Best Auto Insurance Companies in 2026
Quality coverage at competitive rates — because shopping around can save hundreds annually.
Auto insurance is required in nearly every state, and rates vary dramatically between insurers for the same driver. Shopping around can save hundreds of dollars annually — yet many drivers stay with the same company for years without comparing.
We evaluated major auto insurance companies to help you find quality coverage at competitive rates.
Auto Insurance Basics
Required Coverage
Most states require at least Liability Coverage, which pays for injuries and property damage you cause to others. This includes Bodily Injury Liability (per person and per accident limits) and Property Damage Liability. Minimum limits vary by state but are often insufficient for serious accidents. Many financial advisors recommend at least 100/300/100.
Optional (But Often Essential) Coverage
- Collision: Covers damage to your car from collisions, regardless of fault.
- Comprehensive: Covers non-collision damage (theft, vandalism, weather, animals).
- Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist: Covers you if hit by someone without adequate insurance. Critical protection given the number of uninsured drivers.
- Medical Payments/Personal Injury Protection: Covers medical expenses regardless of fault.
Our Top Picks
Based on our evaluation, these are the top auto insurance providers we recommend.
GEICO
Consistently top-rated for competitive rates and discount variety across driver profiles.
Erie Insurance
Leads in claims satisfaction with strong regional coverage and customer loyalty.
What We Evaluated
Pricing
Average rates across driver profiles, discount availability, rate stability over time, and price relative to coverage quality.
Coverage Options
Range of coverage available, customization options, rideshare coverage, usage-based insurance options, and gap coverage.
Financial Strength
Financial stability verified using A.M. Best ratings, which rate insurance companies' ability to pay claims.
Claims Experience
Claims filing ease, processing speed, settlement fairness, and customer satisfaction with the claims process.
Customer Service
Responsiveness, communication channels, mobile app functionality, and overall satisfaction ratings.
Discounts
Multi-policy bundling, good driver, good student, defensive driving course, anti-theft device, telematics/usage-based, paid-in-full, and low mileage discounts.
What to Consider When Choosing
Don't Focus Only on Price
The cheapest insurance isn't valuable if claims are denied or underpaid. Balance price with company financial strength, claims satisfaction ratings, and coverage quality.
Compare Apples to Apples
When getting quotes, ensure coverage limits and deductibles are identical across quotes. A cheaper policy may simply have less coverage.
Review Coverage Regularly
- New car? Ensure adequate collision/comprehensive
- Paid off car? Consider dropping collision/comprehensive if car value is low
- Teen driver? Shop around; rate impacts vary by company
- Life changes? Marriage, moving, new job may affect rates
Understand How Rates Are Set
Auto insurance rates consider driving record, age and experience, location, vehicle type, credit score (in most states), mileage, and coverage choices. You can't change all factors, but understanding them helps you find the best rate.
Bundle Cautiously
Multi-policy discounts are real, but don't assume bundling is always cheapest. The best home insurance company may not be the best auto insurer. Compare bundled vs. separate policies.
Consider Usage-Based Insurance
Programs that track your driving (via app or device) can offer discounts for safe driving. Consider privacy implications, whether your driving habits will actually earn discounts, and whether initial discounts are offset by potential rate increases.
Tips for Lowering Your Premium
Shop Around Regularly
Prices change. Shop every 1-2 years, and always after major life changes.
Raise Your Deductible
Higher deductibles lower premiums. If you have savings to cover a higher deductible, this can be cost-effective.
Ask About Discounts
Companies don't always apply all discounts automatically. Ask about alumni, employer, and payment discounts (autopay, paid-in-full).
Maintain Good Credit
In most states, credit-based insurance scores affect rates. Good credit equals lower premiums.
Drive Less
Low-mileage discounts are common. If you work remotely or don't drive much, make sure your insurer knows.
Take a Driving Course
Many insurers offer discounts for completing approved defensive driving courses, especially for older drivers.
Disclaimer
The information on ScoreCardHQ is for educational and informational purposes only. It does not constitute professional, legal, financial, or medical advice. We encourage all readers to conduct their own research and consult with qualified professionals before making significant decisions.