Insurance Curator Choosing the best car insurance provider depends on where you live, your driving profile, and whether you qualify for membership discounts. Below is a practical, USA-focused comparison of GEICO, State Farm, Progressive, and USAA—covering typical pricing, who each insurer is best for, key discounts and coverage strengths, and sample state-level estimates to help you evaluate options.
At a glance — national averages & quick comparison
The table below shows approximate national average annual premiums (full coverage) as reported by market rate studies and insurer rate analyses (2023–2024). These are estimates for a 30-year-old driver with a clean record insuring a mid-size sedan; actual quotes will vary by ZIP code, driving history, vehicle, and coverage choices.
| Insurer | Approx. national average (annual)* | Best for | Key strengths |
|---|---|---|---|
| USAA | ~$900–$1,100 | Active military, veterans & families | Lowest rates for eligible members, strong claims service, excellent financial strength |
| GEICO | ~$1,100–$1,400 | Drivers seeking low base rates & easy online service | Competitive pricing, many discounts, smooth digital quoting |
| State Farm | ~$1,400–$1,700 | Drivers who want large local agent network | Broad agent access, strong customer satisfaction, good bundling discounts |
| Progressive | ~$1,600–$1,900 | Drivers needing usage-based discounts & high-tech tools | Snapshot usage-based discounts, strong for higher-risk drivers |
*Sources: market rate surveys and insurer analyses (see sources below). These are representative national ranges; your quote may be higher or lower.
How to read the numbers
Insurance pricing is driven by state regulations, population density, accident and theft risk, and local repair costs. For example, Florida and Louisiana frequently have some of the highest average premiums in the U.S., while states like Maine and Vermont trend lower. Use the company-specific details below plus the sample state estimates to get a realistic expectation.
Related reading: Best Insurance For Cars Across States: How Rates and Requirements Differ and How to Shop
GEICO — Best for low-cost, digital-first shoppers
- Who it's best for: Drivers who want low base rates, a streamlined online experience, and broad discounts (good student, military, multi-policy).
- Typical pricing: Nationally competitive; many drivers see quotes below the national average. Expect about $1,100–$1,400/yr for full coverage (national estimate).
- Discounts & features:
- Multi-policy, multi-car, safe driver, anti-theft, and military discounts.
- Mobile app, online claims, and fast digital quoting.
- Pros: Low base rates, extensive discount portfolio, excellent mobile experience.
- Cons: Less local agent interaction (primarily direct model); actual savings vary widely by state.
Sample state estimates (30 y/o, full coverage, 2018 Toyota Camry; estimates):
- California: GEICO ~$900–$1,150/yr
- Texas: GEICO ~$1,050–$1,300/yr
- Florida: GEICO ~$2,000–$2,400/yr
State Farm — Best for agent-supported service & personalized advice
- Who it's best for: Drivers who want face-to-face guidance from local agents, personalized loss control, and reliable bundling discounts.
- Typical pricing: Roughly $1,400–$1,700/yr nationally for full coverage (varies by state).
- Discounts & features:
- Drive Safe & Save usage program, good-student, multi-policy discounts, and strong roadside assistance options.
- Large network of local agents for claims and policy customizing.
- Pros: Local agent support, strong claims reputation, customizable coverage.
- Cons: Can be pricier than direct carriers for younger drivers or good-risk profiles.
Sample state estimates:
- California: State Farm ~$1,050–$1,300/yr
- New York: State Farm ~$1,300–$1,600/yr
- Florida: State Farm ~$2,200–$2,700/yr
Related reading: Best Insurance For Cars in California: How to Meet State Minimums and Save
Progressive — Best for high-risk profiles & usage-based discounts
- Who it's best for: Drivers who need flexibility (high-risk, SR-22, or those who want telematics discounts), and shoppers who compare many options.
- Typical pricing: Often close to or slightly above national average: $1,600–$1,900/yr for full coverage.
- Discounts & features:
- Snapshot usage-based program, multi-policy, continuous insurance discount.
- Strong online comparison tools and name-your-price options.
- Pros: Good for drivers with nonstandard profiles; strong telematics and bundling options.
- Cons: Base rates can be higher for good drivers compared to GEICO or USAA.
Sample state estimates:
- California: Progressive ~$1,150–$1,400/yr
- Texas: Progressive ~$1,450–$1,700/yr
- Florida: Progressive ~$2,400–$3,000/yr
USAA — Best overall value if you qualify (military & family)
- Who it's best for: Active-duty military, veterans, and their families (eligibility required).
- Typical pricing: Lowest average premiums—about $900–$1,100/yr nationally for eligible drivers with full coverage.
- Discounts & features:
- Military-specific support, strong bundling and loyalty discounts, top-rated claims service.
- High customer satisfaction and strong AM Best financial strength (consistently among top-rated insurers).
- Pros: Excellent rates, top-tier customer service, specialized military benefits.
- Cons: Strict eligibility; not available to the general public.
Sample state estimates:
- California: USAA ~$700–$950/yr
- Texas: USAA ~$800–$1,000/yr
- Florida: USAA ~$1,500–$1,900/yr
Related reading: Best Insurance For Cars: Complete Guide to Choosing Between Full Coverage and Liability
How to pick the best provider for your ZIP code
- Get multiple personalized quotes (same coverage limits & deductibles) from at least 3 providers.
- Check eligibility: if you or family qualify for USAA, always get a quote first.
- Consider agent access vs. digital convenience: State Farm for agents; GEICO/Progressive for digital-first.
- Compare total cost of ownership: premiums + deductibles + out-of-pocket claims experience.
- Look at local complaint and claims response trends (state insurance department or J.D. Power studies).
Quick checklist before you buy
- Verify coverage levels: liability minimums vs. recommended full coverage.
- Ask about available discounts: multi-policy, good-driver, safe-vehicle, bundling, telematics.
- Confirm roadside and rental reimbursement options.
- Review deductible choices to balance premium vs. out-of-pocket risk.
- For special cases (teen drivers, high-risk drivers, EVs, classic cars), check specialized policies. See: Best Insurance For Cars for Teen Drivers: Low Rates and Maximum Protection for New Drivers
Sources & further reading
- ValuePenguin — Average cost of car insurance (company & state breakdowns): https://www.valuepenguin.com/average-cost-of-car-insurance
- NerdWallet — How to find cheap car insurance by state and company: https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/insurance/cheap-car-insurance
- Bankrate — Average car insurance rates by state (insights on state-level variation): https://www.bankrate.com/insurance/car-insurance/average-car-insurance-rates/
Note: Figures above reflect market averages and sample state multipliers (2023–2024). Always obtain customized quotes for precise pricing in your ZIP code.