Updated
Many seniors qualify for cheap auto insurance, but premiums can vary widely from one insurer to another.
On average, senior drivers pay $124 per month for car insurance.
Country Financial has the lowest average rates for senior drivers, at $33 per month.
Car insurance premiums stay relatively low during your 60s before gradually increasing in your 70s and 80s.
The Cheapest Car Insurance Companies for Seniors
Auto insurance companies don’t price policies for senior drivers the same way. Each insurer calculates rates differently, so premiums can vary even for drivers with similar ages, vehicles, and driving records. That means the cheapest insurer for one senior may not offer the lowest rate for another.
The table below compares the cheapest car insurance companies for seniors, according to Compare.com data.
Company | Average Monthly Premium |
|---|---|
| Country Financial | $33 |
| Auto-Owners | $34 |
| State Farm | $38 |
| USAA | $39 |
| Erie | $46 |
| Mile Auto | $52 |
| GEICO | $59 |
| American Family | $61 |
| Commonwealth Casualty | $63 |
| National General | $64 |
| Mercury | $69 |
| Direct Auto | $71 |
| The General | $72 |
| Travelers | $73 |
| Safeco | $75 |
| AssuranceAmerica | $75 |
| Shelter | $77 |
| The Hartford | $78 |
| Elephant | $78 |
| Farmers | $78 |
| Chubb | $78 |
| GAINSCO | $83 |
| Dairyland | $84 |
| Anchor | $84 |
| Bristol West | $87 |
| Plymouth Rock | $94 |
| 21st Century | $98 |
| CSAA | $99 |
| State Auto | $100 |
| Liberty Mutual | $102 |
| Clearcover | $106 |
| Root | $109 |
| Amica | $166 |
Our data show that monthly premiums can vary substantially across insurers, making it important to compare quotes before choosing a policy. While many drivers enjoy lower rates in their early senior years, prices begin to rise after age 70.
Compare Car Insurance Quotes for Seniors
Get quotes from top insurers and save money in seconds.
Average car insurance rates for seniors by age
Insurance companies don’t treat all senior drivers the same. In many cases, premiums stay relatively low throughout your 60s, then start to increase in your 70s as your reaction time slows, and insurers account for a higher likelihood of claims.[1]
Check out the following table to find out how average rates change by age starting in your 50s, according to Compare.com data.
Age Range | Average Monthly Premium |
|---|---|
| 50s | $136 |
| 60s | $124 |
| 70s | $128 |
Cheapest Car Insurance Companies by Senior Age Group
The cheapest car insurance company for you can change as you get older. Every insurer weighs age differently in its pricing models. While rates are generally lowest in your early senior years, costs gradually increase with age.
Check out the sections below for the cheapest insurers for seniors by age.
Cheapest car insurance for 60-year-olds
Drivers around age 60 often qualify for the lowest car insurance rates because they usually have more driving experience and file fewer claims. Maintaining a clean driving record remains one of the biggest factors in keeping rates affordable.
Country Financial offers the cheapest average rates for 60-year-olds, at $33 per month.
The table below highlights the cheapest insurers for drivers in their 60s, according to Compare.com data.
Company | Average Monthly Premium |
|---|---|
| Country Financial | $33 |
| Auto-Owners | $34 |
| State Farm | $38 |
| USAA | $39 |
| Erie | $46 |
| Mile Auto | $52 |
| GEICO | $59 |
| American Family | $61 |
| Commonwealth Casualty | $63 |
| National General | $64 |
| Mercury | $69 |
| Direct Auto | $71 |
| The General | $72 |
| Travelers | $73 |
| Safeco | $75 |
| AssuranceAmerica | $75 |
| Shelter | $77 |
| The Hartford | $78 |
| Elephant | $78 |
| Farmers | $78 |
| Chubb | $78 |
| GAINSCO | $83 |
| Dairyland | $84 |
| Anchor | $84 |
| Bristol West | $87 |
| Plymouth Rock | $94 |
| 21st Century | $98 |
| CSAA | $99 |
| State Auto | $100 |
| Liberty Mutual | $102 |
| Clearcover | $106 |
| Root | $109 |
| Amica | $166 |
Cheapest car insurance for 65-year-olds
Retirement doesn’t affect your car insurance premium. But other rating factors frequently change during this stage of life and can influence your rates. Premiums usually change very little between ages 60 and 65, and Country Financial continues to offer some of the lowest average premiums for seniors.
Cheapest car insurance for drivers in their 70s and beyond
Although driving ability varies from driver to driver, many insurers increase premiums after age 70. That’s because age-related changes in vision, health, and reaction time can increase the risk of crashes and serious injury or death, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).[2]
That said, many mature drivers can still qualify for competitive rates thanks to their driving experience and safe records.
The chart below shows the cheapest insurers for drivers in their 70s, according to Compare.com data.
Company | Average Monthly Premium |
|---|---|
| Country Financial | $30 |
| Auto-Owners | $33 |
| State Farm | $34 |
| USAA | $40 |
| Erie | $45 |
| American Family | $55 |
| GEICO | $56 |
| Mile Auto | $59 |
| National General | $66 |
| Mercury | $73 |
| Chubb | $74 |
| Commonwealth Casualty | $75 |
| Direct Auto | $75 |
| Travelers | $75 |
| Shelter | $75 |
| The General | $75 |
| Safeco | $75 |
| Farmers | $75 |
| The Hartford | $76 |
| Elephant | $82 |
| Bristol West | $88 |
| AssuranceAmerica | $88 |
| Dairyland | $89 |
| GAINSCO | $90 |
| Plymouth Rock | $99 |
| Liberty Mutual | $99 |
| 21st Century | $101 |
| Anchor | $103 |
| State Auto | $108 |
| Clearcover | $111 |
| Root | $117 |
| CSAA | $144 |
| Amica | $173 |
Why Car Insurance Rates Change as You Get Older
Car insurance rates often remain lower through middle age and early senior years, then gradually increase after age 70. Insurers raise rates because age-related changes increase the risk of crashes, serious injuries, and death.
Drivers age 70 and older typically drive fewer miles than other age groups. But they have higher fatal crash rates per mile traveled, mostly because they’re more vulnerable to serious injury, according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).[3] In 2024, 5,679 people aged 70 and older died in motor vehicle crashes.
Here are a few ways seniors older than 70 can help reduce potential rate increases and claim risk:
Drive a vehicle with advanced safety features, such as lane departure warning
Complete a defensive driving course
Take advantage of safe driving discounts
Opt for pay-per-mile insurance
Many seniors continue paying below-average premiums well into their 70s, especially if they maintain a clean driving record, drive fewer miles, and compare quotes regularly.
The Best Car Insurance Companies for Seniors
Price is important when shopping for senior car insurance, but it’s not the only thing that matters. You should also consider affordability, available discounts, financial strength, customer satisfaction, and claims experience. The following companies are our picks for the best car insurers for senior drivers.
GEICO: Best for cheap car insurance for seniors
| 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. | 4.6 /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. | $81/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. | $145/mo |
GEICO'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 | 4.4 | 2.9 |
Drivers appreciate the easy communication and good customer service, but many are unhappy with the regular and significant price increases.
GEICO is a good choice for seniors focused on keeping premiums affordable. It offers many discounts, including several for mature drivers. GEICO also has accident forgiveness to protect your rates in the event of an at-fault accident. The DriveEasy usage-based program rewards safe driving habits and can detect hard braking.
Competitive rates for seniors
Offers accident forgiveness
Retired military discount available
Limited local agents depending on location
Discounts vary by state
DriveEasy can raise rates for risky drivers
The Hartford: Best for AARP members
| User Reviews | 3.8 |
|---|---|
| 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. | $135/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. | $237/mo |
The Hartford's score | Industry average | |
|---|---|---|
| Coverage options | 3.5 | 3.2 |
| Customer service | 3.6 | 3.6 |
| Discounts | 2.9 | 2.9 |
| Policy transparency | 3.3 | 3.1 |
| Value | 3.3 | 2.9 |
The Hartford is a strong fit for senior AARP members. You can enjoy additional benefits with your car insurance policy, such as disappearing deductible, new car replacement, and rental-car reimbursement. The Hartford also offers 24/7 roadside assistance.
AARP members save 10% on car insurance
Offers electric and hybrid vehicle discount
Save money by starting your quote online
Available coverages vary by state
Additional benefits require AARP membership
Some benefits available only with full coverage
Nationwide: Best for low-mileage senior drivers
| User Reviews | 3.1 |
|---|
Nationwide's score | Industry average | |
|---|---|---|
| Coverage options | 3.0 | 3.2 |
| Customer service | 3.2 | 3.6 |
| Discounts | 3.0 | 2.9 |
| Policy transparency | 3.0 | 3.1 |
| Value | 3.4 | 2.9 |
Whether you’re retired, have a short commute, or typically use public transportation, you may save money with Nationwide. The SmartMiles pay-per-mile program charges you a base monthly premium, plus a per-mile rate based on your actual mileage each month. You can use an in-vehicle device or connected car feature to track your driving.
Offers pay-per-mile insurance
Safe driving discount available
Gap insurance available
Rates can change monthly
More expensive for high-risk drivers
Not available in all states
How Seniors Can Lower Their Car Insurance Premiums
Here are a few steps seniors can take to help lower their car insurance premiums:
Compare quotes before every renewal. Once you receive your renewal paperwork, get quotes from multiple insurers to find out if you have the best price for your coverage.
Review your coverage each year. Make sure your coverage still meets your needs. For example, if you paid off your vehicle, you may no longer need full coverage if you can afford repairs out of pocket.
Increase your deductible. If you need full coverage, a higher deductible can lower your premiums. But make sure you can afford the extra out-of-pocket costs if you file a claim.
Ask about discounts. Check for savings based on your age, driving habits, and annual mileage.
Bundle your policies. Insuring your car and home with the same company often qualifies you for discounted savings.
Consider usage-based insurance if you drive infrequently. Usage-based programs use telematics to track your driving, including mileage. Safe and low-mileage drivers benefit the most.
Find Cheap Car Insurance
Compare quotes for senior drivers, starting at an average of $33 per month.
Senior Car Insurance Discounts Worth Asking About
Discounts can significantly lower your premiums, but availability can vary by state and insurer. Common discounts include:
Defensive driving: Drivers who complete an approved defensive driving course, such as the National Safety Council Mature Driver Course, may qualify for a lower rate.
Safe driving: A clean record with no recent at-fault accidents, speeding tickets, or other violations can help reduce premiums.
Low mileage: Senior drivers may save by driving fewer annual miles.
Multi-policy: Bundling policies, like home and auto, can simplify billing and policy management, and earn you a multi-policy discount.
Multi-car: Insuring multiple vehicles with the same company may provide additional savings.
Pay in full: Many insurers offer a discount for paying your entire premium up front.
Automatic payment: Enrolling in automatic monthly payments may qualify you for savings.
Vehicle safety features: Cars with safety features such as anti-theft systems or advanced driver assistance technology may qualify for a discount.
Mature driver: Some insurers offer a discount for drivers 55 and older.
How to Choose the Right Car Insurance Coverage in Retirement
Choosing the right car insurance goes beyond the price of your policy. Even though many retirees are on a fixed income, it’s important to focus on both coverage and price.
For example, if you drive an older vehicle with a lower value or you can afford to repair or replace it yourself, liability-only coverage may make sense. But full coverage may be better for newer vehicles, high-value cars, or if you can’t afford repairs out of pocket.
If you choose full coverage, increasing your deductibles can help offset the higher premiums. But that also means you’ll pay more out of pocket after a claim. Consider your monthly premium and potential out-of-pocket costs when choosing coverage and deductibles.
Cheap Car Insurance for Seniors FAQs
Below, we answered some common questions seniors ask about shopping for car insurance coverage.
What’s the cheapest car insurance company for seniors?
Country Financial offers the cheapest car insurance for seniors, with average rates starting at $33 per month, according to Compare.com data. But the cheapest car insurance for you depends on many factors, like your age, location, driving record, vehicle, and coverage needs.
Does car insurance get cheaper after age 65?
It depends. Car insurance can get cheaper after age 65. But premiums tend to increase after age 70 as insurers adjust for age-related risk factors that increase crash risk and injury severity.
Why does car insurance increase after age 70?
Car insurance rates increase after age 70 because health, vision, and reaction time tend to decline. Older drivers have a higher risk of accidents and severe injuries, driving up claim frequency and cost.
What car insurance discounts do seniors qualify for?
Seniors can qualify for many car insurance discounts. Common discounts for seniors include completing a defensive driving course, bundling policies, and paying your bill in full. Many insurers also offer telematics programs that track your driving and reward safe driving with lower rates.
Should seniors buy full-coverage car insurance?
Typically yes. Many seniors can benefit from full-coverage car insurance. Full coverage may make sense for newer vehicles, and lenders typically require it if you lease or finance your car. Seniors with older, paid-off vehicles may need only liability coverage.
Is a defensive driving course worth taking to get cheaper insurance if you’re a senior?
Typically yes. Many insurers offer discounts for completing a defensive driving course. But the courses typically cost money, and the discount usually ends after three years. Compare the course cost and discount savings to see if it’s worth it.
Does AARP offer car insurance?
No. AARP doesn’t offer its own car insurance. But it partners with The Hartford to offer car insurance options for AARP members. Coverage, pricing, and eligibility vary by state.
Sources
- National Safety Council. "Older Drivers."
- National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. "Older Drivers."
- Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. "Older people."
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.
Learn more about us, our team, and what makes us tick.
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)