Cheapest Car Insurance in the U.S. 2025: Save Big on Coverage

In the crowded market of auto insurers, finding the Cheapest Car Insurance for 2025 requires careful comparison, state-specific research, and smart use of discounts. This article breaks down nationwide averages, coverage types, money-saving tactics, and a full state-by-state table of the cheapest insurers and median annual rates (full coverage).
We include numbered guidance, dotted paragraphs for quick scanning, and an exhaustive state table so you can immediately find likely low-cost carriers in your state.
Quick Snapshot: National Averages (Q4 2025)
- Full coverage average: $1,056 to $1,200 annually (~$88–$100/month).
- Liability-only average: $300 to $400 annually (~$25–$33/month).
- Top affordable carriers: Travelers, State Farm, GEICO, Progressive, USAA (military only).
What This Guide Covers
- Who the cheapest insurers are nationally and by state.
- Differences between full coverage and liability-only policies.
- Actionable tips to reduce your premium.
- A complete state-by-state table (all 50 states + D.C.).
1. Why Rates Vary So Much by State
Insurance premiums reflect local risk: traffic density, weather (hail, hurricanes), litigation climate, and state insurance regulations. That’s why the Cheapest Car Insurance in one state can be radically different from the next.
Key Drivers
- Claims frequency: more accidents = higher premiums.
- State regulations: minimum liability limits and tort rules affect costs.
- Fraud and litigation: states with more legal claims see higher prices.
- Weather exposure: coastal and storm-prone states typically pay more for full coverage.
2. Full Coverage vs. Liability — Which Is Right for You?
Full coverage combines liability, collision, and comprehensive insurance. Liability-only meets state minimums and protects others, not your vehicle. The cheapest route is usually liability-only, but it may leave you underinsured if your car is worth more than a few thousand dollars.
When to Choose Full Coverage
- Your car is newer or financed.
- You can’t afford a large out-of-pocket repair or replacement cost.
- You want comprehensive protection for theft, fire, or weather damage.
3. How to Find the Cheapest Car Insurance — 7 Proven Steps
- Shop and compare quotes: Use comparison sites and get at least three personalized quotes.
- Bundle policies: Multi-policy discounts (auto + home/renter) often reduce costs substantially.
- Look for discounts: Good driver, low mileage, telematics, student, and professional discounts.
- Raise deductibles: A higher deductible typically lowers your premium — but keep emergency affordability in mind.
- Maintain good credit: In most states, credit-based scores influence premiums.
- Limit add-ons: Remove roadside or rental reimbursement if you don’t need them, or shop them separately.
- Review annually: Rates change. Re-quote every 6–12 months to lock in the cheapest option.
4. Cheapest Car Insurance Companies: National Leaders
Across many markets in 2025, several insurers consistently offered the lowest median full-coverage rates:
- Travelers — noted as the cheapest large insurer for full coverage in many states.
- State Farm — strong liability pricing and broad agent network.
- GEICO — competitive online quotes and efficient signup.
- Progressive — strong for drivers who benefit from usage-based discounts.
- USAA — often the cheapest overall but restricted to military families.
5. State-by-State: Cheapest Insurers & Median Annual Rate (Full Coverage)
Below is an exhaustive table listing the cheapest insurer and median annual full-coverage premium for every U.S. state and Washington, D.C. Use Ctrl+F (or ⌘+F on Mac) to jump to your state.
| State | Cheapest Insurer | Median Annual Rate (Full Coverage) |
|---|---|---|
| Alabama | Travelers | $1,323 |
| Alaska | GEICO | $1,402 |
| Arizona | Travelers | $1,838 |
| Arkansas | Travelers | $1,513 |
| California | GEICO | $1,291 |
| Colorado | American National | $1,253 |
| Connecticut | Travelers | $1,327 |
| Delaware | Travelers | $1,915 |
| Florida | State Farm | $2,089 |
| Georgia | Georgia Farm Bureau | $1,596 |
| Hawaii | GEICO | $1,269 |
| Idaho | Travelers | $860 |
| Illinois | Travelers | $1,529 |
| Indiana | Indiana Farm Bureau | $1,090 |
| Iowa | State Farm | $1,488 |
| Kansas | Travelers | $1,751 |
| Kentucky | Shelter | $2,022 |
| Louisiana | Louisiana Farm Bureau | $3,396 |
| Maine | Progressive | $1,069 |
| Maryland | Travelers | $1,369 |
| Massachusetts | GEICO | $1,172 |
| Michigan | GEICO | $1,283 |
| Minnesota | Travelers | $1,310 |
| Mississippi | Shelter | $1,907 |
| Missouri | Shelter | $1,675 |
| Montana | State Farm | $1,626 |
| Nebraska | American National | $866 |
| Nevada | Progressive | $1,414 |
| New Hampshire | MMG | $1,287 |
| New Jersey | GEICO | $1,578 |
| New Mexico | Central Insurance | $1,421 |
| New York | NYCM | $1,282 |
| North Carolina | Progressive | $1,188 |
| North Dakota | Nationwide | $1,406 |
| Ohio | Central Insurance | $943 |
| Oklahoma | American Farmers & Ranchers | $2,018 |
| Oregon | Progressive | $1,334 |
| Pennsylvania | Encova | $1,548 |
| Rhode Island | Travelers | $1,779 |
| South Carolina | American National | $880 |
| South Dakota | Kemper | $969 |
| Tennessee | Travelers | $1,378 |
| Texas | Texas Farm Bureau | $1,286 |
| Utah | Nationwide | $1,468 |
| Vermont | Union Mutual | $764 |
| Virginia | Virginia Farm Bureau | $944 |
| Washington | Kemper | $1,087 |
| Washington, D.C. | Erie | $1,830 |
| West Virginia | Encova | $1,762 |
| Wisconsin | Travelers | $1,019 |
| Wyoming | American National | $936 |
6. Value Checklist: Beyond the Cheapest Quote
A low rate is valuable only if the insurer performs well when you file a claim. Use this quick checklist before buying:
- Check customer satisfaction and claims handling (J.D. Power, Consumer Reports).
- Confirm financial strength (A.M. Best rating).
- Read the policy for exclusions and limits.
- Ask about common discounts and how to qualify.
7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Who offers the absolute cheapest car insurance?
A: USAA often offers the lowest rates overall but is restricted to military families. For the general public, Travelers, GEICO, and State Farm frequently show the most affordable median rates in many states.
Q: Can I get cheaper insurance if I switch mid-term?
A: Yes. Many insurers offer pro-rated refunds and the potential to lower your premium when switching—just ensure there’s no coverage gap during the transfer.
Q: Is liability-only insurance ever the best choice?
A: For older cars with low market value, liability-only is often the most cost-effective choice.



