South San Francisco drivers can compare car insurance quotes from multiple California carriers, and local vehicle theft runs well below the state average.
How Much Does Car Insurance Cost in South San Francisco?
Theft here is low, at about 1.6 vehicles per thousand people compared with 3.2 statewide, which can help keep one part of your risk profile modest. Under Prop 103, though, your driving record, annual mileage and years of experience count most, so your own history matters more than your ZIP code of 94080.
| Factor | South San Francisco | California |
|---|---|---|
| Average commute | 27 min | 29 min |
| Homes with 2+ cars | 65% | 63% |
| Car thefts per 1,000 | 1.6 | 3.2 |
| ZIP codes | 1 |
Why South San Francisco Drivers Compare Quotes With A1
Each carrier weighs those factors differently, so the same driver can see different prices from company to company. A1 is not tied to any single insurer; it compares several California carriers and the quote is free.
About South San Francisco, California
South San Francisco is an incorporated city of about 64,500 people in San Mateo County, covering roughly 9 square miles. It sits only about 16 feet above sea level on the San Francisco Bay Area side of the peninsula. Brisbane is just a mile away, and San Bruno, Millbrae and Colma are each about 4 miles off.
- County
- San Mateo County
- Population
- 64,487 (Census est.)
- Major routes
- I-380, US-101
Driving in South San Francisco: What to Know
The average commute is about 27 minutes, a little shorter than the state average of 29. Only about 60% of workers drive alone, compared with 67% statewide, and about 9% take public transit. I-380 and US-101 run through or near the city, so highway miles can add up quickly if you commute. About 17% work from home, which may lower your annual mileage and is worth mentioning when you get a quote.
State highways through or near South San Francisco:
Sources: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey 2019โ2023; California DOJ OpenJustice (2025); Caltrans State Highway Network.
DMV Office and Traffic Court for South San Francisco
The nearest DMV office is Daly City DMV at 1500 Sullivan Avenue, Daly City, CA 94015, about 6 miles away.
Nearest DMV: Daly City
1500 Sullivan Avenue, Daly City, CA 94015
About 5.8 miles from South San Francisco
California Car Insurance Rules for South San Francisco Drivers
California's minimum liability limits are 30/60/15, which means $30,000 per person and $60,000 per accident for injury, 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 and gender can't be used to set your rate.
Guides: Minimum coverage ยท Discounts ยท SR-22 and high-risk ยท Driving uninsured ยท How rates are set
South San Francisco ZIP Codes and Nearby Areas
ZIP codes in South San Francisco:
Nearby cities and communities:
More About South San Francisco
Wedged between San Francisco Bay and the hills of the Peninsula, South San Francisco is a working city with a proud industrial past and big views to match. Hereโs what locals love:
- The hillside sign. Giant white letters on Sign Hill spell out "The Industrial City," a landmark since the 1920s. Hike the trails up top for sweeping views of the bay and the Peninsula.
- Birthplace of biotech. Genentech was founded here in 1976, and the city is still one of the world's biggest biotech hubs, with lab campuses all along the eastern waterfront.
- Oyster Point. The marina and fishing pier are great for watching boats and planes, and the Bay Trail makes an easy waterfront walk or bike ride.
- Downtown on Grand Avenue. A walkable main street lined with family-run restaurants, bakeries and shops that give the city its small-town feel.
South San Francisco Car Insurance FAQ
Does low car theft in South San Francisco mean cheaper insurance?
It can help a little, since local theft is about 1.6 per thousand people against 3.2 statewide. Your driving record, mileage and experience still count most under Prop 103.
Will working from home lower my car insurance?
It might, because insurers weigh annual mileage heavily. About 17% of workers here work from home, so tell your broker how much you actually drive.
Do I need comprehensive coverage in South San Francisco?
Comprehensive pays for theft, fire, flood and vandalism, while liability-only does not cover your own car. Theft is lower here than the state average, but about 65% of households have two or more vehicles, so many drivers still have cars worth protecting.