EXHIBIT 23.1


              CONSENT OF ERNST & YOUNG LLP, INDEPENDENT AUDITORS


We consent to the incorporation by reference in the Registration Statements 
(Forms S-8) pertaining to the SAFECO Incentive Plan of 1987 and the SAFECO 
Long-term Incentive Plan of 1997 of SAFECO Corporation of our report dated 
January 28, 1997, with respect to the consolidated financial statements and 
schedules of American States Financial Corporation included in the Annual 
Report (Form 10-K) of American States Financial Corporation for the year 
ended December 31, 1996 and incorporated by reference in this Current Report 
on Form 8-K of SAFECO Corporation.

                                       ERNST & YOUNG LLP


Indianapolis, Indiana
June 20, 1997