Finding the best auto insurance is vital you need to compare options that match your needs nerdWallet has analyzed over 1.5 billion auto insurance rates they have 36+ years of experience their reviews cover the top car insurance companies in the United States.
They focus on things like coverage options how affordable plans are customer satisfaction and the companies’ financial health this ensures you get a fair and comprehensive view of the best auto insurance available.
Nerdwallet’s detailed analysis shows leading companies like travelers auto-owners state farm american family and usaa state farm for example offers full coverage at $134 a month this is $41 less than the national monthly average auto-owners offers their coverage at $145 a month 17% cheaper than average this information is key to making an informed choice for your car insurance.
Overview of car insurance companies in the us
The us car insurance market is large and offers many options companies like geico amica and progressive are in bankrate’s top 10 for 2025 bankrate’s team used 47 years of experience in insurance to make this list they looked at costs service coverage discounts digital tools and extras state farm leads with a 16.8% market share and $46.7 billion in premiums it got a 4.3-star rating progressive has a 14% share and $38.9 billion in premiums geico is close behind with a 13.8% share and $38.1 billion in premiums.
Usaa is best for the military and has a 5.9% market share it’s rated 4.2 stars travelers known for custom coverage has a 2.1% market share and got a 4.2-star rating nationwide offers great discounts and received 4 stars liberty mutual with a 4.9% market share and $13.7 billion in premiums is good for bundling and got 3.8 stars choosing a car insurer means looking at their market share stability service and product range a car insurance comparison tool simplifies this it even gives a vehicle insurance cost estimator to see what you might pay.
| insurance company | market share | direct premiums written (billion $) | bankrate rating | best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| state farm | 16.8% | $46.7 | 4.3 stars | local agencies |
| progressive | 14% | $38.9 | n/a | overall |
| geico | 13.8% | $38.1 | n/a | overall |
| usaa | 5.9% | $16.4 | 4.2 stars | military focused |
| liberty mutual | 4.9% | $13.7 | 3.8 stars | bundling products |
| farmers | 4.6% | $12.6 | n/a | overall |
| travelers | 2.1% | $5.8 | 4.2 stars | personalized coverage |
The top 10 insurers cover most 77% of us auto policies they wrote over $213.1 billion in premiums last year this 14.5% rise shows a competitive and changing market.
travelers the best overall car insurance company
travelers takes the lead in us car insurance thanks to its wide coverage solid finances and putting customers first this part explains why travelers tops the list it covers the different insurance options savings they offer and what clients say about them.
Why travelers is the best overall
travelers has built a top reputation with its broad coverage and top-notch support it has strong financial scores ensuring quick and fair claim resolutions they focus on satisfying customers which shows in their policy options and service making it easier to find great car insurance deals.
Coverage options
travelers provides a wide array of coverage options including
- liability coverage for both bodily injury and property damage.
- uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage for accidents caused by inadequately insured drivers.
- collision coverage that covers vehicle damage from collisions or rollovers.
- comprehensive coverage for non-collision-related damages like theft fire and severe weather events.
- pip insurance which is required in certain states and medical payments coverage.
- optional gap insurance rental reimbursement and premier new car replacement®.
- bundling options with home boat and umbrella policies to find the best car insurance deals and save on premiums.
Discount opportunities
travelers offers a multitude of discounts to lower premiums
- safe driver discount for households with a clean record over 3-5 years.
- multi-policy discounts for bundling multiple insurance policies.
- good student discount for high school or college students maintaining a “b” average or better.
- additional bundling discounts available for policies like boat personal items and umbrella insurance.
Customer Reviews and Complaints
Customers praise travelers for its professionalism and quick claims processing they like the clear and fair policy comparisons but some have issues with rate hikes or policy limits even so most customers are happy with travelers finding top deals and satisfaction.
State Farm: Best for Mobile App Ratings
State farm shines with its top-notch mobile app pushing it ahead in the auto insurance world it’s known for making life easier for customers the app packs features that handle insurance tasks smoothly.
Mobile App Features
the state farm app is full of helpful tools it lets users handle their policies and file claims easily it also includes drive safe & save® to track driving and supports quick payments with apple pay.
users enjoy features like tracking claims and asking for roadside help recent updates add more like picking repair shops and deciding if filing a claim is wise all these options make the app very user-friendly you can see more about the app on the Google Play Store..
Coverage Options
state farm offers various insurance coverages to fit many needs they have standard options like liability and collision however they don’t offer gap insurance or accident forgiveness still they’re a top pick for many because of their coverage diversity and price.
Customer Satisfaction
Customers really like state farm it scores high for service quality and online tools j.d. power shows it above average in satisfaction it also has fewer complaints with the naic than other big insurers nerdwallet gives it 5 stars for dependability the app great insurance choices and happy customers make state farm a good choice this feedback places it among the elite in auto insurance providers.
Auto-Owners: Best for Affordability
Since 1916 auto-owners insurance has stood out for its cost-effective offerings it does so without lowering quality serving those in need of affordable rates auto-owners crafts policies for various needs.
Discount Opportunities
auto-owners shines by offering diverse discounts to lower premiums it provides 12 unique discounts this includes savings for bundling services and for good student performance these discounts help make quality car insurance more affordable.
these efforts ensure policyholders access the best auto insurance rates available.
Coverage Types
Auto-owners is known for its customizable insurance it offers options like personal injury protection and gap insurance customers can tailor their coverage to fit their needs and budget endorsements such as accident forgiveness add an extra layer of support these options show auto-owners’ commitment to affordable yet quality protection.
Customer Reviews
Customers praise auto-owners for its exceptional service it earned an a+ rating from the better business bureau plus it has fewer complaints than other insurers of its size in florida it was ranked highest for customer satisfaction by j.d. power in 2024 despite limited digital tools and being in 26 states its customer support and prices stand out for more information check out bankrate’s review of auto-owners.
American Family: Best for Customer Satisfaction
american family insurance is a leader among auto insurers because of its focus on customer happiness it is famous for great customer service and many policy options this has given it a wonderful reputation with its clients the high ratings from customers show its dedication to personal service and full coverage choices.
Customer Service Ratings
american family leads in customer satisfaction with a score of 828 from j.d. power beating nationwide’s 806 it also has an insurify quality iq score of 9.1 placing it among top car insurance companies their strong service system means policyholders get help fast with their questions and claims handled well.
Range of Policies
American family provides a wide variety of policies to fit different needs it offers everything from standard auto coverage to special plans like milesmyway saving low-mileage drivers up to 25% their full-coverage quote averages at $72 per month this makes them stand out in any car insurance cost comparison their options showcase their dedication to both affordability and flexibility.
american family serves in 19 states with 1700 agents for its 12 million customers it boasts an a rating from am best for financial health the company’s strong customer service and wide policy offerings make it a top pick this is true for those who value high service standards and full coverage.
USAA: Best for Military Members
usaa is the top choice for military members and their families it offers special services and discounts tailored to their needs founded in 1922 usaa is known for great car insurance rates and excellent customer service these benefits and their dedication to customers put usaa ahead in the car insurance game.
Special Benefits for Military
Usaa provides benefits made just for military folks these include
- military discounts save up to 60% when you store your vehicle during deployment get up to 15% off for parking on base too.
- safepilot program earn discounts for safe driving in certain states remember these discounts end after one year.
- storage discount if you’re not in hawaii north carolina or virginia enjoy savings by storing your car safely.
- roadside assistance this help is ready in most states for enrolled vehicles.
usaa also gives car insurance specifically to veterans active-duty military and their kin they ensure their policies match what military lives need.
Customer Satisfaction
Usaa is praised for its service with a perfect 5.0 from nerdwallet it offers low rates and discounts for the military a full year’s coverage typically costs $1447 much less than geico’s $2002.
| insurance provider | average annual cost full coverage | special military discount | customer satisfaction rating nerdwallet |
|---|---|---|---|
| usaa | $1447 | up to 60% | 5.0 |
| geico | $2002 | up to 15% | 4.5 |
| arbella | not provided | up to 10% | not rated |
Usaa partners with others to offer more insurance options their vast network and attentive service show their promise to provide the best rates and an easy-to-use insurance comparison tool.
Compare Best Car Insurance Companies
choosing the right car insurance is important you need to look at their rates customer service and discounts a car insurance comparison tool makes finding the right one easier and faster.
Comparing Rates
auto insurance rates can vary a lot between companies for example in new york travelers is seen as the top choice it costs about $1803 a year for full coverage on the other hand geico loved by 97% of its customers can save new customers over $700 annually comparing car insurance prices is key because things like your age driving history and credit score affect your rates.
Customer Service Ratings
travelers and geico are big names known for their excellent customer service travelers is especially good scoring a 5.0 on nerdwallet geico has been around for 85 years and has a 97% happiness rate among customers plymouth rock is also good for people in new york it’s easy to use using a car insurance comparison tool for customer service can help pick the right one for you.
Discounts and Special Offers
Looking at discounts is a smart way to save on car insurance travelers offers many discounts and lets you customize your plan geico also has a lot of discounts a great mobile app and is there for you 24/7 by using a car insurance comparison tool you can find the best discounts and deals this ensures you get great value.
| company | average annual full coverage cost | customer rating | notable discounts |
|---|---|---|---|
| travelers | $1803 | 5.0 nerdwallet | multi-policy safe driver homeowner |
| geico | varies by profile | 97% customer satisfaction | good driver multi-vehicle anti-theft |
| plymouth rock | varies by profile | high ease of use | pay-in-full e-documents continuous coverage |
using a car insurance comparison tool helps you compare the best car insurance it considers your specific needs and discounts this way you make the best choice for you.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Car Insurance
choosing the right car insurance involves key factors they ensure you get great value these factors match your needs with the right coverage keeping in mind your budget customer reviews also play a vital role in making a wise choice.
Coverage Needs
knowing what coverage you need is crucial most states need you to have basic liability coverage yet your car type and driving habits may mean you need more things like comprehensive or collision insurance some companies give discounts to safe or low-mileage drivers comparing quotes helps find the best rate for full coverage.
Budget Considerations
Car insurance costs depend on many things factors include age driving skill credit score and car type areas with more accidents or disasters also see higher rates finding the right policy involves comparing costs and coverage look for discounts for good grades or anti-theft devices to keep costs down suggests marketwatch.
Customer Reviews
reviews are critical when picking a car insurance provider ratings from groups like am best offer insights into an insurer’s financial strength consumer reports surveys help find companies with top service and rates.
jd power ratings can show who has the best customer service reviews guide us in choosing the most fitting insurance.
Top Car Insurance Companies by State
looking for the best car insurance deals can be tough rates and coverage can change a lot in different states to make a good choice check out the top car insurance companies in each state this helps you see the different premiums and plans available.
Regional Ratings
each state’s car insurance rates are influenced by specific factors these include weather the number of drivers how busy the roads are and repair costs for instance tennessee has lower rates than many states they require drivers to have at least $25000 for bodily injury per person and $50000 per accident and $25000 for property damage.
Best Options for Each State
some states like maine new hampshire and vermont offer very cheap car insurance however nevada florida and michigan are on the pricier side in tennessee for the best full coverage usaa charges around $812 a year on average.
| state | average monthly cost full coverage | top insurer |
|---|---|---|
| maine | $103 | state farm |
| new hampshire | $111 | geico |
| vermont | $109 | progressive |
| nevada | $286 | allstate |
| florida | $228 | progressive |
| michigan | $222 | farmers |
| tennessee | $111 | usaa |
Customer Feedback
when choosing an insurer listening to what other drivers say is key people share their experiences with claims service and satisfaction levels online in tennessee drivers often praise usaa for its budget-friendly rates and excellent service so it’s smart to look at premiums and read customer reviews this way you find deals that meet what you’re looking for.
How to Find the Best Car Insurance Deals
finding the best car insurance deals isn’t just a quick look at some offers it requires using the right tools and resources doing this lets you compare options and find coverage that’s both affordable and comprehensive.
Using Comparison Tools
using online comparison tools is a great way to search for car insurance deals these tools let you compare offers from different companies all at once you can look at the prices coverage and deductibles this gives you a complete view of where you can save money.
- deductible range insurance companies have a wide range of deductibles from $50 to $1000 changing your deductible can lower your premiums a lot.
- assessing financial stability sites like am best and moody’s rate the financial health of insurance companies.
- discount opportunities search for discounts like online purchase bundling policies and safe-driving programs such as righttrack.
Online Quote Systems
online quote systems are key for a thorough online car insurance comparison you input details like your driver’s license number and car info then you get personalized quotes from several insurers.
- age driving history and credit these play a big role in your insurance rates it’s crucial to compare these aspects.
- minimum liability limits these limits change by state and impact your financial protection after an accident.
- number of quotes getting quotes from at least three carriers is recommended to match your risk profile.
| insurance provider | average annual premium | minimum deductible | major discounts available |
|---|---|---|---|
| state farm | $1290 | $500 | safe driver multi-policy good student |
| travelers | $1450 | $250 | affinity hybrid vehicle home/auto bundle |
| usaa | $960 | $100 | military good student safe driver |
Car Insurance Cost Comparison
understanding car insurance rates can be complex but you can get affordable rates by knowing certain tips we will explore factors that affect costs and ways to lower your premium.
Factors That Impact Costs
many things influence car insurance rates key factors include age driving history and credit score for example younger drivers often pay more due to lack of experience where you live matters too places with more theft or vandalism see higher premiums check out this detailed state-wise insurance it shows how rates differ for instance maine has the lowest at $103 monthly whereas nevada is at $286 credit score also affects rates significantly in several states bad credit means higher premiums so keeping a good credit score is essential for cheaper rates.
Strategies to Lower Your Premium
To cut insurance costs consider bundling policies insurance companies often give discounts for this it can lead to significant savings shopping around is also wise use platforms like insurify to get affordable car insurance quotes they’ve provided over 130 million quotes helping save up to $852 yearly.
opting for a higher deductible can decrease your monthly payments just ensure the deductible is affordable for you it’s all about balancing risks and costs keeping a clean driving record is crucial too make sure to follow traffic laws this can qualify you for discounts over time lowering your payments.
| factor | impact on premiums |
|---|---|
| age | younger drivers typically face higher premiums |
| driving history | clean records attract lower premiums violations increase rates |
| location | high-theft or accident-prone areas lead to higher costs |
| credit score | poor credit can result in increased premiums |
| vehicle type | luxury cars generally incur higher insurance costs |
| coverage type | full coverage is more expensive than liability-only |
by understanding these factors and using effective strategies finding cheap car insurance coverage becomes easier do a thorough car insurance cost comparison this ensures you make informed decisions that benefit you.
Affordable Car Insurance Quotes
getting affordable car insurance quotes can lower your yearly costs you don’t have to give up good coverage by using best practices and comparing different insurers you can find great car insurance rates that fit what you need.
Best Practices for Finding Cheap Rates
to get the cheapest car insurance quotes try these tips
- compare rates from several insurers online tools let you quickly compare different provider quotes.
- use discount programs like bundling auto and home insurance having a clean driving record and getting student or military discounts.
- choose the right coverage amount you want enough coverage but not too much.
Comparison of Affordable Companies
some companies are known for offering low-cost car insurance here’s a look at a few good options
| company | annual premium for minimum coverage | annual premium for full coverage | best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| geico | $243 | $1488 | best combination of cheap quotes and reliable customer service for california drivers |
| usaa | $424 | $1692 | military families |
| mercury | $252 | $2520 | drivers with dui |
| state farm | $1368 | $1728 | young drivers |
the average cost for minimum car insurance in california is $499 yearly full coverage averages at $1904 yearly you can find cheaper insurance by comparing rates and using discounts in summary use best practices and compare well to find the best car insurance rates choosing between minimum or full coverage know your needs look into all discounts to get the cheapest car insurance quotes.
Cheap Car Insurance Coverage Options
it’s important for car owners to know the difference between minimum and full coverage this knowledge helps in planning finances wisely it shows how coverage levels affect costs and safety.
Minimum Coverage vs Full Coverage
minimum coverage also called liability-only is cheaper it meets state laws by paying for others’ damages in accidents you cause but it won’t cover damages to your own car full coverage adds liability collision and comprehensive protections this offers more financial safety it’s the choice for those who want broad protection.
full coverage costs more with an average price of $175 a month in the us however with companies like geico and state farm finding affordable full coverage is possible comparing prices is key to saving money.
Balancing Cost and Coverage
If your car is new or valuable full coverage might be the smart choice companies like state farm and usaa have low rates for full coverage their prices start at $134 and $110 per month looking at different companies like erie and auto-owners helps find the best deal erie offers full coverage at just $115 a month auto-owners charges $145 per month.
comparing insurance costs thoroughly can reveal discounts that lower your rates look for discounts for bundle deals low mileage and safe driving by getting multiple quotes you ensure you get a good deal without sacrificing coverage.
Best Auto Insurance Comparison Tools
finding the top auto insurance comparison tool is crucial you want tools that let you look at different insurance options they should consider coverage cost and how happy customers are a good comparison tool can save you both time and cash.
Features to Look For in Comparison Tools
the right car insurance comparison tool needs a few important features these ensure you get accurate and helpful info:
- user-friendly interface easy to navigate and shows comparison results clearly.
- real-time quotes provides current information from various insurers.
- customizable options lets you change coverage levels and compare rates this is based on your age driving history and credit score.
- customer reviews offers user ratings and reviews for a fuller view.
Review of Top Comparison Tools
there are many online car insurance comparison tools each with its own benefits
| comparison tool | features | benefits |
|---|---|---|
| compare.com | real-time quotes user-friendly interface comprehensive comparison | saves time by gathering many quotes in one spot |
| insurify | ai-powered recommendations real-time quotes discounts | offers tailored advice based on what you input |
| jerry | automated comparison mobile app easy switching | makes it easy to compare on the move with an app |
Choose the best auto insurance comparison tool that fits your needs this way you’ll get coverage that’s both affordable and right for you what you pay each month can change based on age where you live and your driving history the average driver in the us spends about $135 a month on car insurance if you’re young or have had accidents recently you might have to pay more using a thorough and easy-to-use online tool to compare car insurance can help you can make smarter choices and even lower your insurance costs.
Understanding Car Insurance Premiums
car insurance premiums are based on many factors knowing these can help you find better coverage at a lower cost.
What Impacts Your Premium
many things affect how much you pay for car insurance below are some major factors
- location city drivers often pay more due to the higher risk of theft vandalism and crashes people living in smaller towns or rural areas usually pay less.
- personal characteristics your age gender and credit history matter young drivers mainly under 25 face higher costs men usually pay more than women a good credit score can make insurance cheaper.
- driving record and claims history having no claims or a clean driving record means cheaper insurance.
- vehicle make and model the type of car you drive influences costs cars with higher theft risk costly repairs or low safety ratings have higher premiums for example chevrolet malibu nissan altima and kia k5 have more expensive insurance due to higher injury losses.
- coverage selections choosing different kinds of coverage and deductibles affects your price.
- additional drivers adding young or inexperienced drivers to your policy can raise costs.
Ways to Manage and Lower Premiums
understanding how your rate is determined is crucial here’s how to control your costs
- compare quotes looking at quotes from different companies can help you find cheaper rates.
- take advantage of discounts many discounts are available you can save by bundling policies having a clean driving record using autopay or being a good student.
- review and adjust coverage check your coverage often dropping parts you don’t need or lowering your limits can save money.
- enhance vehicle safety cars with better safety features or less costly models like subaru ascent or subaru forester can have cheaper premiums.
- optimize payment options paying everything upfront or choosing a better payment plan might offer savings.
being proactive and knowledgeable is key you can balance the need for good coverage with affordable premiums comparing car insurance prices and looking for cheap quotes are great steps to finding the best options for you.
Customer Stories and Reviews
looking for the best car insurance real customer stories and reviews can help they show the good and bad of insurers this gives you a clear idea of what to expect.
Real-Life Testimonials
many people share their experiences with top insurers state farm is praised for high customer satisfaction in auto insurance showing its quality since 1922 one customer review said state farm’s full coverage is affordable at $1141 a year this is less than the national average of $1638.
geico gets good marks for its quick claims process and many discounts a happy customer said geico’s customer service was quick and helpful making things easier usaa is favored by many especially military members with an a++ rating from am best it shows its strength a veteran mentioned usaa’s special military benefits set it apart.
Common Complaints and Praises
Knowing the downsides of insurers is useful too progressive is pricy despite good service charging $1414 yearly that’s $597 more than usaa the cheapest a customer said great service but the premiums are high travelers scores high in car home and business insurance customers like its broad options and competitive rates.
real stories and feedback help you see the full picture this makes choosing the best car insurance easier these stories are crucial for a smart decision.
conclusion
choosing the right car insurance protects your car and money sites like insurify compare.com and policygenius help you find the best deals they offer tools to compare accurate quotes from top insurers.
we’ve talked about great insurance providers like travelers state farm and usaa each has its benefits for example state farm has a great mobile app and usaa offers services for military families you can pick based on what you value from geico’s low prices to farmers’ extensive coverage.
when looking at insurance think about your driving record car type where you live and what coverage you need tailor your search to your needs and budget this guide gives you the tools to choose confidently you’re ready to find the best car insurance for you.
FAQ
what is the best way to compare car insurance companies in the us?
the best way to compare car insurance companies in the us is through comparison tools they help you see rates coverage options and reviews.
how do i find the best auto insurance rates?
to find the best auto insurance rates compare quotes from various providers an online comparison tool helps find quotes that match your budget.
why is travelers considered the best overall car insurance company?
travelers is top-rated because it offers extensive coverage many discounts and has great customer feedback it’s perfect for great insurance deals.
what makes state farm’s mobile app highly rated?
state farm’s mobile app gets high marks for being easy to use having many features and satisfying customers it’s great for digital-savvy users.
why is auto-owners known for affordability?
auto-owners is affordable because of its discounts diverse coverage options and positive reviews about its value it’s good for budget-friendly quality insurance.
how does american family ensure customer satisfaction?
american family ensures satisfaction with high service ratings and a wide range of policies for different needs.
what special benefits does usaa offer for military members?
usaa provides special benefits for military members this includes unique discounts and coverage options designed for military needs.
what factors should i consider when comparing car insurance rates?
when comparing rates consider your coverage needs budget service ratings and any discounts comparison tools can make this easier.
what are the key factors impacting car insurance cost comparisons?
factors like coverage type driving record vehicle details and location affect insurance cost comparisons knowing these aids in finding affordable quotes.
how can i find cheap car insurance coverage options?
to find cheap insurance compare multiple quotes seek discounts and balance coverage types with your needs and budget.
what should i look for in car insurance comparison tools?
look for comparison tools that offer detailed price comparisons reviews discount info and user-friendliness trustworthy sources are key.
how can i manage and lower my car insurance premiums?
lower your premiums by keeping a clean driving record bundling policies choosing higher deductibles and using discounts also shop around regularly.
what are common customer complaints and praises for car insurance companies?
customers often complain about slow claims processing and unclear coverage praises include great service competitive rates and quick claims responses.
