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Why You Can Trust the MarketWatch Guides Team
Here’s a breakdown of how we reviewed and rated the top auto insurance providers
130
Providers ReviewedOur team looked at over 100 of the top auto insurance providers in the U.S., from national providers like USAA, Travelers and State Farm to regional providers like Erie Insurance.
8,500
Data Points AnalyzedTo properly score each auto insurance provider, we looked at cost data, claims processes, customer review scores, industry standing, available discounts, coverages and add-ons.
800
Research HoursOur team put in the time so you don’t have to, evaluating cost data, reading customer reviews and researching companies to determine the most reliable options for coverage.
8,500
Customers SurveyedWe asked thousands of customers to describe their experience with their auto insurance provider to understand how real customers feel about their insurers.
Learn more about our methodology and editorial guidelines.
Cheapest Cars To Insure in 2024
Based on our research, Mini vehicles are typically the least expensive to insure. Owners of Subaru, Mazda and Volkswagen vehicles can also find affordable car insurance.
In the sections below, we’ll look at the cheapest makes and models to insure. The table below shows the average rates for 2023 models from the most popular automakers on the market. All rate estimates are based on a 35-year-old driver with a clean driving record and good credit.
Cheapest Cars To Insure by Make
Based on our research, the least expensive cars to insure are made by Mini, Subaru and Mazda. See how the 25 cheapest automakers compare below:
| Vehicle Make | Monthly Average for 2023 Model | Annual Average for 2023 Model |
|---|---|---|
| Mini | $184 | $2,209 |
| Subaru | $187 | $2,238 |
| Acura | $189 | $2,268 |
| Mazda | $189 | $2,271 |
| Volkswagen | $190 | $2,283 |
| Buick | $193 | $2,310 |
| Hyundai | $195 | $2,343 |
| Honda | $196 | $2,352 |
| Toyota | $196 | $2,352 |
| Jeep | $197 | $2,360 |
| GMC | $198 | $2,380 |
| Kia | $199 | $2,387 |
| Chevrolet | $204 | $2,449 |
| Nissan | $204 | $2,450 |
| Ford | $209 | $2,504 |
| Cadillac | $235 | $2,822 |
| Lincoln | $236 | $2,828 |
| Volvo | $237 | $2,845 |
| Chrysler | $238 | $2,851 |
| Infiniti | $247 | $2,958 |
| Lexus | $269 | $3,222 |
| Dodge | $271 | $3,250 |
| Mercedes | $290 | $3,480 |
| Jaguar | $296 | $3,550 |
| Alfa-Romeo | $303 | $3,641 |
Cheapest Cars To Insure by Model
These are the 25 most affordable car models to insure in 2024:
| Vehicle Model | Monthly Average for 2023 Model | Annual Average for 2023 Model |
|---|---|---|
| Subaru Forester | $164 | $1,974 |
| Mazda CX-30 | $168 | $2,017 |
| Subaru Outback | $169 | $2,025 |
| Subaru Crosstrek | $170 | $2,039 |
| Subaru Crosstrek Sport | $170 | $2,043 |
| Jeep Wrangler Sport | $170 | $2,045 |
| Honda CR-V EX | $172 | $2,059 |
| Volkswagen Tiguan SE | $175 | $2,097 |
| Kia Sportage LX | $176 | $2,113 |
| Subaru Impreza | $177 | $2,119 |
| Toyota Tacoma SR | $177 | $2,120 |
| Chrysler Pacifica Touring | $177 | $2,123 |
| Hyundai Tucson SE | $177 | $2,126 |
| Hyundai Kona SE | $177 | $2,127 |
| Kia Soul LX | $178 | $2,133 |
| Ford Escape | $179 | $2,142 |
| Subaru Outback Limited | $179 | $2,142 |
| Kia Sportage EX | $179 | $2,146 |
| Toyota RAV4 LE | $179 | $2,150 |
| Volkswagen Atlas SE | $180 | $2,158 |
| Mini Hardtop 2-Door Cooper | $180 | $2,160 |
| Chevrolet Colorado Work Truck | $180 | $2,162 |
| Subaru Forester Sport | $180 | $2,166 |
| Hyundai Santa Fe SE | $181 | $2,166 |
| Acura RDX | $181 | $2,167 |
Cheapest Vehicle Types To Insure
Generally, drivers receive the most cost-effective protection when they select smaller SUVs and minivans. On our list, compact or crossover SUVs such as the Subaru Crosstrek, Mazda CX-30 or Jeep Wrangler are among the most affordable cars to insure.
The types of cars with the cheapest auto insurance rates typically have these characteristics:
- Are easy to drive
- Have standard components
- Perform well in safety tests
- Cause little damage to others in accidents
- Offer considerable protection to passengers in accidents
Factors That Affect the Cheapest Cars To Insure
There are many factors that affect which cars are the cheapest to insure. These include vehicle model details, auto insurance coverage choices and your personal driving profile. In the sections below, we break down the factors that go into determining car insurance premiums, and how you can reduce your costs.
Vehicle Factors That Affect Car Insurance Rates
Even if you don’t select one of the cheaper models listed above, it’s possible to find affordable auto coverage rates. Car insurance companies consider when setting premiums:
- Vehicle age: Most people assume older cars receive cheaper auto insurance coverage, but that’s not always the case. Some new cars receive lower premiums due to added safety features, though this is often balanced out by higher repair costs.
- Type of vehicle: Small SUVs and minivans generally receive lower auto insurance rates, while sedans and large SUVs cost more to insure. Cheap car insurance is difficult to find for those with pickup trucks, electric vehicles, luxury models and sports cars.
- Trim level: The nicer your car’s trim level, the pricier your auto coverage will likely be. That’s because premium models have features that cost more to replace.
- Safety features: If your car gets high safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, it will probably have lower insurance rates. Safety features such as airbags, anti-lock brakes and seat belts will also reduce your car insurance costs.
- Car theft rates: Certain car models are stolen more frequently than others, as indicated by an annual study from the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB). Vehicles that are commonly targeted by thieves will likely have more expensive auto insurance policies.
Choices That Affect Car Insurance Rates
Some decisions a driver makes can influence the cost of their car insurance. Here’s a look at a few of those factors:
- Coverage level: Minimum coverage on your vehicle will cost less than full coverage car insurance. However, you’ll receive less protection for your car in the event of an accident if you opt for the state minimum coverage limit.
- Deductible amount: Those with high deductibles receive lower rates for auto insurance, but they also pay more out of pocket when damages occur.
- Bundled policies: You could pay a lower price if you put other types of insurance, such as homeowners or renters coverage, under the same policy as your car coverage.
- Annual mileage: Insurance companies typically charge lower rates for policyholders who don’t drive as much since spending less time on the road makes them less likely to get into accidents.
Personal Factors That Affect Car Insurance Rates
Even the cars with the cheapest auto insurance rates can be expensive to insure if personal factors indicate that you’re a high-risk driver. Below are some characteristics that often lead to increased car insurance premiums, depending on the state you live in:
- Driving record: If your driving history contains a recent accident, speeding ticket or DUI, expect to pay significantly more for car insurance. The cheapest rates are usually given to those without traffic violations or recent insurance claims.
- Age, gender and marital status: Teen drivers, younger male drivers and singles of both genders typically pay more for auto insurance, since insurers see these groups as more likely to file claims.
- Credit score: Those with poor credit receive high car insurance quotes because providers consider them high-risk drivers. Drivers with low credit scores often pay even higher rates than those with speeding tickets and at-fault accidents.
- Location: You’ll pay more if you live in an area with high crime, high rates of uninsured drivers or a large number of accidents. Those in urban areas like New York City or southern California typically pay higher rates than residents of rural regions.
Having good credit and a clean driving record can make it easier to get cheap car insurance. While the cars with the cheapest auto insurance rates may have lower costs, coverage will still likely cost more than the national average if your record indicates potential risks.
Car Insurance Discounts To Help Reduce Rates
You may find cheaper premiums by carefully considering car insurance discounts. Below, we’ll look at some common car insurance discounts that are offered by many providers.
Here are even more discounts many providers offer to help you save:
| Car Insurance Discounts | Discount Details |
|---|---|
| Safe driver discount | Gives lower premiums to those who’ve been accident-free for multiple years |
| Good student discount | Generally offers cheaper prices for full-time students with at least a B average |
| Multi-vehicle discount | Offers discounts to those who insure multiple cars under the same auto policy |
| Multi-policy discount | Reduces prices for motorists who bundle auto coverage with other insurance policies |
| Military discount | Rewards active-duty military members with lower insurance premiums |
| Vehicle safety features discount | Provides a discount for drivers with air bags, anti-lock brakes and anti-theft devices in their cars |
| Senior discount | Lowers rates for older motorists, typically 55 years old and older, especially after they take an approved driving course |
| Usage-based insurance discount | Tracks motorists’ driving habits and reduces rates for those who follow safe practices |
It’s relatively simple to find savings opportunities when you’re selecting a car insurance policy. Since these are just some of the car insurance discounts on the market, contact your potential auto insurance provider to discover more ways to save.
Should I Pick the Cars That Are Cheapest To Insure?
While cost is important, we don’t recommend purchasing your car–or your car insurance policy–based on price alone. The cars with the cheapest auto insurance rates typically perform well in crash tests, but they aren’t necessarily the right models for everyone. And shockingly low rates could indicate that an insurer offers subpar coverage and targets drivers who want to save money.
While you’ll spend less by selecting your state’s minimum required coverage, consider your options and needs. Car insurance quotes will be cheaper if you reject comprehensive coverage and collision coverage, but bodily injury liability and property damage liability coverage won’t take care of your costs after an accident.
Cheapest To Insure Cars: The Bottom Line
In this article, we went over the cheapest cars to insure and some of the factors that go into determining your auto insurance rates. We also provided a list of discounts that can make insurance premiums even cheaper and discussed whether you should pick the cheapest option.
Our team recommends comparing quotes from multiple car insurance providers in order to get the best deal.
Cheapest Car Insurance Providers: Top Picks
If you’re looking for cars with the cheapest auto insurance rates, you may also be wondering which providers offer affordable coverage. Based on our research, we found that it’s easy to get competitive car insurance premiums from Geico and Progressive.
Geico: Best for Budget-Conscious Drivers
Overview
AM Best financial strength rating: A++
Better Business Bureau (BBB) rating: A+
Keep reading: Geico insurance review
Is Geico Insurance Good?
Drivers who are searching for some of the most well-rounded car insurance coverage should take a close look at Geico. The company is known for its cost-effective coverage options and superb financial strength, so your car will be well protected in the event of an accident.
Geico’s customer satisfaction scores were near or above average across most regions in the J.D. Power 2023 U.S. Auto Insurance Study℠. Our team reached out to Geico for a comment on its customer satisfaction ratings but did not receive a response.
Progressive: Best for Tech-Savvy Drivers
Overview
Is Progressive Insurance Good?
It’s not easy for motorists with poor credit scores or less-than-perfect driving history to get excellent auto insurance, but Progressive can be a good choice for them. While it probably won’t have the cheapest coverage, Progressive insures many drivers who get passed over by other providers.
One of the downsides of Progressive is that it falls below average for large insurers in the J.D. Power 2023 U.S. Insurance Shopping Study℠, with a score of 853 out of 1,000. Our team reached out to Progressive for a comment on its claims satisfaction score but did not receive a response.
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Cars Cheapest To Insure: FAQ
Below are some frequently asked questions about the cheapest cars to insure:
Out of the most popular 2023 models in the U.S., the Subaru Forester and the Mazda CX-30 are the cars with the cheapest auto insurance rates. The estimates we received averaged just under $1,996 per year for full-coverage car insurance for these models.
Geico is one of the cheapest car insurance companies in the country, though rates vary by driver. To discover whether Geico is cheapest for you, compare car insurance quotes from Geico with quotes from companies like State Farm, USAA and Progressive.
Newer cars are often cheaper to insure due to their advanced safety features, but that’s not always the case. Because of expensive repairs and sophisticated components, some new vehicles cost more to insure than older vehicles.
No, automatic cars are usually more expensive to insure than manual vehicles. Automatics almost always have higher repair costs, which are passed on to drivers in the form of somewhat pricier insurance rates.
In general, the more expensive your vehicle is, the more expensive it will be to insure. This is because of the higher costs associated with repairs and replacements of parts. However, it’s not always the case that a less expensive vehicle will cost less to insure. In some cases, a less expensive car can cost more to insure depending on age, make and mileage.
Insurance providers base rates on a variety of factors related to the vehicle, driver and policy details. High-end cars, luxury cars or cars with an increased likelihood of theft, accidents or other claims are typically the most expensive cars to insure.
Sedans are typically more affordable to insure than full-size SUVs. However, modern compact or crossover SUVs often receive affordable annual premiums.
Our Methodology
Because consumers rely on us to provide objective and accurate information, we created a comprehensive rating system to formulate our rankings of the best car insurance companies. We collected data on dozens of auto insurance providers to grade the companies on a wide range of ranking factors. The end result was an overall rating for each provider, with the insurers that scored the most points topping the list.
Here are the factors our ratings take into account:
- Cost: Auto insurance rate estimates generated by Quadrant Information Services and discount opportunities were both taken into consideration.
- Coverage: Companies that offer a variety of choices for insurance coverage are more likely to meet consumer needs.
- Reputation and experience: Our research team considered market share, ratings from industry experts and years in business when giving this score.
- Availability: Auto insurance companies with greater state availability and few eligibility requirements scored highest in this category.
- Customer experience: This score is based on volume of complaints reported by the NAIC and customer satisfaction ratings reported by J.D. Power. We also considered the responsiveness, friendliness and helpfulness of each insurance company’s customer service team based on our own shopper analysis.
Our credentials:
- 800 hours researched
- 45 companies reviewed
- 8,500+ consumers surveyed
*Data accurate at time of publication.
If you have feedback or questions about this article, please email the MarketWatch Guides team ateditors@marketwatchguides.com.
Daniel RobinsonWriter
Daniel is a MarketWatch Guides team writer and has written for numerous automotive news sites and marketing firms across the U.S., U.K., and Australia, specializing in auto finance and car care topics. Daniel is a MarketWatch Guides team authority on auto insurance, loans, warranty options, auto services and more.
Rashawn MitchnerManaging Editor
RaShawn Mitchner is a MarketWatch Guides team senior editor covering personal finance topics and insurance. She’s spent over a decade writing and editing articles about how to save money on things including travel, entertainment and household services.
