Updated
Ohio Car Insurance: Key Takeaways
At $43 per month, State Farm has the cheapest average rates in Ohio.
The cost of full-coverage insurance in Ohio is nearly double the average cost of liability-only coverage.
On average, Ohio drivers pay $70 per month for liability coverage, and $124 per month for full-coverage insurance.
Ohio drivers are prone to animal collisions, with nearly 19,000 deer-related accidents occurring each year.
Cheapest Car Insurance Rates in Ohio
Compared to the national average, car insurance is generally cheaper in Ohio due to the state’s lower cost of living and lower traffic congestion.[1]
On average, Ohio drivers pay $70 per month for liability coverage, while the national average is $101. For full-coverage policies, Ohio drivers pay an average of $124 per month, significantly lower than the national average of $185.
The cheapest insurers in Ohio include State Farm, Mile Auto, and Progressive.
The table below shows the cheapest liability and full-coverage car insurance rates in Ohio, according to Compare.com data.
Company | Average Monthly Premium: Liability-Only | Average Monthly Premium: Full-Coverage |
|---|---|---|
| State Farm | $43 | $70 |
| Mile Auto | $44 | $71 |
| Progressive | $49 | $92 |
| Auto-Owners | $50 | $81 |
| Erie | $50 | $81 |
| Commonwealth Casualty | $55 | $146 |
| USAA | $56 | $90 |
| GEICO | $57 | $97 |
| Safeco | $58 | $90 |
| The General | $59 | $135 |
| American Family | $62 | $100 |
| Certainly | $64 | $137 |
| Trexis | $71 | $169 |
| AssuranceAmerica | $73 | $138 |
| Trexis One | $75 | $205 |
| First Acceptance | $76 | $203 |
| Allstate | $80 | $107 |
| Direct Auto | $81 | $112 |
| GAINSCO | $81 | $181 |
| Elephant | $82 | $132 |
| Clearcover | $87 | $178 |
| Bristol West | $88 | $190 |
| Dairyland | $93 | $216 |
| Liberty Mutual | $97 | $167 |
| Root | $97 | $160 |
| National General | $98 | $145 |
| Travelers | $103 | $166 |
| Farmers | $106 | $171 |
| CSAA | $135 | $165 |
| State Auto | $146 | $235 |
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Average Car Insurance Quotes in Ohio Cities
Car insurance rates can vary significantly by city in Ohio. In Newark, one of the cheapest cities for coverage, drivers pay an average of $84 per month. Maple Heights is among the most expensive cities, with an average rate of $120 per month. Maple Heights’ higher rates are partly due to its larger-than-average teen population.[2]
The table below shows the average car insurance quotes for cities in Ohio, based on Compare.com data.
City | Average Monthly Premium: Liability-Only | Average Monthly Premium: Full-Coverage |
|---|---|---|
| Newark | $58 | $110 |
| Mansfield | $62 | $110 |
| Springfield | $64 | $111 |
| Lancaster | $66 | $122 |
| Lorain | $70 | $116 |
| Elyria | $71 | $116 |
| Canton | $72 | $117 |
| Dayton | $74 | $132 |
| Hamilton | $74 | $127 |
| Youngstown | $75 | $127 |
| Akron | $78 | $135 |
| Cincinnati | $82 | $146 |
| Cleveland | $82 | $150 |
| Maple Heights | $84 | $156 |
| Columbus | $87 | $155 |
| Toledo | $87 | $151 |
Ohio Driver Insights
Ohio drivers tend to have more speeding tickets than the national average, according to Compare.com data. Here’s how Ohio drivers’ records break down:
Speeding tickets: About 6% of Ohio drivers have tickets on their records, compared to the national average of 4%.
At-fault accidents: Around 5% have at-fault accidents on their driving records, about the same as the national average.
OVI: About 1% of Ohio drivers have an operating a vehicle under the influence (OVI) conviction on their records, the same as the national average.
Over the past five years, Ohio’s average car insurance rates have risen due to a variety of factors, including inflation and rising repair costs.
Why It’s Important to Compare Car Insurance Quotes in Ohio
In Ohio, some companies’ average rates are significantly lower than the state average. So you could potentially save hundreds per year by shopping around for coverage. Keep in mind that your exact rate will depend on many factors, including your vehicle, driving record, ZIP code, and the coverage you choose.
The table below highlights the average rates and customer reviews from major insurers in Ohio, based on Compare.com data.
Average Premium $74/mo* | Average Premium $129/mo* | Average Premium $66/mo* | Average Premium $57/mo* | Average Premium $71/mo* |
Overall Rating | Overall Rating | Overall Rating | Overall Rating | Overall Rating |
Value | Value | Value | Value | Value |
Customer Service | Customer Service | Customer Service | Customer Service | Customer Service |
Claims Handling | Claims Handling | Claims Handling | Claims Handling | Claims Handling |
Special Highlight N/AAI-generated from 29 user reviews | Special Highlight N/AAI-generated from 48 user reviews | Special Highlight N/AAI-generated from 19 user reviews | Special Highlight N/AAI-generated from 1078 user reviews | Special Highlight N/AAI-generated from 1125 user reviews |
The Best Car Insurance Companies in Ohio
To find the best car insurance in Ohio, Compare.com researched rates, coverage options, customer service, and actual user reviews. No one insurer is best for everyone, but these three companies stand out for Ohio drivers.
| AM Best AM Best analyzes an insurer’s financials, operating performance, business profile, and other factors to generate an opinion-based rating of a company’s financial and credit strength. Ratings range from A++ (exceptional) to D (poor). | NR |
|---|---|
| Our Rating Compare.com's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The objective formula used in these reviews weighs several important factors to consider when choosing financial products and services, including customer satisfaction ratings, ease of use, and a number of other components. | 4.4 /5 |
| Liability Only Liability-only insurance, sometimes called minimum-coverage insurance, pays for bodily injury and property damage to others in an accident the policyholder causes. It does not pay for the insured’s own damages. | $44/mo |
| Full Coverage Full-coverage car insurance generally includes liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage, and may include other optional coverages such as uninsured motorist coverage. Collision covers a policyholder’s repair or replacement costs in case of an accident. Comprehensive covers damages caused by non-accident events. The average quote displayed here reflects policies with the following coverage limits: $50,000 bodily injury liability per person; $100,000 bodily injury liability per accident; $50,00 property damage liability per accident; $1,000 collision deductible; and a $1,000 comprehensive deductible. | $71/mo |
On average, Ohio drivers cover 9,400 miles per year. But if you don’t drive often, you could save money by switching to Mile Auto. Mile Auto offers pay-per-mile coverage that charges you only for the miles you drive. Because Mile Auto bases your rates on your vehicle use, higher-risk drivers may find their rates much lower with Mile Auto compared to other insurers.
Low rates for people who don’t drive often
Lower-than-average rates for high-risk drivers
Limited coverage options
Not good for drivers with long commutes
| User Reviews | 3.9 |
|---|---|
| Our Rating Compare.com's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The objective formula used in these reviews weighs several important factors to consider when choosing financial products and services, including customer satisfaction ratings, ease of use, and a number of other components. | 4.7 /5 |
| Liability Only Liability-only insurance, sometimes called minimum-coverage insurance, pays for bodily injury and property damage to others in an accident the policyholder causes. It does not pay for the insured’s own damages. | $43/mo |
| Full Coverage Full-coverage car insurance generally includes liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage, and may include other optional coverages such as uninsured motorist coverage. Collision covers a policyholder’s repair or replacement costs in case of an accident. Comprehensive covers damages caused by non-accident events. The average quote displayed here reflects policies with the following coverage limits: $50,000 bodily injury liability per person; $100,000 bodily injury liability per accident; $50,00 property damage liability per accident; $1,000 collision deductible; and a $1,000 comprehensive deductible. | $70/mo |
State Farm's score | Industry average | |
|---|---|---|
| Coverage options | 4.4 | 3.2 |
| Customer service | 4.5 | 3.6 |
| Discounts | 4.3 | 2.9 |
| Policy transparency | 4.3 | 3.1 |
| Value | 4.3 | 2.9 |
Customers appreciate the helpful agents and prompt claim handling, but many are unhappy with the constant rate increases, even for safe drivers. Some also reported poor customer service.
Full-coverage insurance, which includes comprehensive and collision coverage, is particularly useful to Ohio drivers. Animal-related collisions are common, and the state has a relatively high rate of vehicle theft.[3] So the added protection can be worth it for drivers who are worried about damage to their car. State Farm has cheap full-coverage rates and good customer service ratings in Ohio.
Lower-than-average full-coverage insurance rates
Large agent network
Gap insurance not available
Can be more expensive for high-risk drivers
| User Reviews | 4.3 |
|---|---|
| Our Rating Compare.com's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The objective formula used in these reviews weighs several important factors to consider when choosing financial products and services, including customer satisfaction ratings, ease of use, and a number of other components. | 4.2 /5 |
| Liability Only Liability-only insurance, sometimes called minimum-coverage insurance, pays for bodily injury and property damage to others in an accident the policyholder causes. It does not pay for the insured’s own damages. | $50/mo |
| Full Coverage Full-coverage car insurance generally includes liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage, and may include other optional coverages such as uninsured motorist coverage. Collision covers a policyholder’s repair or replacement costs in case of an accident. Comprehensive covers damages caused by non-accident events. The average quote displayed here reflects policies with the following coverage limits: $50,000 bodily injury liability per person; $100,000 bodily injury liability per accident; $50,00 property damage liability per accident; $1,000 collision deductible; and a $1,000 comprehensive deductible. | $81/mo |
Erie Insurance's score | Industry average | |
|---|---|---|
| Coverage options | 4.1 | 3.2 |
| Customer service | 4.1 | 3.6 |
| Discounts | 3.5 | 2.9 |
| Policy transparency | 4.1 | 3.1 |
| Value | 4.2 | 2.9 |
Besides its lower-than-average rates, Erie Insurance stands out for its customer service. The company has agents throughout the state to provide personalized assistance. Erie is a smaller regional insurer that offers add-ons like roadside assistance, locksmith services, auto glass repairs, and even protection for pets.
Ranks No. 1 for customer service in the North Central region
Many add-on coverages available
Telematics program offers only gift card rewards
Online quotes not available
How we chose the best car insurance in OH
Our editorial team, composed of seasoned editors, insurance experts, and licensed agents, analyzed more than 50 of the state’s top insurers to select the best companies for various Ohio drivers. We researched, analyzed, and weighed several categories important to Ohio insurance shoppers, including average rates, local customer satisfaction ratings, coverage options, discount offerings, policy features, and more.
Our goal is to provide actionable advice and detailed, personalized analysis that helps Ohio drivers find the best auto insurance policy for their unique needs.
Ohio Car Insurance Requirements
Ohio is an at-fault, or tort, state. In at-fault states, the driver who causes damage in an accident is financially responsible for it. Like most states, Ohio requires drivers to have car insurance. The table below shows the Buckeye State’s minimum car insurance requirements.
Type of Coverage | Coverage Minimum | Covers |
|---|---|---|
| Bodily injury liability per person | $25,000 | Medical bills and injuries you cause to another driver or their passengers |
| Bodily injury liability per accident | $50,000 | Medical expenses and injuries you cause to multiple people in an accident |
| Property damage liability | $25,000 | Damage you cause to someone else’s property |
Ohio’s minimum coverage requirements are similar to those in neighboring states like Kentucky and Indiana.[4]
Driving without insurance in Ohio can come with severe penalties, including fines and license suspensions.[5] Fees range between $40 and $600 to reinstate your license after the state suspends it.
If insurers denied you coverage because of your driving history, you can purchase coverage through the Ohio Automobile Insurance Plan (OAIP).
Find Cheap Car Insurance in Ohio
Compare quotes from multiple companies and save on the coverage you need.
What Affects Car Insurance Rates in Ohio?
Ohio’s relatively low car insurance rates are partly due to a few reasons, including:
Cost of living: Ohio has a lower-than-average cost of living, so auto repairs and parts are less expensive.
Shorter average commutes: Ohio residents commute an average of 23 minutes to work, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. That’s about 11% less time spent commuting than the national average. Less time on the road can reduce your accident risk.
Lower congestion: Ohio is less congested than many other states. Lower congestion levels and good road conditions reduce the risk of collisions.
Lower severe weather risk: Ohio receives an average of 28 inches of snow per year, slightly lower than the national average. It also doesn’t have the severe weather risks of other states like New York or Florida, which can affect insurance rates due to the increased risk of comprehensive coverage claims.
How to Find the Cheapest Ohio Car Insurance
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To find the cheapest car insurance in Ohio, follow these steps:
Complete a driving course. Ohio drivers older than 60 can complete an approved course to qualify for a car insurance discount.
Ask about multi-vehicle discounts. Approximately 9% of Ohio drivers own more than one vehicle, according to Compare.com data. If you have two or more cars, ask your insurance company about a multi-vehicle discount.
Improve your credit. Ohio allows insurance companies to use your credit history as part of underwriting when setting your premiums. Drivers with poor credit tend to file more claims, so they pay more for coverage. Improving your credit can save you money on car insurance.
Consider usage-based insurance. If you don’t drive often, you can likely find lower rates with usage-based or pay-per-mile insurance.
Shop around. Compare car insurance quotes from several companies to find the lowest price for your coverage.
More Ohio Car Insurance Resources
Check out these state resources as you research your insurance options in Ohio:
Ohio Department of Insurance: The Ohio Department of Insurance provides educational resources to help you choose the right auto policy, find an insurance agent, and submit complaints about insurers.
Ohio BMV: Through the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) site, you can renew your driver’s license and vehicle registration, view your driving record, and download the Ohio driver’s manual.
Ohio’s Attorney General consumer protection page: Use the Ohio Attorney General page to file or research consumer complaints and report scams.
Ohio state legislature page: Insurance laws change over time, so you can view the most recent legislation on Ohio’s state legislature page.
Ohio Automobile Insurance Plan (OAIP): If you can’t get car insurance through a traditional insurer, you may be eligible for coverage through the OAIP.
Ohio Car Insurance FAQs
If you’re shopping for cheap car insurance in Ohio, check out the following information to help you find affordable coverage.
What’s the cheapest car insurance in Ohio?
State Farm offers the cheapest car insurance in Ohio. The company’s average monthly premium is $43, which is significantly lower than the state average. But remember that your personal rates may vary, depending on factors like your age, ZIP code, and driving record.
Is AAA cheaper than GEICO in Ohio?
In Ohio, CSAA — the AAA chapter for the state — tends to be more expensive than GEICO. CSAA’s monthly premium averages $135, while GEICO’s average premium is $57 per month.
What liability insurance is required in Ohio?
Ohio requires all drivers to have $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident of bodily injury liability coverage, and $25,000 of property damage liability insurance. Penalties for driving without insurance in Ohio include license suspension and up to $600 in fines.
How does the cost of car insurance from Auto-Owners compare to the state average in Ohio?
Coverage from Auto-Owners tends to be lower than the overall Ohio state average. On average, Auto-Owners car insurance costs $50 per month, while the state average is $70 per month.
How can you find affordable car insurance in Ohio?
Comparing quotes from multiple companies is one of the easiest ways to find affordable car insurance in Ohio. You can also ask about discounts, like multi-policy or senior driver discounts. Many insurers also offer telematics programs that can lower your rates for practicing safe driving habits.
Sources
- Missouri Economic Research & Information Center. "Cost of Living Data Series."
- U.S. Census Bureau. "QuickFacts."
- Ohio Department of Transportation. "A Simple Solution to Reduce Deer-Vehicle Collisions."
- Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles. "Mandatory Insurance."
- Ohio Law & Administrative Rules. "Section 4509.101 | Operating of motor vehicle without proof of financial responsibility.."
Methodology
Data scientists at Compare.com analyzed more than 50 million real-time auto insurance quotes from more than 75 partner insurers in order to compile the rates and statistics seen in this article. Compare.com’s auto insurance data includes coverage analysis and details on drivers’ vehicles, driving records, insurance histories, and demographic information.
All the rates listed in this article have been collected from a combination of real Compare.com quotes and external insurance rate data gathered in collaboration with Quadrant Information Services. Compare.com uses these observations to provide readers with insights into how auto insurance companies determine their premiums.
Compare.com's #1 goal is to save you money. We publish resources that are based on hard-hitting data and years of industry experience to help you make more informed decisions with your wallet.
- All of Compare.com's content is written and reviewed for accuracy by a team of experienced writers and editors who are experts on the topics they cover.
- None of Compare.com's content is ever influenced by the companies and brands we partner with.
- Compare.com's editorial team operates independently of any of the company's partnership or business development interests. We publish unbiased information strictly for the benefit of our readers.
- All of the content you see on Compare.com is based on comprehensive analysis and all data is gathered and vetted from trustworthy sources.
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