Albany drivers can compare car insurance quotes from multiple California carriers, and with a low local theft rate, it pays to see what your record is worth.
How Much Does Car Insurance Cost in Albany?
Albany's vehicle theft rate was about 1.9 per thousand people in 2025, well below the state average of 3.2, which can help keep comprehensive costs in check. Under Prop 103, your driving record, annual mileage and years of experience count most, and a one-ZIP city like 94706 means ZIP code is a shared factor for nearly everyone here.
| Factor | Albany | California |
|---|---|---|
| Average commute | 33 min | 29 min |
| Homes with 2+ cars | 46% | 63% |
| Car thefts per 1,000 | 1.9 | 3.2 |
| ZIP codes | 1 |
Why Albany Drivers Compare Quotes With A1
Each carrier weighs the same driver differently, so the quote you get in Albany can vary quite a bit from one company to the next. A1 is an independent broker that compares quotes from multiple California carriers, so you can see the options in one place.
About Albany, California
Albany is a small incorporated city of about 20,000 people in Alameda County, packed into just 1.8 square miles. It sits about 43 feet above sea level in the San Francisco Bay Area. Berkeley, Kensington and El Cerrito are all roughly 2 miles away.
- County
- Alameda County
- Population
- 19,768 (Census est.)
- Major routes
- I-80, I-580, SR-123
Driving in Albany: What to Know
The average commute here is about 33 minutes, longer than the state average of 29. Only about 37% of workers drive alone, compared with 67% statewide, and about a third work from home. That means many households may drive fewer miles, which matters because annual mileage is a major rating factor. I-80, I-580 and SR-123 run through or near town, so tell your broker honestly how often you use them.
State highways through or near Albany:
Sources: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey 2019–2023; California DOJ OpenJustice (2025); Caltrans State Highway Network.
DMV Office and Traffic Court for Albany
The nearest DMV office is El Cerrito DMV at 6400 Manila Avenue in El Cerrito, about 2 miles away.
Nearest DMV: El Cerrito
6400 Manila Avenue, El Cerrito, CA 94530
About 1.8 miles from Albany
California Car Insurance Rules for Albany Drivers
California's minimum liability limits are 30/60/15, but they will not cover your own car, so comprehensive is worth considering for theft, fire, flood and vandalism. Drivers with a clean record can qualify for a Good Driver Discount of at least 20%, and credit scores and gender can't be used to set your rate.
Guides: Minimum coverage · Discounts · SR-22 and high-risk · Driving uninsured · How rates are set
Albany ZIP Codes and Nearby Areas
ZIP codes in Albany:
Nearby cities and communities:
More About Albany
Albany is a small, tight-knit city on the east shore of San Francisco Bay, tucked between Berkeley and El Cerrito, with big bay views packed into a walkable footprint. Some highlights:
- The Albany Bulb. This former landfill turned shoreline park is covered in quirky sculptures and driftwood art. Dogs run free, and the views of the Golden Gate and San Francisco skyline are hard to beat.
- Solano Avenue. Albany's main street is lined with neighborhood restaurants, bakeries and independent shops. Every September it hosts the Solano Stroll, a big street fair shared with Berkeley.
- Albany Hill. A wooded hill rising above town, with eucalyptus groves, short trails and lookout spots. It's a quick escape for a sunset walk without leaving the neighborhood.
- The Ohlone Greenway. A paved path that runs through Albany and links up with neighboring cities, popular with walkers, cyclists and families heading to parks and cafes.
Albany Car Insurance FAQ
Does working from home lower my car insurance in Albany?
It can, if it cuts the miles you drive each year, since mileage is one of the top rating factors under Prop 103. About a third of Albany workers work from home, so many drivers here may have a lower mileage to report.
Should Albany drivers add theft protection to their policy?
Albany police logged 37 vehicle thefts in 2025, about 1.9 per thousand people. That is below the state average of 3.2, though comprehensive coverage is still what pays if your car is stolen.
Do I need an SR-22 in Albany after a DUI?
Yes, an SR-22 is a form your insurer files with the DMV after a DUI, driving uninsured or a suspension. A1 can compare quotes from multiple carriers, so you can see which ones will work with your situation.