ALIAS Insurance

How Much Is Car Insurance for a Tesla in California
Last Updated on January 6, 2026 by Andy Walker

 

Car insurance for a Tesla Model 3 usually costs more than insurance for many gas cars, but it is still one of the cheapest Tesla models to insure. On average, Tesla Model 3 insurance in the USA costs between $2,200 and $3,400 per year for full coverage. Some drivers pay less, while others pay more, based on where they live, how they drive, and the coverage they choose.

The Tesla Model 3 is popular across the United States because it is safer, more affordable than other Tesla models, and cheaper to run over time. Even so, insurance companies see the Model 3 as a high tech car. It includes advanced safety systems, cameras, sensors, and a large battery pack. These parts cost more to repair than parts on most gas vehicles. Because of this, insurance companies charge higher premiums.

Your location matters a lot. A Tesla Model 3 owner in a rural area may pay much less than a driver in a busy city like Los Angeles, New York, or Miami. Age, driving record, annual mileage, and deductible also affect the final price. Drivers with clean records and low mileage often get the best rates.

Many Model 3 owners choose full coverage because the car has a higher value than most sedans. If you lease or finance your Tesla, full coverage is required by the lender. Liability only coverage costs less, but it does not protect your vehicle from theft, vandalism, or accidents.

Average Cost of Tesla Model 3 Insurance in the USA

The Tesla Model 3 is the cheapest Tesla to insure in most states.

Average Annual and Monthly Cost

Coverage TypeAnnual CostMonthly Cost
Liability Only$1,100 to $1,600$90 to $135
Full Coverage$2,200 to $3,400$185 to $285
High Limits Full Coverage$3,800 and above$315 and above

Most drivers choose full coverage because of repair costs and vehicle value.

Why Tesla Model 3 Insurance Costs More Than Gas Cars

Even though the Model 3 is affordable compared to other Tesla vehicles, it still costs more to insure than many gas sedans.

Key Reasons

  • Expensive battery and electronic parts
  • Limited repair shops in some areas
  • Advanced cameras and sensors
  • Higher replacement value
  • Costly labor for repairs

A small accident can result in a high repair bill. Insurance companies price this risk into your premium.

Tesla Model 3 Insurance Cost by State

Your state has a big impact on what you pay.

Average Tesla Model 3 Insurance Cost by State

StateAverage Annual Cost
California$2,800 to $3,600
Texas$2,400 to $3,200
Florida$2,600 to $3,500
New York$3,000 to $4,000
Illinois$2,300 to $3,100
Ohio$2,100 to $2,800
Arizona$2,200 to $3,000
Georgia$2,500 to $3,400

States with higher accident rates and repair costs charge more.

Tesla Model 3 Insurance Cost by City

City traffic and theft risk matter.

Average Cost in Major Cities

CityAverage Annual Cost
Los Angeles$3,500 to $4,200
San Francisco$3,200 to $4,000
New York City$3,800 to $4,800
Chicago$3,100 to $3,900
Dallas$2,600 to $3,400
Phoenix$2,300 to $3,100

Urban areas increase risk and cost.

How Your Driving Record Affects Tesla Model 3 Insurance

Your driving history is one of the biggest price factors.

Clean Record

Drivers with no tickets or claims pay the lowest rates.

One Accident or Ticket

Rates may rise by 20 to 40 percent.

DUI or Multiple Violations

Rates can double or more.

Insurance companies reward safe drivers.

Tesla Model 3 Insurance for Young Drivers

Young drivers pay much more to insure a Tesla Model 3.

Average Cost by Age

AgeAverage Annual Cost
16 to 18$6,000 to $8,000
19 to 21$4,800 to $6,500
22 to 24$3,500 to $4,800
25 and older$2,200 to $3,400

Adding a teen to your policy increases rates sharply.

Tesla Model 3 Insurance for Seniors

Older drivers often get better rates.

Why Seniors Pay Less

  • More driving experience
  • Lower annual mileage
  • Fewer risky driving behaviors

However, accident history still matters.

Full Coverage vs Liability Only for Tesla Model 3

Choosing the right coverage matters.

Full Coverage

  • Covers theft and vandalism
  • Covers collision damage
  • Covers weather damage
  • Required for financed vehicles

Liability Only

  • Covers damage to others
  • No protection for your Tesla
  • Risky for a high value car

Most Tesla Model 3 owners choose full coverage.

How Much Is Tesla Model 3 Insurance Per Month?

Most drivers want to know the monthly cost.

Monthly Cost Breakdown

  • Low risk driver: $180 to $220
  • Average driver: $220 to $280
  • High risk driver: $300 and above

Monthly costs vary widely by driver profile.

Is Tesla Model 3 Insurance Cheaper Than Other Tesla Models?

Yes. The Model 3 is the cheapest Tesla to insure.

Tesla Insurance Comparison

Tesla ModelAverage Annual Cost
Model 3$2,200 to $3,400
Model Y$2,600 to $3,700
Model S$3,500 to $4,800
Model X$3,800 to $5,200

Lower repair and replacement costs help keep Model 3 insurance lower.

Tesla Model 3 Safety Features and Insurance

The Model 3 includes many safety features.

Key Safety Features

  • Automatic emergency braking
  • Lane assist
  • Forward collision warning
  • Strong crash test ratings

These features help reduce accidents and claims. Insurers may offer small discounts for safety.

Does Tesla Insurance Cost Less for the Model 3?

Tesla offers its own insurance in some states.

Pros

  • Uses real driving behavior
  • Can be cheaper for safe drivers
  • Easy to manage in the app

Cons

  • Rates can change monthly
  • Limited customer service
  • Not available everywhere

Some Model 3 owners save money with Tesla Insurance.

How Mileage Affects Tesla Model 3 Insurance

Driving fewer miles helps lower rates.

Why Mileage Matters

  • Fewer miles means lower risk
  • Lower chance of accidents
  • Lower claim frequency

Usage based insurance works well for low mileage drivers.

Common Tesla Model 3 Insurance Discounts

Many drivers miss out on savings.

Popular Discounts

  • Safe driver discount
  • Multi policy discount
  • Low mileage discount
  • Anti theft discount
  • Defensive driving course

Asking for discounts can save hundreds each year.

How Much Does It Cost to Repair a Tesla Model 3?

Repair costs affect insurance pricing.

Common Repair Costs

Repair TypeAverage Cost
Bumper repair$1,500 to $3,000
Sensor replacement$1,000 and above
Battery repair$5,000 and above
Windshield replacement$1,200 to $1,800

High repair costs increase insurance rates.

Tesla Model 3 Insurance vs Hybrid and Electric Cars

The Model 3 costs more than some EVs to insure.

Comparison

VehicleAverage Annual Cost
Tesla Model 3$2,800
Nissan Leaf$1,500
Chevy Bolt$1,600
Hyundai Ioniq$1,700

Tesla parts and labor cost more.

Best Ways to Lower Tesla Model 3 Insurance Cost

You can take steps to reduce your premium.

Smart Tips

  • Increase your deductible
  • Drive fewer miles
  • Bundle home and auto
  • Compare quotes yearly
  • Maintain a clean record

Small changes add up to big savings.

Is Tesla Model 3 Insurance Worth the Cost?

The Model 3 costs more to insure, but it offers safety, performance, and lower fuel costs. Many owners feel the total cost of ownership balances out.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How much is Tesla Model 3 insurance per month?

Most drivers pay between $185 and $285 per month for full coverage.

Is Tesla Model 3 insurance expensive?

It costs more than gas sedans but less than other Tesla models.

What is the cheapest state to insure a Tesla Model 3?

Yes, but it is risky due to the high value of the car.

Can I get liability only insurance for a Tesla Model 3?

Yes, but it does not protect your car from damage or theft.

Does Tesla Model 3 insurance go down over time?

Yes, if you maintain a clean driving record and reduce mileage.

Final Thoughts

Tesla Model 3 insurance costs more than many gas cars, but it is the most affordable Tesla model to insure. Rates depend on your state, driving history, mileage, and coverage choices. Comparing quotes and using discounts can lower your cost. At Alias Insurance, we help drivers across the USA compare Tesla Model 3 insurance quotes from top providers so they can find strong coverage at a fair price.


Andy Walker

Andy Walker is a freelance content writer who specializes in writing for insurance and finance related niches. He has years of experience in this field and has written extensively on a variety of topics. Andy's work is always highly polished and well-researched, ensuring that his clients are always happy with the results.