How to Find Affordable Auto Insurance Rates Online in 2024 (Step-by-Step Guide)
Drivers can find affordable auto insurance rates online by using quote comparison tools to find the cheapest rate. Minimum liability auto insurance coverage in the U.S. starts at $25/mo, though rates may be more affordable online for some drivers.
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Jeff Root
Licensed Insurance Agent
Jeff is a well-known speaker and expert in insurance and financial planning. He has spoken at top insurance conferences around the U.S., including the InsuranceNewsNet Super Conference, the 8% Nation Insurance Wealth Conference, and the Digital Life Insurance Agent Mastermind. He has been featured and quoted in Nerdwallet, Bloomberg, Forbes, U.S. News & Money, USA Today, and other leading fina...
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UPDATED: Dec 26, 2024
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Advertiser Disclosure: We strive to help you make confident auto insurance decisions. Comparison shopping should be easy. We are not affiliated with any one auto insurance provider and cannot guarantee quotes from any single provider. Our partnerships don’t influence our content. Our opinions are our own. To compare quotes from many different companies please enter your ZIP code on this page to use the free quote tool. The more quotes you compare, the more chances to save.
Editorial Guidelines: We are a free online resource for anyone interested in learning more about auto insurance. Our goal is to be an objective, third-party resource for everything auto insurance related. We update our site regularly, and all content is reviewed by auto insurance experts.
UPDATED: Dec 26, 2024
It’s all about you. We want to help you make the right coverage choices.
Advertiser Disclosure: We strive to help you make confident auto insurance decisions. Comparison shopping should be easy. We are not affiliated with any one auto insurance provider and cannot guarantee quotes from any single provider. Our partnerships don’t influence our content. Our opinions are our own. To compare quotes from many different companies please enter your ZIP code on this page to use the free quote tool. The more quotes you compare, the more chances to save.
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You can find affordable auto insurance rates online at many different places on the Internet, such as with a free quote comparison tool that makes it easy to get multiple auto insurance quotes.
Insurance policies for drivers are mandatory, which can make them expensive. Although choosing a provider based on price is a good idea, you want to make sure you have done your due diligence to research the company and make a quality choice.
The web is one of the best ways to find competitive auto insurance rates. Not only is it fast and convenient, but there are many options at your fingertips. Find affordable car insurance rates by entering your zip in the free search box provided on this page.
- Step #1: Research Insurance Coverage – Find out how much coverage you need
- Step #2: Find a Comparison Site – Use a free website to compare multiple rates
- Step #3: Fill Out a Quote Form – Fill out the quote form accurately
- Step #4: Review Companies – Consider the companies’ reputations and reviews
- Step #5: Choose the Best Company – Pick the best company for you
Get Cheap Car Insurance On the Go With These 5 Easy Steps
Step #1 – Research Insurance Coverage
Insurance policies for drivers are mandatory for all drivers. However, what coverage you choose to have on your insurance policy will affect your rate. You have to have at least what is mandated by your state, which is usually liability coverage.
Auto Insurance Monthly Rates by State & Coverage Type
| State | Liability | Collision | Comprehensive | Full Coverage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alabama | $35 | $27 | $13 | $75 |
| Alaska | $47 | $30 | $12 | $89 |
| Arizona | $45 | $23 | $16 | $84 |
| Arkansas | $34 | $27 | $16 | $78 |
| California | $42 | $34 | $8 | $84 |
| Colorado | $45 | $24 | $15 | $85 |
| Connecticut | $57 | $31 | $11 | $99 |
| Delaware | $67 | $27 | $10 | $104 |
| Florida | $74 | $24 | $10 | $108 |
| Georgia | $50 | $28 | $13 | $91 |
| Hawaii | $39 | $26 | $9 | $73 |
| Idaho | $31 | $19 | $10 | $59 |
| Illinois | $38 | $26 | $11 | $75 |
| Indiana | $33 | $21 | $10 | $64 |
| Iowa | $26 | $19 | $16 | $60 |
| Kansas | $30 | $22 | $20 | $73 |
| Kentucky | $45 | $23 | $12 | $80 |
| Louisiana | $68 | $35 | $18 | $121 |
| Maine | $29 | $22 | $8 | $60 |
| Maryland | $53 | $30 | $13 | $95 |
| Massachusetts | $51 | $33 | $11 | $95 |
| Michigan | $68 | $35 | $13 | $116 |
| Minnesota | $38 | $20 | $15 | $73 |
| Mississippi | $39 | $27 | $18 | $84 |
| Missouri | $36 | $23 | $15 | $75 |
| Montana | $33 | $22 | $19 | $74 |
| Nebraska | $31 | $20 | $19 | $71 |
| Nevada | $60 | $26 | $10 | $95 |
| New Hampshire | $34 | $25 | $9 | $68 |
| New Jersey | $75 | $32 | $11 | $117 |
| New Mexico | $43 | $23 | $15 | $80 |
| New York | $69 | $33 | $14 | $115 |
| North Carolina | $30 | $25 | $11 | $65 |
| North Dakota | $25 | $21 | $20 | $65 |
| Ohio | $34 | $23 | $10 | $67 |
| Oklahoma | $39 | $27 | $19 | $85 |
| Oregon | $51 | $19 | $8 | $78 |
| Pennsylvania | $42 | $28 | $12 | $82 |
| Rhode Island | $66 | $35 | $11 | $111 |
| South Carolina | $46 | $22 | $15 | $84 |
| South Dakota | $26 | $18 | $22 | $65 |
| Tennessee | $36 | $26 | $12 | $74 |
| Texas | $46 | $32 | $17 | $95 |
| Utah | $43 | $22 | $9 | $74 |
| Vermont | $30 | $25 | $11 | $66 |
| Virginia | $36 | $24 | $12 | $72 |
| Washington | $51 | $22 | $9 | $82 |
| Washington, D.C. | $55 | $39 | $19 | $114 |
| West Virginia | $42 | $28 | $17 | $87 |
| Wisconsin | $32 | $19 | $12 | $62 |
| Wyoming | $28 | $23 | $21 | $73 |
You can find information on your particular state’s insurance laws through your state insurance department or read our article on minimum auto insurance requirements by state. Most states will require drivers to carry at least liability auto insurance.
Adding additional coverage for a full coverage policy, such as comprehensive and collision insurance, is usually optional unless a driver has a leased vehicle.
While optional coverages will greatly increase your rate, they offer the best protection. Decide what coverage you want to carry on your car before you start getting quotes.
Step #2 – Find a Comparison Site
The quickest method to finding competitive insurance rates is to use a site that offers quotes from more than one provider. In this case, the website itself is not affiliated with one particular insurance company but a large number of them (Read More: Where can I compare online auto insurance companies?).
Third-party sites will ask for information about your vehicle and driving history. It is the same information that you would need to provide for an insurance company’s website, but you only have to enter it one time.Brandon Frady Licensed Insurance Agent
Although this is a fast and convenient way to get competitive quotes, these sites may not have the same wealth of insurance information as the insurance companies do.
If you do have particular questions about car insurance, you can visit the Insurance Information Institute. It offers a variety of information about all insurance aspects.
Even though you are presented with a number of quotes from different companies, you may be confused as to the best one to pick. A good start is to get opinions from other drivers just like you.
Auto Insurance Company Websites
One way you can use the web to your advantage in regards to auto insurance is to visit the websites of a few insurance companies. You may choose these companies based on their advertisements, a friend, or family member’s referral, or by random searching.
The majority of car insurance providers allow you to get a quote online. You can check out a few companies and get quotes from each of them.
The nice thing about going directly to their websites is that you are able to learn much more about insurance. You may also have the opportunity to chat live online with a representative from the company. This may help you, especially if you are new to driving.
The downside of going to each individual website to get free quotes is that it can take some time.
You have to enter the same information on each site, which can take anywhere from 20 to 30 minutes each time. A faster way is to use one website that is meant specifically for giving free instant rate quotes.
Step #3 – Fill Out a Quote Form
Finding a competitive car insurance rate is more than just finding the cheapest company. A lot of what determines auto insurance rates is dependent on you, so rates will vary a lot among drivers, even those of similar ages.
In order to get a precise rate quote online, you will need to provide certain information. Always be as honest as you can when filling out the information. Auto insurance companies typically request the following information:
- Demographic Information: Insurance companies want to know the age and gender of all drivers who are being put on auto insurance.
- Location: You must share your address, as one factor influencing your rate is where you live. Insurance rates vary greatly depending on your state. In addition, not every insurance provider is licensed and able to sell insurance in all states.
- Driver History: You will need to share any recent accidents or tickets of drivers going on the auto insurance policy, as how safe of a driver you have been will greatly affect your rates. Insurance companies look at your driving history, including how many accidents you have caused and the number of traffic tickets.
- Credit Score: In some states, insurance companies will request credit score information. It is good to at least have a general idea of what your credit score is. You can get your history and score at Experian. If you find that your credit score is low, you will be able to get rates that are more competitive by taking steps to increase it. The Federal Reserve website can help you do so.
- Vehicle Information: You must share the model and year of the vehicle you are insuring.
Although one of the purposes of searching for rate quotes is to find the lowest price, it is important to realize that car insurance rates are based on the vehicle you drive and your driving record (Learn More: How to Get an Auto Insurance Quote Without Giving Personal Information).
This means that it may be difficult to find a reasonable car insurance quote if you do not measure up to the standards that companies use to rate insurance policies. To get an idea of how much rates at companies for different drivers, take a look at the table below.
Farmers Full Coverage Auto Insurance Monthly Rates by Provider & Driving Record
| Insurance Company | Clean Record | One DUI | One Accident | One Ticket |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 | $160 | $270 | $225 | $188 |
 | $116 | $194 | $176 | $136 |
 | $139 | $193 | $198 | $173 |
 | $105 | $250 | $133 | $106 |
 | $174 | $313 | $234 | $212 |
 | $115 | $237 | $161 | $137 |
 | $105 | $140 | $186 | $140 |
 | $86 | $112 | $102 | $96 |
 | $99 | $206 | $139 | $134 |
 | $59 | $108 | $78 | $67 |
| U.S. Average | $119 | $146 | $173 | $147 |
If you have a good driving history, you will pay much lower rates than drivers who fall into the high-risk category and need high-risk auto insurance.
Driving safely is one of the best ways to get competitive rates on your insurance. Along with your driving history, having a good credit score will also help you find a great rate.
Step #4 – Review Companies
Getting rates quotes and finding the cheapest one is not enough on your car insurance journey. Research should be done on each company so that you know the company you choose is trustworthy.
Not sure how to research auto Insurance companies before buying? Once you have narrowed down your choices to three or four insurance providers, there are a number of ways that you can look into the companies.
First, ensure that the companies are registered and licensed in your state. Some companies will commit fraud by claiming they are selling you insurance but are not actually able to in your area. This information can be found through your state insurance department.
Then, you may want to see what other drivers say about certain insurance companies. A good source for this information is J. D. Power and Associates. Other categories that are rated by consumers are the presence of local agents, what type of policies are offered, the call center representative, the website of the insurer, and the overall experience. The insurance providers are also rated in regards to their claims process.
Learn More: Best Auto Insurance Companies for Paying Claims
Then, look into the companies’ financials. This includes determining their assets, current financial rating, and forecasted outlook. A company like Standard and Poor’s will have the information you need.
Keep in mind that although the financial ratings are a good indicator of how the company will perform over the long run, they are not a guarantee of future performance.
If you are concerned about complaints that have been made against any of the companies, there are a couple of places where you can find this information. The insurance department in your state is a great source for complaints and other types of information about insurance companies.
Another place to look is the Better Business Bureau. This site will show complaints against a wide variety of insurance companies, not just the ones that are accredited with the bureau. If finding the best price is your number one objective, you can look for the companies that have the highest rating, which is five stars.
Step #5 – Chose the Best Company
Once you’ve reviewed quotes and companies, pick the best company for you. You’ll want to consider the affordability of a company for your coverage needs, as well as the company’s reputation and customer service. For example, if customer service is important to you, then look into auto insurance companies with the best customer service.
It’s important to pick a company you feel comfortable with when shopping for affordable auto insurance online, as what is best for you may not be best for another driver. For example, if you are a high-risk driver, you’ll want to find a company specializing in high-risk auto insurance.
On the other hand, a young driver will want to shop at the best companies for teen drivers. Considering several companies that cater to your demographic or driving record will help you find the best company.
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Factors to Consider When Comparing Auto Insurance Quotes Online
What factors should you consider when comparing auto insurance quotes online? When looking for affordable car insurance rates online, consider the following factors:
- Coverage Options: Assess the types of coverage offered by each insurance provider and ensure they meet your specific needs.
- Rates and Deductibles: Compare the cost of premiums for similar coverage levels from different insurance companies and take into account the auto insurance deductibles you would be responsible for paying in the event of a claim and consider how they affect the overall cost.
- Discounts and Benefits: Check for available discounts, such as safe driver discounts, multi-policy discounts, or loyalty benefits, which can help lower your premium.
- Company Ratings: Research insurance companies’ customer service reputations, including their responsiveness, claims handling process, and overall customer satisfaction. You should also consider the company’s financial strength and stability by reviewing its ratings from reputable rating agencies.
- Exclusions and Limitations: Read the policy documents carefully to understand any exclusions or limitations that may affect your coverage. Look for information about the claims process and how efficiently and smoothly the insurance company handles claims.
The Internet can be a source for many other insurance-related topics, including the ability to search for multiple competitive insurance rates. If you are unsure about insurance and want more information about the basics of auto insurance and other types of insurance, the Insurance Information Institute is a great resource.
Sites such as the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration offer a wealth of stats and other facts about driving.
If you are concerned about finding a safe car for your family, SaferCar.gov is a website that lists the safest vehicles for each year. If you have other questions, such as how things will affect your insurance rate or other tips on lowering your rate, doing a general search online can result in many answers.
Learn How to Find Affordable Auto Insurance Rates Online Today
Finding cheap auto insurance rates online is fairly simple. Customers should take the time to consider what coverages they need, compare multiple quotes with a free quote tool, and check company reviews before committing to a company. Most drivers will be able to find affordable rates by comparison shopping online, especially if they have good driver records and are low-risk.
Read More: How to Get Multiple Auto Insurance Quotes
Ready to find competitive car insurance quotes? You can find competitive car insurance rates online right here by entering your zip code.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I find affordable auto insurance rates online?
To find competitive auto insurance rates online, follow these steps:
- Research and Gather Information: Understand your insurance needs, including coverage limits and deductibles.
- Use Insurance Comparison Websites: Visit reputable insurance comparison websites where you can receive multiple quotes from different insurance providers.
- Fill in Accurate Details: Provide accurate information about your vehicle, driving history, and personal details to receive accurate quotes. Review the quotes you receive, considering the coverage and price offered by each insurance provider.
- Review Customer Reviews and Ratings: Consider the reputation and customer reviews of the insurance companies you are interested in.
- Choose the Best Option: Select the insurance provider that offers the right coverage at a competitive rate for your needs.
Following these steps will ensure you get competitive insurance quotes.
Are there any specific websites I can use to compare auto insurance rates?
Yes, there are several reputable websites you can use to compare auto insurance rates (Learn More: How to Get Fast and Free Auto Insurance Quotes). Some popular ones include:
Compare quotes directly from our site by entering your ZIP in our free quote tool.
What information do I need to provide when requesting online auto insurance quotes?
When requesting online auto insurance quotes, you will typically need to provide information such as:
- Personal Details: Name, age, address, and occupation.
- Vehicle Details: Make, model, year, and vehicle identification number (VIN).
- Driving History: Details about any accidents, violations, or claims you have made in the past.
- Current Insurance Details: Information about your current insurance policy, if applicable.
Be as accurate as possible when filling out online quote forms, as this will ensure you get an accurate quote.
Can I trust the quotes I receive online?
While online quotes can provide a good estimate of insurance rates, it’s essential to note that the final premium may vary based on additional factors that insurance companies consider during the underwriting process.
These factors can include your credit history, the location where you live, and other specific circumstances. It’s advisable to contact the insurance provider directly for a precise quote and to clarify any questions or concerns you may have.
Who normally has the cheapest car insurance?
USAA, State Farm, and Geico usually have the most competitive insurance rates for drivers (Read More: Cheapest Auto Insurance Companies).
What is the simplest way to lower your auto insurance premium?
The simplest way to lower your auto insurance premium is to use an online quote comparison tool to find the cheapest rate in your area. Compare rates now with our free quote tool.
Why is online car insurance so cheap?
It is usually cheaper to buy auto insurance online because there are no agent fees.
Should I buy insurance online or through an agent?
Buying insurance online is usually the cheapest option, but agents can help provide personalized assistance if you aren’t sure what coverage to purchase.
Do insurance companies run your credit for a quote?
Yes, some insurance companies will check drivers’ credit scores before offering a quote (Learn More: How Credit Scores Affect Auto Insurance Rates).
Is it better to go with a local insurance company?
Local companies can be a great choice for some drivers, as they have local knowledge of auto insurance requirements.
Free Auto Insurance Comparison
Enter your ZIP code below to view companies that have cheap auto insurance rates.
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Jeff Root
Licensed Insurance Agent
Jeff is a well-known speaker and expert in insurance and financial planning. He has spoken at top insurance conferences around the U.S., including the InsuranceNewsNet Super Conference, the 8% Nation Insurance Wealth Conference, and the Digital Life Insurance Agent Mastermind. He has been featured and quoted in Nerdwallet, Bloomberg, Forbes, U.S. News & Money, USA Today, and other leading fina...
Licensed Insurance Agent
Editorial Guidelines: We are a free online resource for anyone interested in learning more about auto insurance. Our goal is to be an objective, third-party resource for everything auto insurance related. We update our site regularly, and all content is reviewed by auto insurance experts.