Updated: November 18, 2024
Advertising & Editorial Disclosure
In Missouri, State Farm leads with the best overall MoneyGeek score, whereas Shelter offers top-notch minimum coverage policies. Families with teen drivers might find Travelers to be the superior option. Each company excels in different areas, aligning with specific insurance needs.
MoneyGeek also analyzed the cheapest car insurance in Missouri if cost is your primary consideration, regardless of service quality.
Best Car InsuranceMissouriBest Car Insurance in Missouri
Why Trust MoneyGeek? We created an insurance scoring system for providers in Missouri 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 Missouri.
American Family emerges as the top-rated car insurance company in Missouri with a strong MoneyGeek score of 91 out of 100. Considering the evaluated companies, the MoneyGeek scores range from 60, the lowest of those scored, to 91. This spread illustrates the performance breadth within MoneyGeek's baseline scoring system, keeping in mind that scores may vary for different driver profiles.
How does MoneyGeek score companies?
MoneyGeek's scoring system places a high value on customer satisfaction outside of claims and affordability, while claims experience and offered coverages significantly influence the overall score. For consumers seeking insurance, these factors are key indicators of a well-rounded insurer. A top-ranked insurer not only meets monetary considerations but also ensures a positive experience in service and claims resolution, providing peace of mind over the basic necessity of coverage affordability.
| American Family | 91 | $1,003 |
| Shelter | 89 | $1,461 |
| Nationwide | 84 | $909 |
| Travelers | 84 | $1,035 |
| State Farm | 82 | $1,342 |
| Progressive | 77 | $1,416 |
| Allstate | 76 | $1,219 |
| AAA | 67 | $1,974 |
| GEICO | 66 | $2,131 |
| Kemper | 60 | $2,309 |
American Family is the best option in Missouri for best full coverage car insurance.
American Family stands out in Missouri for its exceptional blend of customer satisfaction, claims handling and stable financial outlook. The biggest contributors to its MoneyGeek score are the high satisfaction and claims handling scores, indicating that customers can expect an excellent service experience along with reliable support during claims processes.
Although American Family leads in terms of quality, consumers in Missouri have a variety of companies to choose from to match different cost and service needs. For those looking to keep expenses low, MoneyGeek also analyzed the companies that offer the cheapest full coverage car insurance in Missouri, presenting options for drivers prioritizing affordability.
Ranks well for general customer satisfaction.
Ranks well for claims handling.
Ranks 2nd for cost; average annual premium is $1003 for full coverage.
Offers rare coverages like OEM coverage.
American Family excels mainly due to its high satisfaction and coverage scores, which are instrumental in achieving its impressive MoneyGeek Score of 91. Despite offering common car insurance coverages like Roadside Assistance and Rental Car and/or Travel Reimbursement, American Family does not carry every reasonably common coverage, such as Accident Forgiveness and Gap Insurance.
American Family's rare coverage options cater to a variety of needs. Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) coverage is particularly pertinent for those who appreciate maintaining their vehicle with manufacturer-specific parts after accidents — ensuring cars stay true to factory specifications. Auto Death Indemnity Coverage offers financial protection in tragic circumstances, providing added peace of mind for policyholders. While not every driver will need Gap Insurance, those with financed vehicles may find it invaluable to cover potential discrepancies between the car's value and the amount owed on a loan.
Shelter is the best option in Missouri for exceptional car insurance focused on customer service.
Shelter stands out primarily due to its high ratings in customer satisfaction and claims handling, which are significant contributors to its near-perfect MoneyGeek score. Despite a higher annual premium than American Family, you are investing in Shelter's more consistent and reliable service experience.
In Missouri, the car insurance landscape features a diverse range of companies, each offering different levels of customer satisfaction and claims experiences. An insurance company should maintain excellent customer service and efficient claims processes because these factors directly impact a client's peace of mind and the overall perception of the insurer's reliability during stressful times. Reliable customer service ensures that policyholders receive personalized attention, prompt resolutions and a smooth claims process, which ultimately contributes to a better, more trusting relationship between the insurer and the insured.
Ranks well for customer satisfaction.
Ranks well for claims handling.
Offers roadside assistance and gap insurance.
With outstanding claims handling and satisfaction scores leading to a high MoneyGeek Score, Shelter Insurance stands as a top-tier option. Positive highlights include its offering of common coverages like Rental Car and/or Travel Reimbursement and Roadside Assistance, as well as Gap Insurance.
Shelter's Roadside Assistance provides invaluable peace of mind for those unexpected moments, like flat tires or dead batteries, where immediate help is just a call away. Additionally, Shelter's Rental Car and/or Travel Reimbursement is a godsend when your car is temporarily out of commission, easing transportation worries by covering the cost of a rental car. Gap Insurance is particularly beneficial if you're leasing or financing a vehicle, covering the difference between what you owe and the vehicle's actual cash value in case of a total loss.
Shelter is the best option in Missouri for car insurance with minimum coverage. With the highest MoneyGeek score in the state, it stands out as the top provider for drivers looking to obtain the minimum insurance required by law in Missouri.
Shelter distinguishes itself based on its impressive satisfaction, claims handling and affordability. It offers solid value for consumers, even if its annual cost of $661 is slightly higher than its closest competitor. Despite American Family having a lower annual premium, Shelter takes the lead when considering the aggregate score of different metrics.
In Missouri, many insurance companies offer competitively priced minimum coverage. But opting for the bare minimum in car insurance often means foregoing important protections that could be financially important in the event of anything more than a minor incident. Although cost-effective in the short term, skimping on coverage could lead to higher out-of-pocket expenses in case of an accident.
Offers common discounts like bundling and safe driving.
Ranks 1st for customer satisfaction.
Ranks 1st for claims handling.
Ranks 6th for affordability, with an average annual premium of $661 for minimum coverage.
Shelter's outstanding MoneyGeek Score is largely bolstered by exemplary satisfaction and claims handling, both maxing out their respective categories. With an average annual premium of just $661, drivers enjoy significant savings on their car insurance throughout the year. Shelter also offers reasonably common discounts like an anti-theft system discount and savings for factory-installed airbags, providing additional cost-saving opportunities.
Shelter distinguishes itself with a comprehensive range of discounts, including common discounts like Bundling, Good Student, Multiple Car and Safe Driving. This breadth of discounts demonstrates Shelter's commitment to catering to diverse customer needs. Beyond these, Shelter also provides a reasonably rare Military discount, benefiting active military personnel, offering added value and security for drivers.
Reaffirming Shelter's MoneyGeek Score, affordability plays a key role with a hefty score of 29 (out of 40). Combined with impeccable satisfaction (25 out of 25) and claims handling (20 out of 20) scores, Shelter stands out in the market not just for its financial accessibility, but also for its unwavering commitment to client satisfaction and robust coverage options.
Driver age is a significant factor in car insurance rates in Missouri, affecting costs and suitable coverages and discounts. MoneyGeek found that Travelers, with a score of 96, is the top choice for teenagers, offering an annual premium of $2,101. Young adults fare best with American Family, scoring 92 and an annual premium of $1,075. For seniors, Shelter is the winner at a score of 93 and a yearly rate of $1,131. These companies provide the most advantageous options for their respective age groups.
Best for teens: Travelers
Best for seniors: Shelter
Best for young adults: American Family
Travelers is the best option in Missouri for car insurance for teens, offering both high-quality coverage and a competitive annual premium.
Travelers stands out primarily due to its excellent claims handling and high satisfaction scores, important to customers who prioritize a hassle-free experience during stressful post-accident situations. It also has strong stability and comprehensive coverage options. Travelers also undercuts the competition with an annual cost of $2,101 for a teen policy. To get cheap car insurance for a teen in Missouri, adding a teen to a family policy is significantly more affordable than obtaining a separate policy for them.
The high cost of adding a teen to a car insurance policy in Missouri, as in other states, is attributed to their lack of driving experience and statistically higher risk of accidents. Teens are more likely to engage in risky driving behaviors, leading to more frequent claims, which insurers mitigate through higher premiums.
Offers Good Student, Distant Student and Driver's Education discounts.
Ranks 1st in state for claims handling
Excels in coverage options.
Ranks 3rd for customer satisfaction.
Ranks 4th for affordability; average annual premium is $2,101.
Travelers shines with top marks in satisfaction (34 out of 35) and coverage (10 out of 10), driving its impressive MoneyGeek Score of 96. With all three young driver discounts — Good Student, Distant Student and Driver's Education — Travelers proves to be beneficial for families with teens.
The Good Student discount rewards stellar academic performance, while the Distant Student discount supports families with children studying far from home. The Driver's Education discount incentivizes young drivers to improve their skills. For protection on the road, Roadside Assistance provides peace of mind with emergency services, and New Car Replacement offers significant benefit in event of a total loss of a new vehicle. These common and reasonably common coverages from Travelers can safeguard your vehicle investment and ensure help is available when you need it most.
Shelter is the best option in Missouri for car insurance for seniors, boasting the highest MoneyGeek score.
Shelter distinguishes itself as the top provider partly due to its excellent claims handling and a robust satisfaction score component, which are significant contributors to its overall performance in the MoneyGeek score. Looking for cheap car insurance for a senior in Missouri, one should expect to pay a premium somewhat above the usual rates for individuals in younger age groups; however, Shelter's annual cost for seniors is reasonable when considering the quality of service it pledges.
Car insurance premiums for seniors in Missouri do not necessarily exceed those for middle-aged drivers because MoneyGeek's data is based on rates for seniors in their 60s. But individuals reach their 70s and 80s, insurance rates may trend upwards. This pricing reflects the varied risk factors associated with driving at an advanced age.
Offers roadside assistance and rental car/travel reimbursement.
Ranks 1st for customer satisfaction.
Ranks 1st for claims handling.
Ranks 5th in state for affordability, average annual premium $1,218.
Shelter Insurance boasts an exceptional MoneyGeek Score due to its perfect satisfaction score of 35 (out of 35) and solid affordability score of 25 (out of 30), illustrating its customer-first approach and competitive pricing strategy. Offering both Roadside Assistance and Rental Car and/or Travel Reimbursement, Shelter ensures that even in cases of accident or vehicle malfunction, clients are supported and mobile. The company has an average annual premium of $1,218.
Peace of mind is possible with Shelter's coverages. With its Roadside Assistance, you're covered for those unexpected mishaps like a dead battery or flat tire — situations that can be particularly challenging for seniors. Its Rental Car and/or Travel Reimbursement is a boon for those who find themselves without a vehicle due to repairs. Shelter's blend of top-notch coverage options as well as a Senior Driver Discount for drivers 48 years and older exemplifies its commitment to serving a broad demographic with diverse needs. These coverages and savings complement its high satisfaction and affordability scores, demonstrating Shelter's leadership in offering a reliable and cost-effective insurance solution.
American Family is the best option in Missouri for car insurance for young adults, offering a superior balance of affordability, claims handling and overall satisfaction.
American Family distinguishes itself by achieving high scores in customer satisfaction and claims handling, both crucial elements for young drivers. MoneyGeek's data, focusing on drivers in their 20s, underscores American Family's ability to provide a cost-effective and reliable service, with an affordability score of 30 out of 100, which is particularly compelling. The annual cost for a policy from American Family stands at $1,062 for young adults, emphasizing that to get cheap car insurance for a young adult in Missouri an individual will likely pay more than older, more experienced drivers.
Car insurance is typically more expensive for young adults in Missouri and other states due to their lack of driving experience and the higher statistical likelihood of accidents among this age group. Insurers account for these risks by setting higher premiums for younger drivers.
Ranks 2nd for customer satisfaction.
Ranks 2nd for claims handling.
Ranks 1st for affordability; average annual premium $1,062.
Offers Good Student and Distant Student discounts.
No Driver's Education discount.
American Family's outstanding MoneyGeek Score is bolstered by remarkable satisfaction (33 out of 35) and affordability (30 out of 30), alongside its coverage (10 out of 10) offerings. While this company does not provide Driver's Education discounts, its Discounts for Good Students and Distant Students, make up for it. It also provides Rental Car and/or Travel Reimbursement and Roadside Assistance, ensuring peace of mind during unforeseen vehicle troubles.
American Family also other useful coverages, including Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) Coverage — a rare coverage that is widely applicable and ensures any replaced parts are new and from the original manufacturer, maintaining your car’s integrity. Accident Forgiveness can also prevent your premium from increasing after your first at-fault accident, a reasonably common coverage that eases the financial burden post-incident. Lastly, Gap Insurance can offer critical financial protection if your car is totaled by covering the difference between the vehicle's actual value and your remaining loan balance.
American Family is the best option in Missouri for drivers with driving offenses seeking quality car insurance coverage. With higher-risk profiles, Missouri drivers can turn to these top companies:
American Family stands out for its superior mix of affordability, claims handling and coverage options tailored to drivers who have records of speeding tickets, at-fault accidents or DUIs. When evaluating options for cheap car insurance as a high risk driver in Missouri, American Family's annual premium of $1,199 demonstrates that while affordable, costs tend to be higher compared to drivers without offenses, particularly for those in younger age demographics.
After a driving offense such as a ticket, at-fault accident or DUI, car insurance in Missouri and other states invariably becomes more costly due to the increased risk insurers associate with such drivers. These premiums reflect the insurer's need to cover potential future claims, given the statistical likelihood of repeat incidents among drivers with past infractions.
Ranks 2nd for general customer satisfaction.
Ranks 2nd in claims handling.
Ranks 1st for affordability; average premium $1,199 for full coverage with driving offenses.
Offers common coverages such as roadside assistance, rental car reimbursement and accident forgiveness.
American Family's exceptional MoneyGeek score is largely attributed to its high marks in affordability and satisfaction, which significantly boosted its overall rating. The insurer offers important coverages for those with a less-than-perfect driving record, including Roadside Assistance, Rental Car/Travel Reimbursement, Accident Forgiveness and Gap Insurance. With an average annual premium of $1,199, and an affordability score of 30 (out of 30), American Family is accessible to drivers with offenses who might face higher rates elsewhere.
American Family understands the challenges that come with having a spotty driving history. Roadside Assistance ensures that you're never left stranded, whether you face a breakdown on the road or in your driveway. For times when your vehicle is unavailable due to repairs, Rental Car/Travel Reimbursement coverage steps in to minimize inconvenience. Accident Forgiveness is particularly beneficial for keeping your rates from soaring after your first at-fault accident. Additionally, Gap Insurance protects against owing more than your car is worth if it's totaled.
Travelers is the best car insurance option in Missouri for drivers with new cars.
Travelers stands out not only for the relatively affordable annual premium but also for the company's high scores across multiple categories. MoneyGeek emphasizes the importance of insurers offering New Car Replacement and/or Better Car Replacement coverages, key benefits for those with newer vehicles. Not only could an insurer with New or Better Car Replacement save money in the event of an accident, despite potentially higher premiums, but it also ensures that policyholders will not just receive the depreciated value of their car — which is particularly beneficial in the case of newer cars.
Ranks 1st in claims handling.
Offers New Car Replacement, enhancing protection for new vehicles.
Ranks 1st in affordability, with an average annual premium of $1,134 for full coverage.
Does not excel in customer satisfaction, with a satisfaction score of 28.
Travelers excels in affordability and claims handling, key factors driving its impressive MoneyGeek score of 93 (out of 100). The company's competitive annual premium averages $1,134.
Travelers offers New Car Replacement for drivers who want peace of mind when it comes to their new vehicles. This coverage allows for the replacement of a totaled car with a brand-new one of the same make and model. This is especially beneficial for drivers who want to safeguard the investment in their new purchase without worrying about depreciation in the event of a total loss.
Aside from New Car Replacement, Travelers customers can also opt for common coverages like Roadside Assistance, Accident Forgiveness and Gap Insurance. This comprehensive range of options ensures that Travelers not only provides financial ease with an affordability score of 30 (out of 30), but also customer reassurance with a top claims handling score of 20 (out of 20).
USAA is the best option for car insurance for military members in Missouri, offering a superior balance of excellent service and affordability. Here are the top two providers:
USAA is renowned for its commitment to serving military families. It scored highly in customer satisfaction, claims handling and stability, contributing to its leading MoneyGeek score. USAA is exclusively available to current and former military members and their families. With an annual cost of $661, USAA not only stands out for its service but also for being highly affordable, which is significant for those looking for the cheapest car insurance in Missouri for military drivers.
Ranks 1st for customer satisfaction.
Ranks 1st for cost, with an average annual premium of $661 for full coverage.
Offers roadside assistance and rental car/travel reimbursement.
USAA stands out with top scores in satisfaction (35 out of 35) and affordability (30 out of 30), making it the leading choice with a comprehensive MoneyGeek Score of 89 (out of 100). Exclusive to military members and their families — whether active-duty or retired — USAA offers an average annual premium of $661.
Tailored to meet diverse needs, USAA provides rare coverages like Accident Forgiveness, which encourages safe driving with the promise of rate stability after five years of accident-free history. Additionally, for those unforeseen moments, USAA covers Roadside Assistance, offering aid for situations such as towing or jump-starting a vehicle. Is also offers Rental Car and/or Travel Reimbursement, ensuring that drivers have a mode of transportation when their car is under repair. These coverages, combined with USAA's claims handling (12 out of 20) and ample coverage options (7 out of 10), reinforce its commitment to serve with excellence.
In Missouri, the ideal car insurance providers excel by offering a perfect mix of affordability, solid financial strength and a history of exceptional customer service. MoneyGeek has diligently assessed these factors to simplify your search for the best option. Should you wish to conduct your own investigation, follow these steps to ensure a comprehensive understanding of your potential insurance partner:
In Missouri, exceptional customer service is vital for a car insurer, as it directly impacts client satisfaction and trust during claims processing. Consumers are advised to consult independent data such as JD Power and NAIC to evaluate a company's service record. Shelter emerges as the top performer in MoneyGeek's study, boasting a perfect customer satisfaction score of 45 (out of 45) and a claims handling score of 30 (out of 30), setting the standard for service excellence.
Comparing quotes is a strategic way for Missourians to economize on car insurance while maintaining high service quality. Individuals should conduct personalized research to uncover the most cost-effective options for their unique circumstances. MoneyGeek's analysis identifies Shelter as the foremost choice for minimum coverage in Missouri, with an annual premium of $661, exemplifying affordability without compromising on quality.
Selecting the right car insurance coverage is crucial as it ensures that specific needs are met in case of an accident. Prospective buyers should research to find insurers offering coverages that align with their requirements. According to MoneyGeek, American Family stands out with a perfect coverage score of 10, indicating the provision of all four essential coverages: Rental Car and/or Travel Reimbursement, Roadside Assistance, Gap Insurance and Original Equipment Manufacturer coverage.
Opting for an insurer with a robust financial stability rating is important, because it reduces the risk of claim payment failures due to financial troubles. It is recommended to verify ratings from credible sources to ensure insurer reliability. MoneyGeek recognizes Travelers, State Farm and GEICO for their impeccable stability score of 5 (the maximum), reflecting their A++ rating from A.M. Best and affirming their financial solidity.
By law, the State of Missouri requires all motorists to be insured. In other words, driving in Missouri without car insurance is illegal. The law requires minimum coverage at levels of 25K/50K/25K for bodily injury, property damage and uninsured motorist liability. The amount of coverage goes up from there. The cost of additional coverage for underinsured motorists is important to consider when choosing the best insurer in Missouri. Each state rates car insurance companies for financial solvency and the quality of service provided. The state of Missouri publishes these results. Check to ensure that the company you choose to insure is financially healthy and has stellar customer service. Obtain at least three quotes from national and regional car insurance providers.
Compare apples to apples. Compare comprehensive with comprehensive and liability with liability coverages and premiums. If you are not sure about what to look for, talk with family and friends, independent agents and national insurers.
Do not go by the commercials you see online or on TV. Check with local chambers of commerce for listings of agencies that are familiar with local regulations and nuances. These nuances can lower or increase costs. Check customer service reviews and ask to see the apps and dashboards that insured customers must use before they buy the policy. It is true that insurance companies take your money for coverage and raise premiums once you make a claim. Ask for available discounts and claims forgiveness that the company offers before you buy.
If you are a veteran, a student, a healthcare worker, a first responder or have a clean driving record and drive a car with safety features, you should receive a discount. Ask for a discount before you buy. Remember, car insurance is to protect you and your property from damage and liability. Read at least two or three blogs, create a list of pros and cons for each company you investigate and then make the best decision you can.
Ask a question, it’s free
Ask an expertThe 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.
American Family has been determined to be the best car insurance in Missouri with an overall MoneyGeek score of 91. The company boasts an annual premium of $1,003. The two biggest factors contributing to its score are Satisfaction, with a score of 33 out of 35, and Affordability, scoring 29 out of 30.
Shelter is recognized as the best for cheap car insurance in Missouri, with an annual premium for a minimum coverage policy at $661 and an overall MoneyGeek score of 86. However, minimum coverage policies may not cover all expenses in an accident. It's advisable to compare quotes to potentially find affordable full coverage policies that offer more protection.
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.
