Finding the “best” car insurance companies can feel like trying to put together a jigsaw puzzle in the dark. Thankfully, we’ve put the pieces together for you.
NerdWallet analyzed dozens of auto insurance companies to find the standouts featured on this list. Each company was categorized based on its best offering compared to other insurance companies.
Here are the best car insurance companies in 2024:
The above average full coverage rates are for a 35-year old driver with a clean driving record and good credit. Rates vary widely depending on your age, driving history and level of coverage you select.
🤓Nerdy Tip
Did your premium go up? You’re not alone. The best car insurance companies are often among the cheapest, so compare quotes from a few of our top picks to see if you can get a better rate.
How we found the best auto insurance
NerdWallet’s editorial team considered pricing, discounts, complaint data from the National Association of Insurance Commissioners and more to determine the best car insurance companies. As we continue to evaluate more insurance companies and receive fresh market data, this collection of best auto insurance companies is likely to change. See our full methodology for more details.
See what you could save on car insurance
Easily compare personalized rates to see how much switching car insurance could save you.
Best car insurance companies: Our winners
Here’s our list of the best auto insurance companies for each category, plus their average rates and why they’re the best.
Best insurance company overall: Travelers
Travelers
5.0
NerdWallet rating
NerdWallet’s ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula takes into account consumer complaint and customer satisfaction data.
Travelers offers a broad range of coverage options and discounts to help you customize your car insurance policy.
DiscountsRatings are based on the number of discounts a company offers in comparison to other insurers.
Great set of discounts
Ease of useRatings are determined by our editorial team. Our “ease of use” category looks at factors such as website transparency and how easy it is to file a claim.
Above average
NAIC complaintsRatings are based on complaints to state regulators relative to a company’s size, according to three years’ worth of data from the National Association of Insurance Commissioners. NerdWallet conducts its data analysis and reaches conclusions independently and without the endorsement of the NAIC.
Fewer than expected
Received fewer customer complaints than expected for auto insurance.
Lots of coverage options for auto insurance.
One of the largest insurance providers in the nation.
Customer satisfaction ratings are below average.
Rideshare insurance not available in all states.
With few customer complaints and a great set of discounts and coverage options to choose from, Travelers is an all-around good choice for drivers seeking customizability from a financially strong insurer.
Travelers
5.0
NerdWallet rating
NerdWallet’s ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula takes into account consumer complaint and customer satisfaction data.
Travelers offers a broad range of coverage options and discounts to help you customize your car insurance policy.
DiscountsRatings are based on the number of discounts a company offers in comparison to other insurers.
Great set of discounts
Ease of useRatings are determined by our editorial team. Our “ease of use” category looks at factors such as website transparency and how easy it is to file a claim.
Above average
NAIC complaintsRatings are based on complaints to state regulators relative to a company’s size, according to three years’ worth of data from the National Association of Insurance Commissioners. NerdWallet conducts its data analysis and reaches conclusions independently and without the endorsement of the NAIC.
Fewer than expected
Received fewer customer complaints than expected for auto insurance.
Lots of coverage options for auto insurance.
One of the largest insurance providers in the nation.
Customer satisfaction ratings are below average.
Rideshare insurance not available in all states.
With few customer complaints and a great set of discounts and coverage options to choose from, Travelers is an all-around good choice for drivers seeking customizability from a financially strong insurer.
Why it’s the best:
Travelers tops our list as the company with the best overall score in 2024 out of the insurers we ranked. Because our auto insurance ratings reward companies for customer-first features and practices, this category represents an overall solid choice for drivers seeking a well-rounded insurance company.
You can get all the standard auto coverage options from Travelers, along with extras like new car replacement coverage and gap insurance, both of which are useful if you drive a relatively new vehicle. Travelers also offers a host of car insurance discounts.
Average cost of full coverage car insurance: $1,681
Travelers average annual rates for a 35-year-old driver with good credit
Driver with an at-fault accident
Driver with a recent speeding ticket
Best insurance company for affordability: NJM
NJM
5.0
NerdWallet rating
NerdWallet’s ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula takes into account consumer complaint and customer satisfaction data.
NJM is among our best car insurance companies for 2024, but it is available in only five states.
DiscountsRatings are based on the number of discounts a company offers in comparison to other insurers.
Great set of discounts
Ease of useRatings are determined by our editorial team. Our “ease of use” category looks at factors such as website transparency and how easy it is to file a claim.
Average
NAIC complaintsRatings are based on complaints to state regulators relative to a company’s size, according to three years’ worth of data from the National Association of Insurance Commissioners. NerdWallet conducts its data analysis and reaches conclusions independently and without the endorsement of the NAIC.
Far fewer than expected
Customer satisfaction is high.
Complaints are low.
New Jersey policyholders may receive dividends.
Not available in many states.
No mobile app for managing policy.
With fewer complaints than most insurers its size, high customer satisfaction rates and perks such as free pet coverage and new car replacement if you buy collision and comprehensive insurance, NJM is a strong choice for Mid-Atlantic drivers.
NJM
5.0
NerdWallet rating
NerdWallet’s ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula takes into account consumer complaint and customer satisfaction data.
NJM is among our best car insurance companies for 2024, but it is available in only five states.
DiscountsRatings are based on the number of discounts a company offers in comparison to other insurers.
Great set of discounts
Ease of useRatings are determined by our editorial team. Our “ease of use” category looks at factors such as website transparency and how easy it is to file a claim.
Average
NAIC complaintsRatings are based on complaints to state regulators relative to a company’s size, according to three years’ worth of data from the National Association of Insurance Commissioners. NerdWallet conducts its data analysis and reaches conclusions independently and without the endorsement of the NAIC.
Far fewer than expected
Customer satisfaction is high.
Complaints are low.
New Jersey policyholders may receive dividends.
Not available in many states.
No mobile app for managing policy.
With fewer complaints than most insurers its size, high customer satisfaction rates and perks such as free pet coverage and new car replacement if you buy collision and comprehensive insurance, NJM is a strong choice for Mid-Atlantic drivers.
Why it’s the best:
New Jersey Manufacturers Insurance, or NJM, is the best car insurance company when it comes to your wallet. According to our analysis, NJM’s average rate for full coverage insurance is $119 per month, the lowest out of our list of the best car insurance companies. However, NJM auto insurance is only available in Connecticut, Maryland, New Jersey, Ohio and Pennsylvania. Drivers in other states may be able to find low rates with Auto-Owners or Travelers. These companies were runners-up in having the cheapest full coverage insurance among our list of best insurance companies.
Average cost of full coverage car insurance: $1,424
NJM average annual rates for a 35-year-old driver with good credit
Driver with an at-fault accident
Driver with a recent speeding ticket
See what you could save on car insurance
Easily compare personalized rates to see how much switching car insurance could save you.
Best insurance company for accident forgiveness: Geico
Best For Accident Forgiveness
Geico
5.0
NerdWallet rating
NerdWallet’s ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula takes into account consumer complaint and customer satisfaction data.
With nationwide availability and a raft of discounts, Geico is a popular, and often affordable, choice for car insurance.
DiscountsRatings are based on the number of discounts a company offers in comparison to other insurers.
Great set of discounts
Ease of useRatings are determined by our editorial team. Our “ease of use” category looks at factors such as website transparency and how easy it is to file a claim.
Above average
NAIC complaintsRatings are based on complaints to state regulators relative to a company’s size, according to three years’ worth of data from the National Association of Insurance Commissioners. NerdWallet conducts its data analysis and reaches conclusions independently and without the endorsement of the NAIC.
Close to expected
Robust website and mobile app.
Many discounts available.
Doesn’t offer gap insurance.
Limited network of local agents.
Below average customer satisfaction for auto insurance claims in a recent J.D. Power study.
Geico offers two ways to get accident forgiveness and has a host of car insurance discounts drivers may be eligible for.
Best For Accident Forgiveness
Geico
5.0
NerdWallet rating
NerdWallet’s ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula takes into account consumer complaint and customer satisfaction data.
With nationwide availability and a raft of discounts, Geico is a popular, and often affordable, choice for car insurance.
DiscountsRatings are based on the number of discounts a company offers in comparison to other insurers.
Great set of discounts
Ease of useRatings are determined by our editorial team. Our “ease of use” category looks at factors such as website transparency and how easy it is to file a claim.
Above average
NAIC complaintsRatings are based on complaints to state regulators relative to a company’s size, according to three years’ worth of data from the National Association of Insurance Commissioners. NerdWallet conducts its data analysis and reaches conclusions independently and without the endorsement of the NAIC.
Close to expected
Robust website and mobile app.
Many discounts available.
Doesn’t offer gap insurance.
Limited network of local agents.
Below average customer satisfaction for auto insurance claims in a recent J.D. Power study.
Geico offers two ways to get accident forgiveness and has a host of car insurance discounts drivers may be eligible for.
Why it’s the best:
Geico offers two potential ways to get accident forgiveness so your rates won’t increase and you won’t lose your good driver discount after a crash. You can earn it for free by remaining an accident-free Geico customer for five years, or you can pay for it. Accident forgiveness can be used for any eligible driver on your policy, but it isn’t available in California, Connecticut and Massachusetts.
Average cost of full coverage car insurance: $1,846
Geico average annual rates for a 35-year-old driver with good credit
Driver with an at-fault accident
Driver with a recent speeding ticket
Best insurance company for having few customer complaints: American Family
Best for Having Few Complaints
American Family
5.0
NerdWallet rating
NerdWallet’s ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula takes into account consumer complaint and customer satisfaction data.
American Family offers a wide range of coverage, including rideshare and gap insurance, but doesn’t sell policies in all states.
DiscountsRatings are based on the number of discounts a company offers in comparison to other insurers.
Great set of discounts
Ease of useRatings are determined by our editorial team. Our “ease of use” category looks at factors such as website transparency and how easy it is to file a claim.
Above average
NAIC complaintsRatings are based on complaints to state regulators relative to a company’s size, according to three years’ worth of data from the National Association of Insurance Commissioners. NerdWallet conducts its data analysis and reaches conclusions independently and without the endorsement of the NAIC.
Far fewer than expected
Fewer customer complaints than expected for a company its size.
Many coverage types offered.
Wide range of discounts.
Not available in all states.
American Family offers a long list of insurance discounts, and it receives fewer consumer complaints than expected for a company of its size.
Best for Having Few Complaints
American Family
5.0
NerdWallet rating
NerdWallet’s ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula takes into account consumer complaint and customer satisfaction data.
American Family offers a wide range of coverage, including rideshare and gap insurance, but doesn’t sell policies in all states.
DiscountsRatings are based on the number of discounts a company offers in comparison to other insurers.
Great set of discounts
Ease of useRatings are determined by our editorial team. Our “ease of use” category looks at factors such as website transparency and how easy it is to file a claim.
Above average
NAIC complaintsRatings are based on complaints to state regulators relative to a company’s size, according to three years’ worth of data from the National Association of Insurance Commissioners. NerdWallet conducts its data analysis and reaches conclusions independently and without the endorsement of the NAIC.
Far fewer than expected
Fewer customer complaints than expected for a company its size.
Many coverage types offered.
Wide range of discounts.
Not available in all states.
American Family offers a long list of insurance discounts, and it receives fewer consumer complaints than expected for a company of its size.
Why it’s the best:
American Family received far fewer customer complaints to state regulators for auto insurance than similar-size companies and had the lowest rate of complaints out of the insurers on our 2024 best companies list. The company spotlights its Facebook customer reviews on its main website. It also encourages customers to voice concerns and opinions through multiple customer support channels, including over the phone, email and site feedback.
Average cost of full coverage car insurance: $1,791
American Family average annual rates for a 35-year-old driver with good credit
Driver with an at-fault accident
Driver with a recent speeding ticket
Best insurance company for financial strength: Auto-Owners
Best for Financial Strength
Auto-Owners Insurance
5.0
NerdWallet rating
NerdWallet’s ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula takes into account consumer complaint and customer satisfaction data.
People who need several insurance policies may benefit from the convenience and discounts of bundling them with Auto-Owners, which has many coverage options and few customer complaints.
DiscountsRatings are based on the number of discounts a company offers in comparison to other insurers.
Great set of discounts
Ease of useRatings are determined by our editorial team. Our “ease of use” category looks at factors such as website transparency and how easy it is to file a claim.
Average
NAIC complaintsRatings are based on complaints to state regulators relative to a company’s size, according to three years’ worth of data from the National Association of Insurance Commissioners. NerdWallet conducts its data analysis and reaches conclusions independently and without the endorsement of the NAIC.
Far fewer than expected
Offers a wide variety of products with the opportunity to bundle.
Fewer complaints than expected for auto insurance.
Only available in 26 states.
Online quotes aren’t available.
People who need several insurance policies may benefit from the convenience and discounts of bundling them with Auto-Owners, which has many coverage options and superior financial strength.
Best for Financial Strength
Auto-Owners Insurance
5.0
NerdWallet rating
NerdWallet’s ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula takes into account consumer complaint and customer satisfaction data.
People who need several insurance policies may benefit from the convenience and discounts of bundling them with Auto-Owners, which has many coverage options and few customer complaints.
DiscountsRatings are based on the number of discounts a company offers in comparison to other insurers.
Great set of discounts
Ease of useRatings are determined by our editorial team. Our “ease of use” category looks at factors such as website transparency and how easy it is to file a claim.
Average
NAIC complaintsRatings are based on complaints to state regulators relative to a company’s size, according to three years’ worth of data from the National Association of Insurance Commissioners. NerdWallet conducts its data analysis and reaches conclusions independently and without the endorsement of the NAIC.
Far fewer than expected
Offers a wide variety of products with the opportunity to bundle.
Fewer complaints than expected for auto insurance.
Only available in 26 states.
Online quotes aren’t available.
People who need several insurance policies may benefit from the convenience and discounts of bundling them with Auto-Owners, which has many coverage options and superior financial strength.
Why it’s the best:
A company’s financial strength is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing an insurer, since it indicates a company’s ability to pay a claim. For this category, NerdWallet leaned on AM Best’s financial strength rating, which measures an insurer’s ability to meet its policy and contract commitments. Auto-Owners exhibits a strong financial backing and ability to pay insurance claims.
Geico, State Farm, Travelers and USAA tied Auto-Owners for financial strength.
Average cost of full coverage car insurance: $1,477
Auto-Owners average annual rates for a 35-year-old driver with good credit
Driver with an at-fault accident
Driver with a recent speeding ticket
Best insurance company for discounts: Amica
Amica
5.0
NerdWallet rating
NerdWallet’s ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula takes into account consumer complaint and customer satisfaction data.
High marks for customer satisfaction and low consumer complaints make Amica a great choice for good drivers.
DiscountsRatings are based on the number of discounts a company offers in comparison to other insurers.
Great set of discounts
Ease of useRatings are determined by our editorial team. Our “ease of use” category looks at factors such as website transparency and how easy it is to file a claim.
Average
NAIC complaintsRatings are based on complaints to state regulators relative to a company’s size, according to three years’ worth of data from the National Association of Insurance Commissioners. NerdWallet conducts its data analysis and reaches conclusions independently and without the endorsement of the NAIC.
Fewer than expected
High customer satisfaction ratings and low consumer complaints.
Many policy perks and discounts.
Potential to earn dividends.
Some policy types aren’t available in Alaska or Hawaii.
Boasting few customer complaints, Amica offers free perks for good drivers including accident forgiveness and a disappearing deductible. The company also gives customers the option to buy a dividend-paying policy, which can save money in the long run.
Amica
5.0
NerdWallet rating
NerdWallet’s ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula takes into account consumer complaint and customer satisfaction data.
High marks for customer satisfaction and low consumer complaints make Amica a great choice for good drivers.
DiscountsRatings are based on the number of discounts a company offers in comparison to other insurers.
Great set of discounts
Ease of useRatings are determined by our editorial team. Our “ease of use” category looks at factors such as website transparency and how easy it is to file a claim.
Average
NAIC complaintsRatings are based on complaints to state regulators relative to a company’s size, according to three years’ worth of data from the National Association of Insurance Commissioners. NerdWallet conducts its data analysis and reaches conclusions independently and without the endorsement of the NAIC.
Fewer than expected
High customer satisfaction ratings and low consumer complaints.
Many policy perks and discounts.
Potential to earn dividends.
Some policy types aren’t available in Alaska or Hawaii.
Boasting few customer complaints, Amica offers free perks for good drivers including accident forgiveness and a disappearing deductible. The company also gives customers the option to buy a dividend-paying policy, which can save money in the long run.
Why it’s the best:
If you’re looking to save on your auto policy, Amica may be worth a look. The company offers more discounts than most other insurers, including discounts for owning a home, insuring more than one vehicle, taking a defensive driving course and setting up automatic payments. Just keep in mind that the company with the most discounts will not necessarily be the cheapest. For that, check out NerdWallet’s analysis of the cheapest car insurance.
American Family tied with Amica for the number of discounts drivers may qualify for.
Average cost of full coverage car insurance: $2,481
Amica average annual rates for a 35-year-old driver with good credit
Driver with an at-fault accident
Driver with a recent speeding ticket
See what you could save on car insurance
Easily compare personalized rates to see how much switching car insurance could save you.
Best insurance company for customer satisfaction: State Farm
Best for Customer Satisfaction
State Farm
5.0
NerdWallet rating
NerdWallet’s ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula takes into account consumer complaint and customer satisfaction data.
State Farm offers numerous discounts and extras including travel expense coverage, making it a good choice for most drivers.
DiscountsRatings are based on the number of discounts a company offers in comparison to other insurers.
Average set of discounts
Ease of useRatings are determined by our editorial team. Our “ease of use” category looks at factors such as website transparency and how easy it is to file a claim.
Above average
NAIC complaintsRatings are based on complaints to state regulators relative to a company’s size, according to three years’ worth of data from the National Association of Insurance Commissioners. NerdWallet conducts its data analysis and reaches conclusions independently and without the endorsement of the NAIC.
Fewer than expected
Numerous discounts offered, including two programs — one for safe driving and the other for young drivers.
Generous rental car and travel expenses coverage.
Customer satisfaction rating for buying auto insurance is the highest among large insurers, according to J.D. Power.
Doesn’t offer gap insurance.
With generous coverage and discounts for good driving habits, State Farm is a popular insurer with fewer complaints compared to other large insurers.
Best for Customer Satisfaction
State Farm
5.0
NerdWallet rating
NerdWallet’s ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula takes into account consumer complaint and customer satisfaction data.
State Farm offers numerous discounts and extras including travel expense coverage, making it a good choice for most drivers.
DiscountsRatings are based on the number of discounts a company offers in comparison to other insurers.
Average set of discounts
Ease of useRatings are determined by our editorial team. Our “ease of use” category looks at factors such as website transparency and how easy it is to file a claim.
Above average
NAIC complaintsRatings are based on complaints to state regulators relative to a company’s size, according to three years’ worth of data from the National Association of Insurance Commissioners. NerdWallet conducts its data analysis and reaches conclusions independently and without the endorsement of the NAIC.
Fewer than expected
Numerous discounts offered, including two programs — one for safe driving and the other for young drivers.
Generous rental car and travel expenses coverage.
Customer satisfaction rating for buying auto insurance is the highest among large insurers, according to J.D. Power.
Doesn’t offer gap insurance.
With generous coverage and discounts for good driving habits, State Farm is a popular insurer with fewer complaints compared to other large insurers.
Why it’s the best:
The largest personal auto insurance company in the country, State Farm ranked No. 1 among eight large insurers in J.D. Power’s 2023 U.S. Insurance Shopping Study. The same year, it ranked No. 5 out of 24 companies in J.D. Power’s U.S. Auto Claims Satisfaction Study and first for overall satisfaction in the Southwest.
Average cost of full coverage car insurance: $1,976
State Farm average annual rates for a 35-year-old driver with good credit
Driver with an at-fault accident
Driver with a recent speeding ticket
Best insurance company for military members: USAA
Best for Military members
USAA
5.0
NerdWallet rating
NerdWallet’s ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula takes into account consumer complaint and customer satisfaction data.
USAA offers insurance to active military, veterans and their families only.
DiscountsRatings are based on the number of discounts a company offers in comparison to other insurers.
Great set of discounts
Ease of useRatings are determined by our editorial team. Our “ease of use” category looks at factors such as website transparency and how easy it is to file a claim.
Above average
NAIC complaintsRatings are based on complaints to state regulators relative to a company’s size, according to three years’ worth of data from the National Association of Insurance Commissioners. NerdWallet conducts its data analysis and reaches conclusions independently and without the endorsement of the NAIC.
Fewer than expected
High customer satisfaction ratings.
One-stop shop for insurance as well as banking and investing products.
Policies available in all states and Washington, D.C.
Available only for active military members, veterans and their families.
USAA offers competitive car insurance rates, high customer satisfaction and military-specific perks, such as a discount for storing your car on base.
Best for Military members
USAA
5.0
NerdWallet rating
NerdWallet’s ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula takes into account consumer complaint and customer satisfaction data.
USAA offers insurance to active military, veterans and their families only.
DiscountsRatings are based on the number of discounts a company offers in comparison to other insurers.
Great set of discounts
Ease of useRatings are determined by our editorial team. Our “ease of use” category looks at factors such as website transparency and how easy it is to file a claim.
Above average
NAIC complaintsRatings are based on complaints to state regulators relative to a company’s size, according to three years’ worth of data from the National Association of Insurance Commissioners. NerdWallet conducts its data analysis and reaches conclusions independently and without the endorsement of the NAIC.
Fewer than expected
High customer satisfaction ratings.
One-stop shop for insurance as well as banking and investing products.
Policies available in all states and Washington, D.C.
Available only for active military members, veterans and their families.
USAA offers competitive car insurance rates, high customer satisfaction and military-specific perks, such as a discount for storing your car on base.
Why it’s the best:
USAA is the top auto insurance company for military members. Only available to active military, veterans and their families, the company has relatively low insurance rates and provides other financial solutions for qualifying customers, such as banking and investment products. USAA has high customer satisfaction ratings and offers a discount for storing your car on a military base.
Average cost of full coverage car insurance: $1,432
USAA average annual rates for a 35-year-old driver with good credit
Driver with an at-fault accident
Driver with a recent speeding ticket
Full list of the best car insurance companies
If you’re looking for even more options, here’s a full list of the best insurance companies that earned a NerdWallet star rating of 4.5 or higher, along with their in-depth reviews.
5.0
NerdWallet rating
NerdWallet’s ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula incorporates discounts, website transparency, financial strength, complaint data and more.
5.0
NerdWallet rating
NerdWallet’s ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula incorporates discounts, website transparency, financial strength, complaint data and more.
5.0
NerdWallet rating
NerdWallet’s ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula incorporates discounts, website transparency, financial strength, complaint data and more.
5.0
NerdWallet rating
NerdWallet’s ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula incorporates discounts, website transparency, financial strength, complaint data and more.
5.0
NerdWallet rating
NerdWallet’s ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula incorporates discounts, website transparency, financial strength, complaint data and more.
5.0
NerdWallet rating
NerdWallet’s ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula incorporates discounts, website transparency, financial strength, complaint data and more.
5.0
NerdWallet rating
NerdWallet’s ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula incorporates discounts, website transparency, financial strength, complaint data and more.
5.0
NerdWallet rating
NerdWallet’s ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula incorporates discounts, website transparency, financial strength, complaint data and more.
4.5
NerdWallet rating
NerdWallet’s ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula incorporates discounts, website transparency, financial strength, complaint data and more.
4.5
NerdWallet rating
NerdWallet’s ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula incorporates discounts, website transparency, financial strength, complaint data and more.
4.5
NerdWallet rating
NerdWallet’s ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula incorporates discounts, website transparency, financial strength, complaint data and more.
4.5
NerdWallet rating
NerdWallet’s ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula incorporates discounts, website transparency, financial strength, complaint data and more.
4.5
NerdWallet rating
NerdWallet’s ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula incorporates discounts, website transparency, financial strength, complaint data and more.
4.5
NerdWallet rating
NerdWallet’s ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula incorporates discounts, website transparency, financial strength, complaint data and more.
4.5
NerdWallet rating
NerdWallet’s ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula incorporates discounts, website transparency, financial strength, complaint data and more.
4.5
NerdWallet rating
NerdWallet’s ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula incorporates discounts, website transparency, financial strength, complaint data and more.
4.5
NerdWallet rating
NerdWallet’s ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula incorporates discounts, website transparency, financial strength, complaint data and more.
4.5
NerdWallet rating
NerdWallet’s ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula incorporates discounts, website transparency, financial strength, complaint data and more.
*USAA is only available to military, veterans and their families.
Best car insurance companies by state
Car insurance company availability and their offerings can vary widely between states, so the best car insurance companies nationwide might not be the best for you.
NerdWallet analyzed the auto insurance offerings available in different states to put together the best car insurance companies in 13 states in terms of four different categories: Best overall star rating, budget pick, best for customer satisfaction, and best for ease of use.
Find the best car insurance companies in your state below.
How to find the best car insurance company for you
While our best insurance company winners above can serve as a jumping off point in your quest for the best policy, everyone’s needs and circumstances are different.
Here are some tips to help you sift through the best insurance companies to find the one that’s right for you:
Shop around. Price is a key consideration for many people, especially with car insurance rates on the rise. Pricing is based on many factors like your age, location, vehicle and driving history. Because every insurance company weighs these factors differently, it’s best to shop around for car insurance quotes to find the cheapest option.
Check for complaints. Most people don’t deal with their insurance company until they need to file a claim. Read NerdWallet’s guide on how to find complaints about insurance companies in your area and other information before you sign on the dotted line.
Check your coverage. Ask your agent or a customer service representative if you’re getting the coverage you need so that you’re not under or over-insured.
Consider smaller insurance companies. Small car insurance companies offer prices well below those of large competitors in many locations, and can often provide a better customer experience, too.
Shop strategically. If you’ve gotten a ticket, DUI or other violation recently, be sure to shop three to five years after the incident, when surcharges can drop significantly.
Different types of car insurance
As you shop for the best car insurance, familiarize yourself with the different car insurance coverage types so you’ll know what to include in your coverage.
Here’s a breakdown of common insurance coverage types and what each pays for:
Should you get minimum or full coverage car insurance?
If all you care about is getting the lowest price, consider minimum coverage car insurance. Minimum coverage is the least amount of insurance needed to drive legally in your state.
But it’s typically not enough to cover damage from a major accident, and you could end up paying out of pocket for any damage you cause once your insurance pays out. Minimum coverage also won’t pay for damage you cause to your own car.
For greater financial protection, go with full coverage insurance. There’s no standard definition of full coverage car insurance, but it typically includes your state’s minimum requirements, plus comprehensive and collision insurance. Full coverage costs more than minimum coverage, but the peace of mind may be worth the extra money. If you’re financing or leasing your car, you probably already have full coverage insurance.
Why is car insurance so expensive?
You’ve likely noticed that car insurance has gotten more expensive lately. The cost of car insurance increased 19% in October 2023 compared to the year prior, according to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
While this recent jump in prices is largely due to inflation and other economic factors, your own rates will fluctuate based on many things, including:
The insurance company you choose.
See what you could save on car insurance
Easily compare personalized rates to see how much switching car insurance could save you.
Why you can trust NerdWallet
Our writers and editors follow strict editorial guidelines to ensure fair, unbiased and accurate information so you can choose the best insurance company for you. These company ratings are specific to auto insurance — a company’s rating for other types of insurance may be different on our site.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best auto insurance?
The following companies received 5 stars out of 5 in NerdWallet’s analysis of the best auto insurers: Travelers, Auto-Owners, USAA, American Family, State Farm, NJM, Amica and Geico.
How can I find the best car insurance?
To find the best auto insurance policy for you, think carefully about what kind of coverage you need. For instance, if you’re looking for a specific type of coverage such as rideshare insurance, check to make sure the company offers this before buying a policy.
When comparing the best insurance companies, select the same coverage levels so you can compare quotes equally. Look at a company’s customer complaints on your state insurance commissioner’s website and financial strength through a rating site like AM Best. And don’t forget about the smaller insurance companies.
What type of car insurance should I get?
How much car insurance you need depends on your own unique personal and financial circumstances. But if all you care about is price, consider minimum coverage car insurance. This includes the minimum insurance required to drive in your state and nothing more. If you want more financial protection, explore full coverage insurance.
How much is car insurance?
The average cost of car insurance is about $165 per month for a 35-year-old driver with a good driving history, good credit and full coverage insurance, according to NerdWallet’s analysis.
What is the best auto insurance?
The following companies received 5 stars out of 5 in NerdWallet’s analysis of the best auto insurers: Travelers, Auto-Owners, USAA, American Family, State Farm, NJM, Amica and Geico.
How can I find the best car insurance?
To find the best auto insurance policy for you, think carefully about what kind of coverage you need. For instance, if you’re looking for a specific type of coverage such as
rideshare insurance
, check to make sure the company offers this before buying a policy.
When comparing the best insurance companies, select the same coverage levels so you can compare quotes equally. Look at a company’s customer complaints on your state insurance commissioner’s website and financial strength through a rating site like AM Best. And don’t forget about the smaller insurance companies.
What type of car insurance should I get?
How much car insurance you need depends on your own unique personal and financial circumstances. But if all you care about is price, consider minimum coverage car insurance. This includes the minimum insurance required to drive in your state and nothing more. If you want more financial protection, explore full coverage insurance.
See NerdWallet’s
how much car insurance do you need
for more help.
How much is car insurance?
The
average cost of car insurance
is about $165 per month for a 35-year-old driver with a good driving history, good credit and full coverage insurance, according to NerdWallet’s analysis.
