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Best Car Insurance Companies of September 2024
NerdWallet’s analysis ranks Travelers as the best car insurance company for 2024, followed by Auto-Owners and American Family.
Kayda Norman is a former NerdWallet writer covering insurance. She previously worked in communications at The Walt Disney Co. and as a web producer and writer at several health and fitness publications, including Health magazine. Her work has been featured in The New York Times, The Washington Post and USA Today.
Ben Moore Assistant Assigning Editor | Auto insurance
Ben Moore is an assistant assigning editor and spokesperson who joined NerdWallet as a writer in 2020. An auto insurance authority, his past work has been featured in The Associated Press, The Chicago Sun-Times, MarketWatch, Nasdaq and Yahoo News. Ben has been quoted in Martha Stewart and Real Simple magazine, and he has appeared on local broadcast television. He is based in Nashville, Tennessee.
Ryan Brady Lead Writer | Small business, Insurance
Ryan Brady is a lead writer at NerdWallet and authority on small-business lending and insurance. Ryan enjoys simplifying complex finance topics to help small-business owners make smarter financial decisions. His work has appeared in TechCrunch, MarketWatch, Yahoo, Nasdaq and more.
Before joining NerdWallet, Ryan was a senior writer and principal researcher at Gartner. He is based in Fort Myers, Florida.
Many, or all, of the products featured on this page are from our advertising partners who compensate us when you take certain actions on our website or click to take an action on their website. However, this does not influence our evaluations. Our opinions are our own. Here is a list of our partners and here's how we make money.
After thoroughly evaluating over 50 of the nation’s auto insurers, NerdWallet’s editorial team has put together a list of the best car insurance companies. We based our ratings on important factors like coverage and discount options, affordability, customer satisfaction and financial strength ratings.
Here are the best car insurance companies of 2024:
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
Pros
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.
Cons
Rideshare insurance is 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.
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
Pros
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.
Cons
Rideshare insurance is 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.
Full coverage cost per year, on average
$1,412
Full coverage cost per month, on average
$118
Minimum coverage cost per month, on average
$36
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.
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
Pros
Robust website and mobile app.
Many discounts available.
Cons
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.
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
Pros
Robust website and mobile app.
Many discounts available.
Cons
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.
Full coverage cost per year, on average
$1,303
Full coverage cost per month, on average
$109
Minimum coverage cost per month, on average
$29
Why it’s the best:
Geico is the best car insurance company when it comes to your wallet. According to our analysis, Geico's average rate for full coverage insurance is $1,303 per year, the lowest out of our list of the best car insurance companies.
Beyond its affordability, this insurer stands out for its wide variety of discounts and the many ways Geico customers can manage their policies online.
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
Pros
Fewer customer complaints than expected for a company its size.
Many coverage types offered.
Wide range of discounts.
Cons
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.
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
Pros
Fewer customer complaints than expected for a company its size.
Many coverage types offered.
Wide range of discounts.
Cons
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.
Full coverage cost per year, on average
$1,323
Full coverage cost per month, on average
$110
Minimum coverage cost per month, on average
$42
Why it’s the best:
American Family offers two potential ways to get accident forgiveness so your rates won’t increase. You can earn it for free if you switch to American Family after remaining claim-free with your previous insurer for five years, or you can pay for it.
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.
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
Pros
Customer satisfaction is high.
Complaints are low.
Possible dividend payments for New Jersey policyholders.
Cons
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.
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.
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
Pros
Customer satisfaction is high.
Complaints are low.
Possible dividend payments for New Jersey policyholders.
Cons
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.
Full coverage cost per year, on average
$1,742
Full coverage cost per month, on average
$145
Minimum coverage cost per month, on average
$58
Why it’s the best:
New Jersey Manufacturers Insurance, or NJM, received far fewer customer complaints for auto insurance than similar-sized companies. Although American Family boasts the lowest complaint levels among insurers in NerdWallet’s 2024 best companies list, NJM comes in at a close second.
NJM received a 5-star NerdWallet rating, meaning it scored similarly to some of the nation’s largest insurers, in spite of only selling auto policies in Connecticut, Maryland, New Jersey, Ohio and Pennsylvania.
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.
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
Pros
Offers a wide variety of products with the opportunity to bundle.
Fewer complaints than expected for auto insurance.
Cons
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.
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.
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
Pros
Offers a wide variety of products with the opportunity to bundle.
Fewer complaints than expected for auto insurance.
Cons
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.
Full coverage cost per year, on average
$1,451
Full coverage cost per month, on average
$121
Minimum coverage cost per month, on average
$31
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.
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
Pros
Low consumer complaints.
Many policy perks and discounts.
Potential to earn dividends.
Cons
Some policy types aren’t available in 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.
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.
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
Pros
Low consumer complaints.
Many policy perks and discounts.
Potential to earn dividends.
Cons
Some policy types aren’t available in 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.
Full coverage cost per year, on average
$2,335
Full coverage cost per month, on average
$195
Minimum coverage cost per month, on average
$64
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.
NerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula takes into account consumer complaint and customer satisfaction data.
With generous coverage and discounts for good driving habits, State Farm is a popular insurer with fewer complaints compared to other large competitors.
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
Pros
Numerous discounts offered, including two programs — one for safe driving and the other for young drivers.
Generous rental car and travel expenses coverage.
Above average customer satisfaction rating for buying auto insurance among large insurers, according to J.D. Power.
Cons
Doesn't offer gap insurance.
State Farm offers numerous discounts and extras including travel expense coverage, making it a good choice for most drivers.
NerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula takes into account consumer complaint and customer satisfaction data.
With generous coverage and discounts for good driving habits, State Farm is a popular insurer with fewer complaints compared to other large competitors.
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
Pros
Numerous discounts offered, including two programs — one for safe driving and the other for young drivers.
Generous rental car and travel expenses coverage.
Above average customer satisfaction rating for buying auto insurance among large insurers, according to J.D. Power.
Cons
Doesn't offer gap insurance.
State Farm offers numerous discounts and extras including travel expense coverage, making it a good choice for most drivers.
Full coverage cost per year, on average
$2,119
Full coverage cost per month, on average
$177
Minimum coverage cost per month, on average
$39
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
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
Pros
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.
Cons
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.
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
Pros
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.
Cons
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.
Full coverage cost per year, on average
$1,175
Full coverage cost per month, on average
$98
Minimum coverage cost per month, on average
$26
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.
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.
See what you could save on car insurance
Easily compare personalized rates to see how much switching car insurance could save you.
If you’re looking for even more options, here’s a list of other top-tier car insurers that earned a NerdWallet star rating of 4.5. While these companies didn’t win in any of our “best of” categories like our 5-star rated companies above, they represent well-rounded options worthy of consideration.
Company
Auto insurer ratings
Acuity
4.5
NerdWallet ratingÂ
NerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula incorporates discounts, website transparency, financial strength, complaint data and more.
NerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula incorporates discounts, website transparency, financial strength, complaint data and more.
NerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula incorporates discounts, website transparency, financial strength, complaint data and more.
NerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula incorporates discounts, website transparency, financial strength, complaint data and more.
NerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula incorporates discounts, website transparency, financial strength, complaint data and more.
NerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula incorporates discounts, website transparency, financial strength, complaint data and more.
NerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula incorporates discounts, website transparency, financial strength, complaint data and more.
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.
Car insurance company availability and their offerings can vary widely between states, so the best 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 15 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.
While our best car insurance company winners can serve as a jumping off point in your quest for the best policy, everyone’s needs and circumstances are different.
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.
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 speeding ticket, DUI or other violation recently, be sure to shop three to five years after the incident, when surcharges can drop significantly.
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. Use the tool below to learn about the different auto insurance coverage types.
How NerdWallet chose the best car insurance companies
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.
Here are the categories we evaluated each car insurance company on, plus the weights we placed on each:
Financial strength (30%). The best auto insurers are financially stable. Financial strength ratings indicate an insurer's ability to pay future claims. This category is based on assessments from independent agencies like AM Best, Moody's and Fitch.
Consumer complaints (30%). The best car insurance companies have a low number of customer complaints relative to their size and are able to keep their customers happy. This category is based on complaints received by state insurance regulators and reported to the National Association of Insurance Commissioners.
Ease of use (20%). The best auto insurers provide the information people need to make a purchase without any surprises along the way. This category is based on how easy it is to get quotes, file and track claims, learn about coverage and payment options, plus mobile app ratings.
Affordability (20%). The best auto insurance companies offer multiple ways to get a lower price, and this category is based on how many discounts a company offers.
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 insurers, 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.
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
, check to make sure the company offers this before buying a policy.
When comparing insurers, 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.
NerdWallet examined complaints received by state insurance regulators and reported to the National Association of Insurance Commissioners in 2020-2022. To assess how insurers compare to one another, the NAIC calculates a complaint index each year for each subsidiary, measuring its share of total complaints relative to its size, or share of total premiums in the industry. To evaluate a company’s complaint history, NerdWallet calculated a similar index for each insurer, weighted by market shares of each subsidiary, over the three-year period. NerdWallet conducts its data analysis and reaches conclusions independently and without the endorsement of the NAIC. Ratios are determined separately for auto, home (including renters and condo) and life insurance.
Auto insurance ratings methodology
NerdWallet’s auto insurance ratings reward companies for customer-first features and practices. Ratings are based on weighted averages of scores in several categories, including financial strength, consumer complaints and discounts. Our “ease of use” category looks at factors such as website transparency and how easy it is to file a claim. Using our editorial discretion, we also consider customer satisfaction surveys. These ratings are a guide, but we encourage you to shop around and compare several insurance quotes to find the best rate for you. NerdWallet does not receive compensation for any reviews. Read our editorial guidelines and full ratings methodology for auto insurance.
Here’s how we evaluated each car insurance company in 2024 and the weights we placed on each category:
Financial strength (30%).
Consumer complaints (30%).
Ease of use (20%).
Affordability (20%).
The best auto insurers excel at all of these categories. They provide the information people need to make a purchase without any surprises along the way. They offer insurance at a fair price and provide more than one way to buy and manage a policy. They're financially strong and able to keep their customers happy throughout the relationship.
Average rates methodology
NerdWallet averaged rates based on public filings obtained by pricing analytics company Quadrant Information Services. We examined rates for men and women for all ZIP codes in any of the 50 states and Washington, D.C. Although it’s one of the largest insurers in the country, Liberty Mutual is not included in our rates analysis due to a lack of publicly available information.
In our analysis, “good drivers” had no moving violations on record; a “good driving” discount was included for this profile. Our “good” credit rates are based on credit score approximations and do not account for proprietary scoring criteria used by insurance providers.
These are median rates, and your rate will vary based on your personal details, state and insurance provider.
Sample drivers had the following coverage limits:
$100,000 bodily injury liability coverage per person.
$300,000 bodily injury liability coverage per crash.
$50,000 property damage liability coverage per crash.
$100,000 uninsured motorist bodily injury coverage per person.
$300,000 uninsured motorist bodily injury coverage per crash.
Collision coverage with $1,000 deductible.
Comprehensive coverage with $1,000 deductible.
In states where required, minimum additional coverages were added. We used the same assumptions for all other driver profiles, with the following exceptions:
For drivers with minimum coverage, we adjusted the numbers above to reflect only the minimum coverage required by law in the state.
For drivers with one at-fault crash, we added a single at-fault crash costing $10,000 in property damage.
For drivers with a DUI, we added a single drunken-driving violation.
For drivers with a ticket, we added a single speeding violation for driving 16 mph over the speed limit.
We used a 2021 Toyota Camry LE in all cases and assumed 12,000 annual miles driven. We analyzed rates for 35-year-old drivers.
These are rates generated through Quadrant Information Services. Your own rates will be different.
