)
Janet Berry-Johnson, CPA, is a freelance writer with a background in accounting and income tax planning and preparation. She's been writing for Compare.com since 2023 and has also appeared on various business and finance sites, including LendingTree, Chime, Insurify, Forbes, and WSJ. She’s passionate about making complicated financial topics accessible to readers.
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Nick Versaw leads Compare.com's editorial department, where he and his team specialize in crafting helpful, easy-to-understand content about car insurance and other related topics. With nearly a decade of experience writing and editing insurance and personal finance articles, his work has helped readers discover substantial savings on necessary expenses, including insurance, transportation, health care, and more. As an award-winning writer, Nick has seen his work published in countless renowned publications, such as the Washington Post, Los Angeles Times, and U.S. News & World Report. He graduated with Latin honors from Virginia Commonwealth University, where he earned his Bachelor's Degree in Digital Journalism.
Updated
At Compare.com, it’s our mission to give you the tools to find the best (and most affordable) insurance for your unique needs and budget. We strive to provide information that’s helpful, clear, and unbiased, and we believe that comparing insurance companies should never put you at risk of spam. Our editorial team — which is made up of experienced writers, editors, insurance agents, and data analysts — has spent thousands of hours researching and creating the coverage overviews, side-by-side comparisons, and detailed reviews you see across our site.
While we make money through partnerships with some of the brands we discuss in our articles, our editorial team operates 100% independently, and these partners never influence or affect the topics, reviews, ratings, or recommendations we provide. We never guarantee favorable reviews or mentions in exchange for compensation from any brands or partners, and we uphold strict editorial standards to ensure our content is always independent, truthful, and unbiased.
In This Article
Car insurance in Rhode Island costs an average of $141 per month for liability insurance or $215 for full coverage. Rhode Island rates are slightly higher than the national average, partly due to higher traffic density and a higher-than-average number of uninsured drivers.[1]
But not all insurance companies charge top dollar for policies. Companies like USAA and State Farm tend to offer more affordable coverage.
In this guide, you’ll find the cheapest car insurance companies in Rhode Island for different types of drivers and practical tips to lower your costs.
Safeco and State Farm are the second- and third-cheapest insurers in Rhode Island, with average monthly rates of $123 and $136 for liability-only coverage, respectively.
Ocean State drivers pay a monthly average of $150 for liability-only coverage and $211 for full-coverage car insurance.
GEICO, Travelers, and USAA top our list of best insurers in Rhode Island for their competitive rates and robust coverage options.
The Best Auto Insurance Companies in Rhode Island
When it comes to auto coverage, there’s no one-size-fits-all insurance. The right fit for you depends on your driving history, budget, and coverage needs. To help you find the best company, we’ve identified a few top contenders based on a combination of average rates in Rhode Island, available discounts, customer ratings and reviews, and coverages offered in the state.
| User Reviews | 4.0 |
|---|---|
| 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. | 4.6 /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. | $207/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. | $251/mo |
Drivers appreciate the easy communication and good customer service, but many are unhappy with the regular and significant price increases.
Drivers appreciate the easy communication and good customer service, but many are unhappy with the regular and significant price increases.
GEICO stands out as one of the best car insurance companies in Rhode Island, thanks to its competitive rates, strong digital tools, and high customer satisfaction rankings across the New England region. Although the insurer doesn’t offer certain coverages, like gap insurance, it remains a reliable and well-rounded choice for drivers who want convenience and affordability.
| User Reviews | 3.7 |
|---|---|
| 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. | 4.3 /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. | $254/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. | $309/mo |
Drivers value the reliable coverage but find the policy costs high and the rate increases too frequent. Communication and claim settlement speed also need improvement.
Drivers value the reliable coverage but find the policy costs high and the rate increases too frequent. Communication and claim settlement speed also need improvement.
Travelers earns a spot among the top car insurance companies in Rhode Island for its flexible coverage options and variety of discounts. Whether you need liability only or specialty coverage like new car replacement or roadside assistance, Travelers likely has a policy that fits your needs.
Though the company’s customer service is lacking, its coverage versatility makes it a solid option for drivers who want to customize their policies.
Offers gap insurance and limited rideshare coverage
Safe driving and bundling discounts
A++ (Superior) rating from AM Best[4]
Below-average customer satisfaction ratings
Coverage may be expensive for some drivers
Accident forgiveness isn’t available in all states
| 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. | 4.5 /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. | $105/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. | $128/mo |
Customers appreciate the prompt customer service and claims handling but are frustrated by the significant and frequent price increases.
Customers appreciate the prompt customer service and claims handling but are frustrated by the significant and frequent price increases.
USAA combines affordability with excellent customer service, so it’s a top pick for drivers who qualify. Its safe driver discount of up to 30% is one of the most generous in the industry, and its rates are among the lowest in the state.
Although only military members, veterans, and their families qualify for membership, eligible drivers often find it to be the best value for both price and coverage.
Generous safe driver discounts
Exceptional customer satisfaction ratings
Low average rates
Only available to those with a military connection
No local presence in Rhode Island
Few in-person support options
The Cheapest Car Insurance Quotes in Rhode Island
Even though Rhode Island’s average car insurance rates are higher than the nationwide average, many residents still find affordable coverage by shopping around and comparing quotes. Several insurance companies offer policies well below the statewide average.
The table below shows the cheapest car insurance companies in Rhode Island, according to Compare.com data.
Company | Average Monthly Premium |
|---|---|
| USAA | $105 |
| Safeco | $123 |
| State Farm | $136 |
| Direct Auto | $159 |
| Liberty Mutual | $182 |
| GEICO | $207 |
| Nationwide | $240 |
| Travelers | $254 |
| Allstate | $330 |
In the next sections, we’ll break down the cheapest insurance companies in Rhode Island by factors such as driver age, driving history, and credit so you can find the best rate for your situation.
How Much Car Insurance Do You Need In Rhode Island?
Like nearly every state, Rhode Island requires all drivers to have car insurance before hitting the road. The state’s minimum requirements help ensure drivers can cover the cost of injuries or damages if they cause an accident.
Here’s what Rhode Island requires:
Bodily injury liability: $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident
Property damage liability: $25,000 per accident
Drivers can also opt for a $75,000 combined single limit for bodily injury and property damage. Insurance companies operating in Rhode Island must offer uninsured motorists coverage with limits equal to your bodily injury liability limits. But you can reject the coverage in writing.[5]
Full-coverage car insurance includes collision and comprehensive coverages alongside liability insurance. If you finance or lease your vehicle, your lender or leasing company will typically require you to buy full coverage.
Since full coverage pays to repair or replace your vehicle, it’s a good idea for most drivers to have it. But if you have an older, low-value vehicle that you’ve paid off, you might not need full coverage.
Even though Rhode Island law only requires you to buy bodily injury and property damage liability, it’s a good idea to consider broader coverage. Optional add-ons can fill coverage gaps for greater financial protection.
Collision coverage covers damage to your vehicle from hitting another car or an object, like a light pole.
Comprehensive pays for non-collision damage to your car, like dents from a hailstorm.
Uninsured motorist coverage can help pay to repair or replace your vehicle if you get into an accident with a driver who doesn’t have insurance.
If you lease or finance your car, gap insurance can pay the difference between an insurance payout and your loan or lease balance if you total your car.
Rental reimbursement helps pay the cost of renting a car while yours gets repaired after a covered accident.
Accident forgiveness coverage can keep your premium level after your first at-fault accident.
Cheapest Car Insurance in Rhode Island by Driver and Coverage Type
The companies listed above are a great starting point, but your actual car insurance rates will depend on your age, driving history, location, and coverage choices.
Below, we break down the cheapest car insurance companies in Rhode Island for a range of driver profiles and coverage types.
Rhode Island requires all drivers to have a minimum level of liability insurance, including bodily injury and property damage liability coverage. While a policy with the state-minimum limits meets legal requirements, most experts recommend higher limits to protect against costly accidents and lawsuits.[6]
The average monthly cost for state-minimum coverage in Rhode Island is $150, according to our data. We’ve listed the five most affordable options in the chart below.
Average Liability Rates by Company
Disclaimer: Table data sourced from real-time quotes from Compare.com's 50-plus partner insurance providers. Actual quotes may vary based on the policy buyer's unique driver profile.For most drivers, full coverage is a smart choice. It offers broader protection than liability-only insurance, and lenders typically require it if you finance or lease your vehicle. Full coverage includes liability, collision (pays for car damage after an accident), and comprehensive coverage (pays for theft, vandalism, and weather-related damage).
In Rhode Island, the average cost for full coverage is $211 per month, according to our research. But several insurance companies offer full coverage for close to what you’d pay for liability coverage.
The chart below shows the five cheapest options for full-coverage car insurance in Rhode Island, according to Compare.com data.
Average Full-Coverage Rates by Company
Disclaimer: Table data sourced from real-time quotes from Compare.com's 50-plus partner insurance providers. Actual quotes may vary based on the policy buyer's unique driver profile.
A speeding ticket or other moving violation can raise your insurance rates at renewal because insurance companies see it as a sign of increased risk. In fact, our research shows that just one speeding ticket boosts car insurance premiums by an average of 37% nationwide.
In Rhode Island, drivers with a recent ticket pay an average of $219 per month for car insurance, according to Compare.com data. But several companies offer more competitive rates.
Check out the five cheapest insurance companies in Rhode Island for drivers with a recent ticket, according to our data.
Average Rates With a Ticket
Disclaimer: Table data sourced from real-time quotes from Compare.com's 50-plus partner insurance providers. Actual quotes may vary based on the policy buyer's unique driver profile.An at-fault accident can lead to a significant increase in your car insurance rates. Our data shows that causing an accident raises rates by an average of 41% nationwide.
Rhode Island drivers with a recent accident pay an average of $225 per month, according to Compare.com data. Fortunately, several insurance companies still offer relatively affordable rates.
The chart below shows the five cheapest car insurance companies in Rhode Island for drivers with a recent accident.
Average Rates With an Accident
Disclaimer: Table data sourced from real-time quotes from Compare.com's 50-plus partner insurance providers. Actual quotes may vary based on the policy buyer's unique driver profile.A driving under the influence (DUI) conviction leads to the steepest spike in car insurance premiums of any driving violation. On average, rates increase by 61% nationwide after a DUI, according to our research.
The average monthly premium for drivers with a DUI in Rhode Island is $275 per month. While rates are typically high after a DUI, you’re not necessarily stuck with them. We’ve listed the five most affordable insurance companies if you have a DUI in Rhode Island.
Average Rates With a DUI
Disclaimer: Table data sourced from real-time quotes from Compare.com's 50-plus partner insurance providers. Actual quotes may vary based on the policy buyer's unique driver profile.Teen drivers pay some of the highest car insurance rates due to their lack of experience and higher likelihood of car accidents. In fact, the teen crash rate is nearly four times that of drivers 20 and older per mile driven, according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.
In Rhode Island, the average car insurance rate for teens is $355 per month. But it’s possible to find more affordable options.
Here are the five cheapest insurance companies for teens in Rhode Island, according to Compare.com data.
Average Rates for Teens
Disclaimer: Table data sourced from real-time quotes from Compare.com's 50-plus partner insurance providers. Actual quotes may vary based on the policy buyer's unique driver profile.Drivers in their 60s often enjoy some of the lowest car insurance rates thanks to their years of experience and lower risk of accidents.[7] Rhode Island seniors pay an average premium of $147 per month, according to our research.
Even with these lower-than-average rates, you may be able to save more. The chart below highlights the cheapest insurers in Rhode Island for seniors, according to Compare.com data.
Average Rates for Seniors
Disclaimer: Table data sourced from real-time quotes from Compare.com's 50-plus partner insurance providers. Actual quotes may vary based on the policy buyer's unique driver profile.Some insurance companies consider your credit history when setting your rates. Companies view poor credit as an indicator of higher risk because research shows that the worse your credit is, the more likely you are to file a claim.[8] Our research shows that drivers with poor credit pay around 20% more for car insurance than drivers with excellent credit.
The average driver with poor credit in Rhode Island pays $223 per month for coverage, according to Compare.com data. But don’t panic — not all insurers weigh credit heavily, and some offer affordable rates regardless of your credit history.
Check out the five cheapest companies in Rhode Island for drivers with poor credit, according to our research.
Average Rates With Bad Credit
Disclaimer: Table data sourced from real-time quotes from Compare.com's 50-plus partner insurance providers. Actual quotes may vary based on the policy buyer's unique driver profile.
Rhode Island Auto Insurance FAQs
If you’re still wondering about car insurance in Rhode Island, here are answers to some common questions drivers have.
How much is car insurance in Rhode Island?
The average cost of car insurance in Rhode Island is $180 per month, according to our data. Liability-only coverage averages $150 per month, and full coverage averages $211.
Is car insurance in Rhode Island expensive?
It depends. Your actual rate depends on personal factors like where you live, your age, and your driving record. For context, the average rate in Rhode Island is $180 per month, which is higher than the national average of $137, according to our data.
What are the car insurance laws in Rhode Island?
Rhode Island law requires all drivers to have at least 25/50/25 liability coverage. Although optional, the state recommends uninsured/underinsured motorist protection with limits equal to or above your liability limits. Driving without insurance in Rhode Island can result in a fine, driver’s license and registration suspension, and reinstatement fees.
What’s the best car insurance company in Rhode Island?
GEICO is our pick for the top car insurance company in Rhode Island. Its rates are competitive, it provides easy-to-use digital tools for managing your policy, and it earns strong customer service reviews.
Is minimum coverage enough in Rhode Island?
Rhode Island’s minimum coverage requirements are on the low side — just $25,000 for property damage, $25,000 for bodily injury to one person, and $50,000 per accident. If you cause an accident that totals another vehicle, or significantly injures another driver or passenger, damages and medical costs could easily exceed those minimum coverage limits.
That’s why insurance professionals usually advise you to buy higher liability limits. And if you couldn’t afford to repair or replace your vehicle out of pocket, you’ll want to consider comprehensive and collision, too.
Why is car insurance in Rhode Island so expensive?
Car insurance in Rhode Island is expensive for a few reasons. Dense urban areas and traffic congestion contribute to higher accident rates, which increases premiums. Plus, an estimated 12% of Rhode Island drivers don’t have car insurance, making the state one of the pricier places for auto insurance.[9]
Where can I find car insurance in Rhode Island?
You can easily find car insurance in Rhode Island. Insurance comparison sites help you get quotes from multiple insurers at once. You can also buy coverage directly from licensed insurance companies, work with independent agents, or use the state’s assigned risk plan if you’re having trouble getting coverage elsewhere.
Which company has the cheapest car insurance in Rhode Island?
USAA has the cheapest car insurance rates in Rhode Island, according to Compare.com data. Its rates average $105 per month.
Is $300 per month expensive for car insurance in Rhode Island?
Yes. $300 per month is expensive for car insurance compared to the state average. State-minimum coverage in Rhode Island averages $150 per month, according to Compare.com data. If you’re paying $300 monthly, it’s worth shopping around to try to find better rates for your coverage needs.
Is car insurance mandatory in Rhode Island?
Yes. To legally drive in Rhode Island, you need to have at least the state’s minimum liability coverage. If you’re caught driving without insurance, you’ll face fines of $500–$1,000, plus possible license and registration suspension. You could even go to prison for a year if you’re caught driving without coverage a third time.[10]
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.
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Sources
- III. "Facts + Statistics: Uninsured motorists."
- Jdpower.com. "2024 U.S. Auto Insurance Study."
- Jdpower.com. "2024 U.S. Auto Claims Satisfaction Study."
- Ambest.com. "AM Best Affirms Credit Ratings of The Travelers Companies, Inc. and Subsidiaries."
- Rhode Island Department of State. "Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist Insurance (230-RICR-20-05-1)."
- III. "How much auto coverage do I need?."
- AARP. "What Will Raise (or Lower) Your Car Insurance Rates."
- American Property Casualty Insurance Association. "Behavioral Validation of Auto Insurance Rating Variables."
- Insurance Information Institute. "View by State."
- Rhode Island Department of Revenue. "Rules and Regulations Relative to Compulsory Insurance or Financial Responsibility."
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.
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- All of the content you see on Compare.com is based on comprehensive analysis and all data is gathered and vetted from trustworthy sources.
Learn more about us, our team, and what makes us tick.
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Janet Berry-Johnson, CPA, is a freelance writer with a background in accounting and income tax planning and preparation. She's been writing for Compare.com since 2023 and has also appeared on various business and finance sites, including LendingTree, Chime, Insurify, Forbes, and WSJ. She’s passionate about making complicated financial topics accessible to readers.
)
Nick Versaw leads Compare.com's editorial department, where he and his team specialize in crafting helpful, easy-to-understand content about car insurance and other related topics. With nearly a decade of experience writing and editing insurance and personal finance articles, his work has helped readers discover substantial savings on necessary expenses, including insurance, transportation, health care, and more. As an award-winning writer, Nick has seen his work published in countless renowned publications, such as the Washington Post, Los Angeles Times, and U.S. News & World Report. He graduated with Latin honors from Virginia Commonwealth University, where he earned his Bachelor's Degree in Digital Journalism.
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