Cheap Car Insurance In LA
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Los Angeles auto insurance rates are higher than the national average, but smart shoppers can still get cheap car insurance in LA. The average cost of a full-coverage LA auto insurance policy is $4,065 per month or $339 per month. This is much more than the average nationwide rate of $2,700. The good news is that by taking a strategic approach, it’s still possible to get cheap LA car insurance.
Why Car Insurance Is Expensive in LA
Los Angeles drivers typically face higher-than-average car insurance rates. Here’s why:
- High Traffic Density: LA is notorious for heavy traffic, which increases the likelihood of accidents.
- Vehicle Theft Rates: Certain areas in LA experience elevated auto theft and vandalism.
- Litigation and Claims Frequency: A high number of claims and lawsuits leads insurers to raise premiums.
- Minimum Coverage Requirements: California mandates specific insurance levels that can still leave drivers underinsured.
These factors contribute to LA being among the most expensive cities in California for car insurance.
Minimum Car Insurance Requirements in Los Angeles
In California, drivers are required to carry at least:
- $15,000 for injury/death to one person
- $30,000 for injury/death to more than one person
- $5,000 for property damage
While these are the legal minimums, they may not provide sufficient coverage in serious accidents. Many drivers in LA choose to purchase more than the minimum to protect themselves against lawsuits and extensive damage.
| Coverage Type | Minimum Required | Recommended in LA |
| Bodily Injury (per person) | $15,000 | $50,000+ |
| Bodily Injury (per accident) | $30,000 | $100,000+ |
| Property Damage | $5,000 | $25,000+ |
How to Find Cheap Car Insurance in LA
- Compare Multiple Quotes: Don’t settle for the first offer. Use online comparison tools and get quotes directly from insurers to find the best deal.
- Adjust Your Coverage: If you drive an older vehicle, you might not need comprehensive or collision coverage. Customize your policy to match your actual needs.
- Bundle Policies: Many insurers offer discounts when you bundle auto insurance with renters or homeowners insurance.
- Opt for Usage-Based Insurance: Programs like Progressive’s Snapshot or State Farm’s Drive Safe & Save reward safe, low-mileage drivers with lower rates.
- Pay in Full or Choose Paperless Billing: Save on administrative fees and earn additional discounts by paying your premium upfront or enrolling in paperless billing.
10 Cheapest Car Insurance Companies in Los Angeles
We compared quotes from various providers to bring you a list of some of the most affordable options in LA:
Top 10 Car Insurance Companies in Los Angeles (Average Monthly Rates)
- Wawanesa Insurance
Average Monthly Rate: $87
Great for safe drivers and low-mileage users. - GEICO
Average Monthly Rate: $97
Known for competitive rates and online tools. - Mercury Insurance
Average Monthly Rate: $112
Offers strong local support with LA-based agents. - Progressive
Average Monthly Rate: $119
Excellent for drivers using telematics. - Infinity Auto
Average Monthly Rate: $125
Works well for high-risk drivers. - Freeway Insurance
Average Monthly Rate: $128
Known for flexible payment options. - State Farm
Average Monthly Rate: $130
Offers generous discounts for bundling. - Esurance
Average Monthly Rate: $136
Tech-savvy drivers appreciate their mobile app. - AAA SoCal
Average Monthly Rate: $139
Provides value-added services like towing and DMV help. - Farmers Insurance
Average Monthly Rate: $142
Well-known brand with many local agents.
Discounts That Can Lower Your Premium in LA
Applying for discounts is a straightforward way to bring your premium down. Here are common discounts available in Los Angeles:
| Discount Type | Average Savings |
| Good Driver | 20-25% |
| Multi-Policy (Bundling) | 10-20% |
| Low Mileage | 10-15% |
| Good Student | 15% |
| Active Military & Veterans | 10-15% |
| Anti-Theft Devices | 5% |
| Paperless Billing | 2% |
Special Programs for Low-Income Drivers in California
California offers a government-sponsored program called the California Low-Cost Auto Insurance Program (CLCA). This is aimed at providing basic liability coverage to low-income drivers.
Who Qualifies?
- Must be at least 16 years old
- Have a valid California driver’s license
- Own a vehicle valued at $25,000 or less
- Meet income eligibility requirements
Coverage Provided
- Bodily Injury Liability: $10,000 per person / $20,000 per accident
- Property Damage Liability: $3,000
It’s not full coverage, but it satisfies California’s legal requirement for liability insurance.Learn more at: www.mylowcostauto.com
Tips to Lower Your Car Insurance Premium in LA
- Increase Your Deductible
A higher deductible can lower your monthly insurance cost. - Improve Your Credit Score
Many insurers use your credit score as a factor when calculating rates. - Take a Defensive Driving Course
Completing a certified course may qualify you for a discount. - Maintain Continuous Coverage
Insurance gaps can lead to higher premiums—stay covered consistently. - Drive a Low-Risk Vehicle
Vehicles with strong safety ratings and low repair costs usually cost less to insure.
What to Watch Out For When Buying a LA Car Insurance Policy
Cheap isn’t always better. Be cautious of:
- Teaser Rates: Some companies lure you with a low rate, only to hike it after 6 months.
- Hidden Fees: Always ask about administrative or cancellation fees.
- Non-Standard Insurers: Check customer reviews and verify licensing at www.insurance.ca.gov
- Unreliable Customer Service: Cheap rates are no good if claims are hard to process.
Cheapest Car Insurance for High-Risk Drivers in LA
If you have a DUI, multiple tickets, or an accident history, your rates will be higher. Still, some insurers specialize in high-risk drivers:
- The General
- Dairyland
- Infinity Auto
- Freeway Insurance
- Acceptance Insurance
Also, you may need to file an SR-22 form to prove insurance coverage.
Neighborhood-Based Rates: Cheapest LA Auto Insurance By Zip Codes
Your ZIP code has a big impact on rates due to risk factors in your area.
| ZIP Code | Area | Average Monthly Rate |
| 90045 | Westchester | $89 |
| 91331 | Pacoima | $140 |
| 90007 | South LA (USC) | $135 |
| 90064 | Rancho Park | $98 |
| 90272 | Pacific Palisades | $97 |
Generally, safer neighborhoods with less crime and fewer accidents have lower premiums.
Best Local Insurance Agents in LA
Prefer working with someone local? Here are some well-reviewed agents:
- Freeway Insurance – Multiple locations across LA
- Cost-U-Less Insurance Center – Specializes in low-cost coverage
- A-Abana Auto Insurance – Known for bilingual agents and affordable plans
- Estrella Insurance – Serves many Spanish-speaking communities
Real LA Car Insurance Customer Reviews and Testimonials
“I switched from Mercury to Wawanesa and saved over $600 a year. The online process was super easy.”
— Diana P., Los Feliz
“Freeway Insurance helped me get SR-22 coverage after my DUI. They didn’t judge, just helped.”
— Mark L., South LA
These testimonials show that shopping around can save smart shoppers hundreds.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the cheapest car insurance in LA?
A: Wawanesa and GEICO consistently rank among the cheapest for many drivers.
Q: Can undocumented immigrants get car insurance in California?
A: Yes, as long as you have a valid California driver’s license.
Q: How much is the average car insurance per month in LA?
A: The average ranges from $90 to $150, depending on your driving history, vehicle, and ZIP code.
Q: Is liability coverage enough?
A: It meets the legal requirement, but may not protect you in a serious accident. Consider higher limits.
The Final Word On Cheap Car Insurance In LA
Finding cheap car insurance in LA requires strategy, research, and periodic quote comparison shopping. Take advantage of discounts, local programs like CLCA, and comparison tools to ensure you’re not overpaying. Whether you’re a student, a low-income driver, or someone with a less-than-perfect record, affordable coverage is within reach in Los Angeles.
Now that you know how to get cheap car insurance in LA, it’s time to compare quotes. Get your free online quote in less than five minutes and save hundreds with direct rates.