insurance.
- 22-29
- 30-59
- 60 +
- Full Coverage
- Minimum Coverage
National General | Annual Premium$897 | Monthly Premium$75 |
Progressive | Annual Premium$959 | Monthly Premium$80 |
AAA | Annual Premium$1,039 | Monthly Premium$87 |
State Farm | Annual Premium$1,046 | Monthly Premium$87 |
GEICO | Annual Premium$1,093 | Monthly Premium$91 |
Mercury | Annual Premium$1,098 | Monthly Premium$92 |
Allstate | Annual Premium$1,241 | Monthly Premium$103 |
Nationwide | Annual Premium$1,255 | Monthly Premium$105 |
State National | Annual Premium$1,294 | Monthly Premium$108 |
Kemper | Annual Premium$1,360 | Monthly Premium$113 |
Capital Insurance Group | Annual Premium$1,373 | Monthly Premium$114 |
Hartford | Annual Premium$1,402 | Monthly Premium$117 |
Travelers | Annual Premium$1,419 | Monthly Premium$118 |
Chubb | Annual Premium$1,639 | Monthly Premium$137 |
Farmers | Annual Premium$1,901 | Monthly Premium$158 |
Do You Need Full Coverage in Carlsbad?
At MoneyGeek, our sample full coverage car insurance policy for Carlsbad markedly elevates the liability coverage over the basic requirement. It provides $100,000 for bodily injury per individual, $300,000 per accident for bodily injuries and property damage liability of $100,000 for each accident. This elevated coverage is termed a 100/300/100 plan.
Full coverage insurance extends beyond mere liability limits, encompassing both comprehensive and collision insurance:
Collision Insurance: This insurance pays for repairs to your vehicle when it's damaged through a collision, whether it be with another car or a stationary object. It also covers rollover accidents and pothole damage.
Comprehensive Insurance: In instances that exclude collisions, such as theft or environmental damage, this insurance aspect covers repair costs for your car and being struck by an animal like a deer.
Opting for full coverage is a prudent choice when it comes to a new vehicle, but for older vehicles, the additional cost may not justify the benefit. It's essential to determine how much car insurance you need by considering the balance between the expense of higher coverage and the risk of being underinsured due to opting for lower coverage.
Cheapest Car Insurance in Carlsbad After a Driving Offense
MoneyGeek found that National General is the most affordable option for drivers in Carlsbad seeking a full coverage policy after various driving incidents, such as a speeding ticket, an at-fault accident or a DUI. Here are the specific details for each situation:
- Speeding Ticket: National General ($941 per year)
- At-fault accident: National General ($1,326 per year)
- DUI: National General ($941 per year)
On the contrary, Hartford has the highest rates for these incidents, particularly after a DUI, with an annual premium of $5,117. The severity of the offense can dramatically affect car insurance rates.
- 22-29
- 30-59
- 60 +
- Full Coverage
- Minimum Coverage
- Accident
- DUI
- Speeding
National General | Annual Premium$941 | Monthly Premium$78 |
AAA | Annual Premium$1,342 | Monthly Premium$112 |
Mercury | Annual Premium$1,448 | Monthly Premium$121 |
State Farm | Annual Premium$1,550 | Monthly Premium$129 |
Capital Insurance Group | Annual Premium$1,572 | Monthly Premium$131 |
GEICO | Annual Premium$1,624 | Monthly Premium$135 |
Allstate | Annual Premium$1,801 | Monthly Premium$150 |
Kemper | Annual Premium$1,805 | Monthly Premium$150 |
Progressive | Annual Premium$1,805 | Monthly Premium$150 |
State National | Annual Premium$1,837 | Monthly Premium$153 |
Hartford | Annual Premium$2,097 | Monthly Premium$175 |
Chubb | Annual Premium$2,144 | Monthly Premium$179 |
Travelers | Annual Premium$2,150 | Monthly Premium$179 |
Nationwide | Annual Premium$2,163 | Monthly Premium$180 |
Farmers | Annual Premium$2,632 | Monthly Premium$219 |
Insurance rates often escalate with the gravity of a driving infraction due to the increased risk posed to insurers. In Carlsbad, for instance, those with a speeding ticket could face an average annual rate of $1,794, while individuals convicted of a DUI might see their rates soar to around $3,005. This is why you should compare insurance quotes, as finding the right policy could result in significant savings.
Cheapest Car Insurance in Carlsbad for Teens and Their Families
MoneyGeek found that State Farm is the cheapest option in Carlsbad, offering the cheapest car insurance for teens.
- State Farm: $2,438 per year for female teens and $2,438 per year for male teens
- GEICO: $2,842 per year for female teens and $2,997 per year for male teens
These premiums reflect a family policy covering two parents and a teen driver. Nationwide holds the distinction of being the most expensive option, with an annual premium of $4,611 for female teen drivers. The stark contrast in pricing, which can amount to a difference of up to $2,173 annually, underscores the importance of comparing insurance rates to secure the most cost-effective policy for adding a teen driver to your plan.
- 16
- 17
- 18
- 19
- 20
- 21
- 22
- 23
- 24
- 25
- Female
- Male
State Farm | Family Plan Annual Premium$2,438 | Individual Plan Monthly Premium$2,699 |
GEICO | Family Plan Annual Premium$2,842 | Individual Plan Monthly Premium$3,210 |
Farmers | Family Plan Annual Premium$3,071 | Individual Plan Monthly Premium$4,527 |
Allstate | Family Plan Annual Premium$3,083 | Individual Plan Monthly Premium$3,322 |
Progressive | Family Plan Annual Premium$3,088 | Individual Plan Monthly Premium$3,393 |
Capital Insurance Group | Family Plan Annual Premium$3,321 | Individual Plan Monthly Premium$3,243 |
Travelers | Family Plan Annual Premium$3,500 | Individual Plan Monthly Premium$3,164 |
Kemper | Family Plan Annual Premium$4,147 | Individual Plan Monthly Premium$5,536 |
Nationwide | Family Plan Annual Premium$4,611 | Individual Plan Monthly Premium$6,546 |
In Carlsbad, as in many U.S. cities, the contrast in auto insurance premiums for teens is stark. On average, a teenage driver pays around $4,023 for an individual policy, whereas being added to a family plan costs substantially less, at about $3,362 on average. The discrepancy in rates is primarily due to insurers viewing teen drivers as high-risk due to their limited driving experience. Teens may also face challenges securing an individual policy without a co-signer due to their risk profile and lack of credit history. It's financially prudent for families to opt for joint plans that offer comprehensive coverage at more affordable rates.
Cheapest Car Insurance in Carlsbad for Military Drivers
MoneyGeek found that National General offers the most affordable full coverage car insurance for those with military backgrounds in Carlsbad.
- National General: $897 per year
- Progressive: $959 per year
Though USAA is not the top cheapest in Carlsbad, with an annual premium of $1,196, this provider is well-known for crafting services specifically to accommodate active duty military members. For residents with a military background, searching for the cheapest car insurance for military backgrounds is important and should consider both the cost and the personalized services provided by insurers catering to military families.
- 22-29
- 30-59
- 60 +
- Full Coverage
- Minimum Coverage
National General | Annual Premium$897 | Monthly Premium$75 |
Progressive | Annual Premium$959 | Monthly Premium$80 |
AAA | Annual Premium$1,039 | Monthly Premium$87 |
State Farm | Annual Premium$1,046 | Monthly Premium$87 |
GEICO | Annual Premium$1,093 | Monthly Premium$91 |
Mercury | Annual Premium$1,098 | Monthly Premium$92 |
USAA | Annual Premium$1,196 | Monthly Premium$100 |
Allstate | Annual Premium$1,241 | Monthly Premium$103 |
Nationwide | Annual Premium$1,255 | Monthly Premium$105 |
State National | Annual Premium$1,294 | Monthly Premium$108 |
Kemper | Annual Premium$1,360 | Monthly Premium$113 |
Capital Insurance Group | Annual Premium$1,373 | Monthly Premium$114 |
Hartford | Annual Premium$1,402 | Monthly Premium$117 |
Travelers | Annual Premium$1,419 | Monthly Premium$118 |
Chubb | Annual Premium$1,639 | Monthly Premium$137 |
Farmers | Annual Premium$1,901 | Monthly Premium$158 |
How to Compare Cheap Carlsbad Car Insurance Quotes Online
In Carlsbad, securing the best car insurance rates can be done using MoneyGeek's car insurance calculator. Input your age, driving history, credit score and coverage preferences to rapidly receive a tailored rate estimate.
Car Insurance Calculator
MoneyGeek's car insurance calculator will give you a customized estimate of your auto insurance cost. It's free to use, requires no personal information and we won't send you any spam.
Rates updated:
Oct 04, 2024
Although MoneyGeek partners with some of the companies we recommend, our content is written and reviewed by an independent team of writers, editors and licensed agents. Learn more about our editorial policies and expert editorial team.
Best Car Insurance in Carlsbad: Overview
Finding the best car insurance hinges on how you weigh factors such as service, cost, coverage and others. MoneyGeek’s found Carlsbad's outstanding providers:
- Best overall: Chubb (MoneyGeek score 81 out of 100)
- Best for service: Chubb (MoneyGeek score 94 out of 100)
- Best cheap: State Farm (MoneyGeek score 81 out of 100)
Chubb emerges as the predominant choice in Carlsbad, scoring high in both overall value and service quality. State Farm provides economical insurance options that still maintain a high level of service excellence.
Best Overall Car Insurance in Carlsbad
MoneyGeek found that Chubb offers the best car insurance in Carlsbad for drivers seeking quality auto insurance coverage. According to MoneyGeek's analysis, here are the top two providers based on their scores:
- Chubb: MoneyGeek score of 81 out of 100 ($1,639 per year)
- Capital Insurance Group: MoneyGeek score of 79 out of 100 ($1,373 per year)
Chubb stands out in Carlsbad as the premier choice for full coverage car insurance due to its performance in claims handling and customer satisfaction.
Chubb’s high MoneyGeek Score is largely due to its claims handling and customer satisfaction. It also provides rental car and/or travel reimbursement and roadside assistance, ensuring customers are covered for most roadside incidents and travel inconveniences. Chubb offers OEM coverage and diminished value coverage, protecting customers from value loss due to accidents.
Ranks first in the city for claims satisfaction
Ranks second in the city for customer satisfaction
Offers rare coverages like OEM coverage
Does not rank top in the city for affordability
Does not offer gap Insurance
MoneyGeek's top Carlsbad car insurance rankings favor customer satisfaction and cost-effectiveness, considering claims, coverage and fiscal soundness too.
Best Car Insurance in Carlsbad for Customer Service
MoneyGeek found that Chubb offers the best car insurance for customer service in Carlsbad. This distinction is recognized without taking rates into account, focusing solely on the insurer’s superior general satisfaction, claims handling and coverage options.
- Chubb: MoneyGeek score of 94 out of 100 ($1,639 per year)
- Capital Insurance Group: MoneyGeek score of 82 out of 100 ($1,373 per year)
Chubb stands out in the Carlsbad car insurance market primarily due to its claims handling process and the breadth of coverage options offered to consumers.
Chubb's MoneyGeek score is due to its satisfaction and claims handling. The company offers coverages like rental car and/or travel reimbursement and roadside assistance. It also offers OEM coverage, which ensures replacement parts match the original quality, important for maintaining performance and value. Chubb also has antique/classic car Insurance and diminished value coverage. c
Excels in claims satisfaction, ranking first in the city
Offers rare OEM coverage
Does not offer gap Insurance
MoneyGeek ranks Carlsbad's top car insurers by prioritizing client satisfaction and claim efficiency, also weighing coverage options and company solvency.
Best Cheap Car Insurance Companies in Carlsbad
State Farm is the best option in Carlsbad for consumers seeking top-rated yet affordable car insurance. This distinction is notable because the MoneyGeek score emphasizes not only affordability but also adequacy in claims handling. Here are the two best-scoring providers:
- State Farm: MoneyGeek score of 81 out of 100 ($399 per year)
- Mercury: MoneyGeek score of 78 out of 100 ($442 per year)
State Farm is the leading provider due to its exceptional affordability.
State Farm leads with affordability contributing to its MoneyGeek score. The average State Farm customer pays just $399 annually for minimum coverage. Drivers can benefit from reasonably common discounts like airbags and anti-theft systems, enhancing safety and security. State Farm offers discounts like bundling, multiple car and safe driving.
Offers common discounts for bundling, multiple car and safe driving
Ranks first in the city for affordability
Ranks second in the city for coverage options
Ranks fourth in the city for non-claims customer satisfaction
MoneyGeek ranks Carlsbad's top car insurance prioritizing affordable minimum coverage and customer satisfaction while also evaluating claims processing, coverage options and financial strength.
Average Cost of Car Insurance in Carlsbad
In Carlsbad, California, the average car insurance premium stands at $1,267. This figure is less than the average car insurance cost across California, which is $1,457. However, when compared to the national average, California's rates are relatively lower, with the state's average cost being $263 less than the national average of $1,720.
The factors influencing car insurance rates extend beyond geographical location, but the impact of location is undeniable. Rates are determined in part by the traffic density, accident frequency and theft rates within a given area. This is why urban areas like Glendale have higher premiums at $2,260, while cities like Santa Maria offer the cheapest premiums at $1,168. In less urbanized areas with lower traffic density, car insurance rates may fall even further.
Anaheim | Annual Premium$1,521 |
Antioch | Annual Premium$1,471 |
Arden | Annual Premium$1,491 |
Bakersfield | Annual Premium$1,298 |
Berkeley | Annual Premium$1,393 |
Burbank | Annual Premium$1,834 |
Carlsbad | Annual Premium$1,276 |
Chula Vista | Annual Premium$1,237 |
Clovis | Annual Premium$1,305 |
Concord | Annual Premium$1,378 |
Corona | Annual Premium$1,425 |
Costa Mesa | Annual Premium$1,404 |
Daly City | Annual Premium$1,592 |
Downey | Annual Premium$1,625 |
East Los Angeles | Annual Premium$1,669 |
El Cajon | Annual Premium$1,341 |
El Monte | Annual Premium$1,661 |
Elk Grove | Annual Premium$1,434 |
Escondido | Annual Premium$1,290 |
Fairfield | Annual Premium$1,301 |
Fontana | Annual Premium$1,460 |
Fremont | Annual Premium$1,353 |
Fresno | Annual Premium$1,348 |
Fullerton | Annual Premium$1,551 |
Garden Grove | Annual Premium$1,567 |
Glendale | Annual Premium$2,260 |
Hayward | Annual Premium$1,446 |
Huntington Beach | Annual Premium$1,423 |
Inglewood | Annual Premium$1,820 |
Irvine | Annual Premium$1,485 |
Jurupa Valley | Annual Premium$1,402 |
Lancaster | Annual Premium$1,552 |
Long Beach | Annual Premium$1,570 |
Los Angeles | Annual Premium$1,985 |
Modesto | Annual Premium$1,477 |
Moreno Valley | Annual Premium$1,443 |
Murrieta | Annual Premium$1,320 |
Norwalk | Annual Premium$1,544 |
Oakland | Annual Premium$1,545 |
Oceanside | Annual Premium$1,303 |
Ontario | Annual Premium$1,454 |
Orange | Annual Premium$1,366 |
Oxnard | Annual Premium$1,338 |
Palmdale | Annual Premium$1,602 |
Pasadena | Annual Premium$1,672 |
Pomona | Annual Premium$1,519 |
Rancho Cucamonga | Annual Premium$1,401 |
Rialto | Annual Premium$1,467 |
Richmond | Annual Premium$1,457 |
Riverside | Annual Premium$1,438 |
Roseville | Annual Premium$1,364 |
Sacramento | Annual Premium$1,397 |
Salinas | Annual Premium$1,259 |
San Bernardino | Annual Premium$1,455 |
San Diego | Annual Premium$1,259 |
San Francisco | Annual Premium$1,553 |
San Jose | Annual Premium$1,338 |
San Mateo | Annual Premium$1,301 |
Santa Ana | Annual Premium$1,471 |
Santa Clara | Annual Premium$1,332 |
Santa Clarita | Annual Premium$1,523 |
Santa Maria | Annual Premium$1,168 |
Santa Rosa | Annual Premium$1,385 |
Simi Valley | Annual Premium$1,429 |
Stockton | Annual Premium$1,489 |
Sunnyvale | Annual Premium$1,325 |
Temecula | Annual Premium$1,338 |
Thousand Oaks | Annual Premium$1,490 |
Torrance | Annual Premium$1,418 |
Vallejo | Annual Premium$1,444 |
Ventura | Annual Premium$1,251 |
Victorville | Annual Premium$1,482 |
Visalia | Annual Premium$1,241 |
Vista | Annual Premium$1,267 |
West Covina | Annual Premium$1,555 |
About Mark Fitzpatrick
Mark Fitzpatrick is a Licensed Property and Casualty Insurance Producer and MoneyGeek's Head of Insurance. He has analyzed the insurance market for over five years, conducting original research and creating personalized content for every kind of buyer. He has been quoted in several insurance-related publications, including CNBC, NBC News and Mashable.
Fitzpatrick earned a master’s degree in economics and international relations from Johns Hopkins University and a bachelor’s degree from Boston College. He is passionate about using his knowledge of economics and insurance to bring transparency around financial topics and help others feel confident in their money moves.