Santa Monica drivers face vehicle theft above the state average, so it pays to compare car insurance quotes from several California carriers.
How Much Does Car Insurance Cost in Santa Monica?
Santa Monica police recorded about 4 vehicle thefts per thousand residents in 2025, compared with a state average of about 3, and that can push up the cost of covering a car here. Under Prop 103, your driving record, annual mileage and years of experience count most, while your ZIP code and vehicle are optional factors.
| Factor | Santa Monica | California |
|---|---|---|
| Average commute | 26 min | 29 min |
| Homes with 2+ cars | 38% | 63% |
| Car thefts per 1,000 | 4.2 | 3.2 |
| ZIP codes | 5 |
Why Santa Monica Drivers Compare Quotes With A1
Each carrier weighs those factors differently, so the same driver can see different prices from one company to the next. A1 is independent, so it can line up quotes from several California carriers at once, free of charge.
About Santa Monica, California
Santa Monica is an incorporated city in Los Angeles County with about 91,500 residents spread over roughly 8 square miles. It sits at about 105 feet above sea level and covers ZIP codes 90401 through 90405. Marina del Rey, Los Angeles and Culver City are all within about 6 miles.
- County
- Los Angeles County
- Population
- 91,535 (Census est.)
- Major routes
- I-10, SR-1
Driving in Santa Monica: What to Know
The average commute is about 26 minutes, shorter than the state average of 29 and among the shorter ones in the county. About a third of workers work from home, roughly double the state rate, which can mean fewer miles on the road. Only about half of commuters drive alone, compared with 67% statewide. Lower mileage can help your rate, but with theft running above average, comprehensive coverage is worth a look.
State highways through or near Santa Monica:
Sources: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey 2019–2023; California DOJ OpenJustice (2025); Caltrans State Highway Network.
DMV Office and Traffic Court for Santa Monica
The nearest DMV office is Santa Monica DMV at 2235 Colorado Ave., about 1.8 miles away.
Nearest DMV: Santa Monica
2235 Colorado Ave., Santa Monica, CA 90404
About 1.8 miles from Santa Monica
California Car Insurance Rules for Santa Monica Drivers
California's minimum liability limits are 30/60/15, which covers $30,000 per person and $60,000 per accident for injuries, plus $15,000 for property damage. Drivers with a clean record may qualify for a Good Driver Discount of at least 20%, and credit scores cannot be used to set your rate.
Guides: Minimum coverage · Discounts · SR-22 and high-risk · Driving uninsured · How rates are set
Santa Monica ZIP Codes and Nearby Areas
ZIP codes in Santa Monica:
Nearby cities and communities:
More About Santa Monica
Santa Monica pairs a laid-back beach-town feel with big Pacific views, and it's easy to spend a whole day without leaving the coast. Don’t miss:
- Santa Monica Pier. Open since 1909, the pier has Pacific Park's solar-powered Ferris wheel, an old-fashioned carousel and a wide sandy beach on either side.
- Third Street Promenade. This walkable, car-free stretch downtown is lined with shops, restaurants and street performers, and it's a short stroll from the beach.
- Palisades Park. A long, palm-dotted strip along the bluffs is the spot for sunset walks, with ocean views stretching up and down the coast.
- Santa Monica Farmers Market. Held several days a week downtown, it's a favorite for fresh local produce, and the Wednesday market is especially popular with area chefs.
Santa Monica Car Insurance FAQ
Does vehicle theft in Santa Monica affect my insurance?
It can. Santa Monica's theft rate of about 4 per thousand residents is above the state average of about 3, and comprehensive coverage is what pays if your car is stolen.
Can working from home lower my car insurance?
Possibly. About 33% of Santa Monica workers work from home, and annual mileage is one of the main factors insurers must weigh. Tell your broker honestly how much you drive.
Do I need a car insurance policy if my household has no vehicle?
About 11% of Santa Monica households have no vehicle, so many people here skip a policy. If you drive a car you borrow or buy, you still need at least the minimum 30/60/15 liability coverage.