Updated: December 3, 2024
Advertising & Editorial Disclosure
Auto-Owners leads the Idaho car insurance market, according to MoneyGeek, earning top scores across the board. It is the best choice for minimum coverage policies and families with teen drivers.
For those prioritizing affordability, MoneyGeek evaluated the cheapest car insurance in Idaho.
In Idaho, Auto-Owners stands out as the best overall car insurance provider with an outstanding MoneyGeek score of 97 and an annual premium of $495, while American Family is the runner-up.
In Idaho, Auto-Owners is the top car insurance provider for minimum coverage, with an annual premium of $203.
In Idaho, Auto-Owners is recognized as the leading car insurance provider for customer service, achieving a top MoneyGeek score of 95 out of 100, while the runner-up, American Family, scored 89 out of 100, reflecting Auto-Owners' superior satisfaction and claims handling at more competitive rates.
Why Trust MoneyGeek? We created an insurance scoring system for providers in Idaho based on customer satisfaction, claims experience, essential coverages, affordability and financial stability using six independent sources.
These recommendations were updated in March 2024 to reflect the current best car insurance options in Idaho.
In Idaho, Auto-Owners emerges as the premier car insurance provider, with an impressive MoneyGeek score of 97 out of 100. The range of scores among the evaluated companies spans from 97 to 72, based on MoneyGeek's standard scoring framework. Insurance carriers may receive different scores according to specific driver profiles.
How does MoneyGeek score companies?
MoneyGeek scores highlight the importance of customer satisfaction and affordability while also giving considerable weight to claims experience and offered coverages. These metrics indicate an insurer's overall performance, guiding consumers to make informed decisions about their insurance needs.
Certain insurers, such as Dairyland and Idaho Farm Bureau, are present in the state but do not have a complete MoneyGeek score because their data across all five scoring components is unavailable, specifically in claims handling. Idaho Farm Bureau stands out for customer satisfaction in particular.
| Auto-Owners Insurance Co | 97 | $495 |
| American Family | 90 | $667 |
| American National P&C | 87 | $491 |
| State Farm | 87 | $495 |
| Travelers | 86 | $755 |
| Nationwide | 83 | $895 |
| Farmers | 80 | $765 |
| GEICO | 79 | $686 |
| Allstate | 72 | $970 |
| Dairyland | No Data | $1,791 |
| Idaho Farm Bureau | No Data | $718 |
MoneyGeek found that Auto-Owners is the best option in Idaho for drivers seeking the best full coverage car insurance. The top two providers are as follows:
Auto-Owners stands out in the Idaho market because of its competitive rates and superior satisfaction and claims handling scores, which are instrumental factors in its high overall MoneyGeek score.
In Idaho, drivers encounter a diverse landscape of insurers, each balancing cost with unique service experiences. If you are watching your budget, MoneyGeek also evaluated the companies that offer the cheapest full coverage car insurance in Idaho, enabling savings without compromising on essential coverage.
Ranks No.1 for claims handling.
Offers roadside assistance and gap insurance.
Ranks No. 2 for key coverages.
Ranks No. 3 in customer satisfaction, scoring 34 out of 35.
Ranks No. 3 in cost, with an average annual premium of $495.
Does not offer OEM coverage.
Auto-Owners stands out for its high MoneyGeek scores, particularly in satisfaction and claims handling. The company offers common coverages — roadside assistance and rental car/travel reimbursement — indicating a comprehensive approach. With common coverages such as accident forgiveness and deductible modification, Auto-Owners presents an attractive package for consumers. Despite having a slightly lower coverage score (9 out of 10), Auto-Owners is a great option, reflecting its overall superior MoneyGeek score.
When it comes to rare coverages, Auto-Owners offers diminished value coverage, which is beneficial as it may compensate for a vehicle's lost value after an accident. Another useful coverage is its unique coverage package, the Personal Automobile Plus Package, which simplifies protection with multiple coverages combined into one convenient bundle. Additionally, gap insurance shields against financial shortfall when a car's market value falls below the owed amount on the loan, particularly important shortly after purchasing a new car. With solid MoneyGeek scores, satisfaction at 34 (out of 35) and affordability at 30 (out of 30), Auto-Owners provides valuable offerings and peace of mind.
MoneyGeek found that Auto-Owners is the best option in Idaho for outstanding customer service in car insurance.
Auto-Owners stands out due to its supreme customer satisfaction and claims handling scores. It provides top-tier service at a more affordable cost than its closest competitor, American Family, reflecting a significant value for customers seeking both quality service and cost-effectiveness in their car insurance.
In Idaho, excellent customer service and efficient claims processing are crucial for an insurance company as they contribute to a stress-free experience for policyholders, particularly during the often tense times following an accident or vehicle damage. With Auto-Owners, customers in Idaho can count on a provider that delivers both a high-quality service experience and competitive pricing.
Ranks No. 1 for claims satisfaction.
Offers rare coverage such as diminished value and accident forgiveness.
Ranks No. 3 for customer satisfaction, scoring 43 out of 45.
Auto-Owners excels due to its high satisfaction (43 out of 45) and claims handling (30 out of 30) scores, contributing significantly to its impressive overall MoneyGeek score of 95 out of 100. The company offers both common coverages: rental car/travel reimbursement and roadside assistance, a clear positive for customers seeking comprehensive protection. Additionally, it provides coverages such as gap insurance and accident forgiveness, enhancing its policy offerings.
For rare coverages, Auto-Owners offers diminished value coverage, which can be very useful for drivers who experience an accident that causes their car to lose value. This coverage ensures customers receive compensation for this loss in value, above what is standard. Auto-Owners' coverage package simplifies the insurance process by bundling essential protections, making it easier for drivers to manage their policies. With deductible modification, drivers can lower their out-of-pocket costs in the event of a claim, providing substantial financial relief. These coverages, backed by the company's top satisfaction and claims handling scores, demonstrate why Auto-Owners is a leading choice for car insurance.
MoneyGeek found that Auto-Owners is the best option in Idaho for those seeking minimum coverage car insurance.
Auto-Owners distinguishes itself with the highest MoneyGeek score, which reflects its exceptional customer satisfaction and affordability. These factors contribute significantly to the overall score, making it a top choice for Idaho drivers. With an annual premium of $203, Auto-Owners offers competitive rates for the minimum insurance required by law in Idaho.
While many insurers may offer cheap minimum coverage car insurance in Idaho, it's important to consider the potential downsides. Choosing only the minimum insurance required by law may expose you to significant financial risks in case of more serious accidents where the costs exceed the policy limits. Adequate coverage is crucial to ensure proper protection on the road.
Offers common and rare discounts, enhancing savings potential.
Ranks No. 2 for affordability, with an average annual premium of $203 for minimum coverage.
Ranks No. 1 in claims handling.
Ranks No. 3 in customer satisfaction, scoring 22 out of 25.
Auto-Owners leads with exceptional affordability and claims handling, each contributing significantly to its high MoneyGeek score of 95. With an average annual premium of just $203, coverage from Auto-Owners is top-notch and economical for the average driver.
Despite the lack of discounts for minimum coverage car insurance policies, the company’s value propositions remain compelling, epitomized by an affordability score of 39 (out of 40) and an impeccable claims handling score of 20 (out of 20). Additionally, its coverage and satisfaction scores stand at 9 (out of 10) and 22 (out of 25), respectively, further evidencing the insurer’s commitment to providing comprehensive and satisfactory insurance offerings. Auto-Owners has also secured the highest stability score possible, a perfect 5 (out of 5), signifying a rock-solid financial footing. These scores collectively affirm the company's leading position and ability to deliver value and security to its policyholders.
Driver age significantly influences car insurance rates in Idaho, where cost, coverage options and discounts are carefully tailored to drivers' life stages. MoneyGeek found that Auto-Owners is the best option in Idaho for teen drivers, young adults and seniors, topping the charts for these age groups with MoneyGeek scores of 93, 97 and 97, respectively. With competitive premiums of $954 for teens, $682 for young adults and $488 for seniors, Auto-Owners offers a compelling choice across different age groups, backed by strong satisfaction and claims handling scores.
Best for Teens: Auto-Owners
Best for Seniors: Auto-Owners
Best for Young Adults: Auto-Owners
MoneyGeek found that Auto-Owners is the best option in Idaho for car insurance for teens. With careful evaluation, two companies stand out for their competitive offerings:
Auto-Owners distinguishes itself with exceptional satisfaction and claims handling scores, key factors contributing to its high MoneyGeek score. The annual premium for a teen's policy at Auto-Owners is $954, which is comparatively reasonable considering the cost of individual teen policies. To get cheap car insurance for a teen in Idaho, incorporating them into a family policy is a financially savvy choice.
Adding a teen to your car insurance policy in Idaho, as in other states, can be prohibitively expensive due to the higher risk teens pose on the road. Statistically, they're more likely to be involved in accidents, leading to a surge in premiums to offset the increased risk insurers undertake.
Offers good student and distant student discounts.
Ranks No. 1 for claims handling.
Ranks No. 2 for cost, with an average annual premium of $954 for full coverage.
Ranks No. 3 in customer satisfaction, scoring 33 out of 35.
Missing driver's education discount.
Auto-Owners stands out with its high MoneyGeek score of 93 out of 100, excelling in satisfaction (32 out of 35) and coverage (10 out of 10), driving its exceptional performance. Although it does not offer driver's education discount, it does provide good student and distant student discounts to eligible drivers.
Auto-Owners' diminished value coverage is a rare coverage that can be highly beneficial. If your vehicle's value decreases due to an accident, even after repairs, this option can make up for the loss in value. It also offers accident forgiveness, which can provide peace of mind by not raising your rates after your first at-fault accident, provided you meet certain conditions. The company's strong scores across multiple categories, including the maximum in claims handling (20 out of 20) and stability (5 out of 5), also compensate for any missing coverages or discounts.
MoneyGeek found that Auto-Owners is the best option in Idaho for car insurance for seniors, boasting the highest MoneyGeek score in the state. Here are the top contenders:
Auto-Owners stands out due to its exceptional claims handling and stability, indicating a reliable and financially secure choice for seniors seeking car insurance. Despite being a premium choice for seniors in Idaho, the annual cost for a policy with Auto-Owners remains competitive at $488.
Finding cheap car insurance for a senior in Idaho is important. Note that although seniors may sometimes pay more than those in younger age brackets, this is not always the case. In Idaho and other states, MoneyGeek has found that car insurance for seniors, particularly those in their 60s, may not necessarily cost more than for middle-aged adults. However, seniors in their 70s and beyond may see increased rates, as insurance costs tend to rise with age due to increased risk factors.
Offers roadside assistance and rental car/travel reimbursement.
Ranks No. 1 for claims handling.
Ranks No. 2 for affordability, with an average annual premium of $488 for full coverage.
Ranks No. 3 for customer satisfaction.
Auto-Owners excels in customer satisfaction and claims handling, with near-perfect scores driving its impressive overall MoneyGeek Score of 97 out of 100. While the company may not offer certain helpful coverages like roadside assistance or rental car/travel reimbursement, its outstanding performance in key categories more than compensates for this. With an average annual premium of $488, it stands out for its value. However, the insurer does not provide senior discounts, an opportunity for savings that senior customers will miss.
Despite not offering senior discounts, Auto-Owners' coverage options underscore a commitment to quality and customer care. Scoring exceptionally well in satisfaction (33 out of 35) and claims handling (20 out of 20), the insurer clearly prioritizes servicing its customers effectively and efficiently. Moreover, the strong affordability score (30 out of 30) indicates a competitive pricing model, and the solid coverage score (9 out of 10) reflects a wide range of standard protections that customers can rely on for ample security and peace of mind.
MoneyGeek found that Auto-Owners is the best option in Idaho for young adults seeking quality car insurance. Here's how the top contenders rank:
Auto-Owners distinguishes itself by scoring high on customer satisfaction and being the most affordable option for young adults. Its impressive affordability score, combined with the highest claims handling and stability scores, solidified its position at the top of MoneyGeek's rankings. Notably, it offers policies at an annual premium of $682, which is cost-effective for young adults in Idaho seeking to balance quality and price.
In Idaho and most other states, it is typically more expensive to cover a young adult with car insurance due to the higher risk associated with less experienced drivers. Insurers account for these risks, translating to young adults generally paying higher premiums than seasoned drivers. This demographic is statistically more likely to file claims, prompting insurance companies to charge more to offset potential costs.
Ranks No. 1 in claims handling.
Offers good student and distant student discounts.
Ranks No. 3 for customer satisfaction.
Ranks No. 3 for affordability, with an average annual premium of $682.
Does not offer driver's education discount.
Auto-Owners stands out with its exceptional satisfaction (33 out of 35) and claims handling (20 out of 20) scores, contributing significantly to its high MoneyGeek score. Notably, this company does not offer discounts specifically tailored to young drivers, such as good student, distant student or driver's education. However, its strong performance in other critical areas like affordability (29 out of 30) effectively compensates for this. In terms of coverage, the company does not provide rental car/travel reimbursement or roadside assistance, which would be a slight negative for those seeking these common coverages.
Despite not offering discounts for young drivers and missing common coverages, Auto-Owners demonstrates a commitment to customer satisfaction, reliability in claims handling and providing excellent value, maintaining a balance between cost and quality service. Customers can place their trust in Auto-Owners' solidity and overall excellence in insurance services.
MoneyGeek found that Auto-Owners is the best option in Idaho for drivers with driving offenses, offering an outstanding balance between satisfaction, affordability and claims handling.
Auto-Owners shines notably due to its strong satisfaction and claims handling scores, making it a leading choice for those looking for a reliable carrier. MoneyGeek’s evaluation includes various factors that reflect a diverse group of drivers with speeding tickets, at-fault accidents, and DUIs. Auto-Owners manages to secure its top position while still offering a competitive annual cost of $748 for drivers with offenses. To get cheap car insurance as a high-risk driver in Idaho, be prepared to pay more than mature adults with clean records.
The increased rates for high-risk drivers in Idaho and other states are due to the elevated risk these drivers pose. Insurers generally view offenses like tickets, at-fault accidents or DUIs as indicators of risky driving behavior, which statistically leads to more claims. As a result, insurers charge higher premiums to mitigate this risk.
Ranks No. 1 for claims satisfaction.
Offers common coverages such as roadside assistance, rental car reimbursement and accident forgiveness.
Ranks No. 3 in customer satisfaction.
Ranks No. 4 for cost, with an average annual premium of $748.
Lacks coverages like new car and better car replacement.
Auto-Owners shines with stellar satisfaction (33 out of 35) and claims handling (20 out of 20) scores, significantly contributing to its outstanding MoneyGeek score of 95 out of 100. The company doesn't offer new or better car replacement coverage. However, the strength in customer satisfaction and service easily makes up for these omissions. With an affordability score of 28 (out of 30) and an average annual premium of $748, Auto-Owners presents an affordable option, accommodating drivers with offenses who typically face higher rates.
Auto-Owners' high satisfaction and claims handling scores demonstrate its commitment to exceptional customer service and efficient claims resolution — key for drivers who've faced infractions. The company's stability ensures reliable coverage continuity, adding peace of mind to a clientele that values dependable support after incidents on the road.
MoneyGeek found that Travelers is the best option in Idaho for drivers with new cars looking for insurance.
Travelers stands out as it offers important coverages that MoneyGeek deems essential for drivers with new vehicles, including new car replacement or better car replacement options. In addition to these coverages, the highest contributors to Travelers’ MoneyGeek score include its superior satisfaction, affordability, claims handling and stability scores. At an annual cost of $874, choosing an insurer like Travelers that offers these replacement coverages could result in significant savings in the event of an accident. Without such coverages, you would only be compensated for the current value of your car, factoring in depreciation, which can be substantially lower than the cost of replacing the vehicle.
Excels in customer satisfaction, ranking No. 1.
Excels in claims handling, ranking No. 1.
Ranks No. 1 for affordability, with an average annual premium of $874 for full coverage.
Provides new car replacement coverage and gap insurance.
Travelers leads with a MoneyGeek score of 100 out of 100, having perfect scores in satisfaction, stability, coverage, claims handling and affordability. With optional add-ons like new car replacement, Travelers offers peace of mind for drivers of new vehicles, though it's essential to note that these come at an additional cost. The company's average annual premium stands at $874.
Travelers' new car replacement coverage can be particularly valuable for drivers with new cars, safeguarding their investment against the immediate depreciation that occurs once the car leaves the dealership. This coverage ensures that if a new car is totaled or stolen, the owner can receive the value of a brand-new car, not just the depreciated value. Such an option is ideal for ensuring that a sudden loss doesn't leave drivers with a financial burden in addition to the stress of losing their vehicle.
MoneyGeek found that Auto-Owners is the best option in Idaho for military personnel looking for car insurance. The providers that stand out for their impressive scores are:
Although ranked No. 2 in MoneyGeek's evaluation, USAA is also a good option for those with a military background, as it values a balance of service quality and affordability.
Auto-Owners distinguishes itself with a high MoneyGeek score bolstered by premium marks in customer satisfaction and claims handling, making it particularly appealing. Despite not being the cheapest option available, the combination of quality service and reasonable affordability contributes prominently to its standing. However, if you prioritize affordability, you can also explore the cheapest car insurance in Idaho for military drivers. Auto-Owners offers an annual premium of $495, which evidences its commitment to offering competitive rates while maintaining exemplary service.
Ranks No. 1 in claims handling.
Ranks No. 2 for key coverages.
Offers roadside assistance and rental car/travel reimbursement coverages.
Does not excel in customer service; has a lower satisfaction score.
Ranks No. 4 in affordability, with an average annual premium of $495.
Auto-Owners excels in customer satisfaction (33/35) and claims handling (20/20, contributing significantly to its impressive MoneyGeek score of 96 out of 100. The company’s competitively low average annual premium stands at $495, making it an attractive option for cost-conscious consumers seeking top-rated service despite not offering rare or some other common coverages.
While Auto-Owners does not offer rare or some other common coverages, clients benefit from the peace of mind of knowing they are dealing with a highly responsive and customer-focused insurer. Its coverage score reaches 9 (out of 10), indicating a robust selection of standard policy options that meet the needs of most drivers. Consumers can also rely on its stability in the market, reflected by a stability score of 5 (out of 5). Auto-Owners' commitment to customer service and claims support makes it a leader deserving of its high MoneyGeek standing.
Selecting the best car insurance in Idaho hinges on a blend of competitive pricing, financial dependability and superior customer care. At MoneyGeek, we've meticulously evaluated these factors to aid you in making an informed choice. If you want to conduct your own research, we recommend following these four steps:
In Idaho, exceptional customer service is crucial for car insurers, as it directly impacts customer satisfaction and claim resolution experiences. Drivers should consult independent data providers like JD Power and the NAIC for comprehensive evaluations of insurers' service records. According to MoneyGeek's research, Auto-Owners stands out in Idaho with a customer satisfaction score of 43/45 and a claims handling score of 30/30, indicating their commitment to superior service.
Comparing car insurance quotes in Idaho can lead to significant savings without compromising service quality. Personalized research also helps you find the most cost-effective options based on your driver profile. MoneyGeek's analysis identifies Auto-Owners as the best choice for minimum coverage in Idaho, offering an annual premium of approximately $203, balancing affordability with reliable service.
Selecting the right coverages is a pivotal aspect of any car insurance policy. You should ensure that your chosen insurer provides coverages that align with your needs. While no insurer in MoneyGeek's study achieved a perfect coverage score of 10/10, American Family scored 10/10, indicating it offers all four essential coverages: rental car/travel reimbursement, roadside assistance, gap insurance and original equipment manufacturer coverage.
Choosing an insurer with a strong financial stability rating minimizes the risk of claim payment failures due to financial issues. According to MoneyGeek's evaluation, Travelers, Auto-Owners, GEICO and State Farm each received a perfect stability score of 5/5, reflecting the highest financial strength rating of A++ from AM Best, ensuring utmost reliability in claim settlements.
The best car insurance options for you largely depend on your specific needs and preferences. We’ve answered some of the most common questions to help you make the right purchase.
Auto-Owners stands out as the best for cheap car insurance in Idaho, offering an annual premium of $203 for a minimum coverage policy. It has a MoneyGeek score of 95 out of 100. Although minimum coverage policies are the most affordable, they may not provide comprehensive protection. Consumers can find affordable full coverage policies by comparing quotes to ensure they have adequate coverage.
About Mark Fitzpatrick
Mark Fitzpatrick is a Licensed Property and Casualty Insurance Producer and MoneyGeek's Head of Insurance. He has analyzed the insurance market for over five years, conducting original research and creating personalized content for every kind of buyer. He has been quoted in several insurance-related publications, including CNBC, NBC News and Mashable.
Fitzpatrick earned a master’s degree in economics and international relations from Johns Hopkins University and a bachelor’s degree from Boston College. He is passionate about using his knowledge of economics and insurance to bring transparency around financial topics and help others feel confident in their money moves.
