Identifying Top Car Insurance Providers in North Carolina

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{People in North Carolina are lucky because car insurance is pretty affordable there, with rates being over $185 less than the national average of $1,553. However, nobody wants to overpay for car insurance, even in a state with low premiums. That’s why we’ve listed seven companies that offer excellent car insurance in North Carolina.

Our list includes companies that not only offer low prices but also have a good mix of policy options and discounts, strong financial ratings, and a proven track record of paying claims. While some of these companies might not be the absolute cheapest, they provide great value overall.

Interestingly, the top company on our list is Progressive, which is also my personal insurer (though I don’t live in North Carolina). Even though Progressive is highly recommended in North Carolina, you should shop around to find the best deal for you. The best way to find the right provider is by getting quotes from multiple companies. Use our quote tool below to check rates from various providers.

When choosing car insurance in North Carolina, don’t just focus on premiums. A company might offer lower rates by excluding important coverages. Here are some tips for finding the best car insurance:

1. Compare quotes for identical coverage from multiple companies to see which is actually cheaper.
2. The state-required minimum coverage is usually not enough unless you have no significant assets. Higher coverage limits can protect you better.
3. Get quotes from several companies to make an informed decision.
4. Consider increasing your deductible to reduce your premium, but make sure you have enough savings to cover the higher deductible if needed.

Here are the seven best car insurance companies in North Carolina:

1. Progressive

   • Policy Options: Gap Coverage, Medical Payments, Rental Car Reimbursement, etc.
   • Discounts: Snapshot App, Bundle Auto and Property, and more.
   • Premiums: $645 (Lowest average premium on our list)
   • Why It Made the List: Lowest average premium, many discounts, and strong policy options.
   • Drawback: Ranked #12 in customer satisfaction.

2. North Carolina Farm Bureau

   • Discounts: Multi-Line, Multi-Vehicle, Pay-In-Full, among others.
   • Premiums: $723
   • Why It Made the List: Third-lowest premium, high customer satisfaction (#4).
   • Drawback: Limited discounts and undisclosed policy options.

3. GEICO

   • Policy Options: Emergency Roadside Assistance, Rental Reimbursement, and more.
   • Discounts: New Vehicle, Good Driver, Military, and more.
   • Premiums: $734
   • Why It Made the List: Fourth lowest premium, good customer satisfaction, and strong financial strength.
   • Drawback: No gap coverage.

4. State Farm

   • Policy Options: Car Rental, Travel Expenses, Medical Payments, etc.
   • Discounts: Accident-Free, Anti-theft Equipment, Defensive Driving Course, and more.
   • Premiums: $764
   • Why It Made the List: Fifth lowest premium, excellent financial rating, and lots of discounts.
   • Drawback: No gap coverage.

5. Auto-Owners Insurance

   • Policy Options: Classic Cars, Gap Coverage, New Car Replacement, and more.
   • Discounts: Multi-Policy, On-Time Payments, Paperless Billing, and more.
   • Premiums: $861
   • Why It Made the List: Sixth lowest premium, high customer satisfaction, and excellent financial strength.
   • Drawback: Limited availability outside of certain states.

6. Erie Insurance

   • Policy Options: Pet Coverage, Auto Glass Repair, Roadside and Rental Bundle, and more.
   • Discounts: Safe Driving, Car Safety Equipment, Multi-Car, and more.
   • Premiums: $913
   • Why It Made the List: Seventh lowest premium, second in customer satisfaction.
   • Drawback: Rate lock option may not be as secure as it seems.

7. Liberty Mutual

   • Policy Options: Collision Deductible Reduction, New Car Replacement, Better Car Replacement, etc.
   • Discounts: Accident Forgiveness, Multi-Policy, Online Purchase, and more.
   • Premiums: $714
   • Why It Made the List: Second lowest premium and many policy options and discounts.
   • Drawback: Low customer satisfaction ranking (#16).

To rank these companies, we considered policy options, discounts, premiums, customer satisfaction ratings, and financial strength. We used data from reliable sources such as The Zebra and the J.D. Power U.S. Auto Insurance Study.

Car Insurance Laws in North Carolina:

State minimum insurance requirements are "30/60/25":

• Bodily Injury: $30,000 for one person, $60,000 for more than one person.
• Property Damage: $25,000.
• Uninsured Motorist: $30,000 for one person, $60,000 for more than one person, and $25,000 for property damage.

Optional coverage includes Collision, Comprehensive, Gap coverage, Rental cars, and Towing.

The Bottom Line:

North Carolina has some of the most affordable car insurance premiums in the U.S. By comparing quotes and considering factors like deductibles and coverage limits, you can find a policy that’s both cost-effective and comprehensive. Special mention to USAA for military members. Be sure to check multiple options to find the best fit for you.

FAQs:

• Is North Carolina a "no-fault" state? No, drivers can pursue claims against the at-fault party.
• What if I don’t have car insurance in North Carolina? You’ll face penalties and fines.
• Will my North Carolina car insurance cover me in other states? Yes, most policies include a broadening clause for other states.
• What affects my car insurance premium? Factors include your driving record, location, vehicle type, and mileage.