More than 20% of California homeowners have dropped their home insurance due to canceled policies or unaffordable premiums, according to the first UCLA Luskin California Poll. Despite facing increased financial risks from wildfire and other hazards, more than 90% of these uninsured households indicated a preference for remaining in their communities rather than relocating.
The poll, directed by Martin Gilens, a professor of public policy, political science, and social welfare at UCLA Luskin, surveyed 2,419 adults across the state between March 5 and May 25, 2025. It explored various issues affecting Californians today, including financial stability, ballot access, air conditioning availability at home and schools, and climate change concerns.
“Policymakers need a clear understanding of the challenges Californians face,” said Gilens. “The UCLA Luskin California Poll supports more effective policymaking by systematically documenting Californians’ lived experiences with the urgent economic, environmental and political issues of our times.”
Financial vulnerability was evident among respondents: 22% reported being unable to come up with $2,000 within 30 days in case of an emergency. The poll also found significant use of alternative financial services such as payday loans (31%), auto title loans (25%), and pawn shops (22%).
Regarding ballot access and voting age reforms, about 60% opposed lowering the national voting age to 16 or 17 years old. For local elections like school board races, opinions were more divided; roughly 52% were against lowering the age. Support for younger voting ages was higher among those aged 18 to 34 compared to strong opposition from those over age 55.
Rising temperatures have brought attention to air conditioning access as a public safety concern. While nearly 85% had some access to air conditioning at home, almost half reported not using it at times because of cost concerns. Among families with K–12 students, over half had kept children home due to worries about high indoor temperatures at school.
When asked about climate hazards facing California residents, wildfire was cited as the top concern followed by heat and drought. Less than one-tenth mentioned flooding or sea level rise as primary threats. Attitudes toward preparedness varied on whether responsibility should fall primarily on individuals or government authorities.
On homeowners insurance specifically, rising costs over recent years have left many without coverage—heightening vulnerability to future environmental risks.
UCLA is recognized as a major public research university offering diverse academic programs designed to advance knowledge for societal benefit while fostering diversity within its community. More details can be found on the university’s official website.
