The average annual cost for car insurance is $1,547, according to our most recent analysis of premiums, but you could pay higher or lower rates. Car insurance prices are very individualized based on a number of considerations. These include where you live, your age and gender, the type of car you drive, your driving record, and the type of coverage being purchased. Minimum coverage is less costly than high coverage.
Another variable many drivers don’t consider is their credit rating. Insurance companies will generally charge higher prices to customers with poor credit, while those with good credit catch a break on premiums. There are also many ways for drivers to save through discounts offered by insurers. Ultimately, the best way to find a premium that fits within your budget — and a policy that suits your needs — is to shop around and compare quotes from multiple insurers.
The amount of insurance you need depends on several factors. One of the most important indicators of how much coverage you may need is state requirements. Most states have laws that require drivers to carry a minimum amount of liability coverage. Some states also require drivers to carry other types of insurance, such as uninsured motorist coverage or personal injury protection (PIP).
The next thing to consider is any lender or lessor requirements. If you make monthly payments on your vehicle, your loan or lease agreement specifies how much coverage you need to carry. Refer to your lender, lessor, or financing agreement.