Top 10 least expensive cars to insure

Katie Dee on 2023-11-27

Top 10 least expensive cars to insure

Written by Katie Dee

Published on 2023-11-27

Read time: 3 min

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Is your state expensive for car insurance?

Subaru is the cheapest popular brand for car insurance

How to save money on car insurance in California

Car insurance companies set rates based on one thing above all else: risk associated with a driver profile. Risk is assessed based on several factors, including your location, age, driving history, and the specific vehicle you are insuring. While some of these aspects are out of your control, choosing to drive a car that car insurance companies view as less risky to insure can significantly decrease your car insurance rates.

With so many vehicles on the market, finding your cheapest option can feel overwhelming. To help you in this process, we have compiled a list of the ten least expensive cars to insure along with their average annual premiums, according to Rate Retriever’s Quarterly Insurance Rates Update.

Is your state expensive for car insurance?

Subaru is the cheapest popular brand for car insurance

How to save money on car insurance in California

The least expensive vehicles for car insurance

Of the top 100 best-selling 2023 models, Rate Retriever’s research found that the tenth least expensive car to insure is the Hyundai Tucson. This vehicle has an average annual premium of $1,842, which is 13% lower than the national average of $2,129. Next, the Ford Transit Connect Cargo Van is 14% cheaper than the national average, with policy holders paying an average of $1,840 per year.

The next three cheapest cars to insure are separated by just $1 each for their annual premiums and are all about 14% cheaper than the national average. The Honda HR-V has an average annual premium of $1,835, the Jeep Wrangler costs an average of $1,834 per year to insure, and the Chevrolet Trailblazer has an average annual premium of $1,833.

Starting off the top 5 cheapest cars to insure is the Ram 3500 Promaster Cargo Van, with an annual premium of $1,823, 14% less than the national average. Next, with an average premium of $1,809 per year is the Volkswagen Tiguan. This car is 15% lower than the average vehicle’s car insurance.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5 is the third cheapest car to insure. Car insurance on this model is 15% cheaper than the national average with an annual premium of $1,807. The second cheapest car to insure is the Subaru Forester with an average annual premium of $1,792, 16% cheaper than the national average.

Finally, the cheapest 2023 model to insure is the Subaru Outback. This vehicle has an average annual premium of $1,737, 18% less than the national average for car insurance.

Keep in mind, even if you own one of these vehicles, your exact rate will vary depending on factors such as the state you live in and your age. To get a more accurate car insurance rate estimate, take our short quiz to compare companies and find the cheapest option for you.

What makes a car less expensive to insure?

Car insurance rates are highly personalized, and the exact make and model of your car can influence your premium drastically. Typically, vehicles with high safety ratings and anti-theft technology are cheaper to insure because these features make the policyholder less likely to file a claim.

Additionally, luxury vehicles and electric cars are usually more expensive to insure because they are pricier to repair or replace if you ever need to file a claim. Electric vehicles may also require a specialized body shop to make any necessary repairs. This makes these repairs more expensive and, therefore, adds to the cost of car insurance on these vehicles.

The number of accidents associated with a certain make and model will also have an impact on car insurance rates. Car insurance companies analyze the accident history for specific vehicles and will set higher rates for those with a higher percentage of accidents.

If you are in the market for a new car, consider doing some outside research on accident history prior to making your purchase to try and keep your car insurance rates as low as possible.

Frequently asked

How does the insurance company determine my rate?

Car insurance companies determine how much they charge you based on your driver profile. Factors that can impact your rates include:

Demographics – your age, home ownership, credit score, and more
Your driving history – how long you’ve been driving, traffic violations, and more
Your car – make, model, and year
Where you live – state and zip code
How much coverage you want

How do I switch my car insurance?

Switching your car insurance is easy, even if you are in the middle of your current policy.

Here are some helpful tips to consider to switch your car insurance:

Decide what coverage you want with your next policy
Check if your current provider charges cancellation penalties or fees
Compare prices from at least 3-5 insurance companies (Rate Retriever makes this easy, giving you personalized rates from the top companies near you)
Get a final quote from at least one of your choices
Cancel your current policy once your new one begins

How much car insurance do I need?

The answer to this question depends on where you live and what you would like to cover.

Each state has its own minimum requirements on the type and amount of insurance needed. When you’re trying to determine what and how much car insurance you need, you can start by reviewing your state’s requirements.

Find out what’s required in your state

Once you review your state’s minimum requirements, you may find that you want additional coverage. For example, sometimes owners of new cars want comprehensive coverage to insure their car from natural disasters and vandalism, even though comprehensive coverage isn’t required by their state. To figure out what insurance you want, you can review the different types of insurance to decide what makes the most sense for your situation.

Learn about the different types of car insurance

How is Rate Retriever different than other insurance websites?

The biggest difference between Rate Retriever and other comparison sites is that we are a free and impartial research tool NOT an insurance marketplace. This means you can’t purchase a policy directly through RateRetriever.com, but you can use our tool to independently research your options and seamlessly connect with the provider you choose.

Unlike other insurance comparison sites, we:

Use third-party data to give you more accurate rate estimates instead of inaccurate, suspiciously low quotes to get you in the door
Do not limit your list of results to paid advertisers
Do not collect your email or phone number before we let you see your results
Give you results after just five questions (however, your results will be more accurate if you complete your profile)

We like to think that Rate Retriever is your insurance companion, not just another insurance comparison site. Our values guide everything we do, which is why we strive to offer transparent, trustworthy insurance tools.

Read more about Rate Retriever

How can I get cheaper car insurance?

There are many ways you can try to get cheaper car insurance. The first is simply to get quotes from multiple providers. This will help you determine if you’re currently receiving the cheapest rates based on your needs and driver profile. Rate Retriever makes the comparison process easy.

Sometimes, the reason your car insurance is so expensive is due to your driver profile. For example, drivers under 20 years old usually pay more for insurance than more experienced drivers, and drivers with a recent at-fault accident or traffic violation typically pay more.

There are ways to lower the cost of your insurance such as taking a defensive driving course. Check with your provider to see if there are any discounts you qualify for or can reasonably earn.

How does Rate Retriever make money?

Rate Retriever works with national and local insurance providers to provide our users with a seamless insurance shopping experience. We may earn a commission from our insurance provider partners when you click on a link, call, or purchase a policy from one of the providers listed on our site. That said, we’re committed to providing you with accurate, bias-free information, and we do not allow our partnerships to limit the results or influence the information we share with you.

We do not sell your personal information, charge you for using our tools, or sell you insurance policies. Additionally, should you choose to purchase a policy from one of our partners, the price you pay will not be adversely affected.

Read our full earnings disclosure

The lasting impact of COVID-19 on car insurance rates

Katie Dee on 2023-11-25

The lasting impact of COVID-19 on car insurance rates

Written by Katie Dee

Edited by Alyssa DiCrasto

Published on 2023-11-25

Read time: 3 min

Is your state expensive for car insurance?

Subaru is the cheapest popular brand for car insurance

How to save money on car insurance in California

From transformed school and workplace environments to economic downturn, the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic continues to be seen almost everywhere you look. The car insurance industry is no exception to this.

As the economy tries to right itself and consumers return to their pre-pandemic driving habits, the risk for car insurance companies has increased significantly. With rates rising to make up for this added risk, understanding the relationship between COVID and car insurance can help you to save on your annual premium.

Is your state expensive for car insurance?

Subaru is the cheapest popular brand for car insurance

How to save money on car insurance in California

How has COVID-19 affected car insurance rates?

Back in 2020, as the rapid spread of the pandemic caused businesses to start operating remotely, car insurance companies began offering drivers discounts and refunds on their premiums because cars were simply not being driven.

In fact, a report conducted by the Deloitte Center for Financial Services in the early days of the pandemic found that pandemic-related lockdowns led to a year-over-year decrease of 40.2% in the miles driven in April of 2020 and a 25.5% drop in May of 2020. With the roads emptying, car insurance rates began to decrease significantly.

However, this trend did not last for long. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, car insurance rates have gone up by over 28% from 2020 to 2023. That is an inflation rate of 8.63% per year. Compare this to the 3.36% increase in car insurance costs from 2017 to 2020, and the difference is clear.

Understanding the relationship between COVID and car insurance rate increases is just the beginning, though. The real question is how to save money on your premiums despite the mounting cost of car insurance.

How to save money on car insurance after COVID-19

According to Rate Retriever’s Quarterly Insurance Rates Update, the average cost for car insurance in 2023 is $1,824. Remember, your exact car insurance rate will vary depending on factors such as the state you live in, your driving record, and the make and model of your car.

There are also several methods you can try to save money on your car insurance premium, even in the aftermath of COVID-19. The first step you should take is comparing costs from multiple providers in your area. We can help you here, with our quick and easy quiz, you can compare car insurance rates side by side and find your cheapest option.

Rate Retriever’s report also found that credit score has a significant impact on car insurance rates in all states besides California, Hawaii, and Massachusetts. Knowing this, working to improve your credit rating is another option for reducing your car insurance rates. On average, drivers with excellent credit pay 17% less for car insurance than those with good credit while drivers with poor credit can expect to pay 84% more.

Another tip for lowering your car insurance rates: raise your deductible. Car insurance companies set rates based on the amount of risk a policy introduces to them, and by raising your deductible, you are taking some of that risk away.

Keep in mind, the higher your deductible, the more you will owe out of pocket if you ever need to file a claim with your insurance company. While raising your deductible can save you money on annual premiums, it may end up costing you more in the long run, so this may not be the best option for everyone.

Lastly, you may be able to save money on your car insurance premium by taking a defensive driving course. Several insurance companies offer discounts for policyholders who complete these courses because brushing up on drivers safety knowledge lessens their likelihood of filing a claim.

Frequently asked

How does the insurance company determine my rate?

Car insurance companies determine how much they charge you based on your driver profile. Factors that can impact your rates include:

Demographics – your age, home ownership, credit score, and more
Your driving history – how long you’ve been driving, traffic violations, and more
Your car – make, model, and year
Where you live – state and zip code
How much coverage you want

How do I switch my car insurance?

Switching your car insurance is easy, even if you are in the middle of your current policy.

Here are some helpful tips to consider to switch your car insurance:

Decide what coverage you want with your next policy
Check if your current provider charges cancellation penalties or fees
Compare prices from at least 3-5 insurance companies (Rate Retriever makes this easy, giving you personalized rates from the top companies near you)
Get a final quote from at least one of your choices
Cancel your current policy once your new one begins

How much car insurance do I need?

The answer to this question depends on where you live and what you would like to cover.

Find out what’s required in your state

Learn about the different types of car insurance

How is Rate Retriever different than other insurance websites?

Unlike other insurance comparison sites, we:

Use third-party data to give you more accurate rate estimates instead of inaccurate, suspiciously low quotes to get you in the door
Do not limit your list of results to paid advertisers
Do not collect your email or phone number before we let you see your results
Give you results after just five questions (however, your results will be more accurate if you complete your profile)

Read more about Rate Retriever

How can I get cheaper car insurance?

There are ways to lower the cost of your insurance such as taking a defensive driving course. Check with your provider to see if there are any discounts you qualify for or can reasonably earn.

How does Rate Retriever make money?

Read our full earnings disclosure

The Tesla Model S is the most expensive car to insure in 2023

Katie Dee on 2023-11-23

The Tesla Model S is the most expensive car to insure in 2023

Written by Katie Dee

Edited by Alyssa DiCrasto

Published on 2023-11-23

Read time: 3 min

Car insurance prices vary drastically depending on factors such as your age, the state you live in, and – of course – the make and model of your vehicle. Insurance companies set rates based on how much risk is associated with a certain policy, and the vehicle you drive can be an indicator of that risk.

Typically, luxury vehicles and electric vehicles come with higher car insurance rates because of the increased cost for repair and replacement parts, but what exactly are the most expensive car models to insure in 2023?

Is your state expensive for car insurance?

Subaru is the cheapest popular brand for car insurance

How to save money on car insurance in California

Top 5 most expensive cars to insure

It might not surprise you to hear that according to a recent report from Rate Retriever, Tesla is the most expensive popular car brand of 2023. Teslas come with higher car insurance rates because of their luxury status as well as the increased cost associated with repairs on electric vehicles.

The 2023 Tesla Model S is currently the most expensive vehicle model to insure out of the top 100 best-selling models of 2023. With an average annual premium of $4,048, this model is 90% more expensive than the national average across all vehicles.

Tesla also claims the number two spot for most expensive cars to insure in 2023 with the Tesla Model Y, which costs about $3,088 per year to insure on average. While insurance on this model is almost $1,000 cheaper than the Model S, it is still 45% more than the national average.

The next most expensive model to insure is the 2023 Dodge Charger SXT. This model has an average annual premium of $2,957, 39% higher than the national average. Since this is a sports car, it’s increased risk of theft and enhanced speed capabilities may make it riskier for car insurance companies to cover, resulting in higher-than-average premiums.

Another Tesla model takes the spot for fourth most expensive vehicle model to insure in 2023. The Tesla Model 3 costs about $2,879 per year for car insurance, 35% higher than the national average.

Lastly, out of the top 100 most popular vehicles, the fifth most expensive to insure is the BMW X5 SDrive 40i. This model has an average annual premium of $2,696, 27% higher than the national average.

What makes certain cars more expensive to insure?

There are several aspects that car insurance companies consider when determining your exact rate. To put it simply, it all comes down to risk. Insurance companies are looking to bring in more cash from premiums than they are paying out in claims, so vehicles that will bring higher cost claims, will be assigned higher cost premiums.

This is why all five of the most expensive models of 2023 are either electric or luxury vehicles. These types of cars are often more expensive to repair if they are in an accident and much more expensive to replace if they are totaled or stolen.

Furthermore, repairs on electric vehicles often require a specialty mechanic or specialized parts that are in short supply, adding to the cost and accruing more risk for insurers.

Saving on car insurance with an expensive car model

Even if you own one of the most expensive models for insurance in 2023, there are still steps you can take to save money on your car insurance premium. One way to be sure you are not overpaying for your premium is to compare prices from multiple different car insurance companies in your area to see who has the cheapest rates. Take our short quiz to compare personalized rates and find savings in 30 seconds.

Additionally, credit score is considered in setting car insurance rates in all states besides California, Hawaii, and Massachusetts. According to Rate Retriever’s report, having an above average credit rating can save you around 17% on car insurance, so being mindful of your score and working to improve it can help to decrease your rates.

Taking a drivers safety course can also help to lower your car insurance rates. Many insurers have discounts associated with completing these courses because they make you less likely to file a claim and, therefore, less risky to insure.

When can teen drivers expect their rates to go down?

Katie Dee on 2023-11-21

When can teen drivers expect their rates to go down?

Written by Katie Dee

Edited by Alyssa DiCrasto

Published on 2023-11-21

Read time: 3 min

Is your state expensive for car insurance?

Subaru is the cheapest popular brand for car insurance

How to save money on car insurance in California

According to Rate Retriever’s Quarterly Insurance Rates Update, teen drivers pay an average of $7,401 a year for their car insurance, $5,577 more than the national average of $1,824. Teen driver rates are higher because of their limited experience behind the wheel, but when can young drivers expect this number to go down?

Typically, drivers will see a decrease in their car insurance rates when they reach their mid-twenties. On average, drivers experience a $5,215 total decrease in car insurance costs from age 17 to age 25. However, age is just one factor that impacts your car insurance costs, factors such as location, credit score, and the make and model of your car are also considered in setting rates.

Is your state expensive for car insurance?

Subaru is the cheapest popular brand for car insurance

How to save money on car insurance in California

Factors that impact car insurance rates for young drivers

By age 25, car insurance companies no longer consider you to be an inexperienced driver. Since it has been shown that the likelihood of an accident decreases each year from age 17 to 25, car insurance rates follow the same pattern.

Remember, car insurance prices look different for every driver depending on several different factors. While age is important, it is not the only risk factor that insurance companies consider – factors such as your driving record will likely play a larger role in how much you will pay for car insurance, even after hitting your mid-twenties.

Additionally, each car insurance company has their own unique rating system, so it can be tricky to know which one offers the lowest rates for each individual. Our quick quiz can help you compare rates from several different insurance companies and find savings in 30 seconds.

How young drivers can decrease car insurance costs

Beyond selecting the right company, there are other steps you can take to keep your car insurance costs low. First, the amount of coverage you purchase will significantly impact your rate. Depending on the state you live in, the minimum requirements for car insurance will vary. Learning what your state mandates and making sure you only have the coverage you need is one way to save money on car insurance—even as a young driver.

Another method to consider is a pay-per-mile policy. Numerous car insurance companies such as Allstate and Nationwide offer this for drivers who only want to pay insurance for the miles they drive. This may be a cost-effective option if you drive a minimal number of miles each month.

The car you drive also has an impact on your car insurance costs. Typically, vehicles with high safety ratings and a low cost of repair and replacement parts will have lower car insurance rates. According to Rate Retriever’s research, the cheapest car to insure among popular 2023 models is the Subaru Outback. The average annual premium for this car is $1,737, 18% cheaper than the average 2023 vehicle premium.

If you are a young driver in the market for a new car, consider the cost of insurance before making your purchase.

Frequently asked

How does the insurance company determine my rate?

Car insurance companies determine how much they charge you based on your driver profile. Factors that can impact your rates include:

Demographics – your age, home ownership, credit score, and more
Your driving history – how long you’ve been driving, traffic violations, and more
Your car – make, model, and year
Where you live – state and zip code
How much coverage you want

How do I switch my car insurance?

Switching your car insurance is easy, even if you are in the middle of your current policy.

Here are some helpful tips to consider to switch your car insurance:

Decide what coverage you want with your next policy
Check if your current provider charges cancellation penalties or fees
Compare prices from at least 3-5 insurance companies (Rate Retriever makes this easy, giving you personalized rates from the top companies near you)
Get a final quote from at least one of your choices
Cancel your current policy once your new one begins

How much car insurance do I need?

The answer to this question depends on where you live and what you would like to cover.

Find out what’s required in your state

Learn about the different types of car insurance

How is Rate Retriever different than other insurance websites?

Unlike other insurance comparison sites, we:

Use third-party data to give you more accurate rate estimates instead of inaccurate, suspiciously low quotes to get you in the door
Do not limit your list of results to paid advertisers
Do not collect your email or phone number before we let you see your results
Give you results after just five questions (however, your results will be more accurate if you complete your profile)

Read more about Rate Retriever

How can I get cheaper car insurance?

There are ways to lower the cost of your insurance such as taking a defensive driving course. Check with your provider to see if there are any discounts you qualify for or can reasonably earn.

How does Rate Retriever make money?

Read our full earnings disclosure

55-year-olds are currently paying the least for car insurance among all age groups

Katie Dee on 2023-11-19

55-year-olds are currently paying the least for car insurance among all age groups

Written by Katie Dee

Edited by Alyssa DiCrasto

Published on 2023-11-19

Read time: 3 min

Is your state expensive for car insurance?

Subaru is the cheapest popular brand for car insurance

How to save money on car insurance in California

While every state has their own set of laws used to determine car insurance rates, age is a factor that is considered across all of them. Car insurance and age are correlated because companies use age as an indicator of the risk associated with a policy.

According to Rate Retriever’s Auto Insurance Rates Quarterly Update, teenage and senior drivers currently pay the most for their car insurance premiums, presumably due to their increased likelihood of filing a claim with their insurance company.

Furthermore, the report found that 55-year-old drivers are paying the least for their car insurance among all age groups.

Is your state expensive for car insurance?

Subaru is the cheapest popular brand for car insurance

How to save money on car insurance in California

Why do 55-year-olds pay less for car insurance?

Car insurance rates are typically the lowest for drivers in their mid-50s because they have been shown to have the lowest accident and claims rate. Based on Rate Retriever’s research, the average annual premium for 55-year-old drivers is $1,576, however rates will vary depending on your location, the make and model of your car, and more.

Currently, the state that offers the cheapest car insurance is Vermont, where the average annual cost of car insurance is $1,078, 40.9% less than the national average. Vermont drivers in their mid-50s stand to pay even less for their yearly premium because of the decreased risk they introduce to car insurance companies.

On the other end of the spectrum, New York currently has the most expensive car insurance rates. The average annual premium in this state is $3,061, 67.8% higher than the national average. While drivers in their mid-50s can expect to pay below the state average, they will most likely still pay more for car insurance than this demographic in any other state.

When do car insurance prices start to go up?

After age 55, you may find that your car insurance rates begin to go up. This is because older drivers tend to have a higher accident and claims rate. According to Rate Retriever’s research, on average drivers experience a total car insurance rate increase of around $570 from age 55 to age 80.

However, the steepest spike usually occurs after age 65, when drivers officially enter the senior age bracket. On average, car insurance rates can go from around $1,606 at age 65 to $2,143 at age 80. Drivers in this age bracket experience rate hikes because they are more likely to have cognitive, physical, or visual impairments that may negatively impact their driving ability.

How to reduce your car insurance costs

Age is one aspect used to set car insurance rates that you cannot control, however, there are still many that you can. One way that you could lower your car insurance rates, no matter your age, is to compare premiums from different car insurance companies in your area to see which offers you the lowest price. Take our short quiz to compare companies and save.

Beyond the company you choose, improving your credit score could help to reduce your car insurance rates. Currently, credit score is a factor used to determine car insurance premiums in all states besides California, Hawaii, and Massachusetts.

Car insurance companies use your credit score to assess the potential risk involved with your policy, so staying on top of your credit could help to lower your rates in most states.

Additionally, check with your chosen insurance company for any discounts you may be eligible for. Possible discounts include safe driving discounts, good student discounts (if you are insuring a teenager), and customer loyalty discounts.

Frequently asked

How does the insurance company determine my rate?

Car insurance companies determine how much they charge you based on your driver profile. Factors that can impact your rates include:

Demographics – your age, home ownership, credit score, and more
Your driving history – how long you’ve been driving, traffic violations, and more
Your car – make, model, and year
Where you live – state and zip code
How much coverage you want

How do I switch my car insurance?

Switching your car insurance is easy, even if you are in the middle of your current policy.

Here are some helpful tips to consider to switch your car insurance:

Decide what coverage you want with your next policy
Check if your current provider charges cancellation penalties or fees
Compare prices from at least 3-5 insurance companies (Rate Retriever makes this easy, giving you personalized rates from the top companies near you)
Get a final quote from at least one of your choices
Cancel your current policy once your new one begins

How much car insurance do I need?

The answer to this question depends on where you live and what you would like to cover.

Find out what’s required in your state

Learn about the different types of car insurance

How is Rate Retriever different than other insurance websites?

Unlike other insurance comparison sites, we:

Use third-party data to give you more accurate rate estimates instead of inaccurate, suspiciously low quotes to get you in the door
Do not limit your list of results to paid advertisers
Do not collect your email or phone number before we let you see your results
Give you results after just five questions (however, your results will be more accurate if you complete your profile)

Read more about Rate Retriever

How can I get cheaper car insurance?

There are ways to lower the cost of your insurance such as taking a defensive driving course. Check with your provider to see if there are any discounts you qualify for or can reasonably earn.

How does Rate Retriever make money?

Read our full earnings disclosure

The inconsistencies of how gender impacts car insurance rates

Katie Dee on 2023-11-17

The inconsistencies of how gender impacts car insurance rates

Written by Katie Dee

Edited by Alyssa DiCrasto

Published on 2023-11-17

Read time: 3 min

Is your state expensive for car insurance?

Subaru is the cheapest popular brand for car insurance

How to save money on car insurance in California

There are numerous factors that go into determining what you will pay for car insurance. Based on the rating laws of your state, insurance companies will look at age, driving history, your vehicle make and model, and – in most states – the gender specified on your license.

According to new data from Rate Retriever, female drivers typically pay less than male drivers for car insurance. This is because women are generally seen as more risk averse on the road, leading to this demographic filing fewer claims.

However, this is not the case for every state.

Is your state expensive for car insurance?

Subaru is the cheapest popular brand for car insurance

How to save money on car insurance in California

Women are paying more than men for car insurance in 12 states

According to research conducted by IIHS, when compared to women, men have been shown to engage in riskier behavior on the road such as not wearing seatbelts, driving under the influence, and speeding. This results in more accidents and therefore increases their likelihood of filing claims with their car insurance company.

Because they are typically safer on the road, female drivers across all states pay about $3 less on average for their annual premium. However, women in New York state can expect to pay almost $100 more per year.

Car insurance companies typically charge more for premiums when those policies are associated with higher risk factors, such as the policy owner having a poor driving record. However, in the following states, gender-based rating goes against that trend:

Washington: On average, male policy holders in this state are paying $2 less per year for car insurance than women.
Utah: Male drivers in Utah are paying an average of $1,587 per year for car insurance while their female counterparts are paying $1,665.
South Dakota: Female drivers in South Dakota pay an average of $7 more per year for car insurance than male drivers.
Oregon: In Oregon, male drivers pay an average of $45 less per year for their car insurance than female drivers.
New York: This state has the biggest rate increase for female drivers, with women paying $95 more on average for car insurance.
New Hampshire: New Hampshire has the smallest rate increase for female drivers, with just a $1 difference per year.
Nebraska: In Nebraska, men pay an average of $1,589 per year for car insurance, while women pay $1,603.
Iowa: In this state, female drivers pay about $2 more per year for their car insurance policies.
Florida: Men in Florida pay about $2,465 for their annual premium, while women pay around $2,528, a $63 increase.
Delaware: In Delaware, female drivers currently pay around $50 more per year for car insurance than male drivers.
Arkansas: Women in Arkansas pay around $5 more per year for their car insurance than men.

Knowing that male drivers possess more risk factors, yet female drivers are still assigned higher rates in certain states makes the reasons behind gender-based rating feel a little murkier.

Inconsistencies of gender-based car insurance rating by state

While there are only 12 states where women pay more than men for car insurance, they are not the only outliers when it comes to the role of gender on car insurance prices.

California, Hawaii, Massachusetts, Michigan, North Carolina, and Pennsylvania do not take gender into consideration at all when determining car insurance rates.

Furthermore, the level of impact that gender has on premiums varies drastically depending on your state. According to Rate Retriever’s research, there could be anywhere from a $1 difference annually (like in New Hampshire) to a $95 increase in rates for women in New York and a $78 increase for women in Utah.

There is also a disparity in the way that gender affects car insurance rates depending on the age of the driver. Since younger drivers typically pay more for car insurance, the discrepancy between what men and women are paying is even wider among drivers in their teens and early 20s, with young men paying significantly more than young women in most states.

With so much irregularity, it is tough to tell whether gender is really a reliable factor to consider in car insurance rates. However, while gender-based rating is still practiced in most states, there are still ways you can help keep your rates down. These include improving your credit score and maintaining safe driving practices.

Another way to manage your car insurance prices and ensure you are never overpaying is to compare multiple car insurance companies in your area to find the cheapest rates. Take our short quiz to find savings in 30 seconds.

Frequently asked

How does the insurance company determine my rate?

Car insurance companies determine how much they charge you based on your driver profile. Factors that can impact your rates include:

Demographics – your age, home ownership, credit score, and more
Your driving history – how long you’ve been driving, traffic violations, and more
Your car – make, model, and year
Where you live – state and zip code
How much coverage you want

How do I switch my car insurance?

Switching your car insurance is easy, even if you are in the middle of your current policy.

Here are some helpful tips to consider to switch your car insurance:

Decide what coverage you want with your next policy
Check if your current provider charges cancellation penalties or fees
Compare prices from at least 3-5 insurance companies (Rate Retriever makes this easy, giving you personalized rates from the top companies near you)
Get a final quote from at least one of your choices
Cancel your current policy once your new one begins

How much car insurance do I need?

The answer to this question depends on where you live and what you would like to cover.

Find out what’s required in your state

Learn about the different types of car insurance

How is Rate Retriever different than other insurance websites?

Unlike other insurance comparison sites, we:

Use third-party data to give you more accurate rate estimates instead of inaccurate, suspiciously low quotes to get you in the door
Do not limit your list of results to paid advertisers
Do not collect your email or phone number before we let you see your results
Give you results after just five questions (however, your results will be more accurate if you complete your profile)

Read more about Rate Retriever

How can I get cheaper car insurance?

There are ways to lower the cost of your insurance such as taking a defensive driving course. Check with your provider to see if there are any discounts you qualify for or can reasonably earn.

How does Rate Retriever make money?

Read our full earnings disclosure

Understanding the impact of zip code on car insurance rates

Katie Dee on 2023-11-15

Understanding the impact of zip code on car insurance rates

Written by Katie Dee

Edited by Alyssa DiCrasto

Published on 2023-11-15

Read time: 3 min

Is your state expensive for car insurance?

Subaru is the cheapest popular brand for car insurance

How to save money on car insurance in California

According to Rate Retriever’s Auto Insurance Rates Quarterly Update, the most expensive U.S. zip code for car insurance in 2023 is in Brooklyn, NY. Drivers in the 11233 zip code have an estimated average annual premium of $5,512, almost $3,690 higher than the national average of $1,824.

On the other end of the spectrum, the cheapest zip code for car insurance in 2023 was in Essex Junction, Vermont. The average annual premium for the zip code 05452 was $1,008, more than $800 less than the national average.

So, why does zip code matter for car insurance and why are some so much pricier than others? We are here to help you understand the answers and what they can mean for your own car insurance premium.

Is your state expensive for car insurance?

Subaru is the cheapest popular brand for car insurance

How to save money on car insurance in California

Why zip code factors into car insurance rates

Typically, insurance companies try to have more money coming in from premiums than they are paying out for claims. Because of this, when they are determining how much a premium will be, it is largely based on the amount of risk the policy introduces to the provider.

If a zip code is in a crowded metropolitan area with a higher rate of theft, premiums will most likely be higher since there is a greater risk of the policy owner filing a claim. Conversely, if you live in a zip code belonging to a more rural area with less cars on the road and lower rates of theft, your rates will typically be lower.

Additionally, car insurance companies will analyze the history of claims that have been filed in certain zip codes to determine the risk. If the zip code you live in has an above average rate of insurance claims, car insurance underwriters will issue higher premiums for that area.

To put it simply: the higher the likelihood of you filing a claim in a certain zip code, the higher the premium associated with that zip code will be.

How to control your car insurance rates in an expensive zip code

Even if you reside in a higher risk zip code, there are options for you to control your car insurance premium. The most effective way to be sure you are not overpaying is to compare rates from multiple different car insurance companies, which you can do through our short quiz that helps you find savings in 30 seconds.

Another method for lowering car insurance rates is to take a defensive driving course. Many car insurance companies offer discounts to drivers who complete these courses because brushing up on safe driving tactics typically leads to filing less claims.

Maintaining your credit score can also help to save you money on car insurance in most states. Currently, California, Hawaii, and Massachusetts are the only states in the U.S. that do not use credit score as a factor in car insurance rates.

There is evidence that suggests that credit score is an indicator of how likely a driver is to file an insurance claim, and car insurance companies consider this when setting your rates. Rate Retriever’s report found that drivers with excellent credit are spending 17% less on car insurance premiums while drivers with poor credit are spending 84% more on average.

Lastly, raising your deductible could help save you money on monthly car insurance costs. Keep in mind, the higher your deductible, the more you will owe before your car insurance kicks in if you ever need to file a claim. Raising your deductible will lower your annual premium, but it could also result in you spending more money in the long run, so this may not be the right option for everyone.

Frequently asked

How does the insurance company determine my rate?

Car insurance companies determine how much they charge you based on your driver profile. Factors that can impact your rates include:

Demographics – your age, home ownership, credit score, and more
Your driving history – how long you’ve been driving, traffic violations, and more
Your car – make, model, and year
Where you live – state and zip code
How much coverage you want

How do I switch my car insurance?

Switching your car insurance is easy, even if you are in the middle of your current policy.

Here are some helpful tips to consider to switch your car insurance:

Decide what coverage you want with your next policy
Check if your current provider charges cancellation penalties or fees
Compare prices from at least 3-5 insurance companies (Rate Retriever makes this easy, giving you personalized rates from the top companies near you)
Get a final quote from at least one of your choices
Cancel your current policy once your new one begins

How much car insurance do I need?

The answer to this question depends on where you live and what you would like to cover.

Find out what’s required in your state

Learn about the different types of car insurance

How is Rate Retriever different than other insurance websites?

Unlike other insurance comparison sites, we:

Use third-party data to give you more accurate rate estimates instead of inaccurate, suspiciously low quotes to get you in the door
Do not limit your list of results to paid advertisers
Do not collect your email or phone number before we let you see your results
Give you results after just five questions (however, your results will be more accurate if you complete your profile)

Read more about Rate Retriever

How can I get cheaper car insurance?

There are ways to lower the cost of your insurance such as taking a defensive driving course. Check with your provider to see if there are any discounts you qualify for or can reasonably earn.

How does Rate Retriever make money?

Read our full earnings disclosure

Sharing a car with your teenager can save you up to 54% on your car insurance

Katie Dee on 2023-11-13

Sharing a car with your teenager can save you up to 54% on your car insurance

Written by Katie Dee

Edited by Alyssa DiCrasto

Published on 2023-11-13

Read time: 3 min

Is your state expensive for car insurance?

Subaru is the cheapest popular brand for car insurance

How to save money on car insurance in California

According to Rate Retriever’s Auto Insurance Rates Quarterly Update, the cheapest way to get your teenager car insurance is to add them to your existing car insurance policy and share a car with them. By doing this, you can save up to 54% compared to the cost of getting them their own policy.

Is your state expensive for car insurance?

Subaru is the cheapest popular brand for car insurance

How to save money on car insurance in California

Should I get my teenager their own car insurance policy?

When your teenager passes their drivers test, you are left with several decisions to make. On top of worrying about their safety on the road, you also need to consider how you want to go about getting them car insurance.

One option for this is to get them set up with their own policy. One pro of doing this is that they will be better prepared to take over the policy themselves when they are required to get their own plan, like when they purchase a new car or move out of your home.

However, there are some drawbacks to this option, such as a more expensive price tag. Teen drivers typically have higher car insurance premiums because of the additional risk they bring to insurance companies. Since teenagers have a limited amount of driving experience, they are more likely to submit a claim, and insurance companies set their rates accordingly.

According to Rate Retriever’s report, the average annual premium for a teenager on their own policy is $7,401 a year.

Adding a teen driver to your policy

While rates will look different for every driver, adding your teenager to your existing car insurance policy is typically the cheapest way to get them insured.

Rate Retriever’s report found that the average annual premium for a parent and a teenager on the same policy who also share a vehicle is $4,189. This is $3,212 less than the average yearly premium for a teenager on their own policy.

It is also important to consider the scheduling conflicts that exist between you and your teenager prior to making the choice to share a car.

Before deciding whether or not to share a car with your teenager, take our quick quiz to compare car insurance rates in your area and find the cheapest option for you and your family.

The pros and cons of sharing a car with your teenager

The decision of whether your teenager should have their own car is one only you can make, but we are still here to help you along the way. On top of insurance savings, sharing a car with your teen will also save you the cost of registration fees as well as any unforeseen repairs or maintenance that might be needed on an additional vehicle.

Even with all the financial benefits, there are also a few downsides to consider. One of the biggest negatives to sharing a car with your teenager is the possibility of the car breaking down or being involved in an accident that lands it in the repair shop, leaving both of you without reliable transportation. It is also important to consider the scheduling conflicts that exist between you and your teenager prior to making the choice to share a car.

Before deciding whether or not to share a car with your teenager, take our quick quiz to compare car insurance rates in your area and find the cheapest option for you and your family.

Frequently asked

How does the insurance company determine my rate?

Car insurance companies determine how much they charge you based on your driver profile. Factors that can impact your rates include:

Demographics – your age, home ownership, credit score, and more
Your driving history – how long you’ve been driving, traffic violations, and more
Your car – make, model, and year
Where you live – state and zip code
How much coverage you want

How do I switch my car insurance?

Switching your car insurance is easy, even if you are in the middle of your current policy.

Here are some helpful tips to consider to switch your car insurance:

Decide what coverage you want with your next policy
Check if your current provider charges cancellation penalties or fees
Compare prices from at least 3-5 insurance companies (Rate Retriever makes this easy, giving you personalized rates from the top companies near you)
Get a final quote from at least one of your choices
Cancel your current policy once your new one begins

How much car insurance do I need?

The answer to this question depends on where you live and what you would like to cover.

Find out what’s required in your state

Learn about the different types of car insurance

How is Rate Retriever different than other insurance websites?

Unlike other insurance comparison sites, we:

Use third-party data to give you more accurate rate estimates instead of inaccurate, suspiciously low quotes to get you in the door
Do not limit your list of results to paid advertisers
Do not collect your email or phone number before we let you see your results
Give you results after just five questions (however, your results will be more accurate if you complete your profile)

Read more about Rate Retriever

How can I get cheaper car insurance?

There are ways to lower the cost of your insurance such as taking a defensive driving course. Check with your provider to see if there are any discounts you qualify for or can reasonably earn.

How does Rate Retriever make money?

Read our full earnings disclosure

New data reveals that drivers with poor credit pay almost 85% more for car insurance nationwide

Katie Dee on 2023-11-11

New data reveals that drivers with poor credit pay almost 85% more for car insurance nationwide

Written by Katie Dee

Edited by Alyssa DiCrasto

Published on 2023-11-11

Read time: 3 min

Is your state expensive for car insurance?

Subaru is the cheapest popular brand for car insurance

How to save money on car insurance in California

According to new research by Rate Retriever, credit score is one of the biggest determining factors for car insurance rates in all states besides California, Hawaii, and Massachusetts, where credit-based rating practices have been banned.

The Auto Insurance Rates Quarterly Update found that drivers with poor credit scores have premiums that are 84% higher on average than those with good credit while those with excellent credit pay 17% less.

Is your state expensive for car insurance?

Subaru is the cheapest popular brand for car insurance

How to save money on car insurance in California

Why is credit score considered in car insurance?

In most states, your credit score is one of several factors that are assessed in order to determine your exact car insurance rate. Research has shown that poor credit may be an indicator of a driver’s likelihood to file a claim while those with better credit scores are less likely to be involved in a covered accident.

Car insurance companies will look at an individual’s credit score to try and gauge how much risk would be associated with covering them. Because of the assumption that those with poor credit bring more risk, those drivers will have higher car insurance rates.

Even if you have poor credit, it is still possible to save money on car insurance. Take our quiz to compare personalized rates and find savings in 30 seconds.

States where credit score has the largest impact on rates

Since each state sets their own regulations for car insurance pricing, the impact that credit score will have varies depending on the state you live in. Currently, the state where credit scores have the most severe impact on car insurance rates is Michigan with a 158% price increase for drivers with poor credit. That is $3,511 more per year when compared to Michigan drivers with good credit.

On top of being the most expensive state for car insurance overall in 2023, New York also has some of the highest penalties for poor credit. According to Rate Retriever’s research, a low credit score can result in a 127% increase in car insurance prices in New York when compared to drivers with good credit.

The state with the third highest credit-based rate increase is Minnesota. The report showed that drivers in this state pay 114% more to insure their vehicle if they have poor credit. Comparatively, drivers with excellent credit have premiums that are 19% less.

States where credit score has the smallest impact on rates

Rate Retriever’s research revealed that among states where credit score is a factor in rating, the state that experienced the smallest impact is Washington. In this state, having low credit results in an 11% increase in car insurance premiums while excellent credit only results in a 3% decrease in rates compared to those with good credit.

North Carolina and Nevada tie for the second smallest percentage increase. Drivers with poor credit in these states only pay 40% more for car insurance than those with good credit.

However, because the average annual premium in Nevada is $2,188, individuals with poor credit in this state will pay significantly higher premiums compared to those in North Carolina where the average premium is only $1,310.

To see how credit score impacts rates in your state, read the full report.

Frequently asked

How does the insurance company determine my rate?

Car insurance companies determine how much they charge you based on your driver profile. Factors that can impact your rates include:

Demographics – your age, home ownership, credit score, and more
Your driving history – how long you’ve been driving, traffic violations, and more
Your car – make, model, and year
Where you live – state and zip code
How much coverage you want

How do I switch my car insurance?

Switching your car insurance is easy, even if you are in the middle of your current policy.

Here are some helpful tips to consider to switch your car insurance:

Decide what coverage you want with your next policy
Check if your current provider charges cancellation penalties or fees
Compare prices from at least 3-5 insurance companies (Rate Retriever makes this easy, giving you personalized rates from the top companies near you)
Get a final quote from at least one of your choices
Cancel your current policy once your new one begins

How much car insurance do I need?

The answer to this question depends on where you live and what you would like to cover.

Find out what’s required in your state

Learn about the different types of car insurance

How is Rate Retriever different than other insurance websites?

Unlike other insurance comparison sites, we:

Use third-party data to give you more accurate rate estimates instead of inaccurate, suspiciously low quotes to get you in the door
Do not limit your list of results to paid advertisers
Do not collect your email or phone number before we let you see your results
Give you results after just five questions (however, your results will be more accurate if you complete your profile)

Read more about Rate Retriever

How can I get cheaper car insurance?

There are ways to lower the cost of your insurance such as taking a defensive driving course. Check with your provider to see if there are any discounts you qualify for or can reasonably earn.

How does Rate Retriever make money?

Read our full earnings disclosure

Married couples can save up to 53% on their car insurance premiums

Katie Dee on 2023-11-10

Married couples can save up to 53% on their car insurance premiums

Written by Katie Dee

Edited by Alyssa DiCrasto

Published on 2023-11-10

New research conducted by Rate Retriever shows that couples who combine car insurance policies after marriage can save up to $1,939 – or 53% – on average on their annual premium vs the cost of two separate policies.

This number will vary significantly depending on several factors, including the state you live in, the number of vehicles you are insuring, and the insurance company you and your partner choose.

Sharing a car with your teenager can save you up to 54% on your car insurance

Is your state expensive for car insurance?

Top 5 ways to save on your car insurance

Why do married couples pay less for car insurance?

Whether you are married or not, the amount you will pay for your car insurance premium is based on multiple different factors. These include your location, age, credit score, and more. Car insurance companies will always consider the amount of risk associated with covering a certain driver or car before determining insurance rates.

One of the main reasons why combining car insurance after marriage can save you money is because insurance companies tend to view married couples as being more financially stable, therefore they are seen as a safer choice for insurers. Because of this, some insurance companies even offer discounts for married drivers. Be sure to check with your car insurance company to be sure you are not missing out on these savings.

Furthermore, married couples have been shown to be more averse to risk, meaning that there is a smaller chance of them being involved in an accident compared to their unmarried counterparts.

Differences in car insurance prices for married couples

According to Rate Retriever’s Auto Insurance Rates Quarterly Update, married couples with a joint policy and two vehicles pay an average of $2,797 per year for their car insurance. This is 23% less than married couples with two separate policies who pay an average of $3,645 per year.

Married couples who have a combined policy and just one vehicle pay even less. On average, they save 53% on their car insurance premiums when compared to married drivers who have their own policies.

Remember, these numbers represent the average for these situations, but your exact rates will vary depending on the insurance company you choose, the amount of coverage you are looking for, and your personal details.

Take our quick quiz to compare personalized rates from car insurance providers in your area so you can find the cheapest option for you.

When not to combine car insurance after marriage

While it is generally a smart financial decision to combine car insurance after marriage, there are some instances where this might not be the best option.

Since car insurances rates are heavily based on the amount of risk associated with the policy owner, if one partner has a poor driving record while the other does not, keeping policies separate might be a smarter choice.

Car insurance companies may assign higher rates to married couples if one of the drivers is riskier to cover, resulting in higher rates for both the high and low-risk partner.

Additionally, both partners’ credit score will play a part in determining rates in most states. California, Hawaii, and Massachusetts are currently the only states in the U.S. where credit scores are not considered in car insurance pricing.

If you or your partner has a poor credit score and you combine your policy, it can negatively impact your car insurance rates, resulting in higher premiums for both of you.

Car insurance rates will look different for everybody, so be sure to consider these factors before deciding to combine car insurance after marriage.

States with the best car insurance deals for married couples

Because car insurance companies submit different rating plans to each state’s department of insurance, the amount of savings available to married drivers will vary from state-to-state.

Based on Rate Retriever’s report, the state that currently has the highest percentage of savings for married couples is Nevada, where couples who share a car and have a combined policy pay 57% less on average than married drivers with separate policies. This represents a savings of $2,455 on car insurance premiums.

Married drivers in Tennessee and Missouri also experience above average savings for combining their car insurance policies. Couples with a combined policy and a shared vehicle in these states are saving an average of 56% on their annual car insurance premiums.

Lastly, Kentucky, Mississippi, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and Washington offer savings of up to 55% for married drivers who combine their car insurance policies.

Visit the website to read the full report and see what kind of savings are available for you.

Frequently asked

How does the insurance company determine my rate?

Car insurance companies determine how much they charge you based on your driver profile. Factors that can impact your rates include:

Demographics – your age, home ownership, credit score, and more
Your driving history – how long you’ve been driving, traffic violations, and more
Your car – make, model, and year
Where you live – state and zip code
How much coverage you want

How do I switch my car insurance?

Switching your car insurance is easy, even if you are in the middle of your current policy.

Here are some helpful tips to consider to switch your car insurance:

Decide what coverage you want with your next policy
Check if your current provider charges cancellation penalties or fees
Compare prices from at least 3-5 insurance companies (Rate Retriever makes this easy, giving you personalized rates from the top companies near you)
Get a final quote from at least one of your choices
Cancel your current policy once your new one begins

How much car insurance do I need?

The answer to this question depends on where you live and what you would like to cover.

Find out what’s required in your state

Learn about the different types of car insurance

How is Rate Retriever different than other insurance websites?

Unlike other insurance comparison sites, we:

Use third-party data to give you more accurate rate estimates instead of inaccurate, suspiciously low quotes to get you in the door
Do not limit your list of results to paid advertisers
Do not collect your email or phone number before we let you see your results
Give you results after just five questions (however, your results will be more accurate if you complete your profile)

Read more about Rate Retriever

How can I get cheaper car insurance?

There are ways to lower the cost of your insurance such as taking a defensive driving course. Check with your provider to see if there are any discounts you qualify for or can reasonably earn.

How does Rate Retriever make money?

Read our full earnings disclosure

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How does Rate Retriever make money?

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How does Rate Retriever make money?

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How can I get cheaper car insurance?

How does Rate Retriever make money?

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How is Rate Retriever different than other insurance websites?

How can I get cheaper car insurance?

How does Rate Retriever make money?

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