Best Car Insurance for Seniors for 2024 (2024)

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While every driver needs car insurance, as you get older, your coverage needs can change. Retirees may find themselves driving less, moving to a new state, or buying a vehicle that meets a more scaled-down lifestyle. There are a lot of insurance carriers on the market, so finding the best car insurance for seniors can take some work.

We reviewed the top auto insurers to find out which ones provide senior drivers with comprehensive coverage, a variety of endorsem*nts, and generous discounts for a cheaper premium. We also considered customer service, ratings from third-party firms, and options for managing your policy online or on your smartphone.

Best Car Insurance for Seniors for 2024

Best Car Insurance for Seniors

Best Car Insurance for Seniors

  • Our Top Picks
  • State Farm
  • USAA
  • The AARP Auto Insurance Program from The Hartford
  • GEICO
  • Nationwide
  • See More (2)
  • Final Verdict

  • Compare Providers

  • FAQs

  • Methodology

Best Overall and Best for a Budget : State Farm

Best Car Insurance for Seniors for 2024 (1)

  • Discounts: Clean driving record, bundling policies, and more
  • Add-ons: Roadside assistance, rental car reimbursem*nt, and more
  • Availability: Nationwide, except Massachusetts and Rhode Island

Why We Chose It

State Farm, the largest car insurer in the U.S., is our top pick overall and best budget insurer for seniors because of its low average premiums, multiple discounts, accessibility, and great third-party ratings.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Many discounts available

  • Low average premium for seniors

  • Highly ranked for claims and overall customer satisfaction

Overview

Based on our research, State Farm offers some of the cheapest premiums for older drivers with an average rate for 67-year-olds of $880 per year for full coverage insurance, which comes out to about $73 per month.

State Farm also offers many discounts for seniors who want to get an even better deal on their car insurance. You can get discounts by:

  • Maintaining a clean driving record
  • Taking a defensive driving course
  • Bundling your policies
  • Enrolling in the Drive Safe & Save program
  • Having a car with advanced safety features
  • Having an anti-theft device in your vehicle

Although State Farm's selection of discounts is impressive, some are only available in certain states. Senior drivers in California can take a mature driver improvement course to access a discount, but this is not offered in most other states.

On the downside, State Farm's add-on coverages fall short of its competitors' offerings. The add-ons the insurer does offer include:

Another mark against State Farm is that coverage is not available everywhere. Seniors can purchase State Farm auto insurance in every state and Washington, D.C., exceptMassachusetts and Rhode Island.

Best for Veterans : USAA

Best Car Insurance for Seniors for 2024 (2)

  • Discounts: Multiple vehicles, clean driving record, and more
  • Add-ons: Roadside assistance and rental car reimbursem*nt
  • Availability: Military members and families

Why We Chose It

We chose USAA as the best for veterans because its average premiums are the cheapest we found based on our research, and it offers superior customer service.

USAA also made our list for the best motorcycle insurance.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Very affordable premiums for seniors

  • Excellent discounts available

Cons

  • Must meet military eligibility requirements

  • Few add-ons available

Overview

USAA offers deals and discounts to active duty or retired military members and their immediate families.

The caveat is that you must meet the insurer's military service requirements. But if you're a senior who previously served in the military or you're an immediate family member of a current or former service member, you may qualify for great rates and some solid discounts.

Our research showed the average annual full coverage car insurance premiums for 67-year-old drivers is $772, the cheapest car insurance for seniors on our list.

Seniors may also qualify for discounts, including those for:

  • Insuring multiple vehicles
  • Maintaining a clean driving record
  • Driving under a certain annual mileage
  • Taking a defensive driving course
  • Participating in the SafePilot driver program
  • Having a newer vehicle

Where USAA falls short is the availability of add-ons. In fact, the only add-on policies we could find were for roadside assistance and rental car reimbursem*nts, pretty meager add-on offerings.

Still, if you qualify, you won't find a better rate and some of the discounts are particularly attractive to senior drivers.

Best Membership Option : The AARP Auto Insurance Program from The Hartford

Best Car Insurance for Seniors for 2024 (3)

  • Discounts: Anti-lock brakes, airbags, hybrid or electric vehicles, and more
  • Add-ons: Accident forgiveness, roadside assistance, and more
  • Availability: AARP members nationwide

Why We Chose It

We chose The Hartford as the best membership option because of its AARP Insurance Program. It is designed specifically for older drivers and offers several ways to keep rates lower through discounts or policy features.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Unique benefits like RecoverCare

  • Designed specifically for drivers over 50

Cons

  • Requires an AARP membership, which is a separate cost

Overview

Since AARP caters to the needs of seniors, drivers 50 and older can find good deals on their premiums and perks they might not have access to from other insurers.

The Hartford only sells car insurance to active AARP members, so if you aren’t a member you have to join the organization and pay the annual membership fee before you can apply for a car insurance policy. It costs $12 for the first year and $16 thereafter.

The Hartford stands out for its add-on coverages, something the other two providers on this list lack. If customization is important to you, this is a great provider. Some of its endorsem*nt policies include:

  • Accident forgiveness
  • New car replacement
  • Full glass coverage
  • RecoverCare coverage
  • Lifetime car repair assurance
  • Gap insurance
  • Disappearing deductible
  • 24/7 emergency roadside assistance

Despite these perks, The Hartford offers fewer discounts than some of the providers we reviewed. But you can save up to 10% for just being an AARP member. The Hartford provides discounts for:

  • Having antilock brakes and airbags
  • Having a hybrid or electric vehicle
  • Taking a defensive driving course
  • Bundling a home and auto policy
  • Paying your annual premium in full

On the plus side, the company has excellent claim satisfaction ratings and fewer customer complaints than average, according to the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC). The Hartford is available in all 50 states and Washington, D.C.

Best Discounts for Seniors : GEICO

Best Car Insurance for Seniors for 2024 (4)

  • Discounts: Retired government and military, multi-car, and more
  • Add-ons: Roadside assistance, mechanical breakdown assistance, and more
  • Availability: Nationwide; Prime Time available in 30 states

Why We Chose It

GEICO gets the nod as the best for senior discounts because it offers savings for retired government employees and military members in addition to guaranteeing policy renewals for drivers 50 or older who qualify.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Guaranteed renewal plan for drivers over age 50

  • Long list of discounts

  • Ranked #1 for its digital experience by J.D. Power

  • Above-average overall customer satisfaction scores, per J.D. Power studies

Cons

  • PrimeTime guaranteed renewal not available in all states

  • No mileage-based pay-as-you-go program

  • Customer service mostly online and by phone; few in-person options

Overview

GEICO offers solid coverage and policies tailored to the needs of drivers in this stage of life. Its coverage is available in all states, and GEICO offers all the usual car insurance discounts, including savings for good driving (up to 25%) and membership in more than 500 groups, such as alumni associations and professional, military, and recreational organizations. Also, it offers a discount in many states if you take a defensive driving course, as do several other insurers.

If you’re 50 or older, GEICO’s Prime Time provides guaranteed renewal to qualified applicants, as long as you don’t allow people under age 25 to drive your car, have any violations or accidents in the past three years, and don’t use your car for business. However, it’s available in only 30 states.

Although GEICO does not have a pay-as-you-go mileage-based insurance plan, it does offer lower premiums for reduced mileage. This option could be useful if you’re no longer commuting, although it’s not unusual among insurers. GEICO also offers extra coverages like roadside assistance, mechanical breakdown coverage, and Mexico car insurance.

GEICO provides discounts for:

  • Defensive driving
  • Five-years of good driving
  • Retired government and military
  • Multiple vehicles
  • Membership and employee

Overall, GEICO checks most of the boxes for coverage options and discount opportunities, which is why it’s our top pick for the best car insurance for older drivers. GEICO ranks as #1 for its digital experience by J.D. Power.

Best for Low Mileage : Nationwide

Best Car Insurance for Seniors for 2024 (5)

  • Discounts: Defensive driving, SmartRide, and more
  • Add-ons: Accident forgiveness, Roadside assistance, and more
  • Availability: SmartMiles available in 32 states

Why We Chose It

Nationwide makes our list for best low-mileage car insurance because it allows customers to pay a rate based on their specific mileage driven.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Mileage-based premium program

  • Usage-based discount program

  • Above-average claims satisfaction rankings

Cons

  • SmartMiles and defensive driving discount not be available in all states.

  • Poor customer satisfaction rankings

Overview

Maybe you’ve retired and no longer need to commute, you run most of your errands by e-bike, or you’re staying closer to home for other reasons. Nationwide is a great choice for older adults whose odometers don’t rack up as many miles as they used to. The SmartMiles program tracks your mileage using a telematics device installed on your car and adjusts your car insurance rates accordingly. Only a few insurers offer this kind of pay-per-mile program, and Nationwide’s is available in 32 states.

Nationwide also has many discounts. In some states, drivers 55 and up may be eligible for a defensive driving discount if they’ve had no at-fault accidents in the past three years and complete an approved driving course. Other cost savings with Nationwide include SmartRide, a usage-based telematics program that offers up to 40% savings based on your driving habits, including the number of miles you drive.

Nationwide also offers multiple add-on coverages, including:

  • Accident forgiveness
  • Roadside assistance
  • Vanishing deductible
  • Total-loss deductible waiver

J.D. Power reports that Nationwide’s claims satisfaction scores are below average. Its overall customer satisfaction also ranges from way below to just below average in different U.S. regions.

Final Verdict

State Farm earns our top overall pick as the best car insurance for seniors due to its rates, reputation, and discounts. A typical 67-year-old can get coverage for about $73 per month, and as the largest insurer in the U.S., customers can feel confident in State Farms' reliability. Several discounts also can help keep rates low. Military members or AARP members can't go wrong with our other selections: USAA and The Hartford.

Compare the Best Car Insurance for Seniors

CompanyDiscountsAdd-onsAvailability
State Farm
Best Overall and Best for a Budget
Clean driving record, bundling policies, and moreRoadside assistance, rental car reimbursem*nt, and moreNationwide, except Massachusetts and Rhode island
USAA
Best for Veterans
Multiple vehicles, clean driving record, and moreRoadside assistance and rental car reimbursem*ntMilitary members and families
The AARP Auto Insurance Program from the Hartford
Best Membership Option
Anti-lock brakes, airbags, hybrid or electric vehicles, and moreAccident forgiveness, roadside assistance, and moreAARP members nationwide
GEICO
Best Discounts for Seniors
Retired government and military, multi-car, and moreRoadside assistance, mechanical breakdown assistance, and moreNationwide; Prime Time available in 30 states
Nationwide
Best for Low Mileage
Defensive driving, SmartRide, and moreAccident forgiveness, Roadside assistance, and moreSmartMiles available in 32 states

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Who Is Considered a Senior?

    When it comes to car insurance, there’s no solid definition of “senior” or “older adult.” Some companies, like The Hartford, only offer car insurance to AARP members aged 50 or older, while others offer special discounts to drivers over a certain age. But most car insurance companies simply include age as one factor in their overall calculation of your premium. That means that car insurance is one area where you likely won’t get to enjoy a senior discount just for passing a milestone birthday.

  • How Is Auto Insurance Different for Seniors?

    Auto insurance coverage works the same for older adults as it does for people of other ages. The only difference may be the cost. Older adults may qualify for discounts based on age or by taking extra measures such as completing a safe driving course or driving less. Other discounts through your insurance coverage—such as accident-free premium reductions—will work the same as they did before you qualified for seniors’ auto insurance discounts.

  • What Is the Least Expensive Car Insurance for Seniors?

    Personal factors such as driving history and location make it so there is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, so it's important to consider how your circ*mstances affect your rates. Our choice for best overall, State Farm, had low rates in our research, but still not as low as what military members might find with USAA. If you rarely drive, Nationwide's mileage-based SmartMiles program might be the best way to keep rates low.

  • Does Car Insurance Get Higher as You Get Older?

    Drivers in their 70s may notice rising premiums because of a higher likelihood of accidents. For example, our research revealed increases of $300 to $500 on average from ages 60 to 75, and Progressive notes that rates start to increase for drivers aged 75 and up. If you’re in or approaching your 70s, it may be even more worthwhile to compare quotes from your current company as well as a few others.

Methodology

In evaluating the best car insurance for older drivers, we looked at each insurance company’s performance across categories, including stability and reliability, customer satisfaction, claims service, complaints, and product offerings. We researched each insurance company’s financial strength using AM Best’s ratings.

We also considered each insurer’s reputation using various websites and independent studies, including the 2022 J.D. Power Auto Claims Satisfaction Study, Auto Insurance Study, Insurance Shopping Study, and Digital Experience Study. These rankings offer insights into each insurer's reputation for customer service and claims.

Next, we checked each insurer’s website for the discounts and benefits that best suit older adults’ lifestyles. We found the companies that offered the best opportunity to earn perks or rewards while providing fair pricing and discount opportunities. Finally, we weighed each insurer’s biggest strengths to decide who might be happiest with each of our top picks. As always, we recommend comparing quotes from several insurers to find the best value and coverage for your situation and location.

Best Car Insurance for Seniors for 2024 (6)

Best Car Insurance for Seniors for 2024 (2024)

FAQs

What is the best full coverage car insurance for seniors? ›

Nationwide, USAA, Travelers, Erie, Auto-Owners, Geico and Progressive are the best car insurance companies for seniors, according to our analysis.

Which insurance company is best for senior citizens? ›

Guardian Life Insurance is our top pick for older seniors because it is one of a handful of insurers we've reviewed that issues policies up to age 90. It offers no-exam policies up to $3 million in coverage, though seniors might face significant rates for higher coverage amounts.

What insurance company has the most complaints? ›

United Automobile Insurance

Is AARP auto insurance cheaper than Progressive? ›

Quotes from AARP through The Hartford are cheaper than rates offered by Allstate and State Farm, which are some of the most popular auto insurance companies in the United States. Across three driver profiles, AARP was typically more expensive than Progressive, though cheaper than average, overall.

What type of coverage should a person with an older car have? ›

The only insurance you usually need is liability coverage and, in some states, personal injury protection. Full coverage is often recommended, but it becomes much less valuable financially with an older car.

Who has the most affordable car insurance? ›

USAA, Nationwide, Travelers, Erie, Geico and Progressive are the cheapest car insurance companies nationwide, according to our analysis.

What is the best insurance plan for over 60? ›

Best Health Insurance Plans for Senior Citizens
Health Insurance Plans for Senior CitizensAge Criteria
New India Assurance Senior Citizen Mediclaim PolicyMin: 60 years Max: 80 years
Niva Bupa (Formerly known as Max Bupa) Senior First PlanMin: 61 years Max: 75years
Oriental HOPE Insurance PlanMin: 60 years Max: No limit
21 more rows

Is insurance cheaper with AARP? ›

Up to 20% Savings for Members

You can customize your coverage with benefits and services designed especially for AARP members, including “New for Old” Protection and Disappearing Property Deductible. Plus, you could save up to 20% when you bundle your home and auto policies.

Which insurance is provided to most Americans at age 65? ›

Medicare is the federal health insurance program for people who are 65 and over. If you are under 65, you may be eligible to get Medicare earlier if you have a disability, End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD), or ALS (Lou Gehrig's Disease).

Which insurance company denies the most claims? ›

Claim denial rates by insurance company
CompanyClaim denials
UnitedHealthcare32%
Anthem23%
Aetna20%
CareSource20%
1 more row
Apr 24, 2024

Who is the most trusted insurance company? ›

The best car insurance companies in 2024
  • State Farm. Best for local agencies. 4.3. Rating: 4.3 stars out of 5. ...
  • Travelers. Best for personalized coverage. 4.2. Rating: 4.2 stars out of 5. ...
  • USAA. Best for military-focused coverage. 4.2. ...
  • NJM. Best for coverage on a budget. 4.0. ...
  • Liberty Mutual. Best for bundling numerous discounts. 3.8.

Which insurance is best for a car? ›

Car Insurance CompanyMotor OD Claim Settlement Ratio FY23Network Garages
Royal Sundaram Car Insurance98.60%3,300+
Reliance Car Insurance98.00%8,200+
SBI Car Insurance100.00%16,000+
Future Generali Car Insurance96.30%3,500+
20 more rows

What is the best auto insurance for senior citizens? ›

Best Car Insurance Rates for Seniors
Cheapest Car Insurance for SeniorsAverage Monthly CostAverage Annual Cost
USAA$97$1,158
Geico$112$1,342
Nationwide$114$1,371
State Farm$120$1,437
1 more row
Apr 11, 2024

What is the #1 auto insurance in the US? ›

State Farm is the biggest auto insurance company in the country by market share, while Progressive, Geico and Allstate are the next three.

Who is cheaper, Geico or Progressive? ›

Both Geico and Progressive offer cheap car insurance to drivers across the country. Geico's rates are typically lower overall, but Progressive tends to offer better prices to high-risk drivers. High-risk drivers are those with a recent DUI, at-fault accident or speeding ticket on their driving record.

Is it worth having full coverage on an old car? ›

It's usually worth dropping full coverage on an older car if its value is less than a few thousand dollars, as long as there's no loan on it. The more your car depreciates, the less you'll get from the insurance company after an accident or theft.

Which insurance is best for 60 year old? ›

Best Health Insurance Plans for Senior Citizens
Health Insurance Plans for Senior CitizensAge Criteria
New India Assurance Senior Citizen Mediclaim PolicyMin: 60 years Max: 80 years
Niva Bupa (Formerly known as Max Bupa) Senior First PlanMin: 61 years Max: 75years
Oriental HOPE Insurance PlanMin: 60 years Max: No limit
21 more rows

At what age is car insurance cheapest? ›

Car insurance is the cheapest for drivers between the ages of 35 and 55. Car insurance is very expensive for teens because they have a high risk of accidents, and then it decreases sharply as drivers age into their 20s and develop more reliable driving habits.

Do cars get cheaper to insure as they get older? ›

In general, auto insurance for older cars may be cheaper than insuring newer vehicles of the same make and model if the used car is cheaper to repair or replace.

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