We looked at average costs, customer service ratings, and policy options from multiple top insurers to find the best and cheapest home insurance companies in San Diego.
By
Pat HowardPat HowardManaging Editor & Licensed Home Insurance ExpertPat Howard is a licensed insurance expert and former managing editor at Policygenius. Pat has written extensively about the home insurance industry and his insights as a subject matter expert have appeared in several top tier publications, including The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, CNBC, and Reuters. Pat has a bachelor's degree in journalism from Michigan State University.
Edited by
Jennifer GimbelJennifer GimbelSenior Managing Editor & Home Insurance ExpertJennifer Gimbel is a senior managing editor at Policygenius, where she oversees all of our insurance coverage. Previously, she was the managing editor at Finder.com and a content strategist at Babble.com.
Expert reviewedExpert reviewedThis article has been reviewed by a member of ourFinancial Review Council to ensure all sources, statistics, and claims meet the highest standard for accurate and unbiased advice.Learn more about oureditorial review process.
In San Diego, the average annual home insurance premium is $1,333 per year for $300,000 in dwelling coverage, according to our latest insurance pricing analysis.
However, you could very well see an increase in rates this year due to many California carriers no longer insuring homes in certain parts of the state or leaving the state's home insurance market altogether.
Compare home insurance rates in San Diego
Our picks for the best homeowners insurance companies reflect the state of home insurance in California right now, so carriers with limited availability or writing capacity were not considered in this guide.
Compare the best cheap homeowners insurance companies in San Diego
Based on our findings, Nationwide, Farmers, Travelers, AAA, and Bamboo are the best homeowners insurance companies in San Diego.
To find the best cheap homeowners insurance in San Diego, we reviewed over a dozen of the largest insurance companies in the state and chose the five with the highest overall Policygenius rating.
Our ratings are based on each company's financial strength and customer service ratings, the number and quality of available coverage, and average policy premiums in 37 San Diego ZIP codes.
Our proprietary rating methodology takes multiple factors into account, including customer satisfaction, cost, financial strength, and policy offerings. See the "methodology" section for more details.
4.5
AM Best rating
AM Best is a global credit rating agency that scores the financial strength of insurance companies on a scale from A++ (Superior) to D (Poor).
A+
Cost
Using a mix of internal and external rate data, we grade the cost of each insurance company's premiums on a scale from least expensive ($) to most expensive ($$$$$).
$
$
$
$
$
Bundle home & auto
Mobile app
New homebuyer discount
Offers extended replacement cost
Why we chose it
Nationwide home insurance features an extensive range of comprehensive coverage and policy options. It also received high marks for claims satisfaction with J.D. Power, indicating you can rely on Nationwide when it matters most.
Pros and cons
Pros
Multiple high-quality coverage options
Highly rated for claims satisfaction with J.D. Power
Cons
Below-average customer satisfaction and digital experience ratings
Won’t cover Airbnbs or other short-term rentals
More details
Why we chose Nationwide
Nationwide is known for it's robust policy options and large selection of coverage add-ons, such as flood coverage and options to rebuild your roof with stronger materials after a covered loss, making Nationwide a smart choice if you live in an area of San Diego at risk of wildfires or windstorms. Nationwide's average home insurance rate of $86 per month is also among the cheapest of any company in San Diego, and it has several available discount options to boot.
How do Nationwide home insurance rates compare to the San Diego average?
The average cost of Nationwide home insurance in San Diego is $1,032 per year, which is around 23% lower than the average average annual premium in San Diego of $1,333.
Our proprietary rating methodology takes multiple factors into account, including customer satisfaction, cost, financial strength, and policy offerings. See the "methodology" section for more details.
4.5
AM Best rating
AM Best is a global credit rating agency that scores the financial strength of insurance companies on a scale from A++ (Superior) to D (Poor).
A
Cost
Using a mix of internal and external rate data, we grade the cost of each insurance company's premiums on a scale from least expensive ($) to most expensive ($$$$$).
$
$
$
$
$
Offers extended replacement cost
Bundle home & auto
Smart home discounts
Why we chose it
Along with saving around 20% when you bundle your home and car insurance, Farmers also gives you access to its extensive suite of discounts, unique policy credits, and claim-free incentives that help put money back in your pocket.
Pros and cons
Pros
12+ discounts to save on rates
Optional extended or guaranteed replacement cost dwelling coverage
Shave $50 off your deductible each year you’re with Farmers
Cons
Below-average scores on J.D. Power’s overall customer satisfaction and digital experience surveys
More details
Why we chose Farmers
Depending on your state of residence, you can save up to 45% on your auto insurance and up to 34% on your home insurance when you bundle policies with Farmers, according to the company website.
Even more, Farmers has up to 16 additional discounts and money-saving policy perks. For context, Farmers competitors offer an average of around seven discounts total.
How do Farmers home insurance rates compare to the San Diego average?
The average cost of Farmers home insurance in San Diego is $1,429 per year, which is around 7% higher than the average annual premium in San Diego of $1,333.
Our proprietary rating methodology takes multiple factors into account, including customer satisfaction, cost, financial strength, and policy offerings. See the "methodology" section for more details.
4.4
AM Best rating
AM Best is a global credit rating agency that scores the financial strength of insurance companies on a scale from A++ (Superior) to D (Poor).
A++
Cost
Using a mix of internal and external rate data, we grade the cost of each insurance company's premiums on a scale from least expensive ($) to most expensive ($$$$$).
$
$
$
$
$
Bundle home & auto
New homebuyer discount
Mobile app
Offers extended replacement cost
Offers flood insurance
Why we chose it
Travelers offers the best cheap home insurance in California thanks to an average annual premium that's 17% below the statewide average, industry-best financial ratings, and flexible policy options for most home types and budgets.
Pros and cons
Pros
Green home coverage and discounts
Offers short-term rental coverage for Airbnb hosts
Doesn’t require prior insurance on the home
Cons
Subpar customer service ratings with J.D. Power
Underwhelming number of available discounts
More details
Why we chose Travelers
Travelers is a reputable home insurance provider that offers comprehensive policy options at relatively cheap prices. Another benefit of choosing Travelers is its underwriting flexibility, meaning its willingness to provide coverage for risks that other insurance companies won't cover. These risks include homes with no prior insurance coverage, coverage for short term rentals, and liability protection for trampoline injuries if its fitted with protective netting.
How do Travelers home insurance rates compare to the San Diego average?
The average cost of Travelers home insurance in San Diego is $973 per year, which is around 27% cheaper than the average annual premium in San Diego of $1,333.
Our proprietary rating methodology takes multiple factors into account, including customer satisfaction, cost, financial strength, and policy offerings. See the "methodology" section for more details.
4.3
AM Best rating
AM Best is a global credit rating agency that scores the financial strength of insurance companies on a scale from A++ (Superior) to D (Poor).
A
Cost
Using a mix of internal and external rate data, we grade the cost of each insurance company's premiums on a scale from least expensive ($) to most expensive ($$$$$).
$
$
$
$
$
New homebuyer discount
Mobile app
Bundle home & auto
All 50 states
Offers earthquake insurance
Offers flood insurance
Offers extended replacement cost
Why we chose it
Automobile Club of Southern California (AAA) lands the top spot for customer service thanks to its 4th place finish in J.D. Power's 2022 U.S. Home Insurance Study, placing ahead of other insurance carriers in California.
Pros and cons
Pros
Affordable rates, plus 15+ home insurance discounts available
20+ policy coverages and add-ons — including flood and earthquake insurance
Slew of other perks and discounts that come with AAA membership
Cons
AAA membership required to purchase home insurance
Coverages, discounts, and claims experience will vary by the regional AAA auto club you receive insurance through
Below-average customer satisfaction scores — and 4 times more NAIC complaints than similar home insurance companies
More details
Why we chose AAA
AAA placed 4th out of 20 companies in J.D. Power's 2022 home insurance customer satisfaction study, placing ahead of every other California insurer we reviewed. The study takes into account customer interaction, billing process, pricing, policy information, and claims.
How do AAA home insurance rates compare to the San Diego average?
The average cost of AAA home insurance in San Diego is $985 per year, which is around 38% cheaper than the average annual premium in San Diego of $1,333.
How to get a quote
Online or by calling AAA. Keep in mind that membership is required to get a home or auto insurance quote AAA.
Our proprietary rating methodology takes multiple factors into account, including customer satisfaction, cost, financial strength, and policy offerings. See the "methodology" section for more details.
3.4
AM Best rating
AM Best is a global credit rating agency that scores the financial strength of insurance companies on a scale from A++ (Superior) to D (Poor).
NA
Cost
Using a mix of internal and external rate data, we grade the cost of each insurance company's premiums on a scale from least expensive ($) to most expensive ($$$$$).
NA
Why we chose it
Bamboo is an excellent option for California and Arizona homeowners who’ve struggled to find home insurance elsewhere. It’s one of the few home insurers still writing policies in the Golden State — many have pulled out due to the high risk of wildfires.
Pros and cons
Pros
Available in high-risk areas of California
Offers coverage for regular homes, vacant properties, rentals, and vacation homes
Cons
Not included in the NAIC complaint index, meaning we weren’t able to rate Bamboo on customer service
Policy cost information not available as of Feb. 2024
More details
Why we chose Bamboo Insurance
Bamboo Insurance is one of the few home insurance providers still writing policies in high-risk areas of California, with many insurers having pulled back coverage in recent years due to record wildfire losses.
While somewhat of an unknown, Bamboo currently holds down an excellent "A" rating with AM Best for financial strength and stability, indicating you won’t have to worry about Bamboo not being able to pay out claims in the event of a disaster.
Policygenius has analyzed home insurance rates provided by Quadrant Information Services in March 2022 for ZIP codes in all 50 states plus Washington, D.C., for a 40-year-old female homeowner with no claim history, good credit, a $1,000 deductible, and the following coverage limits:
Dwelling: $300,000
Other structures: $30,000
Personal property: $150,000
Loss of use: $60,000
Liability: $300,000
Medical: $1,000
All rates based on the above coverage limits except where otherwise noted.
Some carriers may be represented by affiliates or subsidiaries. Rates provided are a sample of costs. Your actual quotes may differ.
Compare home insurance rates in San Diego
How much is homeowners insurance in San Diego?
The average cost of homeowners insurance in San Diego is $1,333 per year, or $111 per month, according to our analysis of quoted premiums in every ZIP code in the city.
This makes home insurance in San Diego around 4% cheaper than the California state average of $1,383 per year, and almost 24% less pricey than the national annual average of $1,754.
San Diego home insurance rates by ZIP code
Home insurance rates can vary substantially depending on which ZIP code your home is located in, as homes in certain San Diego areas may be more prone to wildfire damage or break-ins than others.
To help you find out how much home insurance costs where you live, we calculated average home insurance rates for the 10 most highly populated ZIP codes in San Diego.
ZIP code
Average annual cost
Difference from state average (%)
92154
$1,294
-6%
92126
$1,340
-3%
92105
$1,296
-6%
92114
$1,345
-3%
92115
$1,314
-5%
92130
$1,371
-1%
92117
$1,322
-4%
92129
$1,389
0%
92113
$1,305
-6%
92127
$1,372
-1%
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Cheapest ZIP codes for home insurance in San Diego
With an average home insurance rate of $1,284 per year, the 92104 ZIP code (North Park), is the most affordable area for home insurance in San Diego. The median home price in the 92104 Zip code is $896,339. And while the area has seen a 23% increase in home values over the last year, its home insurance rates are some of the cheapest in San Diego.
ZIP code
Average annual cost
Difference from state average (%)
92104
$1,284
-7%
92110
$1,288
-7%
92103
$1,289
-7%
92109
$1,291
-7%
92154
$1,294
-6%
92106
$1,295
-6%
92139
$1,295
-6%
92105
$1,296
-6%
92108
$1,300
-6%
92102
$1,303
-6%
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Most expensive areas for homeowners insurance in San Diego
With an average home insurance rate of $1,434, the 92199 ZIP code (Rancho Penasquitos) is the most expensive area for home insurance in San Diego.
Dwelling coverage is the foundation of every homeowners insurance policy, covering the cost to repair or rebuild your home after a covered disaster. Your dwelling coverage limit should be equal to your home's replacement cost, which is the total cost to rebuild it from the ground up.
As shown in the table below, the higher your dwelling coverage limits, the more you'll pay for home insurance.
Dwelling coverage limit
Average annual cost
$100,000
$534
$200,000
$1,003
$300,000
$1,333
$400,000
$1,655
$500,000
$1,995
San Diego home insurance costs by deductible amount
Your home insurance deductible is the amount you’re responsible for paying on each claim before insurance helps cover the remainder of the loss.
As shown in the table below, San Diego residents can save over $500 on home insurance per year by choosing a $2,000 deductible over a $500 one.
Deductible
Average annual cost
$500
$1,523
$1,000
$1,214
$2,000
$973
Cheapest homeowners insurance companies in San Diego
Based on our analysis, USAA, AAA, Allstate, Mercury, and Pacific Specialtyare the five cheapest home insurance companies in San Diego, with average citywide premiums ranging from $810 to $949 per year.
Cheapest home insurance in San Diego if you have an older home
Insurance carriers consider older homes to have a higher risk of damage or loss compared to newer homes since they're constructed with older and more difficult to replace materials. Additionally, certain structural components in older homes, like the roof or plumbing systems, may not be up to code.
Looking at average quotes for a 50-year-old home, Mercury is the cheapest home insurance option for San Diego homeowners, while Pure Insurance is the most expensive.
Company
Average annual cost
Mercury
$810
AAA
$820
USAA
$879
Allstate
$886
Pacific Specialty Insurance
$911
Travelers
$927
National General
$991
Nationwide
$997
CSAA
$1,003
State Farm
$1,303
AIG
$1,317
Farmers
$1,429
Chubb
$1,830
The Hartford
$2,529
Pure Insurance
$3,386
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Cheapest homeowners insurance in San Diego if you have a history of claims
Your claims history is one of the biggest factors insurers will consider when determining home insurance premiums.
If you've file one or multiple claims in the last five years, insurers will likely consider you to be more of a risk for future claims compared to if you had none on your record. And they'll likely charge you higher rates as a result.
According to our analysis, homeowners with three claims within a five-year period will likely find Pacific Specialty to be their cheapest option, while Pure Insurance is among the priciest.
Company
Average annual cost
Pacific Specialty Insurance
$949
AAA
$985
National General
$1,010
CSAA
$1,301
USAA
$1,302
State Farm
$1,336
Allstate
$1,369
AIG
$1,774
Mercury
$2,192
Nationwide
$2,511
Farmers
$2,682
Travelers
$3,135
Chubb
$3,529
Pure Insurance
$5,650
The Hartford
$7,488
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Cheapest home insurance bundling discounts in San Diego
Most home insurance providers sell other types of insurance, too — such as auto, renters, and boat insurance — and often offer generous multi-policy discounts and perks if you use them for all of your insurance needs.
Based on our analysis, Travelers has the lowest average premiums when you bundle your home and car insurance, while Pure's are the most expensive.
Company
Average annual cost
Travelers
$773
Allstate
$806
AAA
$866
CSAA
$895
USAA
$915
Mercury
$919
National General
$1,008
Pacific Specialty
$1,044
State Farm
$1,072
Nationwide
$1,129
Farmers
$1,167
AIG
$1,232
Chubb
$1,766
The Hartford
$1,933
Pure Insurance
$2,980
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How to get homeowners insurance quotes in San Diego
Now that you're familiar with the best and cheapest home insurance options available in San Diego, it's time to start shopping for homeowners insurance. Here are some things you should keep in mind as you compare home insurance quotes in San Diego.
5 simple steps to buying home insurance in San Diego
Shop with an independent insurance marketplace like Policygenius. Our team of licensed insurance experts are at the ready to help you figure out how much coverage you need and what company offers it at the best price — all for free with no impact to your credit score.
Ask about the California FAIR Plan. San Diego is considered to be at very high risk for wildfires by FEMA. If your not able to find home or fire insurance, ask your Policygenius agent about purchasing coverage through the California FAIR Plan.
Compare quotes. Once you’ve identified your coverage needs, a Policygenius agent will send over quotes from top companies so you can review your options.
Figure out how high of a deductible you can afford. A higher deductible means you’ll pay a lower home insurance premium, but it also means you'll have pay more out of pocket on each claim.
Choose your policy, sign it, and pay your first premium. Once you choose a policy, all you need to do is sign on the dotted line and pay your first premium. We’ll cancel your old policy on your behalf if it hasn't expired yet.
Homeowners insurance in San Diego costs an average of $1,333 per year or $111 a month.
Why are home insurance rates going up in California?
As home-threatening wildfires become more common and severe in California, homeowners may see their rates continue to increase. A good way to keep homeowners insurance costs down is to re-shop your insurance every year to make sure you aren’t missing out on a better deal elsewhere. A Policygenius agent can help you compare quotes from multiple insurers at once, all for free.
What’s the cheapest homeowners insurance in San Diego?
USAA has some of the cheapest rates on our list for San Diego homeowners, with home insurance costing an average of $810 per year. Allstate is also pretty affordable, with an average rate of $882 per year. Keep in mind that homeowners insurance rates vary according to how much coverage you need, your home’s location, age, build, and more.
Pat Howard is a licensed insurance expert and former managing editor at Policygenius. Pat has written extensively about the home insurance industry and his insights as a subject matter expert have appeared in several top tier publications, including The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, CNBC, and Reuters. Pat has a bachelor's degree in journalism from Michigan State University.
Jennifer Gimbel is a senior managing editor at Policygenius, where she oversees all of our insurance coverage. Previously, she was the managing editor at Finder.com and a content strategist at Babble.com.