Best North Carolina Auto Insurance in 2024 (Check Out the Top 10 Companies)

When it comes to finding the best North Carolina auto insurance, State Farm, Geico, and Progressive emerge as top contenders, offering competitive rates and excellent service. State Farm stands out with its top service quality, providing coverage at an average of $77 per month.

Geico impresses with its affordability and diverse coverage options, while Progressive offers competitive rates tailored to individual needs.

Our Top 10 Company Picks: Best North Carolina Auto Insurance

Deciding on the right auto insurance involves considering various factors such as cost, coverage options, and customer service.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore why State Farm shines as the best choice for North Carolina residents, offering not just affordability but also reliability and comprehensive coverage. Then, enter your ZIP code above to compare North Carolina auto insurance rates with the best auto insurance companies.

Free Auto Insurance Comparison

Enter your ZIP code below to view companies that have cheap auto insurance rates.

 Secured with SHA-256 Encryption

#1 – State Farm: Top Overall Pick

Pros

• Agent Network: The company boasts an extensive and well-established network of agents spread throughout the entire state of North Carolina.
• Coverage Options: Offers an extensive array of comprehensive coverage options designed to meet the diverse needs of its policyholders, along with a wide variety of discounts.
• Customer Satisfaction: Highly rated for customer satisfaction, as highlighted in the State Farm auto insurance review.

Cons

• High Premiums: Offers higher premiums compared to some of its competitors, which may be due to a combination of factors such as more comprehensive coverage options.
• Few Discounts: There is a limited availability of certain discounts, which means that only a select group of customers may qualify for these savings.

#2 – Progressive: Best for Competitive Rates

Pros

• Competitive Rates: Provides highly competitive rates for drivers throughout North Carolina, ensuring that customers receive affordable premiums without compromising on the quality of coverage offered.
• Usage-Based Insurance: Offers innovative usage-based insurance options through its Snapshot program, allowing drivers to potentially lower their premiums based on their actual driving behavior and habits.
• Coverage Options: Wide range of coverage options, as mentioned in the Progressive auto insurance review.

Cons

• Customer Service: Provide excellent customer service, there have been instances where the level of service has been inconsistent, leading to varying experiences among policyholders.
• Rate Increases: It is important for customers to be aware that their insurance rates may increase after the initial term.

#3 – USAA: Best for Exceptional Customer Service

Pros

• Customer Service: Provides exceptional customer service, ensuring that policyholders receive prompt and courteous assistance.
• Competitive Rates: Offers highly competitive rates, making their policies affordable for a wide range of customers. Moreover, they provide a variety of discounts.
• Military Coverage: Offers comprehensive coverage options specifically tailored to those serving in the armed forces, ensuring that they receive the protection they need both during and after their service.

Cons

• Limited Membership Eligibility: Membership limited to military members and their families, as noted in the USAA auto insurance review.
• Physical Locations: Despite the numerous advantages, it is important to note that the company has fewer physical locations available for in-person assistance.

Free Auto Insurance Comparison

Enter your ZIP code below to view companies that have cheap auto insurance rates.

 Secured with SHA-256 Encryption

#4 – Allstate: Best for Numerous Discounts

Pros

• Many Discounts: Offers a multitude of discounts for drivers in North Carolina, catering to various needs and circumstances, such as safe driving, multiple policies, and loyalty programs.
• Claims Satisfaction: The company is known for its strong financial stability, which ensures that it can reliably fulfill its obligations to policyholders.
• Accident Forgiveness: Offers an accident forgiveness program, which is a beneficial policy feature designed to provide peace of mind to policyholders, as highlighted in the Allstate auto insurance review.

Cons

• Expensive Rates: It is important to note that some drivers may face higher premiums, which can be attributed to various factors such as individual risk profiles, driving history, and the level of coverage chosen.
• Poor Customer Service: The feedback regarding customer service has been mixed, with some customers reporting positive experiences and others expressing dissatisfaction.

#5 – Nationwide: Best for Vanishing Deductible Program

Pros

• Customer Service: The insurance company prides itself on providing consistently good customer service.
• Vanishing Deductible: Offers a vanishing deductible program, where policyholders can see their deductible decrease over time without claims, rewarding responsible driving habits and encouraging long-term loyalty.
• Coverage Options: The insurance provider boasts an extensive range of coverage options tailored to meet diverse needs, complemented by a variety of discounts.

Cons

• Rates for Young Drivers: Offers various programs and discounts aimed at mitigating these costs and providing affordable options for young drivers looking to establish their insurance coverage.
• Local Agents: Fewer local agents compared to competitors, as noted in the Nationwide auto insurance review.

#6 – Geico: Best for Affordable Rates

Pros

• Affordable Rates: Provides competitively affordable rates tailored specifically for North Carolina drivers, as highlighted in the Geico auto insurance review.
• Online Management: Customers benefit from a user-friendly online platform that facilitates quick and convenient access to quotes.
• Coverage Options: Offers a comprehensive selection of coverage options designed to meet various insurance needs, complemented by a diverse array of discounts.

Cons

• Personal Interaction: Customers may experience limited personal interaction with agents, which could impact those who prefer face-to-face consultations.
• Comprehensive Coverage: Offers robust coverage options, some policyholders may find that the breadth of coverage options available may be slightly less extensive compared to offerings from competitors.

Free Auto Insurance Comparison

Enter your ZIP code below to view companies that have cheap auto insurance rates.

 Secured with SHA-256 Encryption

#7 – Travelers: Best for Strong Financial Stability

Pros

• Competitive Rates: Offering highly competitive rates paired with a variety of discounts, ensuring that North Carolina drivers can secure affordable premiums, as highlighted in the Travelers auto insurance review.
• Financial Stability: The company guarantees reliability in fulfilling its obligations to policyholders. Additionally, their claims process is streamlined and efficient.
• Usage-Based Discounts: provides usage-based discounts that reward safe driving habits and this program allows policyholders to potentially lower their premiums.

Cons

• Customer Service: While the company strives for excellence in customer service, it acknowledges that there may be instances of inconsistency in service delivery.
• Local Agents: There are fewer local agents available compared to some competitors, which may impact accessibility for customers seeking face-to-face assistance

#8 – American Family: Best for Customer Satisfaction

Pros

• Customer Satisfaction: Maintaining consistently strong levels of customer satisfaction, evidenced by positive feedback regarding its responsive claims handling process.
• Many Discounts: Offers a wide array of discounts and comprehensive coverage options designed to cater to various aspects of insurance protection.
• Financial Strength: Provides assurance to policyholders of its ability to fulfill its financial obligations and maintain stability over the long term.

Cons

• High Rates: Offer competitive rates, there may be instances where premiums are higher for certain drivers, as noted in the American Family auto insurance review.
• Local Agents: There is less availability of local agents in North Carolina, which may impact accessibility for customers seeking in-person assistance or personalized guidance.

#9 – Farmers: Best for Personalized Service

Pros

• Coverage Options: Offers a diverse array of coverage options tailored to meet a wide range of insurance needs, complemented by a comprehensive selection of discounts, as mentioned in the Farmers Auto Insurance Discounts.
• Financial Stability: Provides peace of mind to policyholders knowing that their claims will be handled promptly and fairly.
• Personalized Service: Offering policyholders the convenience of direct, face-to-face interactions to address their specific insurance needs and preferences with expert guidance and support.

Cons

• Expensive for Some: Premiums may be higher compared to some competitors and this variation in pricing reflects factors such as individual risk profiles, coverage selections, and market conditions.
• Mixed Customer Reviews: Feedback regarding customer service has been varied, with some customers reporting positive experiences while others have expressed concerns.

Free Auto Insurance Comparison

Enter your ZIP code below to view companies that have cheap auto insurance rates.

 Secured with SHA-256 Encryption

#10 – Liberty Mutual: Best for Wide Range of Coverage Options

Pros

• Coverage Options: Offers policyholders a comprehensive selection of coverage options that span a wide spectrum of needs.
• Replacement Program: Provides the Better Car Replacement™ program, which offers policyholders the peace of mind of receiving a new vehicle of similar make and model in the event of a total loss, as highlighted in the Liberty Mutual auto insurance review.
• Financial Stability: Assures policyholders of its ability to uphold its financial obligations and maintain consistency in claims satisfaction.

Cons

• High Premiums for Some: Offer competitive rates, there may be instances where rates are higher for certain drivers.
• Mixed Customer Service: Customer service experiences can vary among policyholders, with feedback ranging from positive interactions to areas where improvements could be made.

Cheapest North Carolina Auto Insurance Companies

The amount you pay for your car insurance depends on a variety of factors, one of which is your location. North Carolina drivers typically see rates 30% lower than the national average.  Read our extensive guide on “Factors That Affect Auto Insurance Rates” for more knowledge.

However, a lot more than your ZIP code goes into your insurance rates. You’ll also need to consider factors like your age, gender, driving history, credit score, and how much coverage you need. While North Carolina Farm Bureau is often the cheapest option for insurance in the Tarheel State, you might find better prices elsewhere due to your unique circumstances.

North Carolina Auto Insurance Monthly Rates by Coverage Level & Provider

As you browse the prices of insurance based on the different factors below, remember that these are just averages. When you get an actual quote, your rates might be much higher or lower.

North Carolina Minimum Auto Insurance Rates

Most states require drivers to carry a minimum amount of insurance before they can legally drive or register a car. North Carolina auto insurance laws require all drivers to carry the following coverages:

• Bodily injury per person — $30,000
• Bodily injury per accident — $60,000
• Property damage per accident — $25,000

North Carolina auto insurance requirements are low compared to other states, which helps keep your prices down. Take a look below to see how much you might pay for minimum insurance in North Carolina.

Liability Auto Insurance Rates by Provider

North Carolina Farm Bureau’s average cost slightly beats out competitors State Farm and Erie. However, minimum insurance in North Carolina is very affordable, potentially as low as $29 a month.

Free Auto Insurance Comparison

Enter your ZIP code below to view companies that have cheap auto insurance rates.

 Secured with SHA-256 Encryption

North Carolina Full Coverage Auto Insurance Rates

Full coverage auto insurance refers to a suite of insurance products that offer better protection than minimum insurance. While North Carolina doesn’t require drivers to carry full coverage, you might need it if you have a car loan or lease.

Full coverage typically includes liability, comprehensive, collision, uninsured/underinsured motorist, and personal injury protection or medical payments insurance. It costs more, but full coverage better protects you and your car after an incident.

Full vs. Minimum Coverage Monthly Insurance Rates by Provider

In a trend that will continue, Farm Bureau is once again your cheapest option, followed by State Farm and Erie. You might find affordable rates with USAA, but only active or retired military members and their families are eligible for coverage.

You can also add optional insurance products to increase the value of your policy. In North Carolina, drivers opt for roadside assistance, gap coverage, and rental car reimbursement. Just be careful how much insurance you add to your policy — your rate can increase quickly.

North Carolina Auto Insurance Rates by Age

One of the first things an insurance company looks at when determining how much to charge you is your age. A driver’s age can make a big difference in insurance rates, especially when determining what age group has the most fatal crashes. Young drivers pay some of the highest rates due to a mix of inexperience on the road, a higher likelihood of engaging in reckless behaviors, and a statistically high number of claims.

You won’t be stuck with high rates forever, though. As long as you keep your driving record clean, insurance prices start dropping around age 25. Teenagers represent the age group with the highest auto insurance rates. This is because most auto insurance companies consider teens high-risk drivers due to their lack of driving experience.

Although Farm Bureau usually has the lowest rates, State Farm offers much lower prices for young drivers. Although it is a little more expensive, Geico auto insurance discounts can help lower rates for qualified students and young drivers. As drivers age and get closer to retirement, they may see a slight bump in auto insurance rates. Statistically, accident rates for senior drivers are a bit higher than average.

Full Coverage Auto Insurance Monthly Rates by Age, Gender, & Provider

As the data above shows, as long as you keep your driving record clean, you can expect your insurance rates to go down as you develop more experience behind the wheel.

North Carolina Auto Insurance Rates by Credit Score

With the exception of a few, most states allow car insurance companies to look at your credit score when determining your rates (learn about auto insurance and your credit score). Unfortunately, for drivers with low credit scores, North Carolina insurance companies are allowed to use them.

Full Coverage Auto Insurance Monthly Rates by Provider & Credit Score

Drivers with low credit scores can pay up to 56% more for their insurance than those with higher scores. Comparing rates is integral to finding an affordable price if your credit score is on the low side.

The average cost of car insurance in North Carolina when you have a low credit score shows why comparing quotes is essential. While State Farm is usually an affordable option, the best insurance companies in North Carolina regarding credit scores are Erie and Progressive.

Free Auto Insurance Comparison

Enter your ZIP code below to view companies that have cheap auto insurance rates.

 Secured with SHA-256 Encryption

North Carolina Auto Insurance Rates After an Accident

No matter how big or small, getting into an accident can ruin your day, especially if you’re the at-fault driver. Unfortunately, having an at-fault accident on your driving record can hurt your insurance rates.

Farm Bureau, State Farm, and Erie have the lowest average prices after an accident. While your rates will be higher after an accident, they won’t stay that way forever. If you can avoid further accidents for three years, your rates will start to drop.

North Carolina Auto Insurance Rates After a DWI

According to a study completed by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), DWIs are dangerous infractions that take the lives of over 10,000 Americans every year. States are cracking down on DWI offenders, and North Carolina is no exception.

North Carolina splits DWIs into five groups, with a Level V being the least serious and Level I being the most severe. The consequences of a DWI depend on its level:

• Level V: Consequences include a fine of up to $200, up to 60 days in jail, 24 hours of community service, and potential license suspension for 30 days.
• Level IV: Consequences include a fine of up to $500, up to 120 days in jail, 48 hours of community service, and license suspension for up to 60 days.
• Level III: Consequences include a fine of up to $1,000, six months in jail, 72 hours of community service, and license suspension for up to 90 days.
• Level II: Consequences include a fine of up to $2,000 and at least seven days and up to 365 days in jail.
• Level I: Consequences include a fine of up to $4,000 and a minimum of 30 days and a maximum of two years in jail.

Levels I and II are reserved for repeat offenders or for DWIs that hurt another driver, had a minor as a passenger, or where the driver had a suspended or revoked license.

If you continue to get DWI convictions, you’ll face a felony DWI charge. However, a single DWI usually isn’t enough to lose your insurance. Your rates will be higher, though, which you can see below.

DUI Full Coverage Auto Insurance Monthly Rates vs. Clean Record by Provider

While the Farm Bureau, State Farm, and Erie have the cheapest rates, you’ll still pay a much higher premium. No matter what insurance you have, you should always compare rates after getting a DWI. You might find much cheaper coverage with a different company.

Unveiling the Cost of Auto Insurance in Your City

Explore the diverse landscape of auto insurance rates across North Carolina’s cities. From bustling urban centers like Raleigh and Charlotte to serene coastal towns like Cape Carteret and Duck, discover how location influences insurance costs.

North Carolina Auto Insurance Cost by City

Compare rates for cities like Bunn, Greenville, and Hickory, gaining insight into regional variations in insurance premiums. For further details, check out our in-depth “Where to Compare Auto Insurance Rates” article.

Free Auto Insurance Comparison

Enter your ZIP code below to view companies that have cheap auto insurance rates.

 Secured with SHA-256 Encryption

Cheap North Carolina Auto Insurance by City

From lush forests to beautiful coasts, North Carolina has a wide selection of great cities to live in. But your ZIP code significantly affects how much insurance will cost you. It might come as no surprise that car insurance in Charlotte is among the most expensive.

Large cities have higher rates due to increased traffic, accidents, and car thefts. For example, consider the rates for auto insurance in Raleigh. Raleigh has about half the population of Charlotte, and rates are considerably cheaper.

On the other hand, some areas have higher insurance rates for reasons beyond heavy traffic. Wilmington insurance quotes tend to match those in Raleigh, even though Wilmington is a much smaller city. One reason for Wilmington’s higher rates is that it’s a coastal city, and North Carolina’s beach towns are often in the path of vehicle-destroying hurricanes. For more specifics take a look at quoting auto insurance rates by ZIP code.

North Carolina Auto Insurance Laws

Aside from requiring minimum liability auto insurance, North Carolina has a few other laws regarding car insurance.

For starters, you can face steep consequences if you’re caught driving without car insurance. You’ll face a fine between $50 and $150, a reinstatement fee of $100, up to 45 days of jail or probation, and up to 30 days of license suspension.

If you have too many infractions on your driving record, your insurance company might turn your policy over to the North Carolina Reinsurance Facility (NCRF). NCRF ensures that all eligible drivers have the minimum car insurance required by the state.

North Carolina SR-22 Auto Insurance

North Carolina is one of the few states that does not require drivers to carry cheap SR-22 auto insurance after a license suspension or DWI. Instead, North Carolina has the Safe Driver Incentive Plan.

The plan assigns points to common infractions — the more points you have, the more your insurance will cost. You can get an idea of how many points you’ll get for some offenses below:

• 12 points — Manslaughter, DWI with blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08% or higher, or DWI in a commercial vehicle with a BAC of 0.04%
• 10 points — Speeding to elude arrest or driving with a suspended license
• 4 points — Reckless driving, passing a school bus when its display signs are up, or excessive speeding
• 2 points — Improper passing, tailgating, or driving on the wrong side of the road

Your insurance will increase depending on the number of points you get. A two-point violation will increase your rates by 45%, while 12 points can raise the price of your insurance by 400%. For further details, check out our in-depth “Are you allowed to buy or register a car with a suspended license?” article.

It is also worth mentioning that some situations result in no points. These situations can be any of the following — property damage only, damage of $2,300 or less, no conviction for moving violation, and the household has no convictions or at-fault accidents during a certain time period.

Free Auto Insurance Comparison

Enter your ZIP code below to view companies that have cheap auto insurance rates.

 Secured with SHA-256 Encryption

Find the Best Auto Insurance in North Carolina Today

Although the average price of insurance in North Carolina is 30% less than the rest of the nation, North Carolinians should still compare rates with as many companies as possible. While Farm Bureau, State Farm, and Erie are often the cheapest options, you might find better coverage elsewhere.

Is customer service 😀 important to you? Erie Insurance customers tend to be highly satisfied. According to https://t.co/27f1xf1ARb, Erie consistently earns high ratings for customer service. For all the details, check out👉: https://t.co/nxIsQvfvXg pic.twitter.com/WO4Qj44PX8

— AutoInsurance.org (@AutoInsurance) July 8, 2023

Enter your ZIP code into our free quote comparison tool below to find the best North Carolina auto insurance quotes today.

Free Auto Insurance Comparison

Enter your ZIP code below to view companies that have cheap auto insurance rates.

 Secured with SHA-256 Encryption