Find out what you should be paying for auto insurance — and see how to reduce your premiums by hundreds per year.
Based on 2026 average premiums by state, age, vehicle, and driving record
Auto insurance costs vary dramatically by state — from $900/year in Maine to over $3,100/year in Michigan and Louisiana. Your ZIP code, driving record, and vehicle type all affect your final rate.
Rates for the same driver and car can vary 40–70% between insurers. Getting 4–5 quotes takes 20 minutes and can save $300–$600/year.
Combining auto + homeowner's insurance with one carrier typically saves 10–20% on both policies — about $150–$300/year in combined savings.
In most states, a good credit score (720+) reduces insurance premiums by 15–30%. Going from fair to good credit can save $400–$700/year.
Increasing your collision deductible from $500 to $1,000 typically reduces your premium by 10–15%. Only do this if you have emergency savings to cover the deductible.
Every guide in this section — 5 in total, updated for 2026.