Updated: November 1, 2024
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Given your needs, the best car insurance company in Washington may vary. MoneyGeek's findings show Auto-Owners as the overall leader. For minimum coverage, Auto-Owners also comes out on top, while Capital Insurance Group is the best choice for families with a teen driver.
MoneyGeek also analyzed the cheapest car insurance in Washington if cost is your primary consideration, regardless of service quality.
Best Car InsuranceWashingtonBest Car Insurance in Washington
Why Trust MoneyGeek? We created an insurance scoring system for providers in Washington 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 Washington.
Auto-Owners stands as the leading car insurance provider in Washington with an impressive MoneyGeek score of 92. The scores among evaluated companies range from 68 to 92, outlining a competitive insurance landscape. MoneyGeek’s baseline scoring system captures these varied performances, but it's important to note that each insurer may score differently across specific driver profiles.
How does MoneyGeek score companies?
At MoneyGeek, comprehensive analysis on insurance companies emphasizes customer satisfaction and affordability, with considerable weight given to Claims Experience and Offered Coverages. Ensuring that customers get a balanced view of an insurer's overall service quality requires assessing these elements meticulously.
A review of the no_score dataset indicates that Dairyland is an insurer that didn't qualify for a MoneyGeek score due to incomplete data in certain scoring components. Dairyland shows commendable performance in key coverage areas, reflecting its strength in this specific aspect of insurance service provision.
| Auto-Owners Insurance Co | 92 | $823 |
| Chubb | 91 | $1,476 |
| PEMCO | 91 | $641 |
| American Family | 89 | $959 |
| Nationwide | 86 | $806 |
| Travelers | 85 | $1,022 |
| State Farm | 83 | $830 |
| Progressive | 82 | $878 |
| Farmers | 80 | $1,005 |
| Kemper | 78 | $774 |
| GEICO | 77 | $1,210 |
| Allstate | 76 | $1,094 |
| National General | 68 | $1,997 |
| Dairyland | No Data | $3,721 |
MoneyGeek found that Auto-Owners is the best option in Washington for best full coverage car insurance, offering a stellar mix of customer satisfaction, claim handling, and coverage options.
Auto-Owners stands out in Washington with the highest overall score, providing superior claim handling and an exceptional affordability score, which contributes to their customer satisfaction levels.
It's important to recognize that Washington has a variety of companies offering different costs and service experiences. For those interested in the most affordable options, MoneyGeek also explored companies that offer the cheapest full coverage car insurance in Washington.
Ranks well for customer satisfaction
Ranks well for affordability
Ranks 4th in state for cost; average annual premium is $823
Does not offer original equipment manufacturer (OEM) coverage
Auto-Owners has a high MoneyGeek Score due to its excellent satisfaction and affordability scores and comprehensive protection. The insurer includes common coverages: roadside assistance and rental car and/or travel reimbursement. It’s missing diminished value coverage, a rare coverage, but does provide gap Insurance and accident forgiveness.
Auto-Owners caters to an array of customer needs with a coverage score of 8 (out of 10). The personal automobile plus package merges multiple benefits for added convenience, and with accident forgiveness, drivers can avoid rate increases after their first at-fault accident. Deductible modification is a reasonably common coverage that rewards safe driving by waiving the collision deductible under specified conditions. These options enhance driver protection, underlining the insurer's commitment to comprehensive car insurance solutions.
MoneyGeek found that Chubb is the best option in Washington for exceptional customer service in car insurance, based on their comprehensive scoring system.
Chubb achieves its top placement through outstanding customer satisfaction and claims handling, which are key factors in MoneyGeek’s scoring. While Chubb has higher rates, it offers premium, consistent service that stands out in the market.
In Washington, consumers can choose from a variety of car insurance providers, each offering differing levels of customer satisfaction and claims experiences. It's essential for an insurance company to provide good customer service and efficient claims handling. Thus, while finding an affordable insurance premium is important, selecting a provider like Chubb with a proven track record of excellent customer service and claim resolution may be a valuable investment.
Ranks well in state for general customer satisfaction
Ranks well in state for claims satisfaction
Offers rare Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) Coverage
Provides common Rental car and/or travel reimbursement coverage
Does not excel in customer service
Does not offer Roadside assistance or Gap Insurance.
Based on our data, satisfaction and claims handling are the standout contributors to Chubb's impressive overall MoneyGeek score. However, Chubb lacks the common coverage of roadside assistance, which is a slight drawback for customers seeking a comprehensive package, even though they do offer rental car and/or travel reimbursement. While not offering every reasonably common coverage, Chubb is still a fantastic option reinforced by its high MoneyGeek scores.
Chubb provides exceptional options like original equipment manufacturer (OEM) coverage, highly applicable for many drivers who prefer factory-quality repairs. Chubb's antique/classic car insurance appeals to vintage car enthusiasts, offering tailored protection for valuable collectibles. The diminished value coverage is also significant, offering customers agreed value settlements rather than actual cash value, which is crucial after an accident. These coverages, aligned with a perfect satisfaction score of 45 (out of 45) and a full claims handling score of 30 (out of 30), position Chubb not only as a carrier with excellent customer service but also as a provider of unique benefits that cater to a wide range of drivers' needs.
MoneyGeek found that Auto-Owners is the best option in Washington for drivers seeking minimum coverage car insurance. This company balances cost, customer satisfaction and claims handling.
Auto-Owners stands out with the highest MoneyGeek score, indicating a strong combination of customer satisfaction, affordability, claims handling, coverage options and financial stability. With the annual cost of $405, it offers not only quality service but also the minimum insurance required by law in Washington, presenting a balanced option for cost-conscious drivers.
Despite saving money, opting for the minimum coverage car insurance can be risky. It may not provide comprehensive financial protection in the event of an accident, potentially leaving drivers exposed to significant out-of-pocket expenses. It’s crucial for car owners to weigh the costs and benefits to ensure they have adequate protection on the road.
Offers both reasonably common and rare discounts, enhancing savings
Ranks well for key coverages, offering unique options like diminished value coverage
Ranks 3rd in the state for cost, with an average annual premium of $405
Doesn't offer the best customer satisfaction, ranking 3rd in the state
Ranks 3rd in state for claims handling, indicating room for improvement
Auto-Owners offers exceptional affordability and satisfaction, key drivers behind its stellar MoneyGeek Score of 90. The company's average annual premium of just $405 means most drivers enjoy significant savings. For Auto-Owners Insurance Co, currently there seems to be no available data on the specific discounts it offers. It would be reasonable to inquire about potential savings through such discounts as bundling policies or maintaining a record of safe driving.
Emphasizing the insurer’s affordability, Auto-Owners scores an impressive 38 (out of 40), complemented by a high satisfaction rating of 23 (out of 25). Alongside, its claims handling and coverage scores are robust at 16 (out of 20) and 8 (out of 10), respectively. Its stability score, a perfect 5 (out of 5), confirms the insurer's reliability, further solidifying its MoneyGeek Score.
Driver age significantly influences car insurance rates in Washington, with different companies excelling for specific age groups. MoneyGeek found that Capital Insurance Group, with a rounded MoneyGeek score of 90, is the top car insurance provider for teens. The optimal choice for young adults is Chubb, achieving a MoneyGeek score of 91. Finally, seniors will find the best coverage with Auto-Owners, which boasts a MoneyGeek score of 93. Each company offers a blend of cost-effectiveness and specific coverage features that cater to diverse age groups.
Best for teens: Capital Insurance Group
Best for seniors: Auto-Owners
Best for young adults: Chubb
MoneyGeek found that Capital Insurance Group is the best option in Washington for car insurance tailored for teens, boasting a commendable performance in customer satisfaction and other essential factors.
Capital Insurance Group emerges as the top performer, especially due to its high satisfaction and claims handling scores. These elements substantially contribute to its overall MoneyGeek score, reflecting the company’s commitment to customer service. The annual premium for a teen policy with Capital Insurance Group is $2,070, and to secure cheap car insurance for a teen in Washington, it is generally more cost-effective to add them to a family policy rather than purchasing a separate one.
Adding a teen to your car insurance policy in Washington, as in other states, can be expensive because statistically, teenage drivers are considered high-risk due to their inexperience on the road. Insurers compensate for this increased risk with higher premiums, reflecting the potential for more frequent or severe claims.
Offers Good Student discount
Ranks 1st in state for claims satisfaction
Ranks 1st in state for customer satisfaction
Does not offer Distant Student and Driver's Education discounts
Ranks 4th in state for affordability, with an average annual premium of $2,070
Capital Insurance Group's high MoneyGeek Score of 90 is significantly influenced by top-notch satisfaction (35 out of 35) and impeccable claims handling (20 out of 20). While the company provides a beneficial good student discount for young drivers, it lacks distant student and driver's education discounts. Nevertheless, its strong performance in crucial areas compensates for not offering all available discounts.
For families with teens, Capital Insurance Group offers the good student discount, rewarding academic excellence with potentially lower premiums. Additionally, this insurer offers custom parts coverage, a valuable option for drivers who invest in name brand auto parts, ensuring replacements meet original specifications. Furthermore, full glass voverage provides convenient come-to-you glass repair services. Roadside assistance is a common coverage that helps drivers with emergency on-the-road support, making Capital Insurance Group’s range of services comprehensive and tailored for everyday needs.
MoneyGeek found that Auto-Owners is the best option in Washington for seniors looking for car insurance.
Auto-Owners excels primarily due to its high affordability and claims handling scores. The combination of these factors makes it stand out in the market, particularly for senior clients. With an annual premium of $737, Auto-Owners demonstrates that securing cheap car insurance for a senior in Washington does not have to come at the sacrifice of quality service.
Contrary to popular belief, car insurance for seniors in Washington does not necessarily surpass the cost for middle-aged adults. Rates assessed by MoneyGeek reflect those for individuals in their 60s, presenting a fair comparison. While it's true seniors in their advanced years, such as those in their 70s or 80s, may see increased rates, the difference is carefully calculated, reflecting the nuanced needs and risks associated with driving at an older age without being unfairly prejudicial.
Offers roadside assistance and rental car/travel reimbursement
Ranks well for common coverages
Doesn't excel in customer service
Ranks 3rd in state for cost and claims handling
With stellar satisfaction and affordability scores, Auto-Owners emerges prominently with a MoneyGeek score of 93. The company's high-ranking performance, particularly in Satisfaction (34 out of 35) and affordability (30 out of 30), significantly contributes to its impressive ratings, demonstrating strong client contentment and competitive pricing.
Despite lacking both roadside assistance and rental car/travel reimbursement coverages, Auto-Owners scores in service and affordability offset these common coverages, reinforcing its value proposition to consumers. Auto-Owners maintains an average annual premium of $737, and while the dataset doesn’t specify any discounts, including those for seniors, its economical premium rates provide savings for customers.
Auto-Owners sets a high benchmark with its coverage offerings. The company has an exceptional satisfaction score illustrating its customer service quality, and a substantial affordability score pointing to its market competitiveness.
MoneyGeek found that Chubb is the best option in Washington for car insurance for young adults, thanks to their high satisfaction and coverage options. Below are the top two providers:
Chubb stands out due to its excellent balance of satisfaction, affordability and comprehensive coverage tailored for drivers in their 20s; this is why Chubb has a high MoneyGeek score. To get cheap car insurance for a young adult in Washington, consider that the annual cost for a policy with Chubb is competitive at $1,995, despite it being slightly higher than what those of more mature ages might pay.
Car insurance for young adults in Washington, as in other states, is typically more costly because younger drivers are statistically more likely to be involved in accidents due to their inexperience. Insurers price the risk accordingly, which leads to higher premiums for this age group.
Pro: Ranks 1st in state for general customer satisfaction
Pro: Ranks 1st in state for claims satisfaction
Ranks 12th in state for cost; average annual premium is $1995
Does not offer Good Student, Distant Student, Driver's Education discounts
Chubb's exceptional satisfaction and stability ratings are pivotal in achieving its high MoneyGeek score. While not offering all driver-related discounts like good student, distant student, and driver's education, Chubb's strengths in critical areas more than compensate. The firm does provide both common coverages—rental car and/or travel reimbursement and roadside assistance—ensuring essential protective measures for motorists.
Chubb stands out for offering original equipment manufacturer (OEM) coverage, ensuring if you need parts replaced, they'll be manufacturer-specific. Diminished value coverage guarantees coverage if your car's worth dips post-accident. Agreed value coverage provides a pre-established reimbursement amount in the event of a total loss. These offerings, coupled with a satisfaction score of 35 (out of 35), strong showings in affordability at 25 (out of 30) and claims at 20 (out of 20), make Chubb a provider of choice for car insurance.
MoneyGeek found that Chubb is the best option in Washington for drivers with driving offenses seeking high-quality car insurance. This provider scores impressively, securing the top MoneyGeek score among the competition:
Chubb stands out with the highest satisfaction and coverage scores, showcasing their commitment to customer service and comprehensive policy offerings. These are significant considerations for a driver with a record of driving offenses. With a blend of drivers including those with speeding tickets, at-fault accidents, and DUIs, Chubb's robust scoring in these categories underscores their reliability as an insurer. Despite the premium offering, the annual cost for Chubb's high-risk insurance in Washington remains competitive at $1,787.
For drivers with offenses, securing cheap car insurance as a high-risk driver in Washington generally commands a higher price. The heightened risk associated with such drivers often leads to increased premiums as insurers adjust rates to offset the potential cost of future claims. This reality is not unique to Washington; drivers with tarnished records can expect to pay more across various states due to the additional risks they pose to insurance companies.
Ranks well in customer satisfaction, being 1st in the state
Ranks well in claims handling, being 1st in the state
Offers common coverage like rental car/travel reimbursement
Offers reasonably common coverages like OEM Coverage
Does not excel in customer service with a score of 35
Ranks 10th in state for cost, average annual premium of $1,787
Lacks rare coverages like antique/classic car insurance and diminished value coverage
Chubb's exceptional satisfaction (35 out of 35) and solid coverage (7 out of 10) scores significantly contribute to its high MoneyGeek score of 91. Although Chubb's affordability score is 25 (out of 30), its annual premium reflects an affordable option for those with driving offenses who typically face higher rates.
Chubb's coverage extends beyond common options, offering rental car reimbursement to alleviate stress during vehicle repairs after an incident—particularly beneficial for those with a poor driving record. The availability of original equipment manufacturer (OEM) coverage ensures that any necessary repairs utilize original parts, maintaining vehicle integrity. These coverages ensure that drivers with accident histories have access to comprehensive protections.
MoneyGeek found that Travelers is the best option in Washington for drivers with new cars seeking car insurance.
Travelers stands out due to its high ratings in satisfaction, affordability, claims handling and coverage options. MoneyGeek emphasizes the importance of coverage options such as new car replacement and/or better car replacement, which are essential for drivers with new vehicles. The company's top MoneyGeek score reflects its strong performance across various metrics. With an annual cost of $1,046, opting for an insurer like Travelers that offers new or better car replacement could be financially beneficial. In an accident, these options can save you money. Without such coverage, you'd only receive a settlement for the depreciated value of your car.
Ranks well in state for general customer satisfaction
Ranks well in state for claims satisfaction
Ranks second in state for cost; $1,046 annual premium for full coverage
Offers new car replacement coverage
Does not excel in customer service
Travelers excels in satisfaction and coverage, with perfect scores of 35 and 10 respectively, contributing significantly to its outstanding MoneyGeek score of 93. The company's average annual premium stands at $1,046.
Travelers' new car replacement is an add-on coverage, which is essential for owners of new vehicles because it provides extra protection beyond standard collision or comprehensive insurance. This coverage allows for a replacement with a brand-new car of the same make and model in the event of a total loss within the first five years. Additionally, with the highest satisfaction score of 32 (out of 35), Travelers demonstrates its commitment to customer service, Their affordability rating at 23 and claims handling at a perfect 20 also underscore their value.
MoneyGeek found that Auto-Owners is the best option for military car insurance in Washington based on their comprehensive scoring system:
Though 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 is not the highest ranked in Washington.
Auto-Owners stands out with its exceptional balance of superior claims handling and strong customer satisfaction, as reflected in these categories' individual scores contributing to their overall high MoneyGeek score. Their yearly premium of $823 offers value for Washington's military personnel. Those particularly focusing on rates should also explore the cheapest car insurance in Washington for military drivers.
Ranks 2nd in the state for key coverages, offering rare and reasonably common options
Does not rank well in customer service with a score of 33
Auto-Owners high MoneyGeek Score is due to exceptional satisfaction (33 out of 35) and strong affordability (29 out of 30), making it an industry leader. The company offers an average annual premium of $823, attractive to consumers seeking value.
The company’s insurance options emphasize common and reasonably common coverages that are relevant to a broad range of drivers. These include gap insurance, which covers the difference between the actual cash value of a vehicle and the balance still owed on financing. New car replacement coverage benefits those who own newer models by covering the cost of a new car, not just the depreciated value, in the event of a total loss. Diminishing deductible is an advantageous option that rewards safe driving by reducing the deductible over time. These offerings demonstrate Auto-Owners Insurance Co's commitment to delivering practical and valuable protection.
When selecting a car insurance provider in Washington, the best companies are those that offer a perfect blend of affordable rates, financial soundness and a proven track record of excellent customer service. MoneyGeek has thoroughly analyzed these factors to aid your decision-making. However, to undertake your own research, be prepared to follow a comprehensive, multi-step process to ensure a well-informed choice.
Exceptional customer service is crucial for car insurers in Washington, ensuring prompt and fair handling of claims. Consumers are advised to consult independent data providers like JD Power and NAIC for comprehensive company evaluations. According to MoneyGeek's research, Chubb triumphs in customer service with a satisfaction score of 45 and a claims handling score of 30, both out of a possible 45 and 30, respectively.
In Washington, comparing car insurance quotes is a way to economize while preserving service quality. Personal research tailored to individual backgrounds is essential to identify the most cost-effective options. MoneyGeek's analysis identifies Auto-Owners as the leading provider for minimum coverage, with an annual premium of $405.
The scope of coverages offered by car insurers is a pivotal aspect of their service. Prospective policyholders should diligently research to find insurers whose coverages align with their requirements. MoneyGeek's findings reveal that American Family offers comprehensive coverage, achieving a perfect score of 10, indicating the availability of all four key coverages.
Securing coverage from an insurer with a robust financial stability rating is paramount to mitigate the risk of unpaid claims due to financial incapacity. MoneyGeek's data highlights insurers like Travelers and Chubb, both boasting a perfect stability score of 5, reflective of an A++ financial strength rating from A.M. Best, ensuring exceptional reliability.
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.
For those seeking the best for cheap car insurance in Washington, Auto-Owners leads with an overall MoneyGeek score of 90. The annual premium for a minimum coverage policy is $405. While minimum coverage policies are the most affordable, they offer less protection than full coverage policies. Savvy shoppers can still find affordable full coverage 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.
