Updated: December 3, 2024
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When considering car insurance in Montana, choose according to your needs. Nationwide ranks highest overall per MoneyGeek. It also offers the best minimum coverage policy, and Progressive is favored for families with teen drivers. Each company provides distinctive benefits tailored to different customer requirements.
MoneyGeek also analyzed the cheapest car insurance in Montana if cost is your primary consideration, regardless of service quality.
In Montana, Nationwide emerges as the top car insurance provider with a MoneyGeek score of 99 and an annual premium of $679, while State Farm is noted as the runner-up without specifying its score.
In Montana, Nationwide offers the best minimum coverage car insurance, providing exceptional service and affordability with an annual premium of $186.
In Montana, Nationwide ranks as the top car insurance provider for customer service with a MoneyGeek score of 99 out of 100, outperforming runner-up State Farm, which scored 94 out of 100.
Why Trust MoneyGeek? We created an insurance scoring system for providers in Montana 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 Montana.
Nationwide stands as the top car insurance company in Montana with a MoneyGeek score of 99. This score leads a range from 99 to 64 among companies evaluated, highlighting the variability in quality and service within MoneyGeek's baseline scoring system. It's important to note that these scores are not uniform across all driver profiles, as insurers may receive different scores based on specific driver criteria.
How does MoneyGeek score companies?
The overall MoneyGeek scores place highest emphasis on customer satisfaction and affordability, recognizing these factors as crucial to customer experience. However, the assessment comprehensively includes claims experience and offered coverages in the overall evaluation, assigning significant weight to each. These components work synergistically to create a score that represents a holistic view of what insurers provide to their consumers. MoneyGeek’s methodology ensures that customers receive a well-rounded examination of an insurer’s capabilities, reliability and value.
| Nationwide | 99 | $679 |
| State Farm | 94 | $658 |
| Farmers | 82 | $1,068 |
| Progressive | 81 | $1,204 |
| GEICO | 70 | $1,341 |
| Allstate | 67 | $1,274 |
| Kemper | 64 | $1,559 |
MoneyGeek found that Nationwide offers the best option in Montana for those seeking the best full coverage car insurance. Here are the top two providers according to their MoneyGeek scores and annual premium cost:
Nationwide stands out in Montana due to an excellent balance of affordability, customer satisfaction and comprehensive coverage. Its highest marks in claims handling, coupled with a strong stability score, contribute notably to its top MoneyGeek score.
In Montana, consumers can find a range of companies offering varying levels of cost and service experiences. For those looking to economize, MoneyGeek also evaluated providers that offer the cheapest full coverage car insurance in Montana, which could be ideal for drivers prioritizing budget.
Ranks No. 1 in general customer satisfaction.
Ranks No. 1 for claims handling.
Ranks No. 2 for affordability.
Offers identity theft coverage and roadside assistance.
Ranks No. 1 for key coverages.
Does not excel in customer service (35th).
Does not offer rental car and/or travel reimbursement or OEM coverage.
Nationwide's exceptional MoneyGeek score is bolstered by exceptional satisfaction and claims handling scores. The company offers both common coverages, roadside assistance and rental car and/or travel reimbursement, ensuring drivers have support in the event of a breakdown or need for alternative transportation.
Deductible modification is a reasonably common coverage that Nationwide provides, offering consumers a way to potentially lower their deductible over time without claims. Identity theft coverage stands out as a rare and widely applicable offering from Nationwide.
Additionally, accident forgiveness and total loss deductible waiver are valuable coverages that provide financial safety nets, preventing rate increases following the first accident and waiving deductibles upon total loss of the vehicle, respectively. With top scores in satisfaction (35 out of 35), affordability (30), claims handling (20) and coverage (10), Nationwide maintains a reputation for comprehensive protection and peace of mind.
MoneyGeek found that Nationwide is the best option in Montana for car insurance, providing outstanding customer service that sets it apart from the competition.
Nationwide distinguishes itself with the highest MoneyGeek score, reflecting its exceptional customer satisfaction and claims handling. Its score of 99 out of 100 speaks to the consistency and quality of service it offers. Additionally, Nationwide supplies this stellar service at a more affordable cost than its closest competition, Progressive.
In Montana, there's a range of car insurance companies offering varied experiences in customer satisfaction and claims resolution. Excellent customer service and effective claims handling are vital because they ensure that customers receive not only the financial coverage they need but also the support and guidance that make the stress of accidents and losses more manageable.
Ranks well for general customer satisfaction.
Ranks well for claims handling.
Offers identity theft coverage and common roadside assistance.
Ranked top for key coverages.
Does not excel in customer service.
Does not offer OEM coverage.
Based on MoneyGeek’s score, Nationwide’s superior satisfaction and claims handling scores are the main reason for its high overall rating. Although Nationwide provides the common coverages of roadside assistance and rental car and/or travel reimbursement, it is noticeable that there is room for improvement as it lacks some reasonably common coverages. Nevertheless, with its impressive MoneyGeek scores, Nationwide stands as an excellent choice for car insurance.
Nationwide shines with rare coverages like identity theft coverage, which offers substantial protection for victims of identity fraud. The company also offers gap insurance, addressing the financial gap between the vehicle’s actual value and the amount owed, providing an essential safety net after a total loss.
Adding to the security, it has a total loss deductible waiver, which can save customers from out-of-pocket expenses when a total loss is declared. These coverages underscore Nationwide’s impressive satisfaction score of 45 (out of 45) and claims score of 30 (out of 30), validating the overall MoneyGeek score as a reliable indicator of the company's exceptional performance.
MoneyGeek found that Nationwide is the best option in Montana for drivers seeking affordable car insurance with minimum coverage. Its top ranking is underscored by exceptional scores across various categories and an attractive premium rate.
Nationwide stands out due to its impeccable balance of cost-effectiveness, customer satisfaction and reliable claims handling, coupled with solid coverage options. At an annual cost of $186, it's the most recommended choice for those needing the minimum insurance required by law in Montana.
While many insurers in Montana offer cheap minimum coverage, it's important to note that opting for the least expensive option might result in inadequate protection. Limiting oneself to the minimum coverage can carry the risk of incurring significant out-of-pocket expenses in the event of more serious accidents or damages not covered by a basic policy. It's essential to weigh the benefits of cost savings against the potential risks and consider comprehensive coverage for broader protection.
Offers reasonably rare identity theft coverage.
Ranks No. 1 for customer satisfaction.
Ranks No. 1 for claims handling.
Ranks No. 2 for affordability.
Nationwide achieves its stellar MoneyGeek score largely due to its exceptional affordability, with a score of 39 out of 40, and perfect satisfaction and claims handling, both scoring the maximum in the categories. The average driver pays only $186 annually for Nationwide coverage. Notable discounts include savings for equipping your vehicle with an anti-theft system and for setting up automatic policy payments.
Nationwide's array of discounts is comprehensive, featuring all four common discounts: bundling, good student, multiple car and safe driving. The automatic payment discount provides convenience and savings, encouraging timely payments without hassle. Its defensive driving discount rewards responsible drivers who take proactive steps to improve their driving skills, which can be especially beneficial for those looking to reduce their premiums after a traffic violation.
Reiterating its strong affordability score (39 out of 40), Nationwide's MoneyGeek score is further bolstered by perfect satisfaction (25 out of 25) and claims handling (20 out of 20) scores. Coverage and stability also contribute significantly to the overall score, with perfect coverage (10 out of 10) and exceptional stability (4 out of 5), confirming Nationwide's position as a top choice for insurance consumers.
Driver age significantly influences car insurance rates in Montana, with varying costs and coverages tailored to different age groups. MoneyGeek found that Progressive, with a MoneyGeek score of 97, offers the best car insurance for teens at an annual premium of $1,145. Nationwide ranks as the top insurer for both young adults and seniors, scoring 98 and 99, respectively, with annual premiums of $810 for young adults and $584 for seniors. These selections reflect the best balance of affordability, customer satisfaction and financial stability.
Best for teens: Progressive
Best for seniors: Nationwide
Best for young adults: Nationwide
MoneyGeek found that Progressive is the best option for teen car insurance in Montana. Here are the top two providers for your consideration:
Progressive stands out largely due to its perfect scores in coverage and stability, along with the highest ratings in claims handling. Additionally, its affordability score contributes significantly to its nearly perfect overall score, making it a leader for teenage drivers.
Moreover, with an annual premium of $1,145, Progressive offers a much more affordable option for parents looking to add their teenager to a family policy. To secure cheap car insurance for a teen in Montana, going with a family plan is advisable over a separate policy for the young driver.
The high cost of adding a teen to a car insurance policy is due in part to the increased risk associated with young, inexperienced drivers. Teens are statistically more likely to be involved in accidents than mature drivers, which is why insurers charge higher premiums in Montana and other states to offset this risk.
Offers good student and distant student discounts.
Ranks No. 1 for cost.
Ranks No. 2 for claims handling.
Ranks No. 3 in customer satisfaction.
Progressive stands out with its excellent coverage score of 10 (out of 10) and a high satisfaction score of 33 (out of 35), playing a pivotal role in its near-perfect MoneyGeek score. Families with young drivers benefit from Progressive's available discounts, including good student and distant student. Although it doesn't offer driver's education discounts, its strong affordability score of 30 (out of 30) and other service scores compensate well.
Progressive offers rare coverages that are widely applicable, such as custom parts coverage, protecting upgrades and modifications to your vehicle. In addition, pet coverage is available at no extra cost, ensuring that your furry friends are protected in case of an accident. These unique and valuable options illustrate Progressive's commitment to meeting the diverse needs of its customers.
MoneyGeek found that Nationwide is the best option in Montana for car insurance tailored to the needs of seniors. Comparing the top contenders:
Nationwide distinguishes itself primarily due to its top-tier customer satisfaction, claims handling and stability scores, making it the leading choice for seniors in Montana. For seniors seeking to secure cheap car insurance for a senior in Montana, the annual premium for Nationwide's policy stands at $584, emphasizing the value provided despite premiums typically being marginally higher for older demographics.
It's worth noting that car insurance premiums for seniors do not inherently exceed those of middle-aged individuals in Montana and similar states. MoneyGeek's analysis uses data for seniors in their 60s, with the understanding that rates may increase for seniors in their 70s and 80s.
Offers roadside assistance and rental car/travel reimbursement.
Ranks No. 1 for general customer satisfaction.
Ranks No. 1 for claims handling.
Ranks No. 1 for cost.
Falls short in customer service.
Nationwide's impressive MoneyGeek score of 99 is bolstered by its perfect satisfaction and claims handling scores, each rating 35 (out of 35) and 20 (out of 20), respectively. Conveniently, Nationwide offers common coverages like roadside assistance and rental car or travel reimbursement, ensuring peace of mind for senior drivers knowing they have aid in case of an accident.
Nationwide offers coverages that address the challenges of post-accident inconveniences. With roadside assistance, seniors gain access to 24/7 emergency help, including towing, jump-starts and flat tire changes. Additionally, rental car reimbursement ensures drivers are not stranded without transportation while their vehicle is being repaired, which means less disruption in their daily life.
Apart from the highlighted coverages, Nationwide's exceptional satisfaction and claims handling scores reflect its commitment to delivering customer-centric services — further contributing to the insurer's top-tier MoneyGeek score.
MoneyGeek found that Nationwide is the best option in Montana for young adults seeking car insurance. Based on a comprehensive evaluation that includes factors such as satisfaction and affordability, Nationwide stands at the forefront for this particular demographic.
Nationwide's exceptional MoneyGeek score is attributed to its high ratings in satisfaction and claims handling. Young adults in Montana looking for affordable policies should anticipate an annual cost of approximately $810 for coverage through Nationwide – a price point that reflects the specialized needs of younger drivers, yet still offers competitive value.
To secure cheap car insurance for a young adult in Montana, expect to invest slightly more than seasoned drivers due to the higher perceived risk and corresponding insurance rates associated with less experienced drivers. Insurers typically charge higher premiums for young adults, since statistics demonstrate a greater likelihood of filing claims compared to their older counterparts.
Ranks No. 1 for general customer satisfaction.
Leads for claims handling.
Ranks No. 2 for affordability.
Offers good student discount.
Needs to improve on customer service with a score of 35.
Nationwide's exceptional MoneyGeek score is primarily driven by its perfect ratings in satisfaction and claims handling as well as a high score in affordability. While Nationwide does not offer all three common discounts for young drivers, including distant student and driver’s education, it excels in affordability, claims handling and other areas which more than compensates for this.
The company provides both common coverages: roadside assistance and rental car reimbursement. However, the absence of travel reimbursement is a minor downside. With Nationwide, customers benefit from rare coverages like identity theft coverage and reasonably common coverages, such as accident forgiveness.
It also offers gap insurance, which provides a financial safety net if your car is declared a total loss, ensuring you are not out of pocket to cover the cost difference between your insurance payout and the vehicle's loan balance. Nationwide’s breadth of coverage, scoring a perfect 35 (out of 35) in satisfaction, 29 (out of 30) in affordability and 20 (out of 20) in claims handling, clearly illustrates why it stands out as a leading insurance choice.
MoneyGeek found that Nationwide is the best option in Montana for drivers with offenses, boasting the highest MoneyGeek score.
Nationwide stands out for its superior overall package, achieving high marks across satisfaction, affordability and claims handling. These scores were determined using data from a blend of drivers with speeding tickets, at-fault accidents and DUIs. The company's commitment to excellence is evident in its MoneyGeek score, signaling drivers can expect a balance between cost and quality of service.
For drivers looking to get cheap car insurance as a high-risk driver in Montana, Nationwide offers an annual rate of $1,126, reflecting that typically, high-risk drivers may pay more due to their risk profile compared to individuals in their 30s, 40s or 50s.
After incidents like tickets, at-fault accidents or DUIs, car insurance premiums typically increase due to the higher risk associated with insuring drivers with such records. Insurers reassess the likelihood of future claims and adjust rates to compensate for the added risk, a practice not unique to Montana but common across states.
Exemplary in customer satisfaction (ranks No. 1).
Exceptional at handling claims (ranks No. 1).
Competitive pricing (ranks No. 2 for affordability).
Includes roadside assistance, rental reimbursement and accident forgiveness.
Nationwide's exceptional MoneyGeek score is attributed to its impeccable satisfaction (35 out of 35) and claims handling (20 out of 20) scores. Nationwide's coverage options, including roadside assistance and rental car reimbursement, address the needs of drivers with prior offenses, offering support and convenience in stressful situations. Its roadside assistance stands ready to offer 24/7 emergency help, such as towing, jump-starts and tire changes.
Nationwide's rental car reimbursement coverage provides seamless mobility, covering transportation costs while your car is under repair. Accident forgiveness lends a helping hand by preventing your first at-fault accident from increasing your rates. With an average annual premium of $1,126 and an affordability score higher than 25, Nationwide stands out as a cost-effective choice for those with driving offenses who generally face higher insurance costs.
MoneyGeek discovered that Farmers is the best option in Montana for new drivers seeking top-notch car insurance coverage.
Farmers is the frontrunner, offering unparalleled value and service, particularly for Montana's new drivers. Integrity in customer satisfaction, coverage options and claims handling are the biggest contributors to Farmers' distinguished MoneyGeek score.
With an annual premium of $1,537, choosing Farmers, a provider that offers new car replacement and/or better car replacement coverages, could result in substantial savings if an accident were to occur. Even if premiums may be higher, the inclusion of these coverages ensures that, in the case of an accident, you won’t solely receive the depreciated value of your vehicle, but rather a comparable new car or an upgraded model, thereby safeguarding your investment in your vehicle.
Ranks well for general customer satisfaction.
Ranks top for claims handling.
Leads in affordability.
Does not excel in customer service.
Does not offer gap insurance.
Farmers lead the pack with superior claims handling and coverage, each scoring a perfect 20 and 10, respectively, driving its overall MoneyGeek score to an impressive 96 (out of 100). Its comprehensive policy options ensure that drivers with new cars have protection that meets their needs. The company's average annual premium stands at $1,537.
Farmers’ commitment to quality is evident in its strong satisfaction score of 32 (out of 35) and top affordability score of 30 (out of 30), making its insurance policies both reputable and economically sensible. These scores underscore the value Farmers provides its policyholders, combining responsive customer service with reasonable rates that alleviate the financial burden of insurance.
MoneyGeek found that Nationwide is the best option in Montana for car insurance for military personnel, with a top MoneyGeek score. Here are the top two providers based on the comprehensive scoring system used by MoneyGeek:
Although USAA is a highly respected insurer broadly recognized for serving military members, based on the MoneyGeek score, which values a balance of service quality and affordability, it did not win in Montana. For those with a military background, USAA is also a commendable choice.
Nationwide stands out notably due to its comprehensive claims handling and high satisfaction scores that contributed significantly to its overall MoneyGeek score. With an annual premium of $679, it shines as the preferred insurer for military personnel who place a premium on service quality and cost-effectiveness. For those focused on rates, exploring the cheapest car insurance in Montana for military drivers may also be beneficial.
Ranks No. 2 for general customer satisfaction.
Ranks top for claims handling.
Ranks No. 2 for affordability.
Offers identity theft coverage.
Ranks No. 1 for key coverages.
Does not excel in customer service with a score of 32.
Does not offer rental car and/or travel reimbursement or gap insurance.
Nationwide sets the standard in car insurance, scoring particularly high in customer satisfaction (32 out of 35) and claims handling (20 out of 20), contributing significantly to its excellent MoneyGeek score. Nationwide's average annual premium is a competitive $679.
Notably, Nationwide offers identity theft coverage, a rare and widely applicable option that provides peace of mind by protecting you and your household from the financial burden and complications of identity theft. Additionally, accident forgiveness is a reasonably common coverage that prevents rates from increasing after your first at-fault accident, acting as a safety net for your wallet.
Gap insurance, another reasonably common coverage, is invaluable if your car is a total loss, paying the difference between the actual cash value and remaining loan balance, ensuring you're not out of pocket. These coverages highlight why Nationwide is a leader in the industry, boasting full marks in coverage (10 out of 10), enhancing its overall MoneyGeek score.
Montana's premier car insurance providers excel by offering the ideal blend of cost-effectiveness, solid financial grounding and a history of exceptional customer service. At MoneyGeek, we've rigorously analyzed these elements to recommend insurers that meet your needs. For those who prefer to conduct their own investigation, there are several key steps to ensure a comprehensive review of potential car insurance options.
In Montana, exceptional customer service is vital for a car insurer, as it ensures trust and reliability when accidents occur. Before choosing a provider, it's recommended to research their customer service records through independent sources, such as JD Power and the NAIC. Nationwide stands out in Montana with a perfect customer satisfaction score of 45 and a claims score of 30, based on MoneyGeek's research.
Montanans can save money on car insurance by comparing quotes, balancing cost with service quality. Personal factors can heavily influence premiums, so it's crucial to conduct individual research. According to MoneyGeek's findings, Nationwide offers the best minimum coverage in Montana, with an annual premium of $186, making it an affordable choice for drivers seeking basic insurance.
Choosing the right coverages is essential to ensure your car insurance meets your needs. Research is key to finding a policy that offers the protections you value most. MoneyGeek's analysis reveals Nationwide, Allstate and Progressive as insurers in Montana that provide a comprehensive coverage score of 10, indicating they offer three critical coverages: rental car and/or travel reimbursement, roadside assistance and gap insurance.
Selecting an insurer with a strong financial stability rating is crucial to minimize the risk of claim non-payment due to financial issues. It's worth researching companies with high ratings. MoneyGeek's evaluation awards both GEICO and State Farm with a perfect stability score of five, indicating their superior financial strength and reliability in Montana.
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.
Nationwide is determined to be the best car insurance in Montana overall, with an impressive MoneyGeek score of 99. The company boasts a high satisfaction score of 35 out of 35 and a claims handling score of 20 out of 20, contributing significantly to its top ranking. Customers can expect an annual premium of approximately $679.
Nationwide also leads as the best for cheap car insurance in Montana, with an annual premium for minimum coverage at about $186 and a MoneyGeek score of 99. While minimum coverage policies are the most affordable, they may not provide comprehensive protection. Consumers are advised to shop around for affordable full coverage policies to ensure adequate 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.
