Comparing Car Insurance Quotes for the Best Price: A Comprehensive Guide

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When you’re looking for car insurance quotes, you might hear different opinions about which company to choose and what coverage to get.

One great way to save money is by comparing quotes from various insurance companies. The best part is that it doesn’t take hours to do. By investing just a little bit of your time, you can find the most affordable car insurance rates and a policy that fits your needs perfectly.

How to Get Free Car Insurance Quotes

If you’re wondering how to get free car insurance quotes, there are two easy ways that won’t cost you anything:

  1. Online: Many car insurance companies provide free quotes on their websites. You can visit multiple insurance company websites, compare the quotes, and find the best deal. To save time, you can also use a website that gathers quotes from various companies in one place.
  2. By phone or in-person: You can contact a local insurance agent either by phone or by visiting their office. They can assist you in finding affordable car insurance options and provide you with a car insurance quote.

There are two types of insurance agents you may come across:

  • Captive agents: They work exclusively for one insurance company, so they can only offer you quotes from that particular insurer.
  • Independent agents: They have the flexibility to sell policies from multiple insurance companies. They can provide you with quotes from different insurers, giving you more options to choose from.

Both approaches have their benefits, and it’s perfectly fine to reach out to multiple insurance agents. You can gather online quotes for convenience and also speak with an agent who can provide personalized assistance in identifying the best car insurance for your needs.

Get Cheaper Car Insurance Quotes

If you want to save money on your car insurance, there are a few simple steps you can take:

Compare Auto Insurance Rates

Get quotes from at least three different insurance companies that offer the same level of coverage and deductible. Each insurance company has its own way of setting prices, so comparing rates will help you find the most affordable option for your needs. Even if one company offers good rates for safe drivers, another might be better if you have a speeding ticket or poor credit.

Take Advantage of Car Insurance Discounts

You can save a significant amount each year by taking advantage of car insurance discounts. One way is to bundle your policies, which means having multiple policies (like home and car insurance) with the same company. Many companies offer discounts of around 5% to 25% for bundling. Farmers offers the biggest discount at 26%, but Allstate (16%) and State Farm (15%) also provide good bundling discounts.

If you have more than one car to insure, you may also be eligible for a multi-vehicle discount, which typically ranges from 8% to 25%.

Additionally, there are other common discounts you can explore, such as discounts for having

  • anti-theft devices,
  • completing a defensive driving course,
  • being a good driver,
  • being a good student,
  • paying in full,
  • going paperless,
  • having certain vehicle safety features.

By comparing rates, maximizing discounts, and considering a higher deductible, you can save money on your car insurance without sacrificing the coverage you need.

Change Your Deductible

Changing your car insurance deductible can affect how much you pay for coverage. A higher deductible means you’ll have to pay more out of pocket if you file a claim for a collision or comprehensive insurance. However, it can also lower your insurance premium because the insurance company will have to pay less.

When you’re getting quotes for auto insurance, ask how much you could save by increasing your deductible. For example, find out if choosing a $2,000 deductible instead of $500 would result in enough savings to make it worthwhile.

To make the process of getting car insurance quotes go smoothly, it’s helpful to have the following information ready:

  1. Driver’s License: If there are other drivers in your household, you’ll need their driver’s license information as well.
  2. Vehicle Identification Number (VIN): You can usually find the VIN on the driver’s side dashboard or on a sticker in the driver’s side door or door jamb. If you haven’t purchased the vehicle yet but know which one you’re going to buy, ask the seller for the VIN. If you haven’t chosen a car yet, you can often get a quote with just the make and model of the vehicle.
  3. Mileage: Keep track of the mileage on your car and have that information available.
  4. Coverage Needs: Determine what types of coverage you want to purchase and how much coverage you need. If you’re unsure, it’s a good idea to speak with an insurance agent who can answer your questions and provide guidance.

The insurance company will also gather additional information about you, such as your driving history, previous auto insurance claims, and in most states, your credit information. Having all the necessary details on hand will make the quote process easier and more efficient.

Compare Car Insurance Rates

Comparing auto insurance quotes is all about gathering options so you can find the best car insurance companies.

Compare car insurance rates:

  • By company
  • By state
  • By Vehicle
  • By age and gender
  • By credit score
  • For drivers with a DUI
  • For drivers with an at-fault accident
  • For drivers with a speeding ticket
  • For seniors
  • For adding a teen driver

Compare Car Insurance Rates by Company

Car insurance rates can vary between different companies. That’s why it’s crucial to compare quotes from multiple car insurance providers. Let’s take a closer look at some well-known insurance companies and the average national rates they offer for drivers with a clean driving record (no traffic violations or at-fault accidents). This comparison will help you make an informed decision and find the most suitable car insurance for your needs.

Company Name Average national rates per year for good drivers
USAA* $1,412
Auto-Owners $1,628
Geico $1,716
Westfield $1,759
Travelers $1,852
State Farm $1,959
Nationwide $2,041
Erie $2,144
Progressive $2,157
American Family $2,176
Farmers $2,381
Safe Auto $2,647
Allstate $3,000
Mercury $3,233
*USAA is only available for military members, veterans and their families.

 

Compare Car Insurance Rates by State

State Average national rates per year for good drivers
Alabama $1,809
Alaska $2,323
Arizona $1,696
Arkansas $2,061
California $2,462
Colorado $2,489
Connecticut $1,730
Delaware $2,462
District of Columbia $1,574
Florida $4,326
Georgia $2,181
Hawaii $1,633
Idaho $1,021
Illinois $2,345
Indiana $1,454
Iowa $1,238
Kansas $1,693
Kentucky $1,979
Louisiana $3,629
Maine $1,216
Maryland $3,349
Massachusetts $2,333
Michigan $2,995
Minnesota $2,360
Mississippi $1,704
Missouri $2,323
Montana $1,770
Nebraska $1,538
Nevada $3,342
New Hampshire $1,411
New Jersey $2,240
New Mexico $2,104
New York $4,769
North Carolina $1,307
North Dakota $1,319
Ohio $1,112
Oklahoma $2,291
Oregon $1,459
Pennsylvania $3,600
Rhode Island $2,715
South Carolina $2,387
South Dakota $1,821
Tennessee $1,720
Texas $2,938
Utah $1,955
Vermont $1,037
Virginia $1,486
Washington $1,829
West Virginia $1,688
Wisconsin $1,905
Wyoming $1,341

 

Compare Car Insurance Rates by Vehicle

The vehicle has a major impact on how much you spend on car insurance, especially if you’re buying collision and comprehensive insurance. Here are average car insurance costs for popular vehicles.

Least Expensive Cars to Insure

Vehicle Average national rates per year
Honda CR-V LX $1,574
Jeep Wrangler JL Sport $1,585
Subaru Crosstrek $1,606
Subaru Forester 2.5I $1,613
Hyundai Tucson SE $1,637
Jeep Compass Latitude $1,645
Chevrolet Equinox L $1,661
Ford Escape S $1,663
Volkswagen Tiguan SE $1,663
Ford F-150 XL $1,672
Chevrolet Trax LS $1,680
Toyota Tacoma SR $1,688
Toyota RAV4 LE $1,704
Kia Sportage EX $1,705
Dodge Grand Caravan SE $1,713
Ford Edge SE $1,722
Mazda CX-5 Grand Touring $1,729
Chevrolet Traverse LS $1,733
Chevrolet Colorado $1,733
Ford Ranger Lariat $1,748
Toyota Highlander LE $1,757
Nissan Rogue S $1,758
Honda Pilot SE $1,762
GMC Canyon All Terrain $1,777
Subaru Outback 2.4I Limited XT $1,789

 

Medium-Expensive Cars to Insure

 

 

 

Vehicle Average national rates per year
Jeep Cherokee Limited $1,809
Chevrolet Blazer 2LT $1,811
Chevrolet Silverado 1500 WT $1,813
Toyota Tundra SR $1,818
Volkswagen Jetta SE $1,833
Honda Civic EX $1,838
Toyota 4Runner Limited $1,848
GMC Sierra 1500 $1,851
Ford Fusion SE $1,865
Chevrolet Malibu L $1,882
Chevrolet Tahoe LS $1,883
Chrysler Pacifica Limited $1,891
Toyota Camry LE $1,899
Hyundai Elantra SE $1,904
Toyota Corolla LE $1,909
Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited $1,913
Ford Explorer ST $1,944
Nissan Sentra S $1,957
Kia Forte EX $1,964
Kia Optima LX $1,987
Honda Accord EX-L $1,988

 

Most Expensive Cars to Insure

Vehicle Average national rates per year
Lexus NX 300h $2,014
Dodge Ram 1500 Rebel $2,015
Lexus RX 350 $2,105
Nissan Altima 2.0 S $2,130
Tesla Model 3 Standard Plus $2,447
Volvo XC90 T8 Inscription $2,456
Lexus ES 300H $2,485
Tesla Model S Performance $3,960

 

Compare Auto Insurance Rates by Age and Gender 2023

Your age and gender affects car insurance rates. Young, inexperienced drivers pay the most and can expect their rates to start going down at age 25. Drivers with good driving records will enjoy their best rates in their 50s and 60s. Rates start to increase again around age 65.

Age Average national rates per year for a female driver Average national rates per year for a male driver
18 $6,100 $7,151
20 $4,444 $5,234
25 $2,574 $2,733
30 $2,334 $2,369
40 $2,245 $2,222
50 $2,076 $2,080
60 $2,004 $2,025
70 $2,208 $2,289
80 $2,632 $2,864

Car Insurance Quotes for Drivers With Poor Credit

Drivers with poor credit may pay more than double for car insurance compared to drivers with good credit.

Company Average national rates per year for drivers with good credit Average national rates per year for drivers with bad credit Average increase for drivers with poor credit
Geico $1,716 $2,426 41%
USAA* $1,412 $2,594 84%
Nationwide $2,041 $2,771 36%
Westfield $1,759 $2,964 69%
Safe Auto $2,647 $3,345 26%
American Family $2,176 $3,360 54%
Travelers $1,852 $3,381 83%
Farmers $2,381 $3,921 65%
Allstate $3,000 $4,028 34%
Progressive $2,157 $4,215 95%
Auto-Owners $1,628 $4,217 159%
Erie $2,144 $4,903 128%
State Farm $1,959 $5,051 157%
*USAA is only available for military members, veterans and their families.

 

Compare Car Insurance for Drivers With a DUI

A DUI is a costly mistake. Our analysis found that the national average car insurance rate increase for drivers with a DUI is 70%. Here’s a look at rate increases after a DUI among large insurance companies.

Company Average national rates per year for a good drive Average national rates per year after one DUI Average cost increase after a DUI
USAA* $1,412 $2,751 95%
Progressive $2,157 $2,776 29%
American Family $2,176 $2,983 37%
State Farm $1,959 $3,235 65%
Auto-Owners $1,628 $3,363 107%
Erie $2,144 $3,390 58%
Geico $1,716 $3,451 101%
Farmers $2,381 $3,517 48%
Travelers $1,852 $3,675 98%
Nationwide $2,041 $3,677 80%
Allstate $3,000 $3,856 29%
Safe Auto $2,647 $3,874 46%
Westfield $1,759 $4,357 148%
*USAA is only available for military members, veterans and their families.

 

Compare Car Insurance Rates for Drivers With an At-Fault Accident

If you cause a car crash, you can expect your car insurance rates to go up after an accident. Here’s a look at rate increases for drivers who caused an accident that caused an injury to someone else.

Company Average national rates per year Average national rates per year with one at-fault accident causing injury Average cost increase after one at-fault accident causing injury
USAA* $1,412 $2,093 48%
Auto-Owners $1,628 $2,145 32%
Westfield $1,759 $2,458 40%
Geico $1,716 $2,487 45%
State Farm $1,959 $2,554 30%
Travelers $1,852 $2,630 42%
American Family $2,176 $2,818 30%
Erie $2,144 $2,822 32%
Nationwide $2,041 $3,050 49%
Progressive $2,157 $3,413 59%
Farmers $2,381 $3,446 45%
Allstate $3,000 $3,870 29%
Safe Auto $2,647 $3,874 46%
Mercury $3,233 $5,373.00 66%
*USAA is only available for military members, veterans and their families.

 

Compare Car Insurance Rates for Drivers With a Speeding Ticket

Drivers with a heavy foot can expect car insurance rates to go up after a speeding ticket. Here’s a look at car insurance quote increases for drivers with one speeding ticket.

Company Average national rates per year Average national rates per year after one speeding ticket Average cost increase after one speeding ticket
USAA* $1,412 $1,709 21%
Westfield $1,759 $2,001 14%
Geico $1,716 $2,098 22%
Auto-Owners $1,628 $2,250 38%
State Farm $1,959 $2,311 20%
Erie $2,144 $2,316 8%
Nationwide $2,041 $2,439 20%
Travelers $1,852 $2,481 34%
American Family $2,176 $2,536 17%
Progressive $2,157 $2,793 29%
Farmers $2,381 $3,014 27%
Allstate $3,000 $3,213 7%
Safe Auto $2,647 $3,360 27%
Mercury $3,233 $4,339.00 34%
*USAA is only available for military members, veterans and their families.

 

Compare Car Insurance Rates for Seniors

Geico and USAA have the cheapest car insurance rates for seniors and well below the national annual average for senior drivers of $2,196. The older you get once you hit your senior years, the more you’ll likely pay for car insurance, so it’s vital to get multiple car insurance quotes from other companies to make sure you’re getting the best rates for your coverage.

Company Average annual senior car insurance rates Average rates for 60-year-old drivers Average rates for 70-year-old drivers Average rates for 80-year-old drivers
USAA* $1,554 $1,314 $1,465 $1,882
Auto-Owners $1,768 $1,564 $1,676 $2,065
Geico $1,936 $1,693 $1,872 $2,242
State Farm $2,007 $1,850 $1,922 $2,248
Nationwide $2,034 $1,793 $1,975 $2,333
Travelers $2,107 $1,764 $1,999 $2,556
Progressive $2,296 $1,927 $2,196 $2,765
American Family $2,360 $2,084 $2,225 $2,773
Erie $2,435 $2,123 $2,287 $2,896
Farmers $2,612 $2,138 $2,551 $3,147
Allstate $3,048 $2,819 $2,922 $3,404
*USAA is only available for military members, veterans and their families.

 

Compare Car Insurance Rates for Adding a Teen Driver

There’s no escaping the higher price of car insurance for teens, but adding a teen driver to a parent’s policy is a good time to compare car insurance quotes.

Company Average auto insurance cost increase after adding a teen driver
Nationwide 43%
American Family 58%
Erie 65%
State Farm 73%
Geico 77%
Progressive 78%
Auto-Owners 79%
Allstate 91%
USAA* 99%
Farmers 106%
Travelers 115%
*USAA is only available for military members, veterans and their families.

 

What Is the Cheapest Car Insurance?

After conducting an analysis of the best affordable car insurance options across the country, we discovered that, on average, USAA offers the cheapest car insurance quotes. However, it’s important to note that USAA auto insurance is exclusively available to active military members, veterans, and their families.

If you don’t meet the eligibility criteria for USAA, our analysis revealed that Auto-Owners, Geico, Westfield, and Travelers also provide competitive rates based on nationwide averages. It’s always a good idea to obtain quotes from multiple insurance companies since the cheapest car insurance providers can vary depending on factors such as your state of residence and driving record.

What Factors Influence My Car Insurance Quotes?

Several factors influence car insurance quotes. Here are some of the most common factors that affect pricing:

1. Your driving history

Insurance companies consider your driving history when determining rates. If you have a clean driving record without traffic violations or at-fault accidents in the last three to five years (depending on your state), you’re likely to pay less for insurance.

2. Your vehicle

The type of car you drive can impact your quote. Safety features like airbags and rear backup cameras, as well as anti-theft features, may help lower your insurance premiums.

3. Your location

Where you live plays a role in your insurance rates. Urban areas often have higher rates due to the increased likelihood of filing claims.

4. Your driving experience

Young and inexperienced drivers, such as teenagers, typically face higher insurance costs compared to more experienced drivers.

5. Other pricing factors

Additional factors that can affect your rates include gender, age, occupation, marital status, homeownership, and credit history. However, some states prohibit the use of certain factors, such as credit scores, when calculating car insurance quotes.

6. Other drivers on your policy

If there are other drivers in your household, their driving records can impact your rate. Adding a teen driver to your policy, for example, can lead to a significant increase in premiums.

Remember, these factors can vary between insurance companies and states, so it’s always a good idea to gather quotes from multiple insurers to find the best coverage and rates for your specific situation.

How Do I Choose the Right Coverage Types?

The type and amount of coverage you choose for your auto insurance policy have a significant impact on your quote. However, it’s important not to solely focus on price and overlook necessary coverage. Insufficient insurance could leave you with a coverage gap, which could result in significant financial difficulties if you’re involved in a car accident.

The goal is to find the best coverage for your specific needs at the best price. Here are some common coverage types to consider:

1. Car Liability Insurance:

This essential coverage pays for others’ medical bills and property damage when you cause a car accident. It also provides a legal defense if you’re sued over an accident. While most states require a minimum amount of liability insurance, it’s advisable to purchase more than the minimum to ensure adequate coverage. The minimum required amounts often fall short of covering extensive medical bills and property damage.

2. Collision and Comprehensive Insurance:

These types of coverage pay for repairs to your car in various situations, including accidents (regardless of fault), theft, vandalism, fires, floods, and collisions with animals. While collision and comprehensive coverage are often bundled together, they can be purchased separately based on your specific needs. However, it’s important to note that having both types of coverage is recommended to avoid significant coverage gaps.

3. Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist Coverage:

This coverage pays for medical bills and other expenses if you’re involved in an accident caused by a driver who doesn’t have liability insurance or doesn’t have enough coverage to cover all your medical costs. Some states require car owners to have uninsured motorist insurance.

4. Medical Expenses Coverage:

This coverage varies by state but generally covers medical bills and related expenses if you or your passengers are injured in a car accident, regardless of fault. Some states require personal injury protection insurance (PIP) as part of their “no-fault” auto insurance systems.

Additional Coverage Types:

When comparing car insurance quotes, you’ll come across several optional coverage types that can help fill coverage gaps:

  • Gap insurance: It covers the difference (or “gap”) between the insurance payout and the remaining amount you owe on a car loan or lease if your car is totaled or stolen.
  • Rental reimbursement insurance: This coverage pays for the cost of a rental car while your car is being repaired due to an accident.
  • Roadside assistance insurance: It covers services like towing, jump-starting a dead battery, providing fuel, and locksmith services if you accidentally lock your keys in the car. Consider comparing prices with other roadside assistance options, such as auto clubs, to find the best deal.

How to Compare Car Insurance Quotes

  • Figure out the right amount of coverage: Evaluate if it’s wise to purchase more than the minimum liability coverage required by your state. In most cases, it’s recommended to have higher limits as even minor accidents can exceed low coverage amounts. Determine if you want comprehensive and collision coverage for your own vehicle and select a deductible amount.
  • Research customer service: Look into customer satisfaction ratings to find an insurance company that is responsive when filing a claim and can assist you in choosing the best coverage options. Forbes Advisor’s ratings of the top car insurance companies can be helpful in this regard.
  • Review coverage options and discounts: Ensure that the companies you are considering offer coverage options and discounts that align with your driver profile. For example, if you desire accident forgiveness coverage, check if it is available. If you have a teenage driver and work from home, consider companies that provide good student and low-mileage discounts.
  • Compare rates for the same coverage amounts: Obtain car insurance quotes for identical coverage amounts to ensure a fair comparison. Take the time to explore multiple insurers to find the most competitive pricing.

Do Drivers Like Car Insurance Companies Using Credit Score?

Car insurance companies often consider a credit-based insurance score as a factor when determining car insurance quotes. In most states, drivers with poor credit can expect to pay higher rates compared to those with good credit. That’s why it’s important to shop around and compare quotes from different insurers.

Insurers argue that a person’s credit history is related to the likelihood of filing an insurance claim. Consequently, credit-based insurance scores hold significant importance in rate calculations for many insurance companies.

Although the use of credit scores in determining car insurance rates is a subject of debate, drivers seem to be more accepting of this practice. According to a Forbes Advisor survey conducted in June 2022:

– 42% of car insurance customers believe that credit should be taken into account when determining car insurance rates.
– This represents a nearly double increase compared to the previous year’s survey, where only 22% supported the practice.

It’s worth noting that the use of credit-based insurance scores for car insurance rates is prohibited in California, Hawaii, Massachusetts, and Michigan.

How Often Should You Shop for Car Insurance?

Shopping around every year is a good idea, but that might be too much of a hassle for most drivers. With big rate increases coming from many auto insurers, you may want to shop around when you see your renewal bill.

If you don’t wish to compare car insurance quotes every year, consider getting quotes every three years or when you have a life change, such as buying a new car, moving, or adding a teen driver to your policy.

Methodology

Rates are based on a driver with liability coverage of $100,000 bodily injury per person, $300,000 bodily injury per accident and $100,000 for property damage (100/300/100), uninsured motorist coverage, and collision and comprehensive insurance. Source: Quadrant Information Services.

Car Insurance Quotes FAQ

What are quotes for car insurance?

A car insurance quote is a free estimate of how much you’ll pay for an auto insurance policy. It’s based on several factors, including your age, driving history, the type of car you drive, where you live and your past car insurance claims.

Each insurance company has its own formula for calculating car insurance rates, which is why it’s important to compare car insurance quotes from multiple insurance companies. You could pay less (or more) for the same coverage at a different company.

How can I lower my car insurance rates?

While car insurance quotes will depend on several pricing factors, like your driving history, your car, where you live and other factors, one of the best ways to save on car insurance is by getting car insurance discounts.

For example, insuring your vehicle and home with the same company will generally bring a good bundling discount. Bundling your auto and home insurance can typically land you a 5% to 25% discount. You can also bundle other policies, like renters, condo and life insurance.

Can I get an auto insurance quote before I buy a car?

It’s smart to get a car insurance quote before you buy a car, in case the insurance bill doesn’t fit your budget.

For example, if you’re comparing car insurance quotes between a regular sedan and a sports car, you’ll usually find insurance rates for the sports car to be much higher.

Why are my car insurance quotes so high?

Your driving history is a major influence on car insurance quotes and could be what is pushing your rates up. Poor credit can increase car insurance rates—even more than an accident record.

Other pricing factors include: The type of car you drive, where you live and the other drivers in your household. That’s why it’s important to compare car insurance quotes among several different companies.

Do I need a driver’s license to shop for car insurance?

You may be able to get car insurance with no license, but it can be difficult since some insurance companies will require a driver’s license. Other insurers may give you coverage at a much higher price than those with a license.

Car insurance companies review your driving record when setting rates. If you don’t have a license, you’re considered a higher risk, which leads to higher car insurance costs.

Why should I compare auto insurance quotes?

Getting car insurance quotes from multiple insurance companies allows you to compare prices. Car insurance companies don’t set all the same, so you could save hundreds or even thousands by getting quotes from more than one insurance company.

Forbes Advisor found that drivers with good records may save nearly $2,000 when comparing the car insurance company with the highest and lowest rates.

Can I get car insurance 100% online?

Yes, you can get quotes and buy car insurance online without having to meet an agent or fill out paperwork. Instead, you can get quotes from multiple insurance companies or you can use an online site that provides estimates for insurers.

Here’s what you need to buy car insurance online:

  • Information like the names, address and dates of birth for every driver you want on your policy.
  • Driver’s license information for every driver on the policy.
  • Vehicle information, such as year, make, model, odometer reading and vehicle identification number.
  • The name of your current insurer, if you have one, and your current coverage limits.

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