Best Homeowners Insurance in California (2024)


Allstate is California's top home insurance provider, while Nationwide is best for new homeowners. Our comparisons use a $100,000 dwelling coverage limit, but other coverage amounts may impact your premium.

For those prioritizing cost efficiency, MoneyGeek analyzed the cheapest home insurance in California.

Key Takeaways

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In California, Allstate stands out as the best overall homeowners insurance provider with a MoneyGeek score of 83 out of 100, offering affordable premiums and excellent value. Travelers is the runner-up, achieving a MoneyGeek score of 77 out of 100. Both companies provide comprehensive coverage options, balancing cost efficiency with quality service for California homeowners.

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For homeowners in California seeking the most cost-effective insurance, Allstate is the top choice, offering premiums at $366 per year. It provides excellent value for budget-conscious homeowners while maintaining a high MoneyGeek score of 91 out of 100. Travelers follows as a strong runner-up in affordability, highlighting competitive options for those in the state.

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For those seeking exceptional customer service in California, Chubb stands out as the best homeowners insurance provider with a MoneyGeek score of 96 out of 100. Nationwide follows as the runner-up with a score of 81 out of 100. Prioritizing service quality ensures responsive and supportive interactions, crucial during claims processes following natural disasters.

Why Trust MoneyGeek? We analyzed data from the California Department of Insurance and Quadrant Information Services to identify the best homeowners insurance options in the state.

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Home insurance rates in California represent the latest quotes as of July 2024.

2,730,240Quotes Analyzed
 
8Companies Compared
 
179ZIP Codes

Overall Best Homeowners Insurance in California

Allstate offers the best home insurance in California, followed by Travelers.

  • Allstate: MoneyGeek score of 83 out of 100 ($366 per year)
  • Travelers: MoneyGeek score of 77 out of 100 ($476 per year)

Homeowners have many options, each varying by cost and service quality. Balancing affordability and excellent service is essential for financial protection and peace of mind.

Company logo for Allstate
Best OverallAllstate
MoneyGeek Score:
83/ of 100

Overview

Allstate tops California's home insurance market with a perfect affordability score of 55 out of 55 and an average annual premium of $366.

It offers rare coverages, such as home business property coverage for home-based entrepreneurs and energy efficiency upgrade coverage for homeowners who support sustainability.

Best Homeowners Insurance in California for Customer Service

Chubb is California's best home insurance provider for service quality. Here are the top options for homeowners seeking exceptional customer service:

  • Chubb: MoneyGeek score of 96 out of 100 ($681 per year)
  • Nationwide: MoneyGeek score of 81 out of 100 ($679 per year)

Prioritizing service quality in home insurance means valuing responsive and helpful customer interactions. During a claim, a stress-free and supportive process after a natural disaster can speed up recovery.

Company logo for Chubb
Best for ServiceChubb
MoneyGeek Score:
96/ of 100

Overview

Chubb leads California's home insurance market with a perfect customer satisfaction score of 65 out of 65 and an average annual premium of $681.

It offers guaranteed replacement cost coverage, ensuring rebuilding to the home's original standard without concerns about rising costs. Chubb's risk consulting service provides expert advice to minimize risks and enhance home safety.

Best Cheap Homeowners Insurance in California

Allstate offers the best value for homeowners on a budget in California. Here are the best and cheapest homeowners insurance companies:

  • Allstate: MoneyGeek score of 91 out of 100 ($366 per year)
  • Farmers: MoneyGeek score of 79 out of 100 ($436 per year)

Considering the average cost of home insurance in California, select a provider that offers affordable premiums and excellent service. Sometimes, a slightly higher rate can provide better support during a claim, making it a more valuable choice overall.

Company logo for Allstate
Best CheapAllstate
MoneyGeek Score:
91/ of 100

Overview

Allstate stands out in California with an affordability score of 75 out of 75 and an average annual premium of $366.

Allstate's discounts reduce premiums without compromising coverage quality. These include the protective device discount for homes with security or fire protection systems and the claims-free discount that offers up to 20% savings to customers without recent claims.

Best Homeowners Insurance in California for Expensive Homes

Allstate is the best high-value home insurance in California. For those needing $1 million in dwelling coverage, consider these providers:

  • Allstate: MoneyGeek score of 83 out of 100 ($2,553 per year)
  • Travelers: MoneyGeek score of 82 out of 100 ($3,255 per year)

Higher-value homes require more coverage, which impacts their price. Find an insurer that offers an optimal mix of affordability and comprehensive protection.

Company logo for Allstate
Best for Expensive HomesAllstate
MoneyGeek Score:
83/ of 100

Overview

Allstate is the best choice for insuring expensive homes, with a perfect affordability score of 55 out of 55 and an average annual premium of $2,553.

Allstate's protective device discount offers savings for homes with fire or theft protection systems. For upscale homes, it covers legal costs, losses from identity theft, and water damage resulting from a sewer or drain backup.

Best Homeowners Insurance in California for New Homes

Nationwide is the top choice for insuring new homes in California.

  • Nationwide: MoneyGeek score of 76 out of 100 ($863 per year)
  • Travelers: MoneyGeek score of 73 out of 100 ($761 per year)

Nationwide achieves outstanding affordability and customer satisfaction scores, offering an optimal mix of value and service quality.

Company logo for Nationwide
Best for New HomesNationwide
MoneyGeek Score:
76/ of 100

Overview

Nationwide is the best insurance provider for new homeowners, with an affordability score of 52 out of 55 and an average annual premium of $863.

Its guaranteed replacement cost add-on ensures your home can be rebuilt to the same standard, even if costs exceed your policy limits. Nationwide also offers discounts for newly purchased homes and smart home technology.

Best Homeowners Insurance in California for Veterans

Allstate offers California's best home insurance for veterans and military families.

  • Allstate: MoneyGeek score of 79 out of 100 ($366 per year)
  • Travelers: MoneyGeek score of 77 out of 100 ($476 per year)

The ideal homeowners insurance company for military families understands the unique needs of frequent moves and deployments, ensuring protection for homes and belongings in every situation.

Company logo for Allstate
Best for VeteransAllstate
MoneyGeek Score:
79/ of 100

Overview

Allstate is the top home insurance provider for veterans in California, with an affordability score of 55 out of 55 and a customer satisfaction score of 16 out of 30. The average annual premium is $366.

It offers scheduled personal property coverage for high-value items like jewelry or art. Veterans can save more with discounts for responsible and early payments.

How to Find the Best Homeowners Insurance in California for You

Selecting the best homeowners insurance means balancing comprehensive coverage with affordability. Your ideal policy will vary based on your needs. Follow these steps to find the most suitable insurance to protect your home and peace of mind:

  1. 1
    Assess Your Insurance Needs

    Decide on how much home insurance coverage you need. Consider your location, property value and asset value to ensure adequate protection.

  2. 2
    Research Various Providers

    Identify reputable insurance companies by analyzing their offerings, financial stability and customer service. Check reviews and ratings to find providers that meet your needs.

  3. 3
    Compare Coverage and Costs

    Compare home insurance quotes and policy details from different insurers to find a balance between comprehensive coverage and affordability.

  4. 4
    Understand the Policy Details

    Review policies carefully to understand the coverage limits, deductibles, exclusions and the claims process that affect coverages and out-of-pocket costs.

  5. 5
    Consult With an Independent Agent

    An impartial insurance agent can clarify policy details, provide personalized advice and help you navigate the insurance market.

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DOES HOME INSURANCE COVER FLOOD DAMAGE IN CALIFORNIA?

Flood insurance is not legally mandated for California homeowners. However, given the state’s susceptibility to floods, securing flood insurance in California can help cover potential flood damage.

FAQ: Homeowners Insurance in California

Choosing the best homeowners insurance depends on your coverage needs and financial situation. Let's address common questions about finding the right insurance in California.

Which company is best for home insurance in California?

Who has the most affordable homeowners insurance in California?

About Mark Fitzpatrick


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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.