Embarking on the quest to find the “best” Car Insurance Companies can often feel akin to assembling a jigsaw puzzle in the dark. Fret not; we’ve illuminated the path for you.
How We Unearthed the Best Auto Insurance:
NerdWallet’s editorial team conducted a meticulous analysis, factoring in pricing, discounts, complaint data sourced from the National Association of Insurance Commissioners, and more. This thorough evaluation aimed to pinpoint the best car insurance companies. As our scrutiny continues and fresh market data flows in, the landscape of top auto insurance companies may evolve. Refer to our full methodology for an in-depth understanding.
Champions in Auto Insurance:
Best Company Overall: Travelers
Why It’s the Best: Travelers clinches the top spot as the company with the best overall score in 2024 among the insurers assessed. Recognized for customer-centric features, Travelers stands out as a well-rounded choice for drivers. Offering standard auto coverage alongside extras like new car replacement and gap insurance, Travelers sweetens the deal with a plethora of car insurance discounts.
Best for Your Budget: NJM
Why It’s the Best: New Jersey Manufacturers Insurance (NJM) emerges as the budget-friendly champion. With an average rate of $119 per month for full coverage insurance, NJM takes the lead in affordability. Note that NJM’s offerings extend to Connecticut, Maryland, New Jersey, Ohio, and Pennsylvania.
Best for Accident Forgiveness: Geico
Why It’s the Best: Geico takes the spotlight for accident forgiveness, offering two avenues to shield you from rate hikes after a crash. Whether earned by maintaining five accident-free years or purchased, accident forgiveness ensures you keep your good driver discount. Please note that it’s not available in California, Connecticut, and Massachusetts.
Best for Few Customer Complaints: American Family
Why It’s the Best: American Family distinguishes itself by garnering notably fewer customer complaints compared to similar-sized companies. Earning the fewest complaints among the 2024 best companies, American Family prioritizes customer feedback through various channels, maintaining a transparent dialogue.
Best for Financial Strength: Auto-Owners
Why It’s the Best: The financial strength of an insurance company is paramount, signaling its ability to meet claims. Auto-Owners secures this position with robust financial backing, assessed through AM Best’s financial strength rating. Geico, State Farm, Travelers, and USAA tie with auto owners for financial strength.
Best for Discounts: Amica
Why It’s the Best: Amica stands out for its array of discounts, surpassing many competitors. From homeownership to defensive driving courses, Amica offers numerous avenues for policyholders to save. It’s crucial to note that the abundance of discounts doesn’t necessarily equate to the cheapest rates.
Best for Customer Satisfaction: State Farm
Why It’s the Best: As the largest personal auto insurance company in the nation, State Farm claims the throne for customer satisfaction. Ranking No. 1 in J.D. Power’s 2023 U.S. Insurance Shopping Study and securing high rankings in auto claims satisfaction, State Farm stands as a customer-oriented powerhouse.
Best for Military Members: USAA
Why It’s the Best: USAA takes the crown as the premier auto insurance provider for military members. Exclusive to active military, veterans, and their families, USAA offers competitive rates, financial solutions, and a unique military base storage discount, all contributing to high customer satisfaction.
As you navigate the intricate landscape of auto insurance, these champions stand ready to cater to diverse needs and preferences. Choose wisely, and let your driving journey be safeguarded by the best in the industry.
Full list of the best car insurance companies
If you’re looking for even more options, here’s a full list of the best car insurers that earned a NerdWallet star rating of 4.5 or higher, along with their in-depth reviews.
Company |
Star rating |
---|---|
American Family |
5.0 NerdWallet rating |
Amica |
5.0 NerdWallet rating |
Auto-Owners |
5.0 NerdWallet rating |
Geico |
5.0 NerdWallet rating |
NJM |
5.0 NerdWallet rating |
State Farm |
5.0 NerdWallet rating |
Travelers |
5.0 NerdWallet rating |
USAA* |
5.0 NerdWallet rating |
Acuity |
4.5 NerdWallet rating |
Allstate |
4.5 NerdWallet rating |
Auto Club of SoCal |
4.5 NerdWallet rating |
Chubb |
4.5 NerdWallet rating |
Country Financial |
4.5 NerdWallet rating |
Farmers |
4.5 NerdWallet rating |
Mapfre |
4.5 NerdWallet rating |
Nationwide |
4.5 NerdWallet rating |
Progressive |
4.5 NerdWallet rating |
The Hanover |
4.5 NerdWallet rating |