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BiggerPockets Daily

Insurance Costs Begin to Rise in California Following the Fires

Feb 14, 2025
California is grappling with skyrocketing insurance costs due to wildfire risks. With the state’s FAIR Plan imposing a hefty assessment, premiums for many homeowners are set to soar. Companies like State Farm are pushing for emergency rate hikes, while private insurers pull back from high-risk areas. This crisis not only threatens affordability but could also jeopardize homeownership in one of the country's priciest markets.
15:29

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Quick takeaways

  • Rising insurance premiums in California, particularly post-wildfires, are exacerbating home affordability issues in an already expensive housing market.
  • Lawmakers are considering flexible rate adjustments for insurers and promoting accessory dwelling units (ADUs) to improve housing supply and affordability.

Deep dives

Rising Insurance Costs in California

California's housing market is facing significant challenges due to skyrocketing insurance premiums, particularly in areas affected by wildfires. Following recent devastating fires, insurers like State Farm have announced enormous rate hikes, with State Farm citing a 22% increase, marking a severe financial burden for homeowners. The California FAIR Plan has also implemented a $1 billion assessment aimed at covering wildfire-related losses, which private insurers will pass on to policyholders. This compounding of insurance rates, coupled with an already high cost of living, exacerbates affordability issues for many residents.

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