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Best cheap car insurance in Cincinnati for 2025

Updated Apr 04, 2025
Choosing the best car insurance in Cincinnati involves more than just finding the cheapest rates.
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This advertisement is powered by Coverage.com, LLC, a licensed insurance producer (NPN: 19966249) and a corporate affiliate of Bankrate. The offers and links that appear on this advertisement are from companies that compensate Coverage.com in different ways. The compensation received and other factors, such as your location, may impact what offers and links appear, and how, where and in what order they appear. While we seek to provide a wide range of offers, we do not include every product or service that may be available. Our goal is to keep information accurate and timely, but some information may not be current. Your actual offer from an advertiser may be different from the offer on this advertisement. All offers are subject to additional terms and conditions.

Coverage.com, LLC is a licensed insurance producer (NPN: 19966249). Coverage.com services are only available in states where it is licensed. Coverage.com may not offer insurance coverage in all states or scenarios. All insurance products are governed by the terms in the applicable insurance policy, and all related decisions (such as approval for coverage, premiums, commissions and fees) and policy obligations are the sole responsibility of the underwriting insurer. The information on this site does not modify any insurance policy terms in any way.

The best car insurance companies in Cincinnati

Choosing the best car insurance in Cincinnati involves more than just finding the cheapest rates. It's about identifying the best value for your needs, considering factors like customer service, coverage options and the ease of filing claims. Bankrate's insurance editorial team has reviewed these factors and more, using our proprietary Bankrate Score to rate each provider. This score assesses aspects such as discounts, policy features, digital tools and third-party customer satisfaction and financial strength ratings. Here’s a snapshot of the top five insurers in Cincinnati to help guide your decision:

Best for coverage add-ons

Bankrate Score

Rating: 4.4 stars out of 5
4.4

Avg. min coverage premium

$374

Min. coverage

Avg. full coverage premium

$1,537

Full coverage

Why Progressive made our list: Progressive is renowned for its robust policy options and strong financial stability, earning a Bankrate Score of 4.4 out of 5. The company is well-known for its customizable coverage options, including custom parts and equipment coverage, rideshare insurance, loan/lease payoff options, medical payments and more. Progressive also offers standard coverage options, making it a one-stop shop for your car insurance needs. This could make it an excellent choice for Cincinnati drivers looking for reliability and a variety of coverage choices.

Why Progressive is best for coverage add-ons: Progressive is ideally suited for drivers in Cincinnati who are looking for unique coverage, like rideshare insurance or the ability to customize their policies. Tools like Snapshot and the Name Your Price tool also empower drivers to manage their premiums more effectively, making Progressive a potential top choice for those who may struggle to find affordable rates elsewhere.

Scores and Ratings
Bankrate Score 4.4
J.D. Power 648/1,000
AM Best Rating A+
Read full review
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Best for discounts

Bankrate Score

Rating: 4.3 stars out of 5
4.3

Avg. min coverage premium

$430

Min. coverage

Avg. full coverage premium

$1,426

Full coverage

Why Geico made our list: Geico is highly regarded for its competitive rates (largely thanks to its broad list of discounts) and extensive digital capabilities, making it a strong contender for Cincinnati drivers seeking cost-effective car insurance. With a Bankrate Score of 4.3 out of 5, Geico offers coverage that suits both preferred and high-risk drivers across the nation. Despite a more streamlined approach to policy add-ons, the company's robust standard coverage and effective online management tools make it a practical choice for those prioritizing affordability and convenience over comprehensive personalization.

Why Geico is best for discounts: Geico stands out as an excellent option for those seeking budget-friendly auto insurance, thanks to its lower-than-average premiums and variety of discounts. As a winner of the Best Auto Insurance Company for High-Risk Drivers in the 2025 Bankrate Awards plus its willingness to file SR-22 certificates when required, Geico is a good pick for high-risk drivers as well.

Scores and Ratings
Bankrate Score 4.3
J.D. Power 641/1,000
AM Best Rating A++
Read full review
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Best for customer service

Bankrate Score

Rating: 4.3 stars out of 5
4.3

Avg. min coverage premium

$485

Min. coverage

Avg. full coverage premium

$1,802

Full coverage

Why Auto-Owners made our list: Auto-Owners excels in offering personalized insurance solutions, making it a compelling choice for Cincinnati drivers looking for tailored coverage. With a Bankrate Score of 4.3, the company is recognized for its ability to customize policies through a network of local agents, providing a personal touch that many policyholders appreciate. While it may not have the broadest digital toolset, Auto-Owners compensates with robust coverage options and the availability of unique endorsements like road trouble service and diminished value coverage.

Why Auto-Owners is best for customer service: Auto-Owners is ideal for drivers who value personal interaction and customized insurance solutions. It offers an array of endorsements that allow policyholders to tailor their coverage to their specific needs, such as loan/lease gap coverage and additional expense coverage. Additionally, as our 2025 Bankrate Award Winner for Best Budget Auto Insurance Company and Best Auto Insurance Company for Young Drivers, Auto-Owners has been recognized for offering budget-friendly options, with full coverage premiums typically lower than the national average. This blend of personalized service, customization options and competitive pricing could make Auto-Owners a compelling choice for Cincinnati drivers looking for an affordable insurance company with great customer service.

Scores and Ratings
Bankrate Score 4.3
J.D. Power 646/1,000
AM Best Rating A++
Read full review
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Best for military-focused coverage

Bankrate Score

Rating: 4.3 stars out of 5
4.3

Avg. min coverage premium

$555

Min. coverage

Avg. full coverage premium

$2,388

Full coverage

Why USAA made our list: USAA is distinguished by its commitment to serving the unique needs of the military community in Cincinnati and beyond, earning a Bankrate Score of 4.3 and tying for the 2025 Bankrate Award for Best Auto Insurance Company Overall. Known for its exceptional customer service and comprehensive policy options, USAA is tailored specifically for active-duty military, veterans and their families. While it lacks physical branches, USAA compensates with outstanding online tools and resources, making it a convenient choice for those who prefer digital access. Additionally, USAA's coverage is available nationwide, which is beneficial for military personnel who may be stationed in various locations.

Why USAA is best for military-focused coverage: USAA excels in providing insurance solutions that cater exclusively to the military and their families, offering benefits and discounts that directly address their circumstances. With programs like SafePilot, which rewards safe driving, and complimentary roadside assistance and car rental reimbursement, USAA is geared toward enhancing the lives of those who serve. Its high J.D. Power scores reflect its commitment to quality and customer satisfaction, making it the top choice for eligible members seeking reliable, tailored insurance coverage.

Scores and Ratings
Bankrate Score 4.3
J.D. Power 726/1,000
AM Best Rating A++
Read full review
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Best for low average rates

Bankrate Score

Rating: 4.1 stars out of 5
4.1

Avg. min coverage premium

$459

Min. coverage

Avg. full coverage premium

$1,782

Full coverage

Why Erie made our list: Erie Insurance is a standout choice for drivers in Cincinnati and its 12-state coverage area, reflecting a strong commitment to customer satisfaction, low average rates and robust policy options. With a Bankrate Score of 4.1, Erie is noted for its personalized service approach and high J.D. Power satisfaction scores for auto insurance. Erie's long-standing presence since 1925 in the insurance market underscores its reliability and depth of experience. While its digital tools may not be the most advanced, Erie compensates with unique offerings like Rate Lock and extensive coverage options that cater to a variety of driver needs.

Why Erie is the best for low average rates: Erie's Rate Lock feature could make it an excellent option for drivers in Cincinnati looking for stable car insurance costs without worrying about annual rate increases. This feature allows customers to lock in their premium rates, which only change if significant alterations are made to the policy, such as adding or removing vehicles or drivers or changing the address. Combined with additional benefits like pet injury coverage and travel expenses included in full coverage policies, Erie provides not only lower than average premium rates, but also stability in costs and enhanced value in its insurance offerings.

Scores and Ratings
Bankrate Score 4.1
J.D. Power 710/1,000
AM Best Rating A+
Read full review
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Bankrate's trusted insurance industry expertise

Read our full methodology

The insurance market can be complicated, but Bankrate's insurance editorial team used our unique perspective to bring readers the information they need to make educated decisions when shopping for a policy.

78

years of industry experience

9

licensed staff

34.5K

ZIP codes examined

120

carriers reviewed

The cheapest car insurance companies in Cincinnati

Finding cheap car insurance companies in Cincinnati often involves considering more than just the bottom line cost. Drivers might typically look for insurers that balance competitive rates with dependable coverage and customer service. Due to Cincinnati's unique driving conditions, including its urban layout and seasonal weather changes, it can be beneficial to compare policies that offer comprehensive protection at a cost-effective price. Identifying insurers that provide discounts for safe driving, multiple policies and other personalized factors can also lead to significant savings.

$496
$1,136
Hastings Mutual
$549
$1,166
Central Mutual
$333
$1,372
$430
$1,426
$369
$1,490

How much is car insurance in Cincinnati, Ohio?

In Cincinnati, drivers typically pay around $2,388 annually for full coverage car insurance and $555 for minimum coverage. These rates are 6 percent more and 13 percent more than the Ohio state average for full and minimum coverage, respectively. Given these figures, Cincinnati drivers may find it beneficial to compare rates and explore various discounts available to ensure they are getting the most cost-effective coverage for their needs.

Cincinnati rates for teens

Car insurance rates for teen drivers are typically higher when they are on their own policy compared to being added to a parent's policy. Adding a teen to a parent's policy could significantly reduce costs while still providing the necessary coverage. It's important for families to explore all available discounts, such as those for good students or those who have completed a driver's education course, as these can further help manage the expenses associated with insuring teen drivers.

Coverage type
Central Mutual
$743
$650
$911
$723
$982
$907
$1,004
$902
$1,049
$856
*Annual rates were determined by adding a 16- or 18-year-old teen to their 40-year-old married parents' policy. The rates displayed reflect the total cost of a driver this age added to their parents’ policy.
$2,086
$1,938
Hastings Mutual
$2,229
$2,179
Central Mutual
$2,515
$2,644
$3,040
$2,387
$3,821
$3,320
*Annual rates were determined by adding a 16- or 18-year-old teen to their 40-year-old married parents' policy. The rates displayed reflect the total cost of a driver this age added to their parents’ policy.

Cincinnati rates for young drivers

Young drivers purchasing their own car insurance policies often face higher premiums due to their limited driving experience and higher statistical risk of accidents. For young drivers seeking affordable coverage, it can be beneficial to compare rates across several insurers and consider opting for higher deductibles or lower coverage limits where feasible. Additionally, taking advantage of discounts for safe driving, academic performance or completing a defensive driving course can help reduce costs. Young drivers may want to thoroughly research their options to find a balance between affordability and adequate protection.

Coverage type
Central Mutual
$582
$435
$796
$433
$824
$512
$846
$574
$960
$530
Central Mutual
$2,110
$1,709
$3,095
$1,408
Hastings Mutual
$3,158
$1,568
$3,214
$1,889
$3,221
$2,218

Cincinnati rates for adults

Adult drivers typically have more stable insurance rates compared to younger drivers, but premiums can still vary significantly based on factors like driving history, vehicle type and chosen coverage levels. Adults looking for car insurance may want to consider not only the cost but also the quality of coverage that fits their driving habits and lifestyle. Shopping around for quotes from multiple insurers and maximizing discounts for safe driving and loyalty can help secure affordable and effective coverage. It's often beneficial for adult drivers to review their insurance needs periodically to ensure their policy continues to meet their changing life circumstances.

Coverage type
Central Mutual
$371
$333
$326
$374
$369
$331
$425
$374
$354
$429
$430
$429
$496
$459
$430
Hastings Mutual
$1,179
$1,166
$1,085
$1,238
$1,136
$1,058
$1,442
$1,426
$1,384
Central Mutual
$1,535
$1,372
$1,468
$1,622
$1,490
$1,335

Cincinnati rates for senior drivers

Senior drivers often benefit from lower car insurance rates due to their extensive driving experience and typically lower risk profiles. However, as you continue to mature, rates could increase due to things slowing down with age, such as reaction time behind the wheel. This could cause insurers to start viewing you as more of a risk. Seniors may want to consider looking for insurers that offer discounts for mature drivers, such as those for completing defensive driving courses or for having a long history of safe driving.

Coverage type
$341
$462
$348
$386
Central Mutual
$351
$440
Frankenmuth
$405
$494
$419
$466
$471
$1,070
Hastings Mutual
$487
$1,510
$348
$1,366
$424
$1,467
$341
$1,682
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Advertising disclosure
This advertisement is powered by Coverage.com, LLC, a licensed insurance producer (NPN: 19966249) and a corporate affiliate of Bankrate. The offers and links that appear on this advertisement are from companies that compensate Coverage.com in different ways. The compensation received and other factors, such as your location, may impact what offers and links appear, and how, where and in what order they appear. While we seek to provide a wide range of offers, we do not include every product or service that may be available. Our goal is to keep information accurate and timely, but some information may not be current. Your actual offer from an advertiser may be different from the offer on this advertisement. All offers are subject to additional terms and conditions.

Coverage.com, LLC is a licensed insurance producer (NPN: 19966249). Coverage.com services are only available in states where it is licensed. Coverage.com may not offer insurance coverage in all states or scenarios. All insurance products are governed by the terms in the applicable insurance policy, and all related decisions (such as approval for coverage, premiums, commissions and fees) and policy obligations are the sole responsibility of the underwriting insurer. The information on this site does not modify any insurance policy terms in any way.

The cheapest car insurance in Cincinnati by driving record

Driving records hold a lot of weight when determining car insurance rates. Generally, a clean driving history can lead to more affordable rates, as insurers view these drivers as lower risk. Conversely, incidents such as speeding tickets, at-fault accidents or DUIs can significantly increase rates because these behaviors are linked to a higher risk of filing claims. Drivers with marks on their record might find it beneficial to shop around for quotes, as some insurers specialize in or offer more competitive rates for high-risk drivers. Additionally, taking advantage of improvement courses or safe driver discounts could potentially mitigate the impact of past infractions on insurance costs.

Car insurance with speeding ticket in Cincinnati

Receiving a speeding ticket can typically lead to an increase in car insurance premiums, as insurers view speeding as a risk indicator of future claims. The extent to which a speeding ticket affects your insurance costs can vary, but it's generally expected that premiums in Cincinnati could rise by 30 percent more than the state average. Drivers with a speeding ticket may want to compare rates from multiple insurers, as some companies offer more lenient terms for minor infractions.

Central Mutual
$403
$1,775
$458
$1,806
$477
$1,840
$485
$1,802
$515
$1,834

Car insurance after an accident in Cincinnati

Being found at fault for a car accident usually results in an increase in car insurance premiums, reflecting the higher risk associated with drivers who have caused accidents. Typically, after an at-fault accident, drivers might see their car insurance in Cincinnati go up by 59 percent more compared to the Ohio average. Drivers with such incidents on their record should explore all available options to potentially lower their premiums over time. This could include seeking out insurers that offer accident forgiveness, maintaining a clean driving record post-incident or taking defensive driving courses to improve driving skills and safety awareness.

Central Mutual
$327
$1,372
$536
$2,025
$550
$2,061
Hastings Mutual
$561
$1,195
Frankenmuth
$565
$2,490

Car insurance after an OVI in Cincinnati

Experiencing an OVI (operating a vehicle impaired) in Cincinnati isn't just a serious legal issue — it can also cause your car insurance premiums to spike significantly. In the aftermath of such an incident, you could expect your Cincinnati car insurance rates to potentially increase by 117 percent more than the state average. For drivers navigating this challenging situation, you may want to evaluate different insurance providers who offer specialized programs to recover your standing. Engaging in OVI education programs and maintaining a clean record moving forward can also be instrumental in gradually reducing the heightened premiums.

$443
$1,759
$468
$2,010
Central Mutual
$557
$2,065
$720
$2,430
Frankenmuth
$785
$3,953
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Minimum coverage requirements in Cincinnati

In Cincinnati, Ohio, as in most states, drivers are legally required to carry a certain level of liability insurance. Navigating these requirements isn't just about checking boxes; it's about protecting yourself financially and legally in the bustling city streets and beyond.

  • Mandatory insurance coverage: Ohio law mandates that all drivers carry liability insurance with minimum limits of $25,000 for bodily injury per person, $50,000 for bodily injury per accident and $25,000 for property damage per accident.
  • Consequences of uninsured driving: Driving without insurance is a serious offense in Ohio. If you're caught, you could face steep penalties including license suspension.
  • Proof of insurance: Drivers must also carry proof of insurance in their vehicle at all times. This is essential not only for traffic stops, but also if you're involved in an accident or find yourself in traffic court.

While meeting these minimums is necessary to stay on the right side of the law, they might not provide comprehensive protection. For instance, if you're involved in a multi-car accident, the state-required coverage might fall short of covering all damages and medical expenses, potentially leaving you with hefty out-of-pocket costs. Additionally, minimum liability coverage does not protect against damage to your vehicle if you're at fault in an accident. For fuller protection, you might consider options like collision and comprehensive coverage, especially in a city like Cincinnati where busy roads increase the likelihood of accidents.

Selecting the best car insurance in Cincinnati goes beyond just fulfilling legal requirements; it involves evaluating your specific needs and considering how much risk you're willing to take. It’s wise to discuss with an insurance agent or do some research to understand how different coverages can safeguard your finances and peace of mind on the road.

Frequently asked questions

Methodology

Bankrate utilizes Quadrant Information Services to analyze April 2025 rates for all ZIP codes and carriers in all 50 states and Washington, D.C. Rates are weighted based on the population density in each geographic region. Quoted rates for our base profile are based on the following characteristics and full coverage limits with bundling and paperless billing discounts applied:

User Icon
40 year old
Single male and female driver
Logo for Brand name
2023 Toyota Camry
Primary vehicle
Credit Good Icon
Good credit score
Auto Insurance Guide Icon
Clean driving record
Briefcase Icon
Commutes 5 days

Bodily injury liability

$100,000 per person
$300,000 per accident

Property damage liability

$50,000 per accident

Personal injury protection

$100,000 per accident

Uninsured motorist bodily injury

$100,000 per person
$300,000 per accident

Collision deductible

$500

Comprehensive deductible

$500

To determine minimum coverage limits, Bankrate used minimum coverage that meets each state’s requirements. These are sample rates and should only be used for comparative purposes. Your quotes will differ.

If otherwise specified, the base profile has been modified with the following driver characteristics: 

Incidents: Rates were calculated by evaluating our base profile with the following incidents applied: clean record (base), at-fault accident, single speeding ticket and single DUI conviction.

Age: Rates were calculated by evaluating our base profile with the ages 20-70 (base: 40 years) applied. Depending on age, drivers may be a renter or homeowner. Age is not a contributing rating factor in Hawaii and Massachusetts due to state regulations.

Teens: Rates were determined by adding a 16- or 18-year-old teen to their 40-year-old married parents' policy. The rates displayed reflect the total cost of a driver this age added to their parents’ policy.

Bankrate Score

Our 2025 Bankrate Score for auto insurance considers key variables that our insurance editorial team determined impact policyholders’ experiences with an insurance company. These factors include a robust assessment of each company’s cost of coverage, product availability, financial strength ratings, online capabilities and customer and claims support accessibility. We grouped these factors into three essential categories — cost and ratings, coverage and savings, and support — which we then weighted in a tiered approach. 

Each category was assigned a metric to determine performance, and the weighted sum adds up to a company’s total Bankrate Score — out of 5 points. Our scoring model provides a comprehensive view, indicating when companies excel across several key areas and highlighting where they fall short.

5
Rating: 5 stars out of 5
Overall Score
  • Cost & ratings 50%
  • Coverage & savings 30%
  • Support 20%
  • Tier 1 (Cost & ratings): To determine how well auto insurance companies satisfy these priorities, our team analyzed quoted premiums from Quadrant Information Services (if available), as well as any of the latest third-party agency ratings from J.D. Power, AM Best, Demotech and the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC). 
  • Tier 2 (Coverage & savings): We assessed companies’ coverage options and availability to help policyholders find a provider that balances cost with coverage. Additionally, we evaluated the discount options listed on each company’s website.
  • Tier 3 (Support): To encompass the many ways an auto insurance company can support policyholders, we analyzed avenues of customer accessibility along with community support. This analysis incorporated additional financial strength ratings from S&P and Moody’s and factored in a company’s corporate sustainability efforts.
Written by
Ashlyn Brooks
Writer II, Insurance
Ashlyn Brooks is a finance writer with more than half a decade of experience, known for her knowledge in areas such as taxes, insurance, investing, retirement, finance news, and banking products.
Edited by Editor II, Insurance