Quick Answer — Home Insurance in California
Homeowners insurance in California costs about $1,348/year ($112/month) in 2026 — −62% below the U.S. average of $3,548 (MoneyGeek). California has the lowest raw statewide average of the major states, but that figure badly understates reality in fire-prone areas.
$1,348/yr
California average
$112/mo
Monthly estimate
−62%
vs US avg ($3,548)
Wildfire crisis
Main cost driver
California has the lowest raw statewide average of the major states, but that figure badly understates reality in fire-prone areas. A wildfire-driven insurance crisis has pushed major carriers to pull back, leaving many homeowners dependent on the state's FAIR Plan at far higher cost.
Estimate your own premium by home value and coverage level
Open the Home Insurance Calculator →How Much Is Homeowners Insurance in California?
| Reference | Annual | Monthly |
|---|---|---|
| California average | $1,348 | $112 |
| U.S. national average | $3,548 | $296 |
| Most expensive state (Florida) | $10,240 | $853 |
| Cheapest of the major states (California avg) | $1,348 | $112 |
Average annual premiums are MoneyGeek 2026 figures for a standardized homeowner profile. Your rate varies by dwelling value, home age, roof, ZIP code, deductible, and claims history.
Why Homeowners Insurance Is Cheaper in California
California has the lowest raw statewide average of the major states, but that figure badly understates reality in fire-prone areas. A wildfire-driven insurance crisis has pushed major carriers to pull back, leaving many homeowners dependent on the state's FAIR Plan at far higher cost.
How to Lower Your Home Insurance in California
- Use the state's 'Safer from Wildfires' framework — home-hardening and defensible space earn mandatory discounts.
- Exhaust the private market before defaulting to the FAIR Plan, and pair it with a difference-in-conditions (DIC) policy for full coverage.
- Buy earthquake coverage separately through the CEA if you need it.
- Compare at least three insurers each renewal, and bundle home with auto for a multi-policy discount.
Homeowners Insurance Cost in Other States
Home insurance is priced state by state, so costs swing widely. Compare California with other states:
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is homeowners insurance in California?
The average homeowners insurance premium in California is about $1,348 per year, or roughly $112 per month, in 2026 (MoneyGeek). That is −62% below the U.S. national average of $3,548. Your actual rate depends on your home's value, age, roof, location, and claims history.
Why is homeowners insurance cheaper in California?
California has the lowest raw statewide average of the major states, but that figure badly understates reality in fire-prone areas. A wildfire-driven insurance crisis has pushed major carriers to pull back, leaving many homeowners dependent on the state's FAIR Plan at far higher cost.
How can I lower my homeowners insurance in California?
Use the state's 'Safer from Wildfires' framework — home-hardening and defensible space earn mandatory discounts. Exhaust the private market before defaulting to the FAIR Plan, and pair it with a difference-in-conditions (DIC) policy for full coverage. Buy earthquake coverage separately through the CEA if you need it.
Is home insurance required in California?
No state legally requires homeowners insurance, but your mortgage lender will require it as a condition of the loan. If you own the home outright it is optional, though going without coverage in California is a significant financial risk given local perils.