Best and Cheapest Car Insurance in Washington, D.C. for 2024 (10 Most Affordable Companies)

The best and cheapest car insurance in Washington, D.C. comes from USAA, GEICO, and Travelers, all of which provide excellent rates and coverage options tailored to various driver profiles.

USAA stands out as the best military car insurance for military families and offers rates starting at just $20 per month. Factors like age, marital status, and driving history significantly influence premiums, making it essential to compare quotes.

Company	Rank	Monthly Rates	A.M. Best	Best For	Jump to Pros/Cons
	#1	$20	A++	Military Savings	USAA
	#2	$29	A++	Affordable Rates	Geico
	#3	$43	A++	Local Agents	Travelers
	#4	$47	B	Competitive Rates	State Farm
	#5	$48	A+	Discount Availability	Progressive
	#6	$48	A	Multi-Policy Savings	American Family
	#7	$58	A	Bundling Policies	Farmers
	#8	$72	A+	Accident Forgiveness	Nationwide
	#9	$76	A	Personalized Policies	Liberty Mutual
	#10	$101	A+	Loyalty Rewards	Allstate

This guide will help you navigate the options to secure the best deal for your needs. Explore your car insurance options by entering your ZIP code above and finding which companies have the lowest rates.

What You Should Know

• USAA offers the best and cheapest car insurance in Washington, D.C. at $20/month
• Teen drivers find affordable coverage options with USAA leading the market
• Geico and Travelers provide competitive rates for diverse driver profiles

On this page:

• #1 – USAA: Top Overall Pick
• #2 – Geico: Best for Affordable Rates
• #3 – Travelers: Best for Local Agents
• #4 – State Farm: Best for Competitive Rates
• #5 – Progressive: Best for Discount Availability
• #6 – American Family: Best for Multi-Policy Savings
• #7 – Farmers: Best for Bundling Policies
• #8 – Nationwide: Best for Accident Forgiveness
• #9 – Liberty Mutual: Best for Personalized Policies
• #10 – Allstate: Best for Loyalty Rewards
• Mandatory Car Insurance Coverage and Limitations in the District of Columbia
• Best Deals on Car Insurance for Washington D.C.'s Teen Drivers
• Affordable Auto Insurance Solutions for District of Columbia's Married Couples
• Top Car Insurance Deals for Seniors in Washington D.C.
• Key Factors Influencing Your Annual Premium Costs
• Effective Tips to Lower Your Coverage Expenses in Washington D.C.
• Understanding Car Insurance Coverage: Key Insights

#1 – USAA: Top Overall Pick

Pros

• Best and Cheapest Car Insurance in Washington, D.C.: USAA offers the most affordable car insurance in Washington, D.C., with minimum coverage starting at just $20.
• Exceptional Customer Service: According to our USAA customer ratings, USAA is known for its top-notch customer service and satisfaction ratings among military families seeking car insurance in Washington, D.C.
• Comprehensive Coverage Options: USAA provides a wide range of coverage options tailored to meet the needs of military personnel, making it a strong contender for best car insurance in the District of Columbia.

Cons

• Eligibility Restrictions: Only military members and their families can qualify for USAA insurance, limiting access to the best and cheapest car insurance in Washington, D.C.
• Limited Availability: USAA services are not available to the general public, which can restrict options for those looking for car insurance in Washington, D.C.

#2 – Geico: Best for Affordable Rates

Pros

• Favorable Savings: Geico offers competitive rates for car insurance in Washington, D.C., with minimum coverage available for $29, making it a top pick for highest savings in the District of Columbia.
• Strong Financial Stability: A.M. Best rating of A++ indicates Geico’s strong financial standing and reliability, essential for those seeking car insurance in Washington, D.C. You may explore our comparison article on "GEICO vs. Progressive: Which car insurance company do customers say is better?"
• User-Friendly Online Tools: Geico provides an easy-to-navigate website for quotes and policy management, enhancing the experience for those looking for affordable car insurance in the District of Columbia.

Cons

• Limited Local Agents: Geico primarily operates online, which may limit personal service options for some customers seeking car insurance in Washington, D.C.
• Additional Fees: Certain services, such as roadside assistance, may incur extra charges, potentially affecting overall savings for car insurance in the District of Columbia.

#3 – Travelers: Best for Local Agents

Pros

• High Savings: Travelers offers competitive rates for car insurance in Washington, D.C., starting at $43 for minimum coverage, making it a great option for those seeking affordable insurance.
• Dedicated Local Agents: Access to local agents ensures personalized service and tailored insurance solutions, a benefit for customers looking for car insurance in Washington, D.C.
• Comprehensive Coverage Options: Our Travelers Companies, Inc. customer reviews indicates Travelers provides various coverage options to fit different needs, making it a flexible choice for car insurance in the District of Columbia.

Cons

• Higher Premiums for Full Coverage: Full coverage options can be more expensive compared to competitors, affecting those looking for the best and cheapest car insurance in Washington, D.C.
• Mixed Customer Service Reviews: Some customers report average experiences with customer support when seeking car insurance in Washington, D.C.

#4 – State Farm: Best for Competitive Rates

Pros

• Competitive Pricing: State Farm offers minimum coverage for $47, making it a strong contender for best for price for car insurance in Washington, D.C.
• Robust Network of Agents: With a large network of agents, State Farm provides personalized service and support, which is beneficial for customers seeking car insurance in Washington, D.C.
• Bundling Discounts: Our analysis of State Farm insurance customer reviews reveals that State Farm offers significant savings for bundling multiple policies, making it an attractive option for those wanting the best car insurance in the District of Columbia.

Cons

• Limited Multi-Policy Discount: The discounts for multiple policies * may not be as high as some competitors, potentially affecting overall savings for car insurance in Washington, D.C.
• Potentially Higher Premiums: Premiums can be higher for certain coverage levels, which may not align with those seeking the best and cheapest car insurance in Washington, D.C.

#5 – Progressive: Best for Discount Availability

Pros

• Good Savings: Progressive’s minimum coverage starts at $48, making it an excellent option for car insurance in the District of Columbia.
• Multiple Discounts Offered: The findings from our Progressive insurance customer reviews demonstrate Progressive provides a variety of discounts, including for safe driving and bundling policies, appealing to those looking for affordable car insurance in Washington, D.C.
• User-Friendly Online Tools: The online platform is easy to navigate for obtaining quotes and managing policies, enhancing the experience for customers seeking car insurance in Washington, D.C.

Cons

• Variable Rates: Rates can vary significantly based on individual factors, which may lead to unexpected costs for those searching for the best car insurance in the District of Columbia.
• Average Customer Service: Some reviews indicate that customer service could improve, which can affect customer satisfaction for car insurance in Washington, D.C.

#6 – American Family: Best for Multi-Policy Savings

Pros

• Affordable Rates: American Family provides competitive minimum coverage starting at $48, making it a solid choice for car insurance in Washington, D.C.
• Strong Multi-Policy Discounts: Significant savings are available for customers who bundle their auto and home insurance policies, enhancing options for those looking for the best car insurance in the District of Columbia.
• Comprehensive Coverage Options: Our examination of American Family Insurance customer ratings shows American Family offers a wide range of coverage options to meet different customer needs, appealing to those seeking car insurance in Washington, D.C.

Cons

• Limited Availability: Coverage may not be available in all areas, limiting accessibility for some customers seeking the best and cheapest car insurance in Washington, D.C.
• Average Premiums for Full Coverage: Full coverage rates may not be as competitive compared to other providers, which can affect overall savings for car insurance in Washington, D.C.

#7 – Farmers: Best for Bundling Policies

Pros

• Competitive Pricing: Farmers offers minimum coverage at $58, positioning it as a good option for car insurance in Washington, D.C.
• Bundling Benefits: The results of our Farmers insurance customer reviews suggests Farmers provides attractive discounts for bundling auto insurance with other policies, appealing to those looking for the best car insurance in the District of Columbia.
• Customizable Coverage Options: A variety of coverage options allows for personalized insurance solutions, catering to customers seeking affordable car insurance in Washington, D.C.

Cons

• Higher Premiums Compared to Competitors: Premiums can be on the higher side for certain coverage options, affecting those seeking the best and cheapest car insurance in Washington, D.C.
• Mixed Customer Service Experiences: Customer service reviews are varied, with some customers reporting dissatisfaction when looking for car insurance in Washington, D.C.

#8 – Nationwide: Best for Accident Forgiveness

Pros

• Accident Forgiveness: Our assessment of Nationwide customer reviews illustrates Nationwide's unique accident forgiveness options, enhancing its appeal for safe drivers seeking car insurance in Washington, D.C.
• Affordable Rates: Minimum coverage rates start at $72, making it a competitive option for car insurance in the District of Columbia.
• Comprehensive Coverage Options: Provides a variety of coverage choices tailored to customer needs, making it a viable option for those searching for the best car insurance in Washington, D.C.

Cons

• Higher Premiums for Full Coverage: Full coverage can be more expensive compared to other companies, potentially impacting those looking for the best and cheapest car insurance in Washington, D.C.
• Limited Local Agents: Availability of local agents may be less than some competitors, affecting personalized service for customers seeking car insurance in Washington, D.C.

#9 – Liberty Mutual: Best for Personalized Policies

Pros

• Customizable Insurance: Liberty Mutual offers personalized policy options to suit individual needs for car insurance in Washington, D.C.
• Affordable Minimum Coverage: Minimum coverage starts at $76, making it a viable choice for car insurance in the District of Columbia.
• Various Discounts Available: Our Liberty Mutual insurance customer reviews highlights Liberty Mutual offers multiple discount options, including for safe driving and bundling, appealing to those looking for affordable car insurance in Washington, D.C.

Cons

• Higher Premiums for Comprehensive Coverage: Full coverage rates can be higher than some competitors, which may not suit those seeking the best and cheapest car insurance in Washington, D.C.
• Variable Customer Service Quality: Customer service experiences can vary significantly among clients seeking car insurance in Washington, D.C.

#10 – Allstate: Best for Loyalty Rewards

Pros

• Loyalty Rewards Program: Allstate offers rewards for long-term customers, enhancing value for loyal policyholders seeking car insurance in Washington, D.C.
• Comprehensive Coverage Options: Based on our Allstate customer reviews, Allstate offers a wide range of coverage options tailored to different needs, making it suitable for those looking for the best car insurance in the District of Columbia.
• Minimum Coverage Rates: Minimum coverage starts at $101, positioning it as a solid choice for comprehensive insurance in Washington, D.C.

Cons

• Higher Rates: Compared to other companies, Allstate's minimum coverage is on the higher side, which can affect those seeking the best and cheapest car insurance in Washington, D.C.
• Mixed Reviews on Customer Support: Customer service feedback is varied, with some customers expressing dissatisfaction when searching for car insurance in Washington, D.C.

Mandatory Car Insurance Coverage and Limitations in the District of Columbia

You may have heard that there are liability limits set in place with auto coverage, but it's actually true of more than just the one type of insurance. The most commonly thrown around types are collision coverage and comprehensive, but they aren't always required.

There are two auto insurance coverages required for all Washington, D.C. drivers: liability and uninsured motorist coverage. We’ve listed the minimum coverage limits associated with both of them below, but keep in mind that only purchasing the minimums could leave you underinsured.

Insurance Company	Minimum Coverage	Full Coverage
	$101	$241
	$48	$115
	$58	$139
	$29	$69
	$76	$180
	$72	$172
	$48	$115
	$47	$111
	$43	$102
	$20	$48

For example, the minimum property damage liability is only $10,000, but many cars on the road are worth more than that. If you cause an accident that totals another driver’s vehicle, having higher limits would ensure you have sufficient coverage.

Car insurance in Washington, D.C. is unique in the fact that personal injury protection, also known as PIP or no-fault coverage, is optional. PIP covers your injury costs, up to the policy’s limits, after an accident, regardless of who is at fault. If you opt to have this coverage, you have 60 days after an accident to decide whether to use your PIP to cover the costs, or file a claim or lawsuit against the at-fault driver. If you decide to use your PIP, you cannot file a claim or lawsuit against the other driver.

Other optional coverages include collision, comprehensive, underinsured motorist, roadside assistance and rental reimbursement.

Here are Washington, D.C.'s minimum car insurance requirements:

• Bodily Injury — $25,000 per person
• Bodily Injury — $50,000 per accident
• Property Damage — $10,000 per accident

Bodily injury liability provides coverage for injuries sustained by the other vehicle’s driver and passengers if you are held responsible for an accident. This coverage also kicks in to defend you in the event of any legal claims. Property damage liability provides coverage in the event you damage someone else’s property in a car accident, most commonly the other vehicle, but also things like a home or fence.

Uninsured motorist provides coverage if you are injured or your vehicle is damaged in an accident caused by a driver without insurance or a hit-and-run driver. The uninsured motorist coverage for property damage has a $200 deductible, meaning you’re responsible for the first $200 in damage. In Washington, D.C., 15.6 percent of drivers are without auto insurance, according to 2015 data from the Insurance Information Institute.

Best Deals on Car Insurance for Washington D.C.'s Teen Drivers

The average cost of car insurance premiums varies based on several factors, including age, location, and gender. For teen drivers in Washington, D.C., these variables can significantly influence rates. For teen drivers, explore the cost benefits to taking a defensive driving course to lower rates.

Notably, USAA, a company exclusively for military members and their families, stands out as the cheapest option for both male and female teen drivers on average. Following USAA, State Farm and Geico provide the next most affordable options. Below is a comparison of car insurance rates for 18-year-old female and male drivers across the five largest insurance companies in Washington, D.C.:

Insurance Company	Age: 18 Female	Age: 18 Male
	$210	$282
	$183	$200
	$196	$217
	$167	$150
	$229	$242
	$165	$175
	$511	$576
	$148	$172
	$171	$192
	$129	$146

These rates are based on profiles for 18-year-old male and female drivers in Washington, D.C. The car used was a 2015 Honda Civic EX. We used the minimum car insurance state limits. The rates displayed should only be used for comparative purposes as individual rates in Washington, D.C. will differ. Rate data is provided by Quadrant Information Services.

Affordable Auto Insurance Solutions for District of Columbia's Married Couples

When determining your annual car insurance rate, factors beyond your personal 'about me' information come into play. Elements such as your driving record, marital status, and location significantly influence your premium. In Washington, D.C., Geico stands out, offering the cheapest and best car insurance for married couples compared to other major auto insurers in the area.

Insurance Company	Rates
	$272
	$167
	$189
	$90
	$192
	$179
	$190
	$202
	$190
	$108

*These rates are based on a 35-year-old married couple with two drivers and two vehicles on a policy. The cars used were two 2015 Toyota Highlander LEs. Full coverage was used with 100/300/50 limits and a $500 collision and comprehensive deductible.

The drivers had one driving incident within the past 3 years and they both have a good credit score. The rates displayed should only be used for comparative purposes as individual rates in Washington, D.C. will differ. Rate data is provided by Quadrant Information Services.*

Top Car Insurance Deals for Seniors in Washington D.C.

No matter your age, focusing on obtaining the most affordable car insurance rate is essential. The goal is not just to find the best and cheapest car insurance company option but to identify the company that tailors your policy specifically for your needs.

According to recent data, USAA offers the most affordable car insurance rates for both male and female senior drivers, with an average rate of $52. Following closely is Geico, known for competitive pricing among the five largest auto insurers in the state.

Insurance Company	Age: 65 Female	Age: 65 Male
	$158	$172
	$166	$168
	$146	$146
	$71	$71
	$287	$307
	$147	$147
	$108	$112
	$100	$100
	$113	$113
	$52	$52

These rates are based on profiles for 65-year-old male and female drivers. The car used for each was a 2015 Toyota Camry LE. Full coverage was used with 100/300/50 limits and a $500 collision and comprehensive deductible. The drivers had zero incidents within the past three years and a good credit score. The rates displayed should only be used for comparative purposes as individual rates in Washington, D.C. will differ. Rate data is provided by Quadrant Information Services.

Key Factors Influencing Your Annual Premium Costs

When searching and comparing quotes from the best auto insurance companies in Washington, D.C., it can be frustrating trying to understand how your insurance rates are calculated. While there is no exact formula that each car insurance company uses when providing you a quote, there are many factors that do contribute to the price you pay for your insurance. Among the factors that car insurers consider are:

• Age, Gender, & Marital Status
• Driving Record & Annual Mileage
• Your Car’s Make, Model, and Year
• Location & Credit Score
• Amount of Car Insurance Coverage

As can be seen above, there are some things you can control when it comes to auto insurance costs, and others that may be out of your hand. One of the biggest misunderstandings when it comes to insurance rates is that the history of drivers in your area also contributes to how much you pay.

Learn more information on our "How does my credit score affect my insurance premium?"

For instance, even if you go two years without an accident, if there were a lot of accidents near you recently, your rates might still go up. Why is that the case?

Insurance companies disperse risk across all policyholders so that when it comes time to pay a claim, they have enough money to pay out. But imagine a scenario where they only raised rates for drivers with an accident. For drivers who had an expensive claim, the drivers simply wouldn't be able to afford the raised rates that are based off how much their insurer had to pay after an accident.

So instead, insurance companies slightly increase rates across the board to offset the costs, though of course the at-fault driver may see a larger increase.

Effective Tips to Lower Your Coverage Expenses in Washington D.C.

At the end of the day, we’d all like to have the best coverage at a cheap, affordable price from one of the best Washington, D.C. car insurance companies. While you never want to sacrifice quality to save a couple of dollars, there are some different ways you can lower your car insurance premium.

Insurance Company	Available Discount
	Accident Forgiveness Discount, Early Signing Discount, Multi-Car Discount, Defensive Driver Discount
	Accident-Free Discount, Loyalty Discount, Good Driver Discount, Low Mileage Discount
	Signal Program Discount, Multi-Policy Discount, Accident Forgiveness Discount, Good Payer Discount
	Defensive Driving Discount, Accident Forgiveness Discount, Good Driver Discount, Federal Employee Discount
	RightTrack Discount, Pay-in-Full Discount, Accident-Free Discount, Online Purchase Discount
	SmartRide Program Discount, Accident Forgiveness Discount, Paperless Billing Discount, Multi-Car Discount
	Continuous Insurance Discount, Accident Forgiveness Discount, Paperless Discount, Multi-Policy Discount
	Accident-Free Discount, Good Student Discount, Drive Safe & Save Discount, Multi-Vehicle Discount
	Safe Driver Discount, Multi-Policy Discount, Accident Forgiveness Discount, Pay-in-Full Discount
	Accident Forgiveness Discount, Defensive Driving Discount, Military Discount, Loyalty Discount

Here are six effective strategies to help you lower your car insurance rates. First, think about bundling your car insurance with other policies, like homeowners or renters insurance, which can qualify you for multi-policy discounts. Another option is to increase your deductibles; this could lower your premium, although it means you'll pay more out-of-pocket if you file a claim.

Paying your car insurance premium in full upfront, instead of in installments, can also lead to potential discounts from various insurers. You may also want to consider usage-based car insurance programs that reward safe driving with lower rates. It's important to keep an eye on price changes to your policy, as insurance companies often adjust rates based on different factors. Finally, make it a habit to shop around for better insurance rates periodically to ensure you're getting the best value.

Getting sample rates from varying insurance carriers can be a huge help, but you should also pay close attention to what they require. If an insurer has specific facets of driver profiles that they use to determine how much coverage per person you'll need, you'll want to know that you fit their mold otherwise you could end up overpaying for your auto policy.

Understanding Car Insurance Coverage: Key Insights

Finding the right car insurance in Washington, D.C., doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By comparing quotes from various insurers, you can uncover the best and most affordable options tailored to your specific needs, whether you're a young driver, a married couple, or a senior.

Keep in mind the critical factors influencing your premiums, such as your driving history, location, and marital status. Additionally, be proactive in exploring discounts, such as bundling policies or opting for usage-based insurance programs and check for the best usage-based car insurance companies.

Ultimately, the key to saving money lies in staying informed and vigilant about your insurance options. By leveraging the insights and resources available to you, you can secure the coverage that offers both value and peace of mind as you navigate the roads of D.C.

We want to make sure you’re equipped with a proper knowledge of car insurance, so check out our car insurance guide. Looking for more educational information about car insurance? Check out our car insurance blog for more information and topics related to car insurance.