California dominates least insurable counties in the US as new map is released

California’s dreamiest housing markets are turning into an insurance nightmare.A new national map from Insurify names California the least insurable state on the West Coast — with Los Angeles and Santa Cruz counties both scoring above 95 on the company’s 100-point Home Insurance Risk Index.The index ranks more than 3,100 US counties based on natural disaster threats, home values, housing age and insurance costs, measuring how difficult and expensive it can be to insure a home.Los Angeles County landed the highest score of any major US housing market, earning a 96.5 out of 100 — good for No.35 nationally among all counties.Homeowners in LA County pay an average annual home insurance premium of $4,173 ‚ 42% above the national average — while the median home value sits at $783,300.Insurify pointed to the devastating Palisades and Eaton fires in early 2025, which the company said became the two most expensive fires on record globally based on insured losses, with estimated hits of $23 billion and $18 billion.

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By clicking above you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.Never miss a story But the company said wildfires are not the only threat facing LA homeowners.Los Angeles County is also more at risk for earthquake and inland flooding damage than any other county in the country, according to FEMA data cited in the study.

The agency projects natural hazards will cost the county $3.9 billion in a typical year from deaths, injuries and property damage.Santa Cruz County also posted one of the West Coast’s worst scores, with a 95.1, making California the only West Coast state with two counties above 95.The Golden State also claimed three spots on Insurify’s list of 10 major housing markets facing high risks for homeowners.San Francisco County scored 93.7, ranking No.38 nationally,...