09/06/2026
California’s home insurance problem is spreading.
For years, many people thought rising insurance costs were mainly a wildfire issue affecting certain areas.
But new research shows the impact is reaching much further.
Since 2020, California homeowners insurance premiums have increased dramatically, and more homeowners are turning to the state’s FAIR Plan because traditional coverage is becoming harder to find.
The surprising part?
This is no longer only happening in high-risk wildfire communities.
Insurance is becoming a bigger part of the homeownership conversation.
When people think about buying a home, they usually look at the mortgage payment, taxes, and maintenance costs.
But insurance is becoming another major factor that can impact affordability.
The cost of owning a home is changing and protecting that home is becoming just as important as purchasing it.