In Kentucky, while Cincinnati Insurance ranks highest overall with a MoneyGeek score of 94.79, those seeking minimal coverage policies should consider Cincinnati Insurance, with its top MoneyGeek score of 97.75. Auto-Owners leads for families with teen drivers, offering tailored services for their unique needs. If saving money is key, explore the cheapest car insurance in Kentucky, recommended by MoneyGeek for budget-focused consumers.
Best Car Insurance in Kentucky (2024)
Updated: December 3, 2024
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Key Takeaways
In Kentucky, Cincinnati Insurance is the best overall car insurance provider, boasting a MoneyGeek score of 98 and an annual premium of $933, while Auto-Owners is the runner-up.
In Kentucky, Cincinnati Insurance is the top provider for minimum coverage car insurance with an annual premium of $291, distinguished by its outstanding customer satisfaction and affordability.
In Kentucky, Cincinnati Insurance is the top car insurance provider for customer service, earning a MoneyGeek score of 98 out of 100, surpassing its closest competitor, Westfield, which holds a score of 95 out of 100.
Why Trust MoneyGeek? We created an insurance scoring system for providers in Kentucky 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 Kentucky.
25,510Quotes Analyzed
37Companies Compared
13ZIP Codes
Best Car Insurance Companies in Kentucky: Overview
The top car insurance provider in Kentucky, based on the MoneyGeek score, is Cincinnati Insurance with a score of 95 out of 100. The scores among insurers in Kentucky range from 95 to 68, reflecting the variation from the highest to the lowest ranked companies in MoneyGeek's baseline scoring system. Different types of drivers may find their MoneyGeek scores for insurers vary, as these scores are tailored according to specific driving profiles and needs.
How does MoneyGeek score companies?
Overall MoneyGeek scores assess insurers based on key factors valued by consumers, with particular emphasis on customer satisfaction and affordability. Moreover, significant importance is given to the claims experience and offered coverages to give users comprehensive insights on their potential insurer’s quality.
While examining the no_score dataset, it was noted that Kentucky Farm Bureau doesn't qualify for a MoneyGeek score due to incomplete data on all five scoring components. Despite this, it exhibits robust performance in customer satisfaction, reflecting the company's strength within that specific area.
Data filtered by:Results filtered by:
Select
Category:Best Overall
| Cincinnati Insurance | 95 | $933 |
| Auto-Owners Insurance Co | 92 | $828 |
| Nationwide | 90 | $790 |
| Shelter | 85 | $1,161 |
| Travelers | 84 | $957 |
| Westfield | 77 | $1,603 |
| GEICO | 76 | $1,147 |
| Progressive | 74 | $1,395 |
| State Farm | 70 | $1,581 |
| Grange Insurance | 69 | $1,376 |
| Allstate | 68 | $1,481 |
| Kentucky Farm Bureau | No Data | $1,113 |
Overall Best Car Insurance in Kentucky
MoneyGeek found that Cincinnati Insurance is the best full coverage car insurance option in Kentucky, achieving the highest MoneyGeek score. For drivers valuing a blend of customer satisfaction, affordability, and claims handling, this provider stands out in the Bluegrass State.
- Cincinnati Insurance: MoneyGeek score of 95 out of 100 ($933 per year)
- Auto-Owners: MoneyGeek score of 92 out of 100 ($828 per year)
Cincinnati Insurance shines due to its exceptional customer satisfaction and claims handling scores. It offers Kentucky drivers a balance between quality service and cost-effective annual premiums.
In Kentucky, while there are a variety of companies each offering different cost and service experiences, those seeking to minimize expenses should consider MoneyGeek's analysis of the cheapest full coverage car insurance in Kentucky. It's essential for consumers to review multiple insurers to find the right fit for their specific requirements.
Cincinnati Insurance
pros
Ranks well for key coverages, offering rare options like glass deductible modification.
cons
Does not excel in customer service with a satisfaction score of 34
Does not offer original equipment manufacturer (OEM) coverage
COMPANY HIGHLIGHTS
Cincinnati Insurance's impressive MoneyGeek score largely stems from its top-tier satisfaction (34 out of 35) and comprehensive coverage (10 out of 10). The insurer offers roadside assistance and rental car and/or travel reimbursement, ensuring the most sought-after protections are in place. Their range extends to reasonably common coverages like new car replacement and gap insurance, further showcasing their commitment to a well-rounded policy.
Glass deductible modification, a rare coverage, waives deductibles on glass replacement, elevating client ease in the event of minor damages. Antique/classic car insurance caters to the unique needs of vintage car enthusiasts, while lock replacement safeguards against theft, providing up to $1,500 for new locks, illustrating Cincinnati's understanding of diverse driver concerns.
Best Car Insurance in Kentucky for Customer Service
MoneyGeek found that Cincinnati Insurance is the best option in Kentucky for customer service in car insurance.
- Cincinnati Insurance: MoneyGeek score of 98 out of 100 ($933 per year)
- Westfield: MoneyGeek score of 95 out of 100 ($1603 per year)
Cincinnati Insurance stands out primarily due to its outstanding satisfaction and claims handling scores, which are significant contributors to its near-perfect MoneyGeek score. It also offers the advantage of great service at a more affordable cost compared to its closest competitor, Westfield.
In Kentucky, the range of car insurance companies offers different levels of customer satisfaction and claims experiences. Excellent customer service is vital for any insurance company, as it significantly affects the ease and satisfaction with which customers can resolve their claims and inquiries. A good claims process is equally important because it reassures policyholders that in times of need, their concerns will be addressed efficiently and effectively.
Cincinnati Insurance
pros
Ranks well in state for general customer satisfaction
Offers rare coverages like glass deductible modification
cons
Does not excel in customer service
Does not offer OEM coverage
COMPANY HIGHLIGHTS
Cincinnati Insurance boasts its high MoneyGeek score primarily due to its satisfaction score, an impressive 44 (out of 45), and its claims handling score, which is an equally significant 29 (out of 30). While it does offer the two most common car insurance coverages—roadside assistance and rental car and/or travel reimbursement—its lack of gap insurance or new car replacement can be seen as a slight oversight. Despite this, it remains a stellar choice because of its high MoneyGeek scores.
Among the reasonably common coverages, gap insurance stands out as useful in protecting against negative equity on a financed car, whereas new car replacement is invaluable when your new vehicle is totaled. For rare coverages, glass deductible modification is highly practical; it waives deductibles for glass repairs, benefiting almost any driver.
Best Car Insurance in Kentucky for Minimum Coverage
MoneyGeek found that Cincinnati Insurance is the best option in Kentucky for drivers seeking minimum coverage car insurance. Here are the top two providers for your consideration:
- Cincinnati Insurance: MoneyGeek score of 98 out of 100 ($291 per year)
- Westfield: MoneyGeek score of 79 out of 100 ($623 per year)
Cincinnati Insurance has impressive ratings across several criteria, including the highest satisfaction and affordability scores. When it comes to the minimum insurance required by law in Kentucky, Cincinnati Insurance offers customer satisfaction and a cost-effective annual premium of $291.
While there are many companies in Kentucky offering affordable minimum coverage car insurance, such policies tend to offer less protection and can end up costing more in the long run if you're ever in an accident. It's worth considering the potential drawbacks of carrying only the minimum required insurance.
Cincinnati Insurance
pros
Offers both common and reasonably rare discounts
Ranks 1st in state for affordability with the lowest average annual premium of $291
cons
Doesn't excel in customer service, ranking 3rd in the state
COMPANY HIGHLIGHTS
Cincinnati Insurance's MoneyGeek score is most influenced by a perfect affordability score (40 out of 40) and top-tier satisfaction (24 out of 25), claims (19 out of 20) and coverage (10 out of 10). On average, drivers pay a mere $291 annually for their policy, showcasing significant value for comprehensive coverage. Customers can take advantage of discounts such as having anti-lock brakes and very rare discounts like anti-theft systems.
Cincinnati Insurance stands out with its breadth of discounts — bundling, good student, multiple car and safe driving. The air bag discount, a reasonably common option, can lower premiums for drivers with this added safety feature. The anti-lock brakes discount offers savings for drivers with this braking technology. With a stability score of 4 (out of 5), this insurer affirms its reliability, ensuring customers receive a balance of value and quality in their coverage.
Best Car Insurance in Kentucky by Driver Age
In Kentucky, driver age significantly influences car insurance rates, reflecting the correlation between age-related risk factors and cost. MoneyGeek found that Auto-Owners, with a score of 93, is the best option for teen drivers, offering an excellent blend of affordability and coverage at an annual premium of $1,882. For young adults, Cincinnati Insurance, scoring 93, provides the most advantageous package at $1,194 annually. Similarly, seniors will find Cincinnati Insurance to be superior, boasting a MoneyGeek score of 98 and a low annual premium of $761. These insurers are lauded for their respective coverages and targeted discounts, making them the top choices for each age group.
BEST IN KENTUCKY BY AGE
Best for teens: Auto-Owners
Best for seniors: Cincinnati Insurance
Best for young adults: Cincinnati Insurance
Best Car Insurance in Kentucky for Families With Teens
MoneyGeek found that Auto-Owners is the best option in Kentucky for car insurance for teens.
- Auto-Owners: MoneyGeek score of 93 out of 100 ($1,882 per year)
- Travelers: MoneyGeek score of 84 out of 100 ($1,925 per year)
Auto-Owners has top scores in satisfaction and claims handling, contributing significantly to their high MoneyGeek score. For families looking for affordable coverage, their annual cost of $1,882 for a teen policy is particularly attractive. To get cheap car insurance for a teen in Kentucky, including them in a family policy is advisable, as it is much more economical.
Adding a teen to a car insurance policy is pricey due to teens' lack of driving experience and higher risk of accidents statistically. These factors lead insurers to charge higher premiums to offset the risk posed by younger, less experienced drivers.
Auto-Owners
pros
Offers good student and distant student discounts.
Ranks 1st in state for claims handling.
Ranks 1st in state for key coverage options.
cons
Customer satisfaction, rank is 3
Affordability rank is 4, with an average annual premium of $1,882 for full coverage
Missing driver's education discount
COMPANY HIGHLIGHTS
Auto-Owners has an exceptional coverage score of 10 (out of 10) and claims handling score of 20 (out of 20), resulting in a high MoneyGeek Score of 92. Despite lacking specific discounts for young drivers such as distant student and driver's education, its notable scores in affordability, claims, coverage and stability ensure comprehensive value for customers.
Auto-Owners offers coverage packages that bundle multiple rare coverages for convenience and added security. Additionally, it offers gap insurance, which gives financial protection against vehicle depreciation. Diminished value coverage ensures compensation for value lost due to accidents, an essential consideration for maintaining an investment in your vehicle. Together, these options underscore Auto-Owners's dedication to offering robust and tailored insurance solutions.
Best Car Insurance in Kentucky for Seniors
MoneyGeek found that Cincinnati Insurance is the best option in Kentucky for seniors seeking car insurance. This provider not only delivers exceptional service but offers competitive pricing.
- Cincinnati Insurance: MoneyGeek score of 98 out of 100 ($761 per year)
- Auto-Owners MoneyGeek score of 92 out of 100 ($758 per year)
Cincinnati Insurance distinguishes itself through a high satisfaction score, indicating a positive customer experience. Their solid claims handling and comprehensive coverage options greatly contribute to their top MoneyGeek score. For seniors needing reliable car insurance coverage in Kentucky, the annual cost from the winner is $761. When getting cheap car insurance for a senior in Kentucky, this cost is quite competitive, considering that seniors often pay slightly more compared to individuals in their 30s to 50s.
Car insurance premiums do not necessarily skyrocket for seniors once they reach their 60s. While it is true that rates for drivers in their 70s and 80s may be higher, the increase is not a foregone conclusion, and many factors play a role. MoneyGeek's data reflects this, illustrating that with the right provider, older adults can secure rates that are both fair and reflective of their driving experience.
Cincinnati Insurance
pros
Offers roadside assistance and rental car/travel reimbursement
Ranks 1st in the state for key coverage options
cons
Ranks 3rd in the state for customer satisfaction
Ranks 3rd in the state for affordability, average annual premium $761
Ranks 3rd in the state for claims handling
COMPANY HIGHLIGHTS
Cincinnati Insurance stands out with top-tier satisfaction (34 out of 35) and coverage (10 out of 10) scores, creating an impressive overall MoneyGeek Score of 98. Its offerings include rental car and/or travel reimbursement, ensuring support when mishaps occur. Despite lacking new car replacement or gap insurance, Cincinnati Insurance's high-performance in satisfaction and stability signifies a reputable choice.
With an average annual premium of $761, Cincinnati Insurance does not offer a senior discount. However, it provides a range of common discounts such as bundling and multiple car, which may yield significant savings. Cincinnati Insurance's roadside assistance, bolstered up to $250 in coverage, is particularly useful for seniors who value peace of mind during travel disruptions. The Rental Car and/or Travel Reimbursement coverage further enhances the experience by facilitating mobility and reducing inconvenience during car repairs, making it an ideal insurer for seniors seeking comprehensive protection and service excellence.
Best Car Insurance in Kentucky for Young Adults
MoneyGeek found that Cincinnati Insurance is the best car insurance option for young adults in Kentucky, scoring highest among its competitors.
- Cincinnati Insurance: MoneyGeek score of 94 out of 100 ($1,194 per year)
- Shelter: MoneyGeek score of 91 out of 100 ($1,175 per year)
Cincinnati Insurance stands out with its impressive MoneyGeek score, particularly excelling in the customer satisfaction and claims handling departments— crucial factors for drivers in their 20s seeking reliable and supportive coverage. With an annual policy cost of $1,194, Cincinnati Insurance offers a balance between quality and expense for young adult policies in Kentucky, highlighting that obtaining cheap car insurance for a young adult in Kentucky typically incurs a slightly higher price in comparison to older age groups.
Young adults face higher insurance premiums due to their relative inexperience on the road and the higher statistical likelihood of filing a claim.
Cincinnati Insurance
pros
Ranks well for claims satisfaction, standing 3rd in the state
Offers Good Student discount, benefiting young drivers with good grades
cons
Ranks 5th in affordability with an average annual premium of $1,194
Customer satisfaction is lower, ranking 3rd in the state
Missing distant student and driver's education discounts
COMPANY HIGHLIGHTS
Cincinnati Insurance has good satisfaction (34 out of 35) and coverage (10 out of 10). While it provides a good student discount, it lacks the distant student and driver's education discounts; however, its scores in other categories more than compensate. The availability of both common coverages, roadside assistance and rental car and/or travel reimbursement, strengthens its position.
For drivers seeking added protection, Cincinnati Insurance includes valuable coverage options. Glass deductible modification is particularly appealing as it waives the deductible for glass replacement and repair. For those who cherish classic vehicles you can get antique/classic car insurance. Lock replacement is a noteworthy offering that covers up to $1,500 to replace door locks if your keys are lost or stolen. Such specialized coverages clearly prioritize customer needs and the varied circumstances car owners may face.
Best Car Insurance in Kentucky for Drivers With Offenses
MoneyGeek found that Shelter is the best option in Kentucky for drivers with driving offenses, leading in affordability, claims handling, and a solid customer satisfaction track record.
- Shelter: MoneyGeek score of 93 out of 100 ($1,405 per year)
- Auto-Owners: MoneyGeek score of 92 out of 100 ($1,323 per year)
Shelter distinguishes itself as the top choice by successfully combining competitive pricing with excellent claims handling and customer satisfaction. In Kentucky, these factors are crucial for drivers with speeding tickets, at-fault accidents, and DUIs, which are substantial contributors to the overall score. For a driver with offenses, Shelter’s annual cost remains relatively affordable at $1405.
Understanding that to get cheap car insurance as a high-risk driver in Kentucky might still mean paying more than the average person without offenses. Generally, drivers with infractions on their records can expect higher premiums as they are considered higher risk. Insurers price policies to offset the increased probability of filing a claim, the same trend applicable in other states beyond Kentucky.
Shelter
pros
Excels in claims satisfaction, ranking 2nd in the state
Offers common and reasonably common coverages, including roadside assistance and rental reimbursement
cons
Does not rank in the top 2 for customer satisfaction
Ranks 3rd in state for cost; average annual premium is $1,405
Lacks accident forgiveness, new car, and better car replacement coverages
COMPANY HIGHLIGHTS
Shelter's remarkable MoneyGeek score hinges on outstanding levels of satisfaction and affordability, pushing it ahead in the personal insurance space. It offers the essential coverages useful for those with a poor driving record. With an average annual premium of $1,405 and an affordability score above 25, Shelter stands as an affordable choice for those with driving offenses who typically face higher rates.
Shelter extends roadside assistance, ensuring help is at hand during common roadside troubles. Rental car and/or travel reimbursement coverage means that if you're ever in an accident, you won't be stranded without transportation, easing the inconvenience while your vehicle is repaired. These coverages, backed by competitive pricing and strong customer satisfaction, make Shelter a leading option for those seeking both comprehensive protection and value.
Best Car Insurance in Kentucky for New Cars
MoneyGeek found that Travelers is the best option in Kentucky for drivers of new cars looking for reliable cars insurance.
- Travelers: MoneyGeek score of 93 out of 100 ($,1069 per year)
- Allstate: MoneyGeek score of 66 out of 100 ($2,119 per year)
Travelers has a superior MoneyGeek score and attractive policy offerings that include new car replacement and/or better car replacement coverages, which are crucial for drivers with new vehicles. The high score is indicative of top-notch customer satisfaction, affordability, claims handling, coverage options and financial stability. With an annual cost of $1,069, choosing an insurer like Travelers, which offers new or better car replacement, can be financially advantageous in case of an accident.
Travelers
pros
Ranks well for general customer satisfaction
Ranks well for claims satisfaction
Ranks 1st in state for cost, $1,069 average annual premium
Offers new car replacement coverage
cons
Does not excel in customer service
COMPANY HIGHLIGHTS
Travelers' remarkable MoneyGeek score of 93 is bolstered by its top marks in affordability and claims handling, both scoring a perfect 30 (out of 30) and 20 (out of 20) respectively. The company offers the optional add-ons of new car replacement, ensuring drivers with new cars can replace their vehicle with a brand-new model of a similar make and model in the event of total loss. Travelers' average annual premium stands at $,1069.
Additionally, roadside assistance and rental car reimbursement enhance the policyholder's experience by ensuring help is available in roadside breakdowns and mobility is maintained while the insured vehicle is under repair. Accident forgiveness and gap insurance are also reasonably common coverages, illustrating Travelers' comprehensive approach to protecting their clients on and off the road.
Best Car Insurance in Kentucky for Military Backgrounds
MoneyGeek found that Cincinnati Insurance is the best option in Kentucky for car insurance for military personnel. The company stands out with its impressive MoneyGeek score and balance of quality service and affordability.
- Cincinnati Insurance: MoneyGeek score of 93 out of 100 ($933 per year)
- Auto-Owners: MoneyGeek score of 92 out of 100 ($828 per year)
Although USAA is also a good option for those with a military background, based on the MoneyGeek score, which values a balance of service quality and affordability, it did not win in Kentucky.
Cincinnati Insurance excels with high ratings in satisfaction, claims handling and coverage, which are major contributors to its top MoneyGeek score. The annual cost of $933 also makes it an attractive choice for those looking for quality insurance at a competitive rate. Military drivers in Kentucky who are focused on rates should consider the cheapest car insurance in Kentucky for military drivers.
Cincinnati Insurance
pros
Ranks well for general customer satisfaction (4th)
Ranks well for claims satisfaction (3rd)
Offers rare coverages like glass deductible modification
cons
Doesn't excel in customer service (32.67 score)
Costlier than some, ranking 3rd in affordability ($933 average premium)
Does not offer OEM coverage or new car replacement
COMPANY HIGHLIGHTS
Cincinnati Insurance achieves its impressive MoneyGeek Score of 93 mainly due to high marks in satisfaction (32 out of 35) and claims handling (19 out of 20). This company offers an average annual premium of $933. Glass deductible modification stands out as a rare coverage beneficial for many drivers, waiving the deductible for glass repair or replacement—essential for keeping your view of the road clear without additional costs.
New car replacement ensures you get a new vehicle if your car is totaled, providing much-needed peace of mind in serious incidents. Gap insurance also falls under reasonably common coverages, safeguarding your finances by covering the difference between your car’s market value and the loan balance if your car is a total loss, an important consideration for those with auto loans.
How to Find the Best Car Insurance in Kentucky for You
The finest car insurance providers in Kentucky seamlessly blend cost-effectiveness, substantial financial security and a history of exceptional customer service. MoneyGeek's comprehensive research offers you insights into leading companies known for their reliability and value. For those pursuing thorough personal research, there are at least four critical steps to consider to help you make a well-informed decision.
- 1
Research customer service reputations in Kentucky
Exceptional customer service is a cornerstone for a car insurer in Kentucky, ensuring swift and supportive responses when accidents occur. Prospective policyholders are advised to consult independent evaluators like JD Power and the NAIC for insights into an insurer's performance. According to MoneyGeek's analysis, Cincinnati Insurance leads with a near-perfect customer satisfaction score of 44 (out of 45) and a claims handling score of 29 (out of 30), demonstrating their commitment to service excellence.
- 2
Compare quotes
In Kentucky, comparing car insurance quotes can lead to savings without compromising on service quality. It's essential for drivers to conduct their own research to find the most affordable options tailored to their individual profiles. MoneyGeek's research identifies Cincinnati Insurance as the top choice for minimum coverage, offering an annual premium of $291, making it an attractive option for cost-conscious consumers.
- 3
Find the coverages you want in Kentucky
Choosing the right coverages is critical for Kentucky drivers to ensure their insurance needs are met. It is recommended that individuals assess which insurers offer coverages that align with their requirements. MoneyGeek's evaluation reveals that Grange Insurance, Shelter, Travelers, Auto-Owners, Allstate, Nationwide, Cincinnati Insurance, Progressive and Westfield all received a perfect coverage score of 10, indicating they provide all four key coverages.
- 4
Check financial stability ratings
Selecting an insurer with a strong financial stability rating is crucial to minimize the risk of claim payment issues. Policyholders should research insurers with top-tier financial strength. According to MoneyGeek, Travelers, Auto-Owners Insurance Co, State Farm, and GEICO each earned a stability score of 5 (the highest possible), reflecting an A++ rating from A.M. Best and affirming their exceptional financial reliability.
FAQ: Best Car Insurance in Kentucky
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.
Which company offers the best car insurance in Kentucky?
Which company is the best for cheap car insurance in Kentucky?
Cincinnati Insurance stands out as the best for cheap car insurance in Kentucky, with an annual premium for a minimum coverage policy at $291. Its overall MoneyGeek score is 98. While minimum coverage policies are less expensive, they offer limited protection. Consumers can find affordable full coverage policies by comparing quotes.
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.