Travelers, AAA, and Safeco achieved the highest user ratings in a recent Jerry survey—but does this make them the best? When it comes to car insurance, the ‘best’ provider may be different for every driver. To find your ideal insurer, compare car insurance quotes and reviews from several companies.
The best car insurance companies
While cost is an important consideration for most drivers when shopping for car insurance, it’s not always at the top of the list—other elements, such as quality of service, car insurance discount offers, and coverage selection, also come into play.
To help you get started on your car insurance shopping journey, Jerry’s experts conducted one of the nation’s largest consumer surveys. Over 15,000 respondents replied, rating their experience with their current provider in the following categories: policy cost, renewal process, customer satisfaction, and claims handling.
Based on real customer feedback, these are 2024’s top insurance providers:
| Insurance provider | Policy cost | Customer service | Claims handling | Renewal process |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AAA | 4.0 | 4.2 | 4.2 | 4.4 |
| Bristol West | 4.0 | 4.3 | 3.7 | 4.0 |
| Founders | 4.4 | 4.5 | 5.0 | 4.5 |
| Gainsco | 4.2 | 4.3 | 3.0 | 4.4 |
| Nationwide | 4.0 | 4.0 | 4.5 | 4.3 |
| Plymouth Rock | 4.0 | 4.2 | 4.0 | 4.3 |
| Progressive | 3.8 | 4.2 | 3.9 | 4.1 |
| Safeco | 4.2 | 4.3 | 4.0 | 4.5 |
| The General | 3.7 | 4.2 | 4.1 | 4.0 |
| Travelers | 4.2 | 4.5 | 4.5 | 4.6 |
Dairyland wins out for customer satisfaction among real policyholders
Two of the most important considerations when choosing a provider are how the company treats customers and how quickly they respond to problems—and Dairyland excels at both. According to real policyholders, Dairyland customer service teams went above and beyond to ensure satisfaction.
- BBB rating: A+
- AM Best rating: A+ (Superior)
- Jerry rating: 4.7
Pros: Offers standard auto insurance coverage and SR-22/FR-44 insurance for high-risk drivers, with 24/7 customer service support.
Cons: Prices are higher than average.
View provider comparison
| Insurance provider | Customer service score |
|---|---|
| Aspire Advantage | 4.7 |
| Founders | 4.6 |
| Gainsco | 4.3 |
| AAA | 4.2 |
| Kemper | 4.2 |
| Farmers Insurance | 4.2 |
| GEICO | 4.2 |
Claims handling comes easy for Nationwide
If you have a new driver on your car insurance policy or live in a high traffic area, you may benefit more from a provider with a smooth and straightforward claims process. According to Nationwide’s website, filing a claim only takes 10-15 minutes, and most users can complete the process online or through the mobile app.
- BBB rating: A+
- AM Best rating: A (Excellent)
- Jerry rating: 4.3
Pros: Allows drivers to track their claims using the mobile app or by text message. Drivers can also find a repair shop and complete private client claims online.
Cons: You may lose any good driver car insurance discounts after filing your claim.
View provider comparison
| Insurance provider | Claims handling score |
|---|---|
| Travelers | 4.5 |
| AAA | 4.2 |
| State Farm | 4.0 |
| GEICO | 3.9 |
| Safeco | 3.9 |
| Farmers Insurance | 3.8 |
Quality and affordability stand strong with Travelers
Based on survey responses, Travelers earned high scores for outstanding quality and affordable prices. Many respondents reported finding cheaper than average rates with Travelers and the company’s ability to always be readily available for customer service calls.
- BBB rating: A+
- AM Best rating: A+ (Superior)
- Jerry rating: 4.6
Pros: Along with quality service and lower car insurance rates, Travelers also offers unique coverage options, including named non-owner insurance for drivers who don’t own a vehicle.
Cons: Most Travelers contact hours are only available from 8–5PM local user time, except claims filing and billing requests.
On average, Travelers policyholders pay $59 per month for a liability-only auto insurance policy, and $140 per month for full coverage. Compared to the national average, drivers with Travelers pay 30% less for the state minimum, and 18% less for full coverage policies.
View provider comparison
| Insurance provider | Minimum coverage | Full coverage | Overall Jerry score |
|---|---|---|---|
| Anchor General | $50 | $167 | 4.0 |
| Madison Mutual | $57 | $140 | 4.7 |
| Nationwide | $61 | $155 | 4.3 |
| Clearcover | $66 | $130 | 4.6 |
| Kemper | $69 | $176 | 4.2 |
| Safeco | $70 | $165 | 4.5 |
| Progressive | $79 | $178 | 4.2 |
Learn more: Find the best cheap car insurance (2024)
The best car insurance companies based on coverage levels
Overall service and cost are vital components to consider when shopping for car insurance—but they may not be the deciding factors for all drivers. Depending on your circumstance, you might prefer an insurance company with robust and customizable coverage options. So, which are the best choices for different coverage levels?
Kemper offers the most comprehensive full coverage packages
With Kemper, drivers get more than just your usual full-coverage policy consisting of liability insurance, comprehensive coverage and collision coverage—they get access to various insurance add-ons, such as accident forgiveness, deductible waivers, diminished deductibles, and personal property coverage.
- BBB rating: A+
- AM Best rating: A- (Excellent)
- Jerry rating: 4.1
Pros: Along with the standard coverage options, Kemper policyholders also can include roadside assistance, new car replacement, and gap coverage on their full coverage policy.
Cons: Policy options may vary from state to state.
The average cost of a full coverage policy with Kemper is approximately $176 per month, or $2,111 per year, making it 7% more expensive than the national average. However, the wide coverage selection and easy policy management allows drivers the freedom to customize and control their policy.
View provider comparison
| Insurance provider | Full coverage | Add-on options offered |
|---|---|---|
| Allstate | $198 | • Roadside assistance, personal umbrella policies, rental reimbursement, rideshare insurance, and accident forgiveness |
| Aspire Advantage | $180 | • Named non-owner, sound system, utility trailer, and permissive use coverage • Supplies a deductible discount endorsement for the first 60 days |
| MAPFRE | $178 | • Auto glass coverage, substitute transportation coverage, and roadside assistance |
| National General | $200 | • Lifetime repair guarantees, emergency expense allowance of up to $500, accidental death, and roadside assistance coverage |
| Progressive | $178 | • Loan/lease payoff, rental car reimbursement, roadside assistance, trip interruption, custom parts equipment coverage, and rideshare insurance • Also includes vehicle protection for new cars |
| State Auto | $162 | • Lifetime repair guarantee, rental car reimbursement, gap coverage, roadside assistance, teachers’ auto insurance, original parts replacement, and new car replacement |
Find cheap minimum coverage with Clearcover
On average, a state minimum car insurance policy that includes both bodily injury liability (BI) and property damage liability coverage (PD) costs around $77 per month—however, with Clearcover, these rates are only $69 per month. But being one of the cheapest car insurance companies isn’t the only benefit Clearcover has to offer.
- BBB rating: A+
- AM Best rating: A- (Excellent)
- Jerry rating: 4.6
Pros: Saves drivers an additional 40% off maintenance shops throughout the US via the Car Care feature on their mobile app. Military members can also earn a 15% discount to lower costs.
Cons: Only available in AL, AZ, CA, GA, IL, IN, KY, LA, MD, MS, MO, NE, OH, OK, PA, TX, UT, VA, WV, WI.
Keep in mind that a state minimum policy will only cover medical expenses and property damage for third parties. If your state requires lower limits of BI and PD, it may not be enough to cover more severe crashes or medical bills, leaving you responsible for the remaining costs. When searching for a minimum coverage policy, consider looking into policies with higher coverage limits of 50/100/50 or 100/300/100 for added financial protection.
View provider comparison
| Insurance provider | Minimum coverage |
|---|---|
| Anchor General | $50 |
| Founders | $51 |
| Madison Mutual | $57 |
| Travelers | $59 |
| Nationwide | $61 |
| Kemper | $69 |
| Safeco | $70 |
| Mercury Auto | $74 |
| Progressive | $78 |
The best car insurance companies based on profile
Sometimes it’s not the coverage you’re searching for, but the added benefits associated with a provider—especially if you have a teen driver on your policy, are a high risk driver, or are looking for a way to save on family car insurance.
Teen drivers earn the most savings and protection with Safeco
According to the US Department of Transportation, approximately 3,615 teen drivers in the US were involved in fatal crashes in 2022. Out of this number, around 6% were the result of distracted driving1.
Due to the increased fatality rate and higher associated risk, teen drivers pay some of the highest premiums out of all age demographics. The average cost of car insurance for teen drivers is $262 per month for state minimum, and $611 per month for full coverage.
Whether you’re a teen searching for their own policy, or a parent adding a young driver to your coverage, the higher cost can be financially challenging. But with Safeco, drivers can find affordable rates to combat these prices and find added benefits for added protection:
- BBB rating: A-
- AM Best rating: A (Excellent)
- Jerry rating: 4.5
Pros: Most drivers between 16-21 pay around $166 per month for a liability only policy with Safeco, and $426 per month for full coverage. Safeco also offers accident forgiveness, diminishing deductibles, and telematics tracking to lower costs and keep your teen protected.
Cons: Compared to their competitors, Safeco has a limited amount of discounts available.
View provider comparison
| Insurance provider | Average coverage cost | Added benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Travelers | $213 | • Offers several discounts including student away at school, good student, safe driver, and driver training • Provides accident forgiveness and new car replacement. Accident forgiveness is not available in CA |
| Nationwide | $222 | • Offers SmartMiles for drivers who use less miles • Drivers can earn 10% with SmartRide telematics and up to 40% the safer they drive • Supplies vanishing deductibles for safe drivers, up to $500 |
| Clearcover | $233 | • Entirely mobile-based • Fast claims handling process |
| Kemper | $224 | • Supplies Kemper Prime Auto Enhanced for added coverage (includes accident forgiveness and diminishing deductibles) |
| AAA | $267 | • Offers teenSmart driving program to help students continue to save on policies • Provides extensive educational resources online for members |
Learn more: Cheap car insurance for new drivers
Senior motorists may find the most support from Farmers Insurance
Teen drivers aren’t the only age group that pay higher than average rates. Generally, car insurance premiums rise again once motorists turn 65, with most senior drivers paying, on average, $106 per month for the state minimum and $214 per month for full coverage.
When compared to motorists between the ages of 54 and 64, drivers over the age of 65 pay approximately 6% more for liability-only coverage and 1% more for full coverage. However, unlike teen motorists, senior drivers might not necessarily be looking for cheaper insurance.
Rather, they’re more likely to benefit from a provider with in-person assistance, easy policy management, and higher coverage options—which is what makes Farmers Insurance one of the top options for seniors.
- AM Best rating: A- (Excellent)
- J.D. Power rating: 878
- Jerry rating: 4.0
Pros: Farmers Insurance offers mature driver discounts for motorists over 55 who complete an approved defensive driving course. Senior motorists can also contact claims services, Farmers’ Group Select, and Farmers’ payment center 24/7 for additional assistance with their policies.
Cons: Roadside assistance services are sometimes slower than average and premiums may be more costly based on your state.
View provider comparison
| Insurance provider | Average coverage cost | Added benefits |
|---|---|---|
| GEICO | $100 | • Provides a Prime Time contract in 30 states, offering a guaranteed policy renewal for those over 50 • Has 24/7 support, 365 days a year |
| Progressive | $123 | • Offers roadside assistance coupled with trip interruption to cover drivers at all stages of their trips • Allows drivers to name their price and find policies in their budget |
| Erie Insurance | $127 | • Offers Rate Lock to help drivers maintain the same rate year after year, unless there are policy changes • Fast and reliable collision repair • Optional add-on coverages, such as accident forgiveness, new car replacement, and diminishing deductibles |
| Nationwide | $133 | • Supplies SmartMiles program, allowing seniors who drive less than 13,000 miles per year to save up to $540 on their premiums |
High-risk drivers can find great coverage with Progressive
Finding affordable—yet reliable—car insurance as a high-risk driver can be difficult. On average, drivers with a history of at-fault accidents, speeding tickets, DUIs, and other violations pay 68% more for coverage than those with a clean driving record. If you’re required to file an SR-22, this percentage can increase to 71%.
But drivers required to file an SR-22 will face more than just higher car insurance costs—they’ll also face more challenges finding an insurer willing to provide coverage to someone with a poor driving history.
However, with Progressive, high-risk drivers can find both cheaper rates and SR-22 coverage. And that’s not all—Progressive also offers several benefits to help drivers rebuild their record and earn discounts for safe driving.
- BBB rating: A
- AM Best rating: A+ (Superior)
- Jerry rating: 4.3
Pros: Progressive policyholders can save up to $231 per year with the Snapshot program. The better you drive, the more earnings you can accrue. For added incentive, Progressive provides disappearing deductibles for drivers who remain accident-free for up to six months.
Cons: If you use the Snapshot program to track your driving, your rates may increase if you brake harshly or engage in poor driving habits, regardless of the situation.
With Progressive, most high-risk drivers pay an average of $212 per month for car insurance—however, it’s important to remember that this rate will change based on your violation and other demographic factors, such as your location, vehicle type, credit score, and more.
View provider comparison
| Insurance provider | Average coverage cost |
|---|---|
| State Auto | $190 |
| Safeco | $192 |
| Gainsco | $200 |
| Allstate | $201 |
| Travelers | $210 |
| Mercury Auto | $224 |
Families can save by bundling with State Farm
When you apply for car insurance, you’re required to list every legal driver on your policy that lives in your house—whether you live with roommates or family members, separate policies might not be the best solution.
Several providers offer “family car insurance” for households with multiple drivers and vehicles. Some of the most common discounts include multi-policy and multi-vehicle, but there are also bundling discounts available for drivers who combine their homeowners and auto insurance with the same insurer.
State Farm is one of the top insurers in the industry that provides all of these benefits and more for families of various sizes. At State Farm, policyholders can personalize their bundling options and save up to $1,0732 on their premiums per year—but that’s not the only perks for families.
- AM Best rating: A++ (Superior)
- J.D. Power rating: 843
- Jerry rating: 4.0
Pros: State Farm policyholders can save an additional 17-20% by bundling their cars under one policy or having multiple lines with State Farm. Families can also enroll in DriveSafe and Save to lower their premiums while also tracking their driving habits.
Cons: State Farm’s policy costs tend to be higher than the average rate.
View provider comparison
| Insurance provider | Average bundling cost | Added benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Travelers | $145 | • Offers home insurance and renters discounts for added savings • Provides umbrella insurance and jewelry and valuable items coverage to further protect policyholders and their items |
| Nationwide | $153 | • Offers pet insurance for as low as $35/month Supplies motorhome, travel trailers, and camper insurance • Extends to life insurance, property insurance, and travel insurance |
| Progressive | $153 | • Drivers don’t have to own a home or car to bundle—you can bundle with a motorcycle, RV, or boat • Allows drivers to transfer from rental to home insurance bundles with flexibility |
| Mercury Auto | $181 | • Extends bundling to home and umbrella, home and business, and landlord insurance |
Learn more: The best home and auto bundles
New car owners can build customized policies with Travelers
Buying a new car can be an exciting time—but many drivers who purchase a new vehicle for the first time may be left wondering how much car insurance coverage they’ll need.
If you’ve purchased your vehicle from a lender, you’ll likely need to buy a full coverage policy. However, that’s not the only type of car insurance you’ll need. To build a robust policy and ensure your vehicle’s protection, you should also consider looking into additional coverage options, such as gap insurance, rental reimbursement, uninsured motorist coverage, and roadside assistance.
Next to the standard insurance options, Travelers offers several types of coverage add-ons to help drivers customize and tailor their policy for their vehicle.
- BBB rating: A+
- AM Best rating: A++ (Superior)
- Jerry rating: 4.6
Pros: Travelers includes general insurance options—including personal injury protection, medical payments, and uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage—as well as loan/lease gap insurance, rental coverage, new car replacement, and accident forgiveness.
Cons: Not all insurance add-ons are available in all states.
View provider comparison
| Insurance provider | New car coverage cost | Add-on options offered |
|---|---|---|
| National General | $129 | • Auto protection plan, roadside assistance, accidental death, lifetime repair guarantee |
| State Auto | $165 | • Rental car reimbursement, lifetime repair guarantee, new car replacement, accident forgiveness, original parts replacement, and gap coverage |
| Progressive | $178 | • Loan/lease payoff, rental car reimbursement, roadside assistance, trip interruption, vehicle protection, rideshare coverage, custom parts and equipment coverage |
| AAA | $190 | • Roadside assistance, trip interruption, travel accident insurance, rental reimbursement, vehicle inspection services, identity theft protection |
| Allstate | $241 | • Loss of use, damage to a non-owned vehicle, waiver of depreciation, ticket forgiveness, claim forgiveness, disappearing deductible, rideshare insurance |
Learn more: Finding the best new car insurance
Tips for finding the best car insurance for you
Like drivers, car insurance companies come in all shapes and sizes. There is no “perfect” fit for every driver, but there is a perfect fit for you. When shopping for a new auto insurance company, start by following these tips:
- Choose your coverage levels beforehand: If you know the coverage you need, you’ll have specific parameters to work with, and it’ll be easier to find your ideal provider.
- Consider smaller insurers: Not all large car insurance companies offer the cheapest auto insurance rates. Smaller providers sometimes provide better coverage for a fraction of the cost.
- Compare companies based on more than cost: Cost is important, but it’s not all you need to consider. Make sure you’re also reviewing company rankings in terms of customer services, claims processing, and more. If you opt to shop with the Jerry app, you can see real customer ratings for different insurers and compare each company to find your ideal provider.
- Shop frequently: Comparing quotes every six months can help you spot deals and savings opportunities you might miss with other providers.
FAQ
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What is the best auto insurance?
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Methodology
The methodology employed in this study involved rigorous statistical analysis and expert evaluation. By leveraging the extensive survey data, experts were able to assess and rank insurance providers based on several crucial factors, including but not limited to:
- Customer satisfaction levels
- Quality of coverage offered
- Claim processing efficiency
- Pricing competitiveness
- Overall customer experience
Furthermore, to ensure the comprehensiveness and accuracy of the findings, the top insurers were categorized based on their specialization and performance in specific areas. This categorization facilitated the creation of a comprehensive list encompassing the best car insurance companies across various segments.
Sources
Kianna Walpole is an insurance writer and editor with a comprehensive background in consumer behavior and online publishing. With experience in car insurance, maintenance, and repair, she is dedicated to building informative content that helps customers reduce costs while achieving the best service. Prior to joining the Jerry editorial team, Kianna worked as a junior editor in the content marketing industry, using consumer data and key insights to create and edit content for an array of large-scale clients in the real estate, cybersecurity, and healthcare industries.
Sarah Gray is an insurance writer with nearly a decade of experience in publishing and writing. Sarah specializes in writing articles that educate car owners and buyers on the full scope of car ownership—from shopping for and buying a new car to scrapping one that’s breathed its last and everything in between. Sarah has authored over 1,500 articles for Jerry on topics ranging from first-time buyer programs to how to get a salvage title for a totaled car. Prior to joining Jerry, Sarah was a full-time professor of English literature and composition with multiple academic writing publications.
