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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.
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John Leach is a licensed insurance agent who reviews and fact-checks articles for Compare.com. John has several years of experience reviewing and editing various insurance topics, and he also holds a valid personal lines producer license from the California Department of Insurance (NPN #20461358).
He’s also an alumnus of the University of California, Santa Barbara, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in linguistics.
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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.
When you’re comparing car insurance companies, USAA and State Farm represent two of the industry’s most respected names. USAA delivers exceptional customer service and competitive rates, but it’s available only to military members and their families. State Farm, meanwhile, offers nationwide coverage with extensive agent support and solid value for drivers across all backgrounds.
Both companies have earned strong financial strength ratings and consistently rank among the top insurers nationwide. Understanding how they compare across key factors like cost, coverage options, and customer service will help you determine which might be the better fit for your specific needs.
Here’s everything you need to know.
USAA consistently outperforms State Farm in customer satisfaction ratings, earning top marks for both customer service and claims handling.
State Farm maintains the largest market share in the U.S., while USAA serves a smaller but highly satisfied customer base.
Both companies offer comprehensive coverage options and telematics programs, though State Farm provides broader availability with agents in all 50 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. | $52/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. | $97/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 stands out for its commitment to serving military members and their families with exceptional service and competitive pricing. The company consistently earns top ratings for customer satisfaction, scoring well above industry averages in independent studies.[1]
USAA maintains strong financial backing with excellent scores from major rating agencies, ensuring the company can meet its obligations to customers.[2]
While membership is restricted to military members and their families, drivers who qualify often find USAA’s combination of service quality and competitive pricing hard to beat.
Outstanding customer satisfaction ratings
Competitive rates for eligible members
Strong financial stability
Limited to military members and families
Fewer physical locations
No Better Business Bureau (BBB) accreditation
| 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. | $57/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. | $109/mo |
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.
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.
State Farm is America’s largest auto insurance company,[3] serving millions of customers across all 50 states through its extensive network of more than 19,000 agents. The company has over 100 years of experience, solid financial strength, and a comprehensive range of coverage options.
While State Farm’s customer satisfaction ratings don’t quite match USAA’s exceptional scores, the company still performs respectably with ratings that meet (and often exceed) industry standards.
State Farm’s broad availability and established agent network make it accessible to virtually any driver seeking coverage.
Nationwide availability with local agents
Largest industry market share
Many discounts
Customer satisfaction below USAA levels
Higher rates in some markets
Claims satisfaction trails top competitors
When choosing between insurance companies, you’ll want to consider key factors like cost, customer satisfaction, policy management features, availability, and financial strength. Each of these areas can significantly affect your overall customer experience.
The table below shows how USAA and State Farm compare across the main categories we use to evaluate insurance companies, based on our comprehensive analysis of rates, customer feedback, and more.
Category  | USAA | State Farm |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | 5.0/5 | 5.0/5 |
| Customer satisfaction | 4.3/5 | 4.7/5 |
| Policy management | 4.6/5 | 5.0/5 |
| Availability | 4.7/5 | 5.0/5 |
| Industry reputation | 4.5/5 | 5.0/5 |
| Overall Compare.com Rating | 4.96/5 | 5.00/5 |
USAA excels primarily in customer satisfaction, earning significantly higher scores for both customer service and claims handling compared to State Farm. The company’s focus on serving military families shows in its personalized approach and attention to member needs.
But State Farm takes the lead in availability and policy management, offering broader access through its nationwide agent network and comprehensive online tools. The company’s larger scale also provides advantages in terms of policy options and discount availability.
Our editorial team analyzes and grades each insurer based on factors like its average rates, customer reviews, policy management features, availability, industry standing, and more. This includes countless hours of research and in-depth analysis of thousands of auto insurance quotes from real Compare.com customers.
We grade each factor on a weighted five-point scale to determine an insurer’s propriety Compare.com Rating, which highlights its overall standing among the industry’s best companies.
Insurance rates vary significantly based on your personal profile, driving history, location, and the coverage you choose. What’s affordable for one driver might be expensive for another, which is why it’s crucial to compare quotes from multiple companies before making a decision.
Both USAA and State Farm generally offer relatively cheap average rates. But the comparison between these two companies often depends on your specific circumstances and location.
Here’s a look at each company’s average rates for different types of drivers, according to our data.
Driver Type | USAA | State Farm | Industry Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| All drivers | $97 | $109 | $177 |
| Teens | $180 | $220 | $341 |
| Seniors | $75 | $79 | $152 |
| Recent ticket | $124 | $135 | $223 |
| Recent accident | $126 | $138 | $232 |
| DUI conviction | $140 | $158 | $256 |
| Poor credit | $115 | $174 | $214 |
Policies start as low as $38 per month.
Insurance rates can also vary considerably from state to state due to factors like local accident rates, weather patterns, population density, and state insurance regulations. For example, a state with higher minimum limits or higher risks of severe weather will likely have higher average premiums. But a more remote state in the middle of the country likely will pay less, all else being equal.
The specific rates you’ll pay with either USAA or State Farm will depend on your state’s unique risk factors and regulatory environment, along with your personal driving profile and coverage selections. Here’s how the two compare:
State | USAA | State Farm |
|---|---|---|
| Alabama | $92 | $93 |
| Alaska | $156 | $139 |
| Arizona | $150 | $134 |
| Arkansas | $104 | $86 |
| California | $182 | $279 |
| Colorado | $145 | $112 |
| Connecticut | $210 | $153 |
| Delaware | $121 | $186 |
| Florida | $${AUTO_CARRIER_USAA_FULL_STATE_FL_PRICE} | $115 |
| Georgia | $168 | $144 |
| Hawaii | $173 | $137 |
| Idaho | $66 | $49 |
| Illinois | $137 | $84 |
| Indiana | $87 | $82 |
| Iowa | $74 | $43 |
| Kansas | $104 | $95 |
| Kentucky | $195 | $159 |
| Louisiana | $134 | $106 |
| Maine | $78 | $81 |
| Maryland | $209 | $268 |
| Massachusetts | $126 | $74 |
| Michigan | $107 | $220 |
| Minnesota | $106 | $87 |
| Mississippi | $75 | $72 |
| Missouri | $97 | $114 |
| Montana | $66 | $61 |
| Nebraska | $116 | $131 |
| Nevada | $133 | $95 |
| New Hampshire | $103 | $97 |
| New Jersey | $${AUTO_CARRIER_USAA_FULL_STATE_NJ_PRICE} | $434 |
| New Mexico | $167 | $139 |
| New York | $148 | $202 |
| North Carolina | $${AUTO_CARRIER_USAA_FULL_STATE_NC_PRICE} | $144 |
| North Dakota | $42 | $42 |
| Ohio | $93 | $72 |
| Oklahoma | $100 | $80 |
| Oregon | $114 | $96 |
| Pennsylvania | $157 | $77 |
| Rhode Island | $127 | $163 |
| South Carolina | $104 | $115 |
| South Dakota | $115 | $91 |
| Tennessee | $105 | $89 |
| Texas | $171 | $96 |
| Utah | $86 | $114 |
| Vermont | $57 | $45 |
| Virginia | $137 | $102 |
| Washington | $113 | $111 |
| District of Columbia | $304 | $297 |
| West Virginia | $95 | $79 |
| Wisconsin | $59 | $61 |
| Wyoming | $47 | $51 |
Every auto insurance company offers its own unique set of coverage options. Understanding what each company offers helps you make sure you’re getting the protection you need.[4]
Both USAA and State Farm provide comprehensive coverage options beyond basic liability insurance. Here’s how their coverage offerings compare, according to our research:
Coverage Type | USAA | State Farm |
|---|---|---|
| Liability coverage | ✓ | ✓ |
| Collision coverage | ✓ | ✓ |
| Comprehensive coverage | ✓ | ✓ |
| Uninsured motorist coverage | ✓ | ✓ |
| Personal injury protection | ✓ | ✓ |
| Roadside assistance | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rental car reimbursement | ✓ | ✓ |
| Gap coverage | ✓ | ✓ |
| New car replacement | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rideshare coverage | ✓ | ✓ |
Insurance companies offer various discount programs to help you save money on your premiums. But the specific discounts available can differ between insurers and may vary by state. Understanding which discounts you might qualify for can significantly affect your overall costs.
Both USAA and State Farm offer competitive discount programs, but each has its own unique offerings. Here’s how their discount options compare:
Discount Type | USAA | State Farm |
|---|---|---|
| Multi-policy bundling | ✓ | ✓ |
| Multi-vehicle | ✓ | ✓ |
| Good driver | ✓ | ✓ |
| Good student | ✓ | ✓ |
| Defensive driving course | ✓ | ✓ |
| Anti-theft device | ✓ | ✓ |
| Low-mileage | ✓ | ✓ |
| Military/federal employee | ✓ | |
| Vehicle storage on base | ✓ | |
| Safety features | ✓ | |
| Steer Clear program | ✓ | |
| Student away at school | ✓ |
Customer reviews from real customers can provide valuable insight into how well an insurance company handles claims, customer service, and overall satisfaction. Looking at recent feedback helps you understand what you might expect as a customer.
Here are a few recent reviews from real Compare.com customers to help you decide which best fits your needs.
The average driver saves up to $867.†
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Usage-based insurance (UBI) programs track your driving habits through a mobile app or device. They can often lead to substantial savings if you demonstrate consistent safe driving. These programs typically monitor factors like speed, braking, acceleration, and mileage to determine your discount eligibility and how much you’ll save.
USAA’s UBI program is called SafePilot. It’s available in 23 U.S. states and tracks driving behaviors through a mobile app, with discounts of up to 10% just for enrolling.[5]
State Farm’s Drive Safe & Save program works similarly, offering up to 30% off your auto policy, according to the company’s website. You’ll get an initial discount just for signing up, with your savings adjusted at each policy renewal based on your actual driving data.[6]
Both programs focus on rewarding safe driving without penalizing you for occasional poor driving incidents. The programs are voluntary and won’t increase your rates based on driving data, though State Farm may adjust premiums if your actual mileage differs significantly from estimates.
Here are answers to some of the most commonly asked questions when comparing these two insurance companies.
Neither company is universally better for every driver. The best choice depends on your specific needs and circumstances.
USAA typically excels for military members and families who qualify for membership, offering exceptional customer service, competitive rates, and specialized military benefits. State Farm might be better for drivers who want broad availability, extensive agent support, or who aren’t eligible for USAA membership.
What’s “best” varies significantly based on your needs, budget, and preferences. The best choice for your friend, family member, or neighbor will likely be different from what’s right for you.
But ultimately, State Farm, GEICO, and USAA consistently lead the pack across factors like price, customer satisfaction, policy management, and more.
It depends. Insurance companies base your rates on factors like your age, location, driving record, credit history, and coverage selections.
That said, the average State Farm customer pays around $109 per month for auto insurance, according to Compare.com data. USAA, on the other hand, averages $97 per month.
Our editorial team created this article with the help of highly trained generative artificial intelligence (AI) tools. Additionally, multiple insurance experts — including at least one licensed agent — have rigorously reviewed, fact-checked, and edited every word and data point you see here. We write, edit, and review all the content on Compare.com according to our strict editorial standards, regardless of how we created it. Learn more about our editorial process.
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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