2026 California term life rates by age
Monthly premiums below assume a healthy non-tobacco applicant, 20-year level term, and a top-rated California-authorized carrier. Female rates run roughly 15–25% lower than male rates at the same age.
| Age | $250K · 20yr | $500K · 20yr | $1M · 20yr |
|---|---|---|---|
| 30 | $11–$14 | $15–$18 | $23–$28 |
| 35 | $12–$15 | $17–$20 | $26–$32 |
| 40 | $16–$20 | $23–$28 | $37–$46 |
| 45 | $24–$30 | $35–$44 | $58–$74 |
| 50 | $36–$48 | $52–$68 | $88–$118 |
| 55 | $58–$78 | $82–$108 | $142–$192 |
| 60 | $92–$128 | $132–$178 | $232–$322 |
What changes the price the most?
- Age: Premiums roughly double every 10 years.
- Tobacco/nicotine: 2–3× standard rates.
- Term length: 30-year term costs ~25–40% more than 20-year for the same coverage.
- Health class: Preferred Plus vs. Standard can be a 30–50% difference at the same age.
- Build (height/weight) and driving record: Major factors most buyers don't realize until they apply.
How to lock in the lowest California rate
Shop the full California-authorized carrier market in one application — different carriers underwrite the same condition very differently. An independent agent can pre-qualify you with 2–3 carriers before you submit a paid application.