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Renters insurance · rank #13 of 50 · July 2026

Average renters insurance cost in California

California sits in the affordable half of the country at #13 of 50, about 17% below the national average of $23 a month.

Average monthly rate$19 -17% vs US avg
Average annual cost$228
Benchmark coverage~$30K property
U.S. average$23/mo
California vs U.S. average$48/yr
Cost rank (1 = cheapest)#13 / 50
Paying more than the California average?

The single most reliable way to cut your premium is comparing quotes — carriers price the same coverage very differently — State Farm averages $14/month while others charge $24+ for comparable policies.

Compare renters insurance quotes

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How California compares with its neighbors

StateMonthly rateDifference vs CA
California$19
Oregon$21+$2/mo
Nevada$22+$3/mo
Arizona$27+$8/mo

California renters insurance FAQ

How much is renters insurance in California?

Renters insurance in California averages $19 per month — about $228 per year — for a typical policy with roughly $30,000 in personal property coverage and $100,000 in liability. Your exact rate depends on your coverage limits, deductible, claims history and, in most states, your credit-based insurance score.

Is renters insurance required in California?

No state law requires renters insurance in California — but landlords can and frequently do require it as a lease condition. Even when it's optional, going without it means one apartment fire or burglary could cost you everything you own, against a premium of roughly $19 a month.

How can I pay less than $19/month in California?

Three moves reliably beat the state average: bundle renters with your auto policy (typically the single biggest discount), raise your deductible from $250 to $1,000 if you can absorb it, and compare quotes — carrier pricing for identical coverage varies widely, with the cheapest national carriers averaging around $14/month.

Paying more than the California average?

The single most reliable way to cut your premium is comparing quotes — carriers price the same coverage very differently — State Farm averages $14/month while others charge $24+ for comparable policies.

Compare renters insurance quotes

We may earn a commission if you request quotes through this link. It costs you nothing and never affects the data we publish.