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Best cheap car insurance in Cincinnati for 2024
Powered by Coverage.com (NPN: 19966249)
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:
Bankrate Score
Avg. min coverage premium
Min. coverage
Avg. full coverage premium
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, and it is our 2024 Bankrate Award winner for Best for High-Risk Drivers. This could make it an excellent choice for Cincinnati drivers looking for reliability and a variety of coverage choices. Progressive stands out, particularly for high-risk drivers due to its competitive pricing and acceptance of those with poor driving records. The company offers standard coverage options like liability and full coverage, along with personal injury protection, and allows for extensive customization with add-ons such as custom parts and equipment coverage, loan/lease payoff options and rideshare insurance.
Why Progressive is best for high-risk drivers: Progressive is ideally suited for drivers in Cincinnati with high-risk profiles, including those with serious violations like DUIs. Unlike many insurers, Progressive tends to offer more forgiving rates to these drivers on average, provides necessary SR-22 filings and features a range of discount opportunities. Tools like Snapshot and the Name Your Price tool empower drivers to manage their premiums more effectively, making Progressive a potential top choice for those who may struggle to find affordable rates elsewhere.
| Bankrate Score | 4.4 |
| J.D. Power | 816/1,000 |
| AM Best score | A+ |
Bankrate Score
Avg. min coverage premium
Min. coverage
Avg. full coverage premium
Full coverage
Why Geico made our list: Geico is highly regarded for its competitive rates and extensive digital capabilities, making it a strong contender for Cincinnati drivers seeking cost-effective car insurance. With a Bankrate Score of 4.4 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 budget-conscious young drivers: Geico stands out as an excellent option for young drivers and those seeking budget-friendly auto insurance, thanks to its lower-than-average premiums and a variety of discounts tailored to newer and younger drivers. Recognized as the Best Auto Insurance Company for Young Drivers in the 2024 Bankrate Awards, Geico offers savings through discounts for good students and driver training programs. These features, combined with its national availability and strong digital tools, make Geico a top pick for young drivers looking to balance cost and quality in their car insurance.
| Bankrate Score | 4.4 |
| J.D. Power | 831/1,000 |
| AM Best score | A++ |
Bankrate Score
Avg. min coverage premium
Min. coverage
Avg. full coverage premium
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 personalized service and customization: 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 2024 Bankrate Award Winner for Best Budget Auto Insurance Company, 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.
| Bankrate Score | 4.3 |
| J.D. Power | 833/1,000 |
| AM Best score | A++ |
Bankrate Score
Avg. min coverage premium
Min. coverage
Avg. full coverage premium
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 4.2. 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 families: 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.
| Bankrate Score | 4.2 |
| J.D. Power | |
| AM Best score | A++ |
Bankrate Score
Avg. min coverage premium
Min. coverage
Avg. full coverage premium
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 and robust policy options. With a Bankrate Score of 4.0, 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 stable insurance costs: 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 stability in costs but also enhanced value in its insurance offerings.
| Bankrate Score | 4 |
| J.D. Power | 844/1,000 |
| AM Best score | A+ |
Bankrate's trusted insurance industry expertise
Read our full methodologyBankrate's insurance editorial team, powered by licensed professionals with hands-on industry experience, is dedicated to providing you with the most current and practical information to help you make informed decisions about car insurance. We regularly update our data, including premium rates sourced from Quadrant Information Services by ZIP code, ensuring our analysis reflects the latest market conditions. This comprehensive approach combines detailed rate data with insights on customer satisfaction, financial stability and each insurer's unique benefits, helping you find the best coverage for your needs.
46
years of industry experience
122
carriers reviewed
34.5K
ZIP codes examined
1.2M
quotes analyzed
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.
| Insurance company | Average annual min coverage premium | Average annual full coverage premium |
|---|---|---|
|
Hastings Mutual
|
$326
|
$904
|
|
$473
|
$1,175
|
|
|
$371
|
$1,233
|
|
|
$298
|
$1,246
|
|
|
Central Mutual
|
$325
|
$1,346
|
How much is car insurance in Cincinnati, Ohio?
In Cincinnati, drivers typically pay around $1,246 annually for full coverage car insurance and $298 for minimum coverage. These rates are 6 percent more and 12 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.
| Insurance company | 16-year-old* | 18-year-old* |
|---|---|---|
|
Hastings Mutual
|
$643
|
$627
|
|
Central Mutual
|
$725
|
$635
|
|
$753
|
$866
|
|
|
$845
|
$599
|
|
|
$923
|
$854
|
| Insurance company | 16-year-old* | 18-year-old* |
|---|---|---|
|
Hastings Mutual
|
$1,708
|
$1,671
|
|
$2,138
|
$1,988
|
|
|
Central Mutual
|
$2,443
|
$2,154
|
|
$2,804
|
$3,216
|
|
|
$2,867
|
$2,253
|
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.
| Insurance company | 20-year-old | 25-year-old |
|---|---|---|
|
$535
|
$416
|
|
|
Central Mutual
|
$566
|
$428
|
|
$782
|
$440
|
|
|
$791
|
$498
|
|
|
$895
|
$487
|
| Insurance company | 20-year-old | 25-year-old |
|---|---|---|
|
Central Mutual
|
$2,063
|
$1,666
|
|
$2,264
|
$1,756
|
|
|
Hastings Mutual
|
$2,420
|
$1,179
|
|
$2,632
|
$1,636
|
|
|
$3,015
|
$2,048
|
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.
| Insurance company | 30-year-old | 40-year-old | 50-year-old |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Hastings Mutual
|
$909
|
$904
|
$826
|
|
$1,308
|
$1,175
|
$1,067
|
|
|
$1,406
|
$1,246
|
$1,137
|
|
|
$1,408
|
$1,351
|
$1,294
|
|
|
$1,439
|
$1,233
|
$1,121
|
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.
| Insurance company | 60-year-old | 70-year-old |
|---|---|---|
|
$278
|
$345
|
|
|
Hastings Mutual
|
$292
|
$429
|
|
$335
|
$455
|
|
|
Central Mutual
|
$344
|
$429
|
|
$349
|
$392
|
| Insurance company | 60-year-old | 70-year-old |
|---|---|---|
|
Hastings Mutual
|
$292
|
$1,168
|
|
$451
|
$1,100
|
|
|
$349
|
$1,205
|
|
|
$278
|
$1,268
|
|
|
$434
|
$1,358
|
The cheapest car insurance in Cincinnati by driving record
Driving record holds 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 28 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.
| Insurance company | Average min coverage rate | Average full coverage rate |
|---|---|---|
|
$380
|
$1,580
|
|
|
Central Mutual
|
$381
|
$1,513
|
|
$396
|
$1,485
|
|
|
Hastings Mutual
|
$421
|
$1,106
|
|
$437
|
$1,620
|
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 56 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.
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 113 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.
| Insurance company | Average min coverage rate | Average full coverage rate |
|---|---|---|
|
$436
|
$1,733
|
|
|
$464
|
$1,611
|
|
|
$473
|
$1,933
|
|
|
Central Mutual
|
$545
|
$2,008
|
|
$635
|
$2,230
|
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 July 2024 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 are based on a single, 40-year-old male and female driver with a clean driving record, good credit and the following full coverage limits:
- $100,000 bodily injury liability per person
- $300,000 bodily injury liability per accident
- $50,000 property damage liability per accident
- $100,000 uninsured motorist bodily injury per person
- $300,000 uninsured motorist bodily injury per accident
- $500 collision deductible
- $500 comprehensive deductible
To determine minimum coverage limits, Bankrate used minimum coverage that meets each state’s requirements. Our base profile drivers own a 2022 Toyota Camry, commute five days a week and drive 12,000 miles annually.
These are sample rates and should only be used for comparative purposes.
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 2024 Bankrate Score considers variables our insurance editorial team determined impacts policyholders’ experiences with an insurance company. These rating factors include a robust assessment of each company’s product availability, financial strength ratings, online capabilities and customer and claims support accessibility. Each factor was added to a category, and these categories were weighted in a tiered approach to analyze how companies perform in key customer-impacting categories.
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.
-
Cost & ratings 50%
-
Coverage & savings 30%
-
Support 20%
- Tier 1 (Cost & ratings): To determine how well auto and home insurance companies satisfy these priorities, average 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 NAIC, were analyzed.
- 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 each company’s discount options listed on its 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 a company’s corporate sustainability efforts.
