8 Best Auto Insurance Companies According to Consumer Reports in 2026
State Farm, USAA, and Progressive are the best auto insurance companies, according to Consumer Reports. At State Farm, minimum coverage is an average of $47/mo, though rates vary by driver. Each of the best companies rated by Consumer Reports has great customer service and financial ratings.
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Table of Contents
Table of Contents


Feature Writer
Rachel Bodine graduated from college with a BA in English. She has since worked as a Feature Writer in the insurance industry and gained a deep knowledge of state and countrywide insurance laws and rates. Her research and writing focus on helping readers understand their insurance coverage and how to find savings. Her expert advice on insurance has been featured on sites like PhotoEnforced, All...
Rachel Bodine


Managing Editor
Aleksandra J. Churlinov holds a Bachelor of Arts in English Language and Literature and a Master of Science in Marketing Management. Over the past six years, Aleks has focused on the insurance sector, working on a range of content, including business, auto, and life insurance. In April 2025, she stepped into the role of Managing Editor, where she now leads a team of talented insurance writers. ...
Aleksandra J. Churlinov


Licensed Insurance Agent
Brad Larson has been in the insurance industry for over 16 years. He specializes in helping clients navigate the claims process, with a particular emphasis on coverage analysis. He received his bachelor’s degree from the University of Utah in Political Science. He also holds an Associate in Claims (AIC) and Associate in General Insurance (AINS) designations, as well as a Utah Property and Casual...
Brad Larson
Updated August 2026
State Farm, USAA, and Progressive are the best auto insurance companies, according to Consumer Reports.
We’ve listed other top-ranked auto insurance companies below.
Top 10 Companies: Best Auto Insurance Companies According to Consumer Reports| Company | Rank | Claims Satisfaction | A.M. Best | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
![]() | #1 | 743 / 1,000 | A | Personalized Service |
| #2 | 741 / 1,000 | A++ | Military Focus | |
| #3 | 729 / 1,000 | A+ | Usage-Based Rates | |
| #4 | 718 / 1,000 | A+ | Strong Reputation | |
| #5 | 716 / 1,000 | A++ | Customer Service | |
| #6 | 711 / 1,000 | A++ | Localized Support | |
| #7 | 697 / 1,000 | A++ | Extensive Coverage | |
| #8 | 693 / 1,000 | A+ | Wide Range | |
| #9 | 691 / 1,000 | A++ | Flexible Coverage | |
| #10 | 673 / 1,000 | A+ | Competitive Rates |
To see different coverage options at great prices, enter your ZIP code into our FREE auto insurance quote finder.
- State Farm ranks as number one according to Consumer Reports
- USAA and Progressive also ranked well on Consumer Reports
- High ratings from Consumer Reports indicate high customer satisfaction
Compare Consumer Reports Auto Insurance Rates
Consumer reports ranks these insurers based on more than affordability, evaluating customer satisfaction, claims handling, financial strength, and overall value.
USAA offers the lowest average rates at $49 per month for minimum coverage and $112 for full coverage, making it the strongest choice for eligible military families.
Auto Insurance Monthly Rates by Provider & Coverage Level| Insurance Company | Minimum Coverage | Full Coverage |
|---|---|---|
| $78 | $175 | |
| $61 | $140 | |
| $52 | $120 | |
![]() | $56 | $128 |
| $55 | $126 | |
| $63 | $151 | |
| $71 | $126 | |
| $59 | $133 | |
| $70 | $160 | |
| $49 | $112 |
Auto-Owners, Geico, Erie, and State Farm also rank among the top providers by combining competitive premiums with dependable claims service, quality customer support, and a wide range of discounts.
Progressive remains a good option for drivers seeking affordable full coverage and usage-based savings, while Amica earns recognition for outstanding customer service.
Nationwide, Travelers, and Allstate typically have higher premiums, but they offer flexible coverage options, specialized endorsements, and extensive agent networks.
Comparing these top-rated companies helps drivers find the right balance of price, coverage, and service instead of focusing on premiums alone.
Consumer Reports’ Recommended Coverages
The highest-rated auto insurance companies earn recognition by combining dependable coverage with strong customer service, efficient claims handling, and competitive rates.
Choosing the right policy starts with understanding the coverages that protect you from the most common risks on the road.
- Collision Coverage: Pays to repair or replace your vehicle after an accident with another vehicle or object, regardless of fault.
- Comprehensive Coverage: Covers damage from theft, vandalism, fire, hail, falling objects, and other non-collision events.
- Liability Coverage: Pays for injuries and property damage you cause to others in a covered accident and is required in most states.
- Medical Payments (MedPay): Helps pay medical expenses for you and your passengers after a covered accident, regardless of who caused it.
- Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage: Covers your injuries and, in some states, vehicle damage if you’re hit by a driver with little or no insurance.
These essential protections can help you compare insurers and build a policy that fits both your budget and your driving needs. A quality auto insurance policy offers more than a low premium.
The right coverage can reduce out-of-pocket costs after an accident and provide greater financial security when unexpected events occur.
Reviewing policy features, coverage limits, available endorsements, and claims support can help you select an insurer that offers the right balance of protection, value, and long-term reliability.
Ways to Save With Consumer Reports’ Top Auto Insurers
The highest-rated auto insurance companies help drivers save in more ways than standard discounts.
Along with rewards for safe driving, bundling, and low mileage, many insurers offer additional opportunities to reduce premiums through smart policy decisions and responsible financial habits.
- Choose a Higher Deductible: Raising your deductible can lower your monthly premium if you’re comfortable paying more out of pocket after a covered claim.
- Complete a Defensive Driving Course: Finishing an approved driving course may qualify you for discounts while reinforcing safe driving habits.
- Maintain Good Credit: In most states, a higher credit-based insurance score can help you qualify for lower premiums.
- Pay Your Premium in Full: Paying your policy upfront instead of monthly installments may earn you a paid-in-full discount.
- Review Your Policy Annually: Updating your coverage as your vehicle, driving habits, or insurance needs change can help eliminate unnecessary costs while maintaining adequate protection.
Choosing the right company means looking beyond advertised discounts to find savings that fit your driving needs and budget. Many of the most effective ways to lower your premium do not require switching insurers.
Raising your deductible, paying your policy in full, maintaining good credit, completing a defensive driving course, and reviewing your coverage each year can all help reduce costs.
Top Auto Insurance Discounts from Consumer Reports
Company Anti-Theft Bundling Good Driver Low Mileage
10% 22% 25% 30%
18% 20% 25% 25%
12% 16% 25% 30%
15% 15% 23% 30%
25% 25% 26% 30%
5% 19% 40% 40%
25% 15% 30% 30%
15% 26% 25% 30%
15% 11% 10% 20%
15% 9% 30% 20%
Combined with the discounts offered by leading providers, these strategies can make quality auto insurance more affordable without reducing essential protection.
After reviewing the available discounts and savings opportunities, take time to evaluate your policy regularly.
Small adjustments can lead to meaningful long-term savings, especially when paired with an insurer that offers competitive rates, dependable claims service, and coverage options that match your needs.
#1 – Erie: Top Pick Overall
Pros
- Personalized Service: Consumer Reports highlights Erie’s local agents for personalized guidance and responsive customer support.
- Affordable Rates: Minimum coverage averages $56 per month and full coverage $128 per month, helping Erie earn high marks in Consumer Reports.
- Local Expertise: Consumer Reports values Erie’s knowledgeable local agents who provide tailored insurance recommendations.
Cons
- Limited Availability: Erie operates in fewer states than many national insurers, according to Consumer Reports.
- Fewer Digital Tools: Mobile features and online policy management are less extensive than some competitors.
#2 – USAA: Best for Military Focus
Pros
- Military Savings: Consumer Reports recognizes USAA for affordable coverage, with rates starting at $49 per month for minimum coverage and $112 per month for full coverage.
- Deployment Flexibility: Military-friendly policy options help accommodate deployments and relocations, according to Consumer Reports.
- Consumer Reports Claims Support: USAA earns high marks for responsive claims service and customer satisfaction.
Cons
- Membership Rules: Qualification requirements may prevent some households from enrolling, notes Consumer Reports.
- Regional Agent: In-person agent availability is more limited than some national competitors.
#3 – Nationwide: Best for Usage-Based Rates
Pros
- Telematics Savings: Consumer Reports highlights Nationwide’s SmartRide and SmartMiles programs, helping safe and low-mileage drivers reduce premiums.
- Safe Driver Rewards: Consumer Reports recognizes Nationwide for rewarding cautious drivers with additional savings through telematics programs.
- Flexible Pricing: Nationwide offers usage-based pricing that can better match how much and how safely you drive.
Cons
- Driving Monitoring: Consumer Reports notes that telematics programs require tracking driving habits, which may not appeal to privacy-conscious drivers.
- Limited Savings: Discount amounts vary by state and driving behavior, which may not always meet expectations.
#4 – Amica: Best for Strong Reputation
Pros
- Trusted Service: Consumer Reports recognizes Amica for excellent customer satisfaction and dependable claims support.
- Member Benefits: Amica offers valuable policy features and optional protections praised by Consumer Reports.
- Claims Excellence: Amica earns high marks for responsive claims handling, according to Consumer Reports.
Cons
- Limited Discounts: Consumer Reports notes that some competitors offer a broader selection of savings opportunities.
- Fewer Local Offices: Drivers who prefer in-person service may find fewer locations, according to Consumer Reports.
#5 – State Farm: Best for Customer Service
Pros
- Agent Support: Consumer Reports recognizes State Farm for responsive local agents and dependable customer assistance.
- Claims Experience: Fast claims handling and reliable support earn positive reviews from Consumer Reports.
- Affordable Pricing: Consumer Reports highlights average rates starting at $49 per month for minimum coverage for eligible drivers.
Cons
- Limited Extras: Some optional coverages offered by competitors may be unavailable, according to Consumer Reports.
- Fewer Digital Tools: Online features are less extensive than some competitors, based on Consumer Reports.
#6 – Auto-Owners: Best for Localized Support
Pros
- Independent Agents: Consumer Reports recognizes Auto-Owners for its personalized service through local independent agents.
- Regional Expertise: Drivers benefit from local market knowledge and responsive claims support.
- Claims Satisfaction: Reliable claims handling contributes to strong policyholder experiences.
Cons
- Limited Brand Reach: Consumer Reports shows the company has a smaller national footprint than major insurers.
- Fewer Specialty Programs: Discount and telematics options are more limited than those offered by some larger insurers.
#7 – Geico: Best for Extensive Coverage
Pros
- Digital Convenience: Consumer Reports recognizes Geico for its easy-to-use online tools, mobile app, and fast policy management.
- Nationwide Access: Geico offers policies in nearly every state, giving drivers broad availability, according to Consumer Reports.
- Strong Discounts: Consumer Reports recognizes Geico for offering a wide variety of discounts that can help eligible drivers reduce premiums.
Cons
- Premium Increases: Consumer Reports indicates that rates may rise after accidents or traffic violations, depending on your driving history.
- Coverage Varies: Consumer Reports notes that optional coverages and endorsements may vary by state, limiting choices for some drivers.
#8 – Allstate: Best for Wide Range
Pros
- Flexible Protection: Consumer Reports recognizes Allstate for its broad selection of coverage options, making it easier for drivers to customize their policies.
- Accident Support: Allstate provides dependable claims assistance and accident resources, earning positive Consumer Reports evaluations.
- Strong Add-Ons: Drivers can choose from features like accident forgiveness and new car replacement, according to Consumer Reports.
Cons
- Costly Full Coverage: Consumer Reports indicates full coverage averages $175 per month, making it one of the more expensive options in this comparison.
- Agent Dependence: Some policy changes and coverage decisions may still require working with an agent, based on Consumer Reports.
#9 – Travelers: Best for Flexible Coverage
Pros
- Custom Protection: Consumer Reports recognizes Travelers for its broad selection of optional coverages that let drivers tailor policies to their needs.
- Strong Endorsements: Travelers provides several optional policy add-ons for drivers seeking broader protection.
- Coverage Flexibility: Consumer Reports highlights Travelers for offering policy options that suit a wide range of drivers and vehicles.
Cons
- Mixed Value: Consumer Reports indicates some competitors deliver comparable coverage at lower average premiums.
- Limited Discounts: Travelers offers fewer discount opportunities than some higher-ranked competitors.
#10 – Progressive: Best for Competitive Rates
Pros
- Affordable Full Coverage: Full coverage averages $126 per month, making Progressive one of the most affordable options for drivers seeking broader protection.
- Strong Online Tools: Manage quotes, claims, and policies easily through its mobile app and website, says consumer reports.
- Broad Availability: Progressive offers coverage in nearly every state, making it accessible to most drivers.
Cons
- Savings Vary: Snapshot discounts depend on individual driving habits and results vary.
- Fewer Local Agents: Digital-first service may not appeal to drivers who prefer in-person assistance, according to consumer reports.
The Final Word on the Best Consumer Reports Companies
When you are looking for auto insurance, you should consider more than premium rates when making your purchasing decision. Although it is important to know how to lower your auto insurance rates, you should also consider auto insurance consumer ratings from companies like Consumer Reports, J.D. Power, and more.
In addition to reading Consumer Reports’ automobile insurance reviews, shop around for rate comparisons. Our FREE car insurance comparison tool can compare coverage options and premium prices from several companies when you enter your ZIP code.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I choose an auto insurance company solely based on premium rates?
No, consider factors like customer service, types of auto insurance offered, and claims processing when looking at the best auto insurance Consumer Reports companies.
How can I compare coverage options and premium prices from different auto insurance companies?
Yes, you can compare multiple companies’ rates for different car insurance brands easily with a comparison website. Compare quotes with our free tool to find affordable insurance near you.
Where can I find information about consumer complaints against auto insurance companies?
The National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) and the Better Business Bureau track insurance company consumer ratings.
How can I assess the financial health of an auto insurance company?
Check ratings from AM Best, Fitch, and Standard and Poor’s.
Where can I find consumer satisfaction ratings for auto insurance companies?
You can find consumer car insurance ratings from Consumer Reports and JD Powers and Associates.
What should I consider when looking for a preferred auto insurance company?
Consumer satisfaction ratings, financial health, consumer complaints, and premium rates. If you aren’t sure how to find the best price, check out our guide on how to evaluate auto insurance quotes.
Who has the most reasonable car insurance rates?
USAA and State Farm are popular auto insurance companies that have the most reasonable auto insurance rates on average. They also have great Consumer Reports insurance reviews.
What insurance company is most reliable?
The Consumer Reports’ best auto insurance companies on our list are all reliable, as they are based on Consumer Reports insurance company reviews that look at customer satisfaction, reliability, and more.
What is the best auto insurance to have?
The best auto insurance is generally full coverage from our list of preferred insurance companies. Learn about the benefits of cheap full coverage auto insurance.
Who is cheaper Geico or Progressive?
It depends on your driving profile. Geico is usually cheaper for low-risk drivers, but Progressive sometimes has cheaper rates for high-risk drivers.
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