How Much Does Car Insurance Cost on Average?
The average car insurance cost in the US is $1,700/year ($142/month) for full coverage and $620/year ($52/month) for minimum liability. Rates vary widely by state, age, and driving record.
Cost Breakdown
| Service | Low | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full coverage (national avg) | $125 | $165 | Per month |
| Liability only | $40 | $65 | Per month |
| Teen driver add-on | $150 | $400 | Per month extra |
| SR-22 filing | $15 | $50 | One-time fee |
| Comprehensive only | $15 | $50 | Per month add-on |
Average Car Insurance Cost in 2026
Car insurance costs have risen 20% since 2023. Here's what Americans actually pay.
National Averages
- Full coverage: $1,700/year ($142/month)
- Minimum liability: $620/year ($52/month)
Cost by Age
- 16-19: $4,000-$6,500/year (highest risk group)
- 20-25: $2,000-$3,500/year
- 26-35: $1,400-$2,000/year
- 36-55: $1,200-$1,700/year (sweet spot)
- 56-65: $1,300-$1,800/year
- 65+: $1,400-$2,200/year
Most/Least Expensive States
Most expensive: Michigan ($3,000+), Florida ($2,500+), Louisiana ($2,400+). Cheapest: Maine ($900), Vermont ($950), Idaho ($1,000).
What Drives the Price
Your ZIP code, driving record, credit score, vehicle type, and coverage level matter most. The same driver can see $1,000+ difference between providers for identical coverage.
Related Questions
Why is car insurance so expensive now?
Repair costs, medical costs, and car prices have all surged since 2023. Parts shortages and labor costs mean even minor accidents are more expensive to settle.
Is full coverage required?
Not by law — states only require liability. But if you have a loan or lease, your lender requires full coverage until it's paid off.
What's the cheapest state for car insurance?
Maine, Vermont, and Idaho consistently have the lowest rates at $900-$1,100/year for full coverage.