CarInsurance.com Insights
- The national average car insurance premium for senior drivers is $1,886 a year or $157 a month.
- Louisiana is the most expensive state for senior car insurance at $229 a month while Maine has the lowest premium for seniors at $95 monthly.
- USAA has the best rates for senior drivers but is only available to military families. Auto-Owners and GEICO also have great rates for seniors.
Car insurance rates for seniors are roughly the same as for other adults but they can climb after a driver hits 70 years old. The average national car insurance premium for seniors is $1,886 yearly or $157 monthly.
While it may be tempting to lower your coverage levels to reduce your insurance bill, if you are involved in a serious accident you will have to cover any additional expenses over your limits and those costs can be significant if you cause a serious accident.
Our take on car insurance for seniors
Insurance companies use proprietary algorithms to set a rate, meaning premium quotes can vary dramatically between insurance companies. Senior drivers can absolutely save money by shopping their coverage.
Most insurers offer a discount for paying your premium in full each year or even bi-annually but many drivers pay their car insurance premium monthly.
Average car insurance rates for seniors
We ran the numbers for a full coverage policy; the average car insurance cost for seniors is $1,886 annually. This is slightly less than the $1,908 annual average that adult drivers pay. Seniors tend to drive less as they are often retired, which can lead to lower rates than other adults.
However, as they continue to age, medical conditions and slower reaction times lead to more accidents and higher rates.
Young adults and teens pay dramatically more for coverage. The average premium for young adults (age 20-24) is $3,092 while teens (16-19 years old) are forking up $5,914 a year. This is an astounding 213.57% percent more than seniors.
Teens and young adults tend to pay more for coverage because statistics show that they are involved in more accidents and file more claims. Teens in particular are inexperienced out on the road and tend to take more risks which results in more accidents and claims and higher premiums.
Monthly car insurance cost for seniors
Data show that USAA was the cheapest insurer for seniors with an average monthly rate of $118 for full coverage while Nationwide was $126 and Auto-Owners at $128.
Farmers was the most expensive for senior drivers at $239 a month, Allstate was $223 and Progressive was the third-most expensive at $175 per month for full coverage.
| Company | Monthly Full Coverage Rate |
|---|---|
| USAA | $118 |
| Nationwide | $126 |
| Auto-Owners | $128 |
| Travelers | $143 |
| GEICO | $152 |
| State Farm | $159 |
| Progressive | $175 |
| Allstate | $223 |
| Farmers | $239 |
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How much does senior car insurance cost in each state?
Car insurance companies consider various factors when setting a premium and where you live will impact your rates. If you live in an area prone to severe weather or with a high crime rate, you will pay more for coverage.
When it comes to high car insurance costs, Louisiana came out on top with an average annual premium of $2,750. Florida was close behind with an annual rate of $2,692 and California rounded out the top three at $2,424 a year.
When it comes to cheap car insurance for seniors consider Maine, Vermont or New Hampshire. These more rural communities have fewer cars out on the road, leading to fewer accidents and lower rates. The average monthly premium in Maine came in at $95 while Vermont and New Hampshire were $111 a month.
The table below shows the average annual and monthly rates for seniors in each state.
| State | Annual Full Coverage Rate | Monthly Full Coverage Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Alaska | $1,772 | $148 |
| Alabama | $1,878 | $157 |
| Arkansas | $1,953 | $163 |
| Arizona | $1,885 | $157 |
| California | $2,424 | $202 |
| Colorado | $2,367 | $197 |
| Connecticut | $1,816 | $151 |
| Washington, D.C. | $2,252 | $188 |
| Delaware | $2,085 | $174 |
| Florida | $2,692 | $224 |
| Georgia | $2,064 | $172 |
| Hawaii | $1,517 | $126 |
| Iowa | $1,496 | $125 |
| Idaho | $1,442 | $120 |
| Illinois | $1,531 | $128 |
| Indiana | $1,515 | $126 |
| Kansas | $1,781 | $148 |
| Kentucky | $2,257 | $188 |
| Louisiana | $2,750 | $229 |
| Massachusetts | $1,509 | $126 |
| Maryland | $1,832 | $153 |
| Maine | $1,139 | $95 |
| Michigan | $2,237 | $186 |
| Minnesota | $1,861 | $155 |
| Missouri | $1,912 | $159 |
| Mississippi | $2,019 | $168 |
| Montana | $2,148 | $179 |
| North Carolina | $1,732 | $144 |
| North Dakota | $1,704 | $142 |
| Nebraska | $1,741 | $145 |
| New Hampshire | $1,333 | $111 |
| New Jersey | $1,993 | $166 |
| New Mexico | $2,077 | $173 |
| Nevada | $2,118 | $176 |
| New York | $1,922 | $160 |
| Ohio | $1,460 | $122 |
| Oklahoma | $2,103 | $175 |
| Oregon | $1,710 | $143 |
| Pennsylvania | $1,864 | $155 |
| Rhode Island | $2,166 | $181 |
| South Carolina | $2,054 | $171 |
| South Dakota | $2,043 | $170 |
| Tennessee | $1,716 | $143 |
| Texas | $1,944 | $162 |
| Utah | $1,935 | $161 |
| Virginia | $1,587 | $132 |
| Vermont | $1,327 | $111 |
| Washington | $1,716 | $143 |
| Wisconsin | $1,654 | $138 |
| West Virginia | $1,976 | $165 |
| Wyoming | $1,786 | $149 |
Why are seniors’ rates in the priciest states so high?
Insurance rates will vary between states due to factors such as severe weather, crime rates, state laws and other factors. While many seniors call Florida home, it is not super friendly when it comes to car insurance rates.
Factors such as hurricanes and other severe weather increase car insurance rates as insurers have to repair or replace any vehicles damaged by severe weather or flooding.
When it comes to car insurance, Louisiana is the most expensive state for car insurance for seniors with an annual premium of $2,750 or $229 a month. Louisiana has a high car theft rate, making it easy for drivers to sue, pushing up car insurance rates in the state.
Florida was the second most expensive state for senior drivers with an average annual premium of $2,692 or $224 monthly. Florida has experienced several severe storms in recent years, it also has one of the highest rates of uninsured drivers which will raise rates for all drivers.
California rounded out the top three most expensive car insurance with an annual premium of $2,424 or $202 monthly.
Guide: How to shop for car insurance for seniors
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Cheapest car insurance rates for seniors by company
Seniors will typically pay similar rates to other adult drivers. Insurers rate risk differently so your personal and vehicle risk factors will impact your rates. In addition to your risk factors, the coverages and coverage levels you carry will also impact your premium
As the table below clearly shows, average car insurance rates for seniors can vary pretty dramatically with the cheapest premium – USAA – coming in at $1,418 a year for full coverage while the most expensive policy was $2,872 – a 102% difference.
Our data specialists calculated the average premium for seniors at three different coverage levels: state-required minimums, 50/100/50 and full coverage with liability at 100/300/100 as well as collision and comprehensive. See those annual rates in the table below.
| Company | State Minimum Rate | Liability (50/100/50) | Full Coverage Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nationwide | $556 | $683 | $1,507 |
| Auto-Owners | $407 | $502 | $1,541 |
| Travelers | $608 | $743 | $1,716 |
| GEICO | $464 | $619 | $1,826 |
| State Farm | $518 | $666 | $1,903 |
| Progressive | $604 | $768 | $2,095 |
| Allstate | $786 | $990 | $2,673 |
| Farmers | $868 | $1,256 | $2,872 |
| USAA* | $385 | $493 | $1,418 |
How to save on car insurance for seniors
Car insurance costs often rise after age 70, but there are plenty of ways for older drivers to keep premiums affordable. Here are some of the best ways seniors can save:
- Take a defensive driving course: Many insurers offer discounts of 5-10% when seniors complete an approved safe driving program.
- Drive fewer miles: If you’re retired or no longer commute daily, ask about low-mileage discounts or usage-based insurance programs.
- Bundle policies: Combining your auto and homeowners (or renters) insurance with the same company can reduce rates by 10% or more.
- Maintain a clean driving record: Avoiding tickets and accidents is one of the best ways to keep rates low at any age.
- Ask about senior discounts: Some insurers, including those affiliated with AARP or AAA, offer special savings for drivers over 50.
- Increase your deductible: If you can afford to pay more out-of-pocket in case of a claim, choosing a higher deductible can lower your premium.
- Shop around regularly: Rates can vary significantly between companies and comparing quotes every year or two can uncover big savings.
Even small adjustments can add up to hundreds of dollars in savings each year, especially for drivers on a fixed income.
Driving and safety considerations on the road
Car insurance costs often reflect how insurers view risk and for seniors, age can become a factor. But staying safe on the road isn’t just about lowering your premium — it’s also about protecting yourself and others.
- Health and vision checks: Regular eye exams and health screenings help ensure you’re safe to drive, especially since vision changes and certain medications can affect reaction times.
- Review your driving habits: If you’re uncomfortable driving at night, in heavy traffic or during bad weather, limit your driving to times and routes that feel safer.
- Consider vehicle safety features: Cars with modern safety technology — such as lane departure warnings, automatic braking and blind-spot monitoring — can reduce accident risk and may even earn you discounts.
- Know when to reassess: There’s no set age to stop driving, but if you or loved ones notice slower reaction times, confusion in traffic or frequent close calls, it may be time to reduce how often you drive or explore alternatives.
- Alternative transportation options: Ride-sharing, community shuttles and public transit can help maintain independence without the risks of full-time driving.
These steps not only help keep seniors safe but can also reduce insurance costs by lowering the likelihood of accidents and claims.
Frequently Asked Questions: Car insurance for seniors
How much does car insurance cost for seniors?
Car insurance for seniors averages $1,886 per year for drivers in their 60s with full coverage. Rates typically rise after age 70 as accident risk increases, although costs vary by state, driving record and coverage level.
Why does car insurance get more expensive after age 70?
Rates climb after age 70 because insurers see higher accident rates, slower reaction times and more severe claims among older drivers. Medical costs after accidents also contribute to higher premiums.
What discounts are available for senior drivers?
Seniors may qualify for mature driver discounts, low-mileage savings, safe driver rewards and defensive driving course discounts. Bundling auto with home insurance can also reduce costs.
Do seniors need full coverage car insurance?
If you drive a newer or financed vehicle, full coverage is recommended (or required by most lienholders) to protect against repairs and replacements. Seniors with older, paid-off cars may save by switching to liability-only coverage.
Can I lower my car insurance costs as a senior?
Yes. Shop around regularly, raise your deductible, limit annual mileage and ask about senior or safe driver discounts.
Are there insurance programs specifically for seniors?
Yes. Programs like AARP Auto Insurance offer tailored coverage and discounts for drivers older than 50. Many insurers also provide senior-specific benefits.
When should seniors stop driving altogether?
There’s no set age to stop driving. Seniors should evaluate vision, reaction time, medication effects and comfort behind the wheel. In some cases, reducing driving or switching to liability-only coverage may be a safer, cost-effective option.
Resources & Methodology
Methodology
CarInsurance.com editors collected rates from Quadrant Information Services for a 40-year-old male and female driver carrying a full coverage insurance policy with limits 100/300/100 and $500 comprehensive and collision deductibles. Read the detailed methodology for more information.
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