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The best car insurance for seniors

In this guide, we’ll explain how older drivers can find the best car insurance for senior citizens, and what to look for when shopping for a senior car insurance policy. 

The average cost of car insurance for individuals age 65-80 is between $1,100-3,000.

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Why you can trust Rate Retriever

Our rates are based on public rate filings obtained by analytics company First Interpreter. While we may partner with some of the carriers you see on our site, we maintain editorial independence and it does not affect the rates you see. Read more about our rating methodology or see our rigorous editorial policy. 

Written by Alyssa DiCrasto

Reviewed by Rob Deming

Last updated: February 26th, 2024

Best car insurance for seniors

As of 2020, there were nearly 48 million licensed drivers over the age of 65 in the United States. Senior drivers who own a registered vehicle are legally required to carry car insurance in almost every state, regardless of their age, the type of car they have and how frequently they drive.

Because most people over the age of 60 continue to drive for many years, it’s important to choose the right car insurance company and policy. The best car insurance for seniors is affordable and provides adequate protection for the driver’s personal coverage needs.

State Farm Auto Insurance
Nationwide Auto Insurance
Geico Auto Insurance
Auto Owners Insurance
Progressive Auto Insurance

Cheap car insurance for seniors

Average cost of car insurance for seniors

The cost of car insurance for seniors depends on a variety of factors. On the application, drivers are required to submit information that is used to calculate their unique premium. Some of the biggest factors that affect car insurance rates for seniors include:

  • Age
  • Gender
  • Location
  • Driving record
  • Insurance claim history
  • Make and model of the vehicle

At age 65, drivers pay on average around $1,600. However, older drivers tend to pay higher rates for car insurance. By age 72, the average sits around $1,800, and by age 80 this climbs to around $2,000.

Average car insurance rates for seniors

Average cost of car insurance for 60-year-olds

Around age 60, you’ll be paying the least amount for your car insurance than at any other point in your life, assuming you have a good driving record and avoid lapses in coverage.

Here are the average rates in each state for a 65-year-old male.

Annual rates for a male driving a 2023 RAV4, estimated using public rate filings sourced from First Interpreter. Rates do not represent actual quotes. Accurate as of January 2024. 

Now, take a look at the average rates for the same profile by company. This list only considers companies that cover a large portion of the US. It’s a great idea to compare rates from local companies as well. 

Company Average Annual Premium
USAA 1,311
Progressive 1,337
Nationwide 1,384
Auto-Owners Insurance 1,469
Geico 1,516
Travelers 1,639
State Farm 1,687
Farmers 2,110
Allstate 2,149

Annual rates for a male driving a 2023 RAV4, estimated using public rate filings sourced from First Interpreter. Rates do not represent actual quotes. Accurate as of January 2024. 

Average cost of car insurance for 70-year-olds

By age 70, you may notice that your rates are starting to increase slowly, even if your driving record and vehicle remain the same.

Below are the average rates in each state for a 72-year-old male.

Annual rates for a male driving a 2023 RAV4, estimated using public rate filings sourced from First Interpreter. Rates do not represent actual quotes. Accurate as of January 2024. 

Now, take a look at the average rates for the same 72-year-old organized by company. This list only includes companies that offer coverage in a good portion of the US. It’s a great idea to compare rates from local companies as well. 

Company Average Annual Premium
USAA 1,468
Progressive 1,534
Nationwide 1,576
Auto-Owners Insurance 1,634
Geico 1,749
Travelers 1,837
State Farm 1,848
Allstate 2,379
Farmers 2,391

Annual rates for a male driving a 2023 RAV4, estimated using public rate filings sourced from First Interpreter. Rates do not represent actual quotes. Accurate as of January 2024. 

Average cost of car insurance for 80-year-olds

By age 80, your rates will likely continue to increase, since most insurance companies see 80-year-olds as higher risk drivers than their slightly younger counterparts. While you probably won’t pay as much as you did when you were younger, there are still affordable options for you. 

Here are the average rates in each state for an 80-year-old male with a clean driving record.

Annual rates for a male driving a 2023 RAV4, estimated using public rate filings sourced from First Interpreter. Rates do not represent actual quotes. Accurate as of January 2024. 

Below are the average rates for the same 80-year-old organized by company. These only consider companies that cover a large portion of the US. It’s a great idea to compare rates from local companies as well. 

Company Average Annual Premium
USAA 1,875
Nationwide 1,938
Auto-Owners Insurance 1,992
Progressive 1,993
Geico 2,058
State Farm 2,167
Travelers 2,267
Allstate 2,710
Farmers 2,817

Annual rates for a male driving a 2023 RAV4, estimated using public rate filings sourced from First Interpreter. Rates do not represent actual quotes. Accurate as of January 2024. 

Best insurance rates for seniors

What type of insurance is for people over the age of 65?

Car insurance is legally required in every state except New Hampshire and Virginia. Each state has its own unique coverage requirements and minimum coverage limits that every licensed driver must carry. All drivers must follow these requirements, no matter their age.

At a minimum, most senior drivers over age 65 must carry personal liability insurance, which includes two parts—bodily injury and property damage liability coverage. These car insurance coverages take effect when a driver causes an accident that results in vehicle damages or injuries to another person.

However, there are a variety of additional coverages that can be beneficial to senior drivers. Here are some coverage options that senior drivers might consider adding to their policy for higher levels of protection:

  • Collision insurance: This policy pays for your vehicle damages after an accident you cause. In most cases, it provides a payout based on your car’s actual cash value (ACV), minus a deductible.
  • Comprehensive insurance: Comprehensive insurance pays for your vehicle damages stemming from non-accident situations, such as weather damage, theft, vandalism and falling objects. Like collision insurance, reimbursement is based on your car’s ACV.
  • New car replacement coverage: This optional policy will provide a larger payout if your vehicle is totaled in a covered loss, so you can replace the totaled vehicle with a new one of a similar make and model.
  • Gap insurance: If you lease or finance your car, gap insurance may be a smart investment. If the car is totaled, this policy pays the difference between the car’s diminished value and the remaining amount you owe.

Car insurance discounts for seniors

Because car insurance for older drivers can be expensive, many car insurance companies offer car insurance discounts for seniors. While every car insurance provider offers different discounts (with varying savings potential), here are some of the most common ones that some seniors may be able to qualify for:

Defensive Driver Course

Car insurance companies often a provide a discount when you insure multiple vehicles with the same policy.

"Retired Driver" Discounts

Some car insurance providers have special discounts when you bundle multiple types of insurance policies, such as a homeowners insurance policy with an auto insurance policy.

"Infrequent Driver" Discounts

For families with teenagers and young adults, good student discounts can help lower the cost of your premiums if your student has good grades, has completed a Driver’s Education course, or goes to college out of state.

Car insurance FAQs for seniors

Why do seniors pay more for car insurance?

Data shows that senior drivers have a higher risk of being injured in a car accident and are more likely to cause accidents than younger drivers. Many age-related factors, such as loss of vision, motor skills and even some medical conditions can increase the likelihood of a crash.

As a result, car insurance companies often charge senior drivers higher rates to offset the increased risk of a claim. When shopping for the best car insurance for elderly drivers, itÂ’s a good idea to get quotes from multiple carriers to see which provider can offer the lowest rate.a

What is the best insurance for a senior?

The best car insurance is different for everyone, including older drivers. It depends on lots of things, like location, budget, coverage needs and the driver’s personal criteria for what makes an insurer “the best.”

Ultimately, the only way to find the best car insurance for a senior is to shop around and compare providers based on factors like cost, coverage options, discounts, third-party ratings and customer service.

Need help finding the best car insurance for seniors? Take our quick start quiz to find the best car insurance company. In just five questions, you’ll get matched with several reputable providers in your area. Click “get a quote” or call to see how much you will pay and what coverage options are available.

Why shop for car insurance once you retire?

Even if you already have car insurance, itÂ’s a good idea to re-shop for a policy after retirement. If you are no longer commuting to work, it might make sense to drop certain policies not required in your state or lower your policy limits. You may also qualify for new discounts, such as a retired driver discount or other age-based savings.

In addition, shopping for new car insurance policies after retirement could help you find a lower price. ItÂ’s recommended to re-shop for car insurance quotes once per year, or after youÂ’ve had a claim or another major life event.

If you find a cheaper rate from another provider, you can cancel your car insurance policy and switch companies. In most cases, you are allowed to switch to a different car insurance provider at any time, even before your policy is up for renewal.

How to get affordable car insurance for seniors?

The best way to make sure you get affordable car insurance is to compare car insurance from multiple providers. All insurance companies assess risk differently, so your driver profile will be more attractive than others – resulting in lower rates for you.

When you compare car insurance, we recommend that you also consider the insurance providerÂ’s available discounts, such as low mileage, safe driver, and membership-based discounts. For example, some insurance companies offer cheaper car insurance to AARP members.

How does car insurance for seniors differ from other age groups?

Car insurance for seniors can be different because as people age, factors like driving experience and health may affect rates. Seniors may qualify for discounts based on low mileage or defensive driving courses. However, some seniors may pay more for insurance if they have health issues that could impact their driving ability. It’s important for seniors to shop around for the best rates and coverage to ensure they have the protection they need on the road.

Are there any discounts available specifically for senior drivers?

Yes, some car insurance companies offer discounts specifically for senior drivers. These discounts can help seniors save money on their premiums. Seniors may qualify for lower rates by completing a defensive driving course or by having a clean driving record. It’s important for senior drivers to ask their insurance provider about any available discounts to ensure they are getting the best deal possible.

Do I need to notify my insurance company if I retire or change my driving habits as a senior?

Yes, it is important to notify your insurance company if you retire or change your driving habits as a senior. Your insurance premiums may change based on these factors, and it’s important to make sure your policy accurately reflects your lifestyle. Notifying your insurance company may even help you save money.

Can I still qualify for safe driver discounts as a senior?

Yes, as a senior, you can still qualify for safe driver discounts from insurance companies. Safe driver discounts are typically based on your driving record, such as avoiding accidents and speeding tickets. As long as you continue to maintain a clean driving record and meet the requirements set by your insurance provider, you should still be eligible for these discounts. It’s important to check with your insurance company to see if they offer safe driver discounts for seniors and what criteria you need to meet to qualify.

Can I still drive if my vision or hearing starts to deteriorate as a senior?

If your vision or hearing starts to deteriorate as a senior, it may affect your ability to drive safely. It is important to have regular vision and hearing tests to make sure you are still able to drive safely.

Can I adjust my coverage limits and deductibles as needed as a senior?

Yes, as a senior, you can adjust your coverage limits and deductibles if needed. It’s important to review your insurance policy regularly to make sure it meets your current needs and budget. You can contact your insurance provider to make changes to your coverage options. Keep in mind that adjusting your coverage limits and deductibles may affect your premium costs, so it’s wise to speak with an agent to fully understand how changes may impact your policy.

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About Rate Retriever

At Rate Retriever, our mission is to make the way you shop for insurance transparent and fair through user-friendly tools that respect your privacy and deliver reliable, comprehensive results.  

So we took everything we hated about comparing insurance quotes online – the spam, the long questionnaires, the limited choices, the inaccuracy of quote prices – and threw it out the window, favoring a short form that more accurately estimates what you’ll pay at each of the top insurance providers near you. 

Rate Retriever is an independent company that is not owned by an insurance provider, nor do we provide insurance ourselves. This independence allows us to be your free and impartial insurance research tool, helping you make the best decisions for your insurance needs.  

We may earn a commission when you click one of the links or call one of the providers listed on our site; however, we do not allow our partnerships to influence which information we provide. 

Methodology

Rate Retriever rates are based on public rate filings obtained by analytics company First Interpreter. This data comes from the rating plans insurance carriers submit to each state’s department of insurance. Rating plans detail how each carrier calculates premiums using factors such as location, age, gender, and driving record, and they ensure that insurance premiums are both fair and competitive.  

For the data on this page, we made the following assumptions: a single male with a clean driving record and Good credit score, driving a 2023 RAV4. We adjusted this profile by age to determine the rates you see on this page. 

These rates are not actual quotes and should be used only for comparative purposes. Your rates can vary significantly based on your unique driver profile.Â