Best and Cheapest Renters Insurance in El Cajon, CA (Sept 2024)


Updated: September 13, 2024

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Nationwide is the best renters insurance company in El Cajon, California, with a MoneyGeek score of 94 out of 100 and an average annual premium of $103. Capital Insurance Group is the cheapest renters insurance provider, with a MoneyGeek score of 89 and an average annual premium of $88. The best and cheapest quotes were derived using a policy with $20,000 in personal property coverage.

The best homeowners insurance provider should offer a balance of customer service with affordability. Depending on your needs, Travelers is the best for service quality, with an average annual premium of $138. MoneyGeek also looked into the best and cheapest renters insurance in California for those who live elsewhere in the state.

MoneyGeek Logo IconBest & CheapestRentersEl Cajon, CA
2024

Table of Contents

Why Trust MoneyGeek? To determine the best renters insurance in El Cajon, California, we evaluated data from the California Department of Insurance and Quadrant Information Services.

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Renters insurance premiums in El Cajon represent the most competitive estimates as of September 2024.

768Quotes Analyzed
 
8Providers Analyzed
 
2ZIP Codes

Overall Best Renters Insurance in El Cajon, CA

Nationwide offers the best renters insurance in El Cajon, California, with a MoneyGeek score of 94 out of 100 and an average annual premium of $103. The following companies provide the best renters insurance in El Cajon for policies with $20,000 in personal property coverage, $100,000 in personal liability coverage and a $1,000 deductible:

  • Nationwide: MoneyGeek score of 94 out of 100 ($103 per year)
  • State Farm: MoneyGeek score of 89 out of 100 ($121 per year)

Nationwide balances cost and quality service, with an affordability score of 52 out of 55.

Company logo for Nationwide
Best OverallNationwide
MoneyGeek Score:
94/ of 100

Overview

Nationwide ranks first in coverage in El Cajon, California, with an average annual premium of $103. It offers credit card forgery and theft from vehicles coverages. Credit card forgery covers unauthorized transactions on your credit cards and bank debit/ATM cards, protecting you from financial loss. Theft from vehicles provides protection for your personal belongings stored in or on any motor vehicle, trailer or watercraft, ensuring your valuables are safe even when you're on the go.

Best Renters Insurance in El Cajon, CA
Data filtered by:Results filtered by:
Coverage:
Coverage:$20K Personal Property
NationwideMoneyGeek Score94Annual Premium$ 103
State FarmMoneyGeek Score89Annual Premium$ 121
AllstateMoneyGeek Score89Annual Premium$ 96
TravelersMoneyGeek Score88Annual Premium$ 138
Capital Insurance GroupMoneyGeek Score82Annual Premium$ 88
FarmersMoneyGeek Score75Annual Premium$ 165
ChubbMoneyGeek Score61Annual Premium$ 277

Cheapest Renters Insurance in El Cajon, CA

In El Cajon, California, Capital Insurance Group offers the cheapest renters insurance, with an average annual premium of $88 for $20,000 in personal property coverage. The following are the top two cheapest providers in El Cajon for $20,000 in personal property coverage and a $1,000 deductible, with MoneyGeek's rating having minimal consideration for customer service.

  • Capital Insurance Group: $88 per year
  • Allstate: $96 per year

Personal property coverage protects your belongings against risks like theft, fire and other damages. Cheap renters insurance policies often come with low personal property coverage limits. While these lower limits can keep your monthly costs down, opting for higher coverage limits can offer better protection if you have many personal belongings.

Cheapest Renters Insurance in El Cajon, California
Data filtered by:Results filtered by:
Coverage:
Coverage:$20K Personal Property
NationwideMoneyGeek Score94Annual Premium$ 103
AllstateMoneyGeek Score92Annual Premium$ 96
Capital Insurance GroupMoneyGeek Score89Annual Premium$ 88
State FarmMoneyGeek Score89Annual Premium$ 121
TravelersMoneyGeek Score86Annual Premium$ 138
FarmersMoneyGeek Score73Annual Premium$ 165
ChubbMoneyGeek Score49Annual Premium$ 277

Cheapest Renters Insurance With a High Deductible El Cajon, CA

Capital Insurance Group offers the best and cheapest renters insurance in El Cajon, California, for a policy with $20,000 in personal property coverage and a $2,000 deductible at an average annual premium of $69. The following providers are the top options in El Cajon for higher deductible policies:

  • Capital Insurance Group: $69 per year
  • Nationwide: $81 per year

A deductible is the amount you pay out of pocket before your insurance policy kicks in. Opting for a higher deductible usually results in cheaper insurance premiums. It's important to find a balance that suits your financial situation to ensure you can afford the premiums and any out-of-pocket costs in case of a claim.

Cheapest High Deductible Renters Insurance in El Cajon, California
Data filtered by:Results filtered by:
Coverage:
Coverage:$20K Personal Property
Deductible:
Deductible:$ 2,000
Capital Insurance GroupMoneyGeek Score82Annual Premium$ 69
NationwideMoneyGeek Score94Annual Premium$ 81
AllstateMoneyGeek Score85Annual Premium$ 96
TravelersMoneyGeek Score90Annual Premium$ 112
State FarmMoneyGeek Score85Annual Premium$ 119
FarmersMoneyGeek Score72Annual Premium$ 161
ChubbMoneyGeek Score61Annual Premium$ 257
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HOW TO SET YOUR DEDUCTIBLE

When selecting a deductible, make sure it's an amount you can pay out of pocket without financial strain. Choosing a higher deductible can lower your premium costs, leading to overall savings while providing adequate coverage.

Best Renters Insurance for Customer Service in El Cajon, CA

In El Cajon, California, Travelers is the best renters insurance company for service quality, with an average annual premium of $138. The following providers are the top two in El Cajon, California, for a policy with $20,000 in personal property coverage for those who value excellent customer service without considering affordability.

  • Travelers: MoneyGeek score of 96 out of 100 ($138 per year)
  • Nationwide: MoneyGeek score of 95 out of 100 ($103 per year)

Excellent customer service is important for renters looking for insurance because it ensures a smooth and supportive experience, especially when making a claim. For instance, when you file a claim, excellent customer service means you receive timely assistance and clear communication, making the process less stressful. MoneyGeek scores renters insurance providers based on customer satisfaction from J.D. Power surveys, which measure how well companies meet customer needs.

Company logo for Travelers
Best Service QualityTravelers
MoneyGeek Score:
96/ of 100

Overview

Travelers ranks first in customer satisfaction and coverages in El Cajon, California, with an average annual premium of $138. The company offers contents replacement cost and valuable items insurance. Contents replacement cost covers personal property losses based on replacement cost without depreciation, helping renters replace items at current market value. Valuable items insurance protects high-value items like jewelry and fine art, allowing renters to add higher coverage limits without requiring appraisals.

Best Renters Insurance for Service Quality in El Cajon, CA
Data filtered by:Results filtered by:
Coverage:
Coverage:$20K Personal Property
TravelersMoneyGeek Score96Annual Premium$ 138
NationwideMoneyGeek Score95Annual Premium$ 103
ChubbMoneyGeek Score93Annual Premium$ 277
State FarmMoneyGeek Score86Annual Premium$ 121
AllstateMoneyGeek Score77Annual Premium$ 96
FarmersMoneyGeek Score77Annual Premium$ 165
Capital Insurance GroupMoneyGeek Score61Annual Premium$ 88

Best Renters Insurance for High Personal Property Limits in El Cajon, CA

For renters in El Cajon, California, Nationwide offers the best option for those needing high personal property coverage, with an average annual premium of $307 for $100,000 in coverage. For this level of coverage, the top two providers in El Cajon are:

  • Nationwide: MoneyGeek score of 94 out of 100 ($307 per year)
  • Travelers: MoneyGeek score of 93 out of 100 ($351 per year)

High personal property coverage means insurance for your belongings up to a substantial amount, usually $100,000. Renters with numerous valuable possessions often require higher personal property coverage. This coverage protects the items you own items in case of damage or theft.

However, more coverage typically means a higher premium. It's vital to select a provider that offers a balance of affordability and quality service, especially when you have many belongings. Note that high-value items like jewelry or artwork may not be fully covered under standard policies and might need additional coverage.

Company logo for Nationwide
Best High Personal Property LimitNationwide
MoneyGeek Score:
94/ of 100

Overview

Nationwide ranks first in affordability and customer satisfaction for renters with expensive homes in El Cajon, offering an average annual premium of $307. It provides coverage for credit card forgery, protecting you against unauthorized transactions on your credit cards and bank debit cards. It also offers coverage for back-up of sewer or drain, safeguarding your property against losses caused by backed-up sewers or drains.

Best Renters Insurance for High Personal Property Limits in El Cajon, CA
NationwideMoneyGeek Score94Annual Premium$ 307
TravelersMoneyGeek Score93Annual Premium$ 351
State FarmMoneyGeek Score92Annual Premium$ 318
AllstateMoneyGeek Score89Annual Premium$ 291
Capital Insurance GroupMoneyGeek Score82Annual Premium$ 270
FarmersMoneyGeek Score81Annual Premium$ 423
ChubbMoneyGeek Score61Annual Premium$ 872
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SCHEDULED PERSONAL PROPERTY COVERAGE

If you have valuable items like jewelry or art, note that standard insurance policies often don't cover them. Consider a provider offering scheduled personal property coverage to protect your valuables.

Best Renters Insurance for Military Families in El Cajon, CA

In El Cajon, USAA is the top renters insurance company for those with military backgrounds, with an average annual premium of $82. The following providers are the top two best in El Cajon for military members for a policy with $20,000 in personal property coverage:

  • USAA: MoneyGeek score of 100 out of 100 ($82 per year)
  • Nationwide: MoneyGeek score of 94 out of 100 ($103 per year)

USAA offers various products tailored to those with a military background, providing discounts and coverages that suit the military lifestyle. It is the cheapest option for military members in El Cajon.

Company logo for USAA
Best for MilitaryUSAA
MoneyGeek Score:
100/ of 100

Overview

USAA is the premier renters insurance provider for those with a military background in El Cajon. It leads in customer satisfaction and offers the most comprehensive coverage. It's affordable and reliable, with an average annual premium of $82. It provides contents replacement cost discount, which ensures full replacement value for items. Worldwide personal property discount gives global protection for personal belongings. Both discounts are crucial for military renters who may experience frequent relocations or deployments.

Best Renters Insurance for Military in El Cajon, CA
Data filtered by:Results filtered by:
Coverage:
Coverage:$20K Personal Property
USAAMoneyGeek Score100Annual Premium$ 82
NationwideMoneyGeek Score94Annual Premium$ 103
State FarmMoneyGeek Score89Annual Premium$ 121
AllstateMoneyGeek Score89Annual Premium$ 96
TravelersMoneyGeek Score88Annual Premium$ 138
Capital Insurance GroupMoneyGeek Score82Annual Premium$ 88
FarmersMoneyGeek Score75Annual Premium$ 165
ChubbMoneyGeek Score61Annual Premium$ 277

Average Cost of Renters Insurance in El Cajon, CA

The average cost of renters insurance in El Cajon, California, is $141 annually or $12 per month. This rate is lower than the California state average of $148 annually and the national average of $145 annually. These rates are based on a renters insurance policy with $20,000 in personal property limits, $100,000 in liability limits and a $1,000 deductible.

Remember that the average cost of renters insurance in El Cajon may vary greatly depending on the amount of personal property coverage purchased. Personal property coverage protects your belongings in case of theft, damage or loss. Use the calculator below to see how much coverage you need based on the value of your personal property.

Personal Property Coverage Calculator

When figuring out how much renters insurance you need, experts recommend the standard $100,000 in liability insurance and enough personal property protection to cover your possessions. Use MoneyGeek's calculator to estimate the value of your possessions so you know how much personal property coverage to buy.

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Factors That Impact Renters Insurance Costs in El Cajon

The cost of renters insurance in El Cajon, California, is influenced by multiple factors, including the location of the rental property and the amount of coverage desired. Understanding these variables is key to finding a policy that fits your budget and needs.

  • Location: The area where you live can affect your premium due to crime rates and weather-related risks.
  • Coverage Amount: Opting for higher coverage limits will increase your insurance costs.
  • Deductible: Choosing a higher deductible can lower your monthly premium, but you'll pay more out of pocket in case of a claim.
  • Claims History: Renters with a history of claims may face higher premiums due to a higher perceived risk by insurance companies.
  • Credit Score: Insurance companies may factor in your credit history when determining your premium, with better credit records often leading to lower costs.

What Renters Insurance Covers in El Cajon, CA

Renters insurance covers personal property, liability and additional living expenses. It protects against theft, fire and other perils. Purchasing renters insurance provides financial security and ensures you are protected from unexpected events. Here’s a closer look at what renters insurance covers:

  • Personal Property Coverage: This covers your belongings in case of theft, fire or other covered events. For example, if a wildfire damages your apartment in California, your renters insurance can help replace your lost items.
  • Personal Liability Coverage: This protects you if someone is injured in your rental or if you accidentally damage someone else's property. For instance, if a guest slips and falls in your California apartment, this coverage can help with medical expenses and legal fees.
  • Loss of Use Coverage: This helps pay for additional living expenses if your rental becomes uninhabitable due to a covered event. For example, if an earthquake makes your California apartment unlivable, loss of use coverage can help cover the cost of temporary housing.
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COMMONLY COVERED PERILS

Renters insurance only covers specific circumstances, such as fire and theft. It's important to understand what circumstances are covered to avoid unexpected costs. Below is a list of situations typically covered by renters insurance:

  • Fire
  • Theft
  • Vandalism
  • Certain natural disasters
  • Water damage (excluding floods)
  • Personal liability
  • Additional living expenses

What Renters Insurance Does Not Cover in El Cajon

Renters insurance in El Cajon does not cover everything; for instance, it typically excludes natural disasters and high-value items. Understanding these exclusions is crucial for renters.

  • Natural Disasters: Renters insurance usually does not cover damages from earthquakes and floods.
  • High-Value Items: Items like expensive jewelry often have limited coverage.
  • Pest Infestations: Damages from pests such as bed bugs or rodents are typically not covered.
  • Roommate's Belongings: Policies usually do not cover items owned by roommates unless specified.
  • Business Equipment: Equipment used for business may not be covered under standard renters insurance.

FAQ: Renters Insurance in El Cajon, CA

The best renters insurance provider in El Cajon, California, depends on your unique needs. We answered the frequently asked questions to help you make an informed decision.

How much is renters insurance in El Cajon, California, on average?
What is the cheapest renters insurance company in El Cajon, California?
What is the best renters insurance company in El Cajon, California?
Do I need renters insurance in El Cajon, California?

About Mark Fitzpatrick


Mark Fitzpatrick headshot

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.