A method for producing a silica aerogel, includes: (i) adding an electroconductive polymer to the sol of an aqueous alkaline silicate solution to convert the sol to a gel; (ii) aging the gel to cause said gel to grow; (iii) hydrophobizing the gel; and (iv) drying the gel. Further provided is a silica aerogel including an electroconductive polymer. Still further provided is a heat-insulation material, including the above-described silica aerogel and fibers.