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The Best Home Insurance in Illinois for 2023
Homeowners in the Land of Lincoln can expect to pay a little less than the national average for their insurance.
Sarah Schlichter Lead Writer | Home insurance, renters insurance, pet insurance
Sarah Schlichter is a NerdWallet authority on homeowners, renters and pet insurance. Prior to joining NerdWallet, she spent more than 15 years in digital media as a writer, editor and spokesperson. Sarah enjoys delving into complicated topics and helping readers understand the ins and outs of their insurance coverage. She lives in the Washington, D.C., metro area.
Caitlin Constantine Assigning Editor | Home insurance, renters insurance, pet insurance
Caitlin Constantine is an assigning editor at NerdWallet, focusing on homeowners, renters and pet insurance. She has more than 15 years of experience in digital media, including as the deputy managing editor at The Penny Hoarder and as a digital producer for a 24/7 news station based in the Tampa Bay area. Caitlin enjoys exploring the ways technology can help people become better informed about the world. She currently lives outside Asheville, North Carolina.
Many or all of the products featured here are from our partners who compensate us. This influences which products we write about and where and how the product appears on a page. 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.
The average cost of homeowners insurance in Illinois is $1,670 per year, according to NerdWallet’s rate analysis. That’s higher than the national average of $1,820. Our sample rates are based on a homeowner with good credit who has $300,000 in dwelling coverage, $300,000 in liability coverage and a $1,000 deductible.
NerdWallet looked at several insurers across the state to determine the best and cheapest homeowners insurance in Illinois. The rates in this analysis are estimates based on many factors, so your rate may differ.
Note: Some insurance companies included in this article may have made changes in their underwriting practices and no longer issue new policies in your state.
Why you can trust NerdWallet
Our writers and editors follow strict editorial guidelines to ensure fairness and accuracy in our writing and data analyses. You can trust the prices we show you because our data analysts take rigorous measures to eliminate inaccuracies in pricing data and may update rates for accuracy as new information becomes available.
We include rates from every locale in the country where coverage is offered and data is available. When comparing rates for different coverage amounts and backgrounds, we change only one variable at a time, so you can easily see how each factor affects pricing.
Our sample homeowner had good credit, $300,000 of dwelling coverage, $300,000 of liability coverage and a $1,000 deductible.
The best homeowners insurance in Illinois
If you’re looking to buy homeowners insurance from a well-rated national brand, consider one of these insurers from NerdWallet’s list of the Best Homeowners Insurance Companies.
NerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula incorporates discounts, coverage options, website transparency, financial strength, complaint data and more.
NerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula incorporates discounts, coverage options, website transparency, financial strength, complaint data and more.
NerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula incorporates discounts, coverage options, website transparency, financial strength, complaint data and more.
NerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula incorporates discounts, coverage options, website transparency, financial strength, complaint data and more.
NerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula incorporates discounts, coverage options, website transparency, financial strength, complaint data and more.
NerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula incorporates discounts, coverage options, website transparency, financial strength, complaint data and more.
NerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula incorporates discounts, coverage options, website transparency, financial strength, complaint data and more.
NerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula incorporates discounts, coverage options, website transparency, financial strength, complaint data and more.
$1,440
*USAA homeowners policies are available only to active military, veterans and their families.
More about the best home insurance companies in Illinois
See more details about each company to help you decide which one is best for you.
NerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula takes into account consumer complaint and customer satisfaction data.
Well-established insurer with a lengthy list of coverage options.
Coverage optionsRatings are based on the number of coverage options a company offers in comparison to other insurers.
More than average
DiscountsRatings are based on the number of discounts a company offers in comparison to other insurers.
Average set of discounts
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
User-friendly website.
Agents offer personalized service.
Policies generally include extra coverage for your home’s structure.
Cons
Fewer discounts than some other insurers.
Includes more generous dwelling coverage in standard policies than many other insurers do.
NerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula takes into account consumer complaint and customer satisfaction data.
Well-established insurer with a lengthy list of coverage options.
Coverage optionsRatings are based on the number of coverage options a company offers in comparison to other insurers.
More than average
DiscountsRatings are based on the number of discounts a company offers in comparison to other insurers.
Average set of discounts
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
User-friendly website.
Agents offer personalized service.
Policies generally include extra coverage for your home’s structure.
Cons
Fewer discounts than some other insurers.
Includes more generous dwelling coverage in standard policies than many other insurers do.
America’s largest home insurer celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2022. One useful endorsement you may be able to add to a State Farm policy is an inflation guard rider, which automatically increases your policy limits to make sure your coverage doesn’t fall short.
State Farm offers a free Ting device as a perk for home insurance policyholders. Ting is a smart plug that monitors your home’s electrical network to help prevent fires.
NerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula takes into account consumer complaint and customer satisfaction data.
Best for homeowners who want to work with an agent.
Coverage optionsRatings are based on the number of coverage options a company offers in comparison to other insurers.
More than average
DiscountsRatings are based on the number of discounts a company offers in comparison to other insurers.
Average set of discounts
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
Rates generally below the national average.
Policies may include guaranteed replacement cost coverage.
Receives fewer complaints than expected for a company of its size.
Cons
No online quotes.
Provides guaranteed replacement cost coverage for the structure of your home.
NerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula takes into account consumer complaint and customer satisfaction data.
Best for homeowners who want to work with an agent.
Coverage optionsRatings are based on the number of coverage options a company offers in comparison to other insurers.
More than average
DiscountsRatings are based on the number of discounts a company offers in comparison to other insurers.
Average set of discounts
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
Rates generally below the national average.
Policies may include guaranteed replacement cost coverage.
Receives fewer complaints than expected for a company of its size.
Cons
No online quotes.
Provides guaranteed replacement cost coverage for the structure of your home.
Based in Pennsylvania, Erie is a regional insurer that offers guaranteed replacement cost for the structure of your home. With this coverage, the company will pay to rebuild your home completely after a disaster, even if the amount exceeds your dwelling limit. Not all insurers offer this option, but it’s worth considering as a hedge against rising construction costs.
Got a car to insure, too? If you bundle your home and auto insurance with Erie, you could get a discount of around 20%. You may also be able to save if your home has certain safety and security features such as smoke alarms or sprinkler systems.
NerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula takes into account consumer complaint and customer satisfaction data.
Those seeking benefits like diminishing deductibles and claims forgiveness may want to consider Farmers.
Coverage optionsRatings are based on the number of coverage options a company offers in comparison to other insurers.
More than average
DiscountsRatings are based on the number of discounts a company offers in comparison to other insurers.
Average set of discounts
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
Several standard features can help save money.
Less common coverage options are available.
Discounts for nonsmokers and members of certain professions.
Cons
Ranked near the bottom for customer satisfaction in J.D. Power’s 2022 U.S. Home Insurance Study.
Farmers’ three tiers of home insurance coverage make its policies suitable for a variety of homeowners.
NerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula takes into account consumer complaint and customer satisfaction data.
Those seeking benefits like diminishing deductibles and claims forgiveness may want to consider Farmers.
Coverage optionsRatings are based on the number of coverage options a company offers in comparison to other insurers.
More than average
DiscountsRatings are based on the number of discounts a company offers in comparison to other insurers.
Average set of discounts
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
Several standard features can help save money.
Less common coverage options are available.
Discounts for nonsmokers and members of certain professions.
Cons
Ranked near the bottom for customer satisfaction in J.D. Power’s 2022 U.S. Home Insurance Study.
Farmers’ three tiers of home insurance coverage make its policies suitable for a variety of homeowners.
Homeowners policies from Farmers may include two valuable types of insurance: extended dwelling and replacement cost coverage. Extended dwelling coverage gives you extra insurance for the structure of your house, while replacement cost coverage offers higher reimbursement for stolen or destroyed belongings.
Some Farmers policies also come with perks that can save you money. For example, with claim forgiveness, Farmers won’t raise your rate for a claim as long as you haven’t filed one within the past five years.
NerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula takes into account consumer complaint and customer satisfaction data.
Perks and high coverage limits for affluent homeowners.
Coverage optionsRatings are based on the number of coverage options a company offers in comparison to other insurers.
About average
DiscountsRatings are based on the number of discounts a company offers in comparison to other insurers.
Great set of discounts
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
Significantly fewer consumer complaints than expected for a company of its size.
Standard coverage includes features that many companies only offer as extras.
Large number of discounts.
Cons
Tends to be more expensive than other insurers.
Most consumers aren't able to get a quote online and will instead need to contact a local agent.
NerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula takes into account consumer complaint and customer satisfaction data.
Perks and high coverage limits for affluent homeowners.
Coverage optionsRatings are based on the number of coverage options a company offers in comparison to other insurers.
About average
DiscountsRatings are based on the number of discounts a company offers in comparison to other insurers.
Great set of discounts
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
Significantly fewer consumer complaints than expected for a company of its size.
Standard coverage includes features that many companies only offer as extras.
Large number of discounts.
Cons
Tends to be more expensive than other insurers.
Most consumers aren't able to get a quote online and will instead need to contact a local agent.
Chubb caters to high-value homes and draws far fewer consumer complaints than expected for a company of its size, according to the National Association of Insurance Commissioners. Its home insurance policies come with some great perks, including extended replacement cost in case it costs more than your dwelling limit to rebuild your home after a disaster.
Chubb policyholders may also be able to take advantage of the company’s HomeScan service, which uses infrared cameras to look for problems behind the walls of your home.
NerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula takes into account consumer complaint and customer satisfaction data.
For shoppers seeking a broad range of coverage options, Nationwide may fit the bill.
Coverage optionsRatings are based on the number of coverage options a company offers in comparison to other insurers.
More than average
DiscountsRatings are based on the number of discounts a company offers in comparison to other insurers.
Great set of discounts
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
Offers some coverage standard that other companies charge extra for.
Lots of discounts available.
Website offers lots of useful features and information.
Cons
Doesn't insure mobile or manufactured homes.
Nationwide's policies are widely available across the country and offer a variety of useful coverage choices. The company also has a robust list of discounts to help you save on your policy.
NerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula takes into account consumer complaint and customer satisfaction data.
For shoppers seeking a broad range of coverage options, Nationwide may fit the bill.
Coverage optionsRatings are based on the number of coverage options a company offers in comparison to other insurers.
More than average
DiscountsRatings are based on the number of discounts a company offers in comparison to other insurers.
Great set of discounts
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
Offers some coverage standard that other companies charge extra for.
Lots of discounts available.
Website offers lots of useful features and information.
Cons
Doesn't insure mobile or manufactured homes.
Nationwide's policies are widely available across the country and offer a variety of useful coverage choices. The company also has a robust list of discounts to help you save on your policy.
Nationwide stands out for its many coverage options. For example, its standard policy may include ordinance or law coverage, which can help pay to bring your home up to the latest building codes after a claim. You can add other coverage for things like identity theft and damage from backed-up sewers and drains.
Illinois homeowners can get a discount for using Notion smart devices to monitor their home for potential water leaks, fires and break-ins. When you buy the devices through Nationwide, you can get nearly 50% off the purchase price.
NerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula takes into account consumer complaint and customer satisfaction data.
Comprehensive coverage for homeowners in 19 states, mostly in the West and Midwest.
Coverage optionsRatings are based on the number of coverage options a company offers in comparison to other insurers.
More than average
DiscountsRatings are based on the number of discounts a company offers in comparison to other insurers.
Average set of discounts
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
Many coverage options.
Discounts available for qualifying smart-home devices.
Fewer consumer complaints than expected for a company of its size.
Cons
May restrict liability coverage for certain dog breeds.
Strong customer satisfaction, lots of coverage options and discounts for smart-home devices.
NerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula takes into account consumer complaint and customer satisfaction data.
Comprehensive coverage for homeowners in 19 states, mostly in the West and Midwest.
Coverage optionsRatings are based on the number of coverage options a company offers in comparison to other insurers.
More than average
DiscountsRatings are based on the number of discounts a company offers in comparison to other insurers.
Average set of discounts
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
Many coverage options.
Discounts available for qualifying smart-home devices.
Fewer consumer complaints than expected for a company of its size.
Cons
May restrict liability coverage for certain dog breeds.
Strong customer satisfaction, lots of coverage options and discounts for smart-home devices.
Founded in Madison, Wisconsin, American Family receives fewer consumer complaints than expected for a company of its size. You may be able to customize your policy with optional add-ons such as identity theft, equipment breakdown or service line coverage, which pays for repairs to water, power or other underground lines that run to your house.
Homeowners may be able to save on their premiums by installing smart-home devices, bundling multiple policies or setting up automatic payments.
NerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula takes into account consumer complaint and customer satisfaction data.
Best for those who prefer to have a personal conversation with an agent when choosing coverage.
Coverage optionsRatings are based on the number of coverage options a company offers in comparison to other insurers.
More than average
DiscountsRatings are based on the number of discounts a company offers in comparison to other insurers.
Great set of discounts
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
Far fewer complaints than expected for a company of its size.
Many discounts and coverage options available.
Cons
Can get an online quote but must finish the purchase over the phone.
Offers solid coverage with useful add-ons and many ways to save.
NerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula takes into account consumer complaint and customer satisfaction data.
Best for those who prefer to have a personal conversation with an agent when choosing coverage.
Coverage optionsRatings are based on the number of coverage options a company offers in comparison to other insurers.
More than average
DiscountsRatings are based on the number of discounts a company offers in comparison to other insurers.
Great set of discounts
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
Far fewer complaints than expected for a company of its size.
Many discounts and coverage options available.
Cons
Can get an online quote but must finish the purchase over the phone.
Offers solid coverage with useful add-ons and many ways to save.
Country Financial has three different levels of homeowners coverage to help you choose the package that’s best for you. You also have the option to add extra coverage for the structure of your home, in case inflation drives up the cost of rebuilding more than you expect.
Country Financial sells homeowners insurance through local representatives. The company has drawn far fewer complaints than expected to state regulators.
NerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula takes into account consumer complaint and customer satisfaction data.
Offers perks and affordable rates for the military community.
Coverage optionsRatings are based on the number of coverage options a company offers in comparison to other insurers.
Below average
DiscountsRatings are based on the number of discounts a company offers in comparison to other insurers.
Average set of discounts
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
Policies include standard coverage that often costs extra elsewhere.
Far fewer customer complaints to state regulators than expected for a company of its size.
Average rates are below the national average, according to NerdWallet’s analysis.
Cons
Available only to active military members, veterans and their families.
With generous coverage at rates below the national average, USAA offers good value for homeowners.
NerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula takes into account consumer complaint and customer satisfaction data.
Offers perks and affordable rates for the military community.
Coverage optionsRatings are based on the number of coverage options a company offers in comparison to other insurers.
Below average
DiscountsRatings are based on the number of discounts a company offers in comparison to other insurers.
Average set of discounts
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
Policies include standard coverage that often costs extra elsewhere.
Far fewer customer complaints to state regulators than expected for a company of its size.
Average rates are below the national average, according to NerdWallet’s analysis.
Cons
Available only to active military members, veterans and their families.
With generous coverage at rates below the national average, USAA offers good value for homeowners.
USAA offers perks worth considering for active members of the military. (The company sells policies only to active military, veterans and their families.) For example, USAA covers military uniforms without a deductible if you’re on active or reserve duty. And unlike other insurance companies, it will cover your personal belongings if they’re damaged or destroyed by acts of war.
Illinois homeowners can participate in USAA’s Connected Home program, which gives you a discount for installing select smart technology in your home. These devices can send alerts to your home if they detect water leaks, smoke or other problems.
How much does homeowners insurance cost in Illinois?
The average annual cost of home insurance in Illinois is $1,670. That’s 8% less than the national average of $1,820.
In most U.S. states, including Illinois, many insurers use your credit-based insurance score to help set rates. Your insurance score is similar but not identical to your traditional credit score.
In Illinois, those with poor credit pay an average of $4,180 per year for homeowners insurance, according to NerdWallet’s rate analysis. That’s 150% more than those with good credit.
Average cost of homeowners insurance in Illinois by city
How much you pay for home insurance in Illinois depends on where you live. For example, the average cost of homeowners insurance in Chicago is $2,115 per year, or about $176 per month. In Aurora, homeowners insurance costs about $1,450 per year or $121 per month, on average.
NerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula incorporates discounts, coverage options, website transparency, financial strength, complaint data and more.
NerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula incorporates discounts, coverage options, website transparency, financial strength, complaint data and more.
NerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula incorporates discounts, coverage options, website transparency, financial strength, complaint data and more.
NerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula incorporates discounts, coverage options, website transparency, financial strength, complaint data and more.
NerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula incorporates discounts, coverage options, website transparency, financial strength, complaint data and more.
$1,345
Westfield
4.0
NerdWallet rating
NerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula incorporates coverage options, customer experience, customizability, cost and more.
NerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula incorporates discounts, coverage options, website transparency, financial strength, complaint data and more.
NerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula incorporates discounts, coverage options, website transparency, financial strength, complaint data and more.
$1,440
*USAA homeowners policies are available only to active military, veterans and their families.
What to know about Illinois homeowners insurance
When evaluating your options for home insurance in Illinois, make sure you’re adequately covered for these common natural disasters.
Floods
Despite its inland location, Illinois does see various types of flooding, including flash floods from heavy rain. Homeowners insurance generally doesn’t cover flood damage, so if your home is at risk, you may need to buy a separate flood insurance policy.
Most people get this coverage through the federal government’s National Flood Insurance Program, though private flood insurance may also be available in your area.
To check your home’s flood risk, plug your address into the Federal Emergency Management Agency's flood maps or check RiskFactor.com, an online tool from the nonprofit First Street Foundation.
Illinois averages more than 50 tornadoes per year, with most occurring between April and June. A standard homeowners insurance policy typically covers damage from a tornado, along with any additional living expenses you might have if the storm leaves your home unlivable.
Winter storms
If a heavy blizzard knocks a tree onto your roof or frigid weather causes a pipe to burst, your homeowners insurance policy will likely cover the damage. Snow and ice are among the “perils,” or causes of damage, that a standard homeowners policy covers.
Got a complaint about your insurance company? Confused about your rights as a policyholder? The Illinois Department of Insurance may be able to assist. On the agency’s website, you can look up insurance companies, file a complaint or chat with a virtual assistant in English or Spanish. For personalized help, you can call the agency’s customer hotline at 866-445-5364.
The agency also provides information on your rights as a homeowner in Illinois. For example, your insurance company must give you at least 30 days’ notice if it’s canceling your homeowners policy for any reason other than nonpayment. If at least three companies refuse to cover your home, you may be eligible for a policy from the Illinois FAIR Plan, the state’s insurer of last resort.
Homeowners insurance isn’t legally required in Illinois, but if you have a mortgage, your lender will likely require you to have it. For more information, read Is Homeowners Insurance Required?
Can an Illinois homeowners insurance company deny your claim?
In Illinois and any other state, an insurance company may deny a homeowners claim for a variety of reasons. For instance, the damage may have been caused by something the policy doesn’t cover. (Most homeowners policies specifically exclude coverage for things like flood or earthquake damage.) Your claim may also be denied if you’ve failed to pay your premiums or you can’t provide enough evidence of the damage.
Who regulates homeowners insurance companies in Illinois?
The Illinois Department of Insurance oversees the state’s insurance market, including homeowners insurance companies. The agency is responsible for evaluating consumer complaints about insurance carriers and making sure companies operating in the state are financially solvent.
What is the average cost of homeowners insurance in Chicago?
The average cost of homeowners insurance in Chicago is $2,115 a year, according to NerdWallet’s rate analysis. Your own premium may differ depending on the size of your home and the amount of coverage you need. To save on your premium, ask your insurer if you qualify for any home insurance discounts.
Can insurers in Illinois deny coverage based on the breed of my dog?
A 2023 law states that homeowners insurers in Illinois can't deny you coverage or charge you a higher rate based on your dog's breed. However, they can take these actions if your dog has a history of aggression.
Is homeowners insurance required in Illinois?
Homeowners insurance isn’t legally required in Illinois, but if you have a mortgage, your lender will likely require you to have it. For more information, read
Can an Illinois homeowners insurance company deny your claim?
In Illinois and any other state, an insurance company may deny a homeowners claim for a variety of reasons. For instance, the damage may have been caused by something the policy doesn’t cover. (Most homeowners policies specifically exclude coverage for things like flood or
damage.) Your claim may also be denied if you’ve failed to pay your premiums or you can’t provide enough evidence of the damage.
Who regulates homeowners insurance companies in Illinois?
The Illinois Department of Insurance oversees the state’s insurance market, including homeowners insurance companies. The agency is responsible for evaluating consumer complaints about insurance carriers and making sure companies operating in the state are financially solvent.
What is the average cost of homeowners insurance in Chicago?
The average cost of homeowners insurance in Chicago is $2,115 a year, according to NerdWallet’s rate analysis. Your own premium may differ depending on the size of your home and the amount of coverage you need. To save on your premium, ask your insurer if you qualify for any
Can insurers in Illinois deny coverage based on the breed of my dog?
A 2023 law states that homeowners insurers in Illinois can't deny you coverage or charge you a higher rate based on your dog's breed. However, they can take these actions if your dog has a history of aggression.
Methodology
NerdWallet averaged rates for 40-year-old homeowners from various insurance companies in every ZIP code across the state. All rates are rounded to the nearest $5.
Sample homeowners were nonsmokers with good credit living in a single-family, two-story home built in 1984. They had a $1,000 deductible and the following coverage limits:
$300,000 in dwelling coverage.
$30,000 in other structures coverage.
$150,000 in personal property coverage.
$60,000 in loss of use coverage.
$300,000 in liability coverage.
$1,000 in medical payments coverage.
We made minor changes to the sample policy in cases where rates for the above coverage limits or deductibles weren’t available.
We changed the credit tier from “good” to “poor,” as reported to the insurer, to see rates for homeowners with poor credit.
These are sample rates generated through Quadrant Information Services. Your own rates will be different.
Star rating methodology
NerdWallet’s homeowners 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, coverages, discounts and online experience. 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 full homeowners insurance rating methodology.
Complaint methodology
NerdWallet examined complaints received by state insurance regulators and reported to the National Association of Insurance Commissioners in 2019-2021. To assess how insurers compare with 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.
