Cheapest Car Insurance In Grand Rapids, MI

After evaluating numerous top insurers, we’ve found that USAA is the clear winner, providing the cheapest car insurance in Grand Rapids by a significant margin.

min read
Updated: 02 May 2024
Written by
Bob Phillips
On this page Open

When it comes to living in Grand Rapids, you know that cars are a way of life. But with the thrill of the open road comes the responsibility of car insurance, and we all know how pricey that can be. That’s why we’ve taken it upon ourselves to help you find the most affordable car insurance quotes in Grand Rapids.

When the average annual rate for full coverage car insurance in Grand Rapids is $3,386 (compared to the state average of $3,229), every penny saved counts.

We understand that finding the right car insurance provider can be a daunting task, but fear not! We’re here to help you navigate your options and find the perfect coverage to suit your needs. Not only have we identified the cheapest overall option (USAA), but we’ve also done the legwork to find the cheapest providers for full coverage (GEICO), minimum coverage (Nationwide), young drivers (Chubb), and seniors (Chubb).

So, if you’re a Grand Rapids resident looking to save on car insurance, look no further than our comprehensive list of the cheapest and best car insurance companies in Grand Rapids, Michigan. With our help, you can hit the road with peace of mind and extra cash in your pocket.

Cheapest And Best Car Insurance Companies In Grand Rapids, MI 2024

Best Car Insurance, Grand Rapids 2024

Compare The Cheapest Car Insurance Companies In Grand Rapids, MI

J.D. Power Rating Best For Overall Rating AM Best Rating Average Annual Cost
USAA

876

Cheapest

4.9

A++

$1,021

Instant Quote
Nationwide

787

Cheapest Minimum Coverage

4.8

A+

$516

Instant Quote
GEICO

824

Cheapest Full Coverage

4.9

A++

$867

Instant Quote
Chubb

NR

cheapest For Young Adults

4.8

A++

$1,356

Instant Quote
Chubb

NR

Cheapest For Seniors

4.7

A++

$981

Instant Quote
Scroll to see comparisons

Our Methodology

When it comes to finding the cheapest car insurance rates in Grand Rapids, we've done our homework. We've sifted through data from various car insurance review sites, including public filings obtained by Quadrant Information Services. But we didn't stop there. We've also factored in our own subjective opinion based on over 15 years of experience as licensed insurance agents and more than three decades of purchasing car insurance.

61

Quotes Analyzed

15+

Years Of Industry Experience

22

Brands Reviewed

27+

Research Hours

Cheapest Car Insurance Companies In Grand Rapids, MI


Cheapest Overall

Overall Rating
4.9

Key Statistics

10/10 Affordability
10/10 Customer Reviews
9/10 Claims/payouts
9/10 Coverage Level

Why We Like Them

If you or your family members have a military background, you’ll be happy to know that USAA also offers their affordable car insurance options to Grand Rapids residents. As the cheapest car insurance provider we found that doesn’t require you to bundle other insurance, USAA is a great choice for those looking to save money on car insurance.

Not only does USAA already offer the most affordable rates in Grand Rapids, but they also provide a range of discounts for their insureds. These include:

  • Be a loyal member
  • Responsible driver
  • Insure a new car
  • Bundle multiple policies
  • Install anti-theft devices

When it comes to comprehensive and collision coverage for accidents, theft, vandalism, fire, or weather-related incidents in Grand Rapids, USAA is the cheapest option that we found that doesn’t require bundling with other insurance. With USAA’s standard coverage, policyholders are also protected financially if they are liable for injuries or property damage. And in the unfortunate event that you are hit by someone who is uninsured or underinsured, USAA has got you covered for your injuries, vehicle damage, and lost wages if you are unable to work.

USAA’s website and mobile app are both user-friendly and offer a wide range of features, including the ability to report a claim, track the status of your claim, and schedule vehicle inspections. You can also access roadside assistance and chat with your adjuster through the app.

What’s more, USAA has the highest customer satisfaction ratings from JD Power of any insurer that we reviewed, making it a top choice for those in Grand Rapids who value exceptional customer service. USAA is known for its member loyalty and is committed to providing the best possible experience for its policyholders

Benefits & Drawbacks

Benefits
  • Boasting the highest customer satisfaction ratings in the auto insurance industry, you can rest assured that you'll receive top-notch service and support.
  • With a one-stop-shop for insurance, banking, and investing products, you can streamline your financial needs and save valuable time.
  • Whether you reside in Maine or Montana, policies are available in all states, including Washington, D.C.
Drawbacks
  • Unfortunately, USAA is only available for active military personnel, veterans, and their families, limiting their services to a specific group of individuals.

Cheapest Overall Rates In Grand Rapids

Company Rate Per Year
USAA $1,021
GEICO $966
Auto-Owners Insurance Co. $1,187
Farmers $1,115
Chubb $1,052

Cheapest For Full Coverage

Overall Rating
4.9

Key Statistics

10/10 Affordability
9/10 Customer Reviews
9/10 Claims/payouts
9/10 Coverage Level

Why We Like Them

While USAA may have cheaper rates, GEICO takes the top spot in Grand Rapids for providing full coverage car insurance that is available to everyone. This means that even if you’re not part of the military or a military family, you can still take advantage of GEICO’s affordable rates for comprehensive and collision insurance, as well as Michigan’s minimum required coverage, personal injury protection, and property protection insurance.

On top of its cheap rates, GEICO also scores well in customer service, policy renewals, claims handling, customer recommendations, and customer loyalty, making it a solid choice for those looking for a full coverage policy in Grand Rapids.

The full coverage plan in Michigan looks like this:

  • Bodily injury liability insurance: $50,000 per person / $100,000 per accident
  • Property damage liability insurance: $10,000
  • Property protection insurance: $1,000,000
  • Personal injury protection: $250,000 with exceptions for drivers who have Medicare or Medicaid
  • Collision insurance: covers up to the value of the vehicle
  • Comprehensive insurance: covers up to the value of the vehicle

When financing a car, lenders often require full coverage insurance that includes not only the state’s minimum coverage but also collision and comprehensive coverage

Benefits & Drawbacks

Benefits
  • J.D. Power has recognized the high customer satisfaction ratings for auto insurance, giving you peace of mind that you'll be well taken care of in times of need.
  • The website and mobile app are easy and convenient to managze your policies and claims on-the-go.
  • With many discounts available, you can save money on your premiums and keep more cash in your pocket.
Drawbacks
  • Although the company offers excellent digital resources, the network of local agents is limited, which may not be ideal for those who prefer in-person assistance.
  • Unfortunately, the company does not offer gap or rideshare insurance, which may be an issue for those who require additional coverage.

Cheapest Full Coverage Rates In Grand Rapids

Company Rate Per Year
GEICO $867
Progressive $872
Auto-Owners $1,196
Chubb $965
State farm $1,761

Cheapest For Seniors

Overall Rating
4.7

Key Statistics

9/10 Affordability
9/10 Customer Reviews
10/10 Claims/payouts
10/10 Coverage Level

Why We Like Them

Car insurance rates for adults aged 60 and over are typically at their lowest if they have a clean driving record. As a group, older drivers have many years of experience on the road, established driving records, and higher credit scores, which makes them a lower-risk group. Insurance providers recognize this and price their policies accordingly.

Senior drivers can also save money on car insurance by bundling it with other products from the same insurer and taking advantage of discounts for good driving, loyalty, and early renewal.

Despite its reputation for insuring high-end vehicles, Chubb remains the cheapest option for seniors in Grand Rapids because the average value of their cars tends to be higher than that of younger drivers. Chubb is also popular among seniors because of its “concierge service,” which provides white-glove treatment to policyholders filing claims.

Unlike younger drivers who prefer texting and mobile apps, many seniors prefer to speak with a live customer service representative, which Chubb makes readily available to its clients. Overall, Chubb offers excellent value to its older clientele in terms of coverage, customer service options, and lower rates for seniors.

Benefits & Drawbacks

Benefits
  • Chubb has an A++ rating for financial strength by AM Best, which signifies a solid financial foundation.
  • The company offers generous coverage options, ensuring that your needs are fully met.
  • With multiple policy options for household insurance needs, you can easily customize your coverage and obtain comprehensive protection.
Drawbacks
  • Unfortunately, Chubb does not offer online quotes, which may be inconvenient for those who prefer to manage their insurance needs online.
  • Compared to other car insurers, fewer agents represent Chubb, which may limit in-person assistance for those who prefer it.

Cheapest Coverage For Seniors

Company Rate Per Year
Chubb $981
Farmers $1,017
Auto-Owners $1,207
State Farm $1,613
Westfield $1,768

Cheapest Minimum Coverage

Overall Rating
4.8

Key Statistics

10/10 Affordability
9/10 Customer Reviews
9/10 Claims/payouts
9/10 Coverage Level

Why We Like Them

Nationwide offers competitive rates for minimum coverage in Grand Rapids and the state of Michigan. As a major insurer, they provide full and minimum coverage options to drivers. However, they stand out for providing the cheapest rates for the minimum coverage required in Grand Rapids.

In Michigan, minimum coverage includes:

  • Bodily injury liability insurance: $50,000 per person / $100,000 per accident
  • Property damage liability insurance: $10,000
  • Property protection insurance: $1,000,000
  • Personal injury protection: $250,000 with exceptions for drivers who have Medicare or Medicaid

Unlike full coverage, minimum coverage does not require comprehensive and collision insurance, which covers damages to your own vehicle.

But Nationwide’s benefits don’t stop there. The company also has a loyalty rewards program that offers extras to all customers, regardless of their coverage amount. These extras may include things like :

● Accident forgiveness for minor incidents: With Nationwide’s loyalty rewards program, your rates won’t go up even if you were at fault for a small accident or fender bender as long as the repairs are below a certain threshold. This benefit is not limited to a specific number of accidents.

● Guaranteed repairs for life: If you get your car repaired at a Nationwide-approved auto repair shop, the repairs are guaranteed for life.

● Deductible waivers: If a covered loss affects both your home and car, Nationwide will waive your deductible for one or reimburse you for your lowest deductible.

Nationwide offers convenient policy management through its website and mobile app, allowing you to easily handle claims, obtain insurance ID cards, and manage your policy. The company also has a unique SmartRide program that provides discounts for safe driving habits and tracks your driving behavior through a separate app. This feature promotes responsible driving, ultimately resulting in a safer community for everyone.

Benefits & Drawbacks

Benefits
  • The company has received fewer than expected complaints to state regulators, which is a reassuring sign for an insurer of its size.
  • Loyal customers are rewarded with generous extras, which is an excellent way to show appreciation and build lasting relationships.
  • With many discounts available, you can save money on your premiums and keep more cash in your pocket.
Drawbacks
  • For drivers with a DUI, the company's premiums are above average, which may be a deciding factor for those in search of affordable coverage.
  • According to J.D. Power, the company's score for car insurers is lower than average, which may be a concern for those who prioritize customer satisfaction.

Cheapest Minimum Coverage Rates In Grand Rapids

Company Rate Per Year
Nationwide $516
Auto Owners $552
GEICO $584
Farmers $685
State Farm $1,114

Cheapest For Young Adults

Overall Rating
4.7

Key Statistics

9/10 Affordability
9/10 Customer Reviews
10/10 Claims/payouts
10/10 Coverage Level

Why We Like Them

Young drivers in Grand Rapids often pay more for car insurance due to their higher rate of accidents compared to older drivers with similar driving records and credit scores. However, Chubb offers the most affordable car insurance for this demographic in the city.

While Chubb is known for providing insurance to wealthier clients, its Masterpiece auto insurance policy is available for drivers of all income levels and is particularly suited for owners of more expensive vehicles. In addition to its affordable rates for young drivers, Chubb’s policy includes:

  • Generous rental reimbursement coverage: If you’re without a car due to an accident or theft, Chubb reimburses you up to $15,000 to rent a car, with no per-day limit, so you can keep moving.
  • Coverage for original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts: Chubb’s policy covers the cost of original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts, which are designed to match your vehicle’s specific make and model, ensuring a proper fit and preserving its value.
  • Worldwide rental car coverage: If you’re a young adult studying or traveling abroad, Chubb’s auto policy extends to rental cars you drive anywhere in the world, so you can feel secure while exploring.
  • Lifetime repair guarantee: Chubb guarantees the quality of repairs made in its certified shops for as long as you own your vehicle, giving you peace of mind.
  • Lock and key replacement: If your car keys are lost or stolen, Chubb will cover the cost of replacement, with no deductible, so you can get back on the road.
  • Removal of personal information: In the event of a total loss, Chubb will erase personal data stored in the car’s systems, such as GPS addresses, phone contacts, and garage door codes, to protect your privacy.

Benefits & Drawbacks

Benefits
  • Chubb provides the best rates for young drivers overall.
  • High-end customers can enjoy generous coverage and perks.
  • Chubb received fewer complaints than expected for auto insurance.
Drawbacks
  • Adults may face above-average rates.
  • Compared to other car insurers, fewer agents represent Chubb.

Cheapest Coverage For Young Adults

Company Rate Per Year
Chubb $1,356
USAA $1,056
Auto-Owners $1,364
State Farm $2,028
Westfield $2,329

Average Cost Of Car Insurance In Grand Rapids

Company  Average Monthly Rate
GEICO $73
Progressive $75
Auto-Owners $101
Chubb $80
State farm $140

Average Cost In Grand Rapids – By Age

Age Group Average Monthly Rate
Teenagers $198
Under 25 $125
25-29 $105
30s $98
40s $86
50s $79
60s $76
70s $85
80+ $102

Average Cost In Grand Rapids – By Gender

Gender Annual Rate
Female $1,420
Male $1,398

Average Cost In Grand Rapids – By Marital Status

Marital Status Average Monthly Cost
Single $98
Married $96

Average Monthly Cost In Grand Rapids With An Accident

Insurance Company Clean Record At-Fault Accident
Auto Owners $99 $116
GEICO $73 $186
Travelers $70 $149
State Farm $146 $175
Westfield $156 $253

Average Annual Cost In Grand Rapids – By Credit Tier

Fair: $1,951
Good: $1,774
Poor $2,342
Very poor: $3,036

Average Cost In Grand Rapids – By Zip Code

ZIP Code Average Monthly Rate
48532 $81
49523 $270
49504 $98
49506 $97
49510 $121
49512 $109
49519 $97

Minimum Car Insurance Requirements In Michigan

As you look for car insurance in Grand Rapids, it’s important to keep in mind the minimum coverage required in Michigan:

  • Bodily injury liability per person: $50,000
  • Property protection within Michigan: $1 million
  • Bodily injury liability per accident: $100,000
  • Personal injury protection: $250,000 (lower limits are allowed for some Medicare and Medicaid recipients)
  • Property damage liability per accident outside Michigan: $10,000

It’s important to note that the minimum coverage required in Michigan may not be enough to fully protect you in the event of an accident. It’s always a good idea to consider higher coverage limits and additional options, such as collision and comprehensive insurance, especially if you have a valuable vehicle or frequently spend a lot of time on the road

How To Buy Car Insurance In Grand Rapids

Buying car insurance in Grand Rapids can be a quick and easy process once you decide whether you want to work with an agent or shop online. Regardless of your preferred method, following these steps can save you time and money.

Do Your Information Gathering

Before you begin your search for car insurance, it’s a good idea to gather the necessary information that insurance companies will ask for in order to provide an accurate quote. This will save you time and ensure that you get the most accurate quotes possible. Here are some key pieces of information to gather:

  • Name and birthdate of everyone who will be on the policy
  • Drivers license numbers for each person to be covered
  • Facts about the car: make, model, vehicle identification number, safety features, current odometer reading, annual miles driven
  • Driving history for all drivers, including tickets, accidents, or any other violations
  • Your current insurer, if applicable, and your current coverage limits

Determine Your Coverage Needs

It’s important to determine how much coverage you require before purchasing car insurance. If you’re uncertain, refer to Michigan’s minimum car insurance requirements:

  • Personal injury protection: $250,000 (lower limits are allowed for some Medicare and Medicaid recipients)
  • Bodily injury liability per person: $50,000
  • Property protection within Michigan: $1 million
  • Bodily injury liability per accident: $100,000
  • Property damage liability per accident outside Michigan: $10,000

In case you’re still uncertain about the amount of coverage you need, it may be helpful to work with an insurance agent who can guide you through the process of determining your coverage needs.

Choose Your Buying Method

If you’re looking to buy the cheapest car insurance in Grand Rapids, there are a couple of ways to go about it.

Firstly, you can work with an insurance agent. There are several different types of agents you can choose from, including captive agents who work for a single insurance company, car insurance brokers who represent multiple companies, and specialty agencies that can help if you have a poor driving record.

Alternatively, you can buy car insurance directly from the insurer online. This method does not require you to speak with an agent; all you have to do is enter your information, and you’ll get a quote with all of your policy options and pricing. You can then complete the application online.

Both buying methods can be effective in finding affordable car insurance; it just depends on whether you prefer to interact with an agent or not. Whichever option you choose, make sure you compare quotes from multiple companies to ensure you’re getting the best coverage at the best price.

Compare Companies

To ensure you’re getting the best deal on car insurance, it’s important to compare quotes from multiple companies before making a decision. Be sure to get at least three quotes, and make sure you’re comparing the same coverage limits so you can accurately compare prices.

Once you’ve narrowed down your options, it’s a good idea to check the insurer’s track record with customer complaints. You can easily find this information by visiting the National Association of Insurance Commissioners website, where you can see how many complaints have been filed against each insurer.

Buy Your New Policy And Cancel Your Old One

It’s important to have car insurance before driving off the lot with a new vehicle. If you’re switching coverage on an existing vehicle, be sure to contact your former insurer and cancel the policy once your new coverage takes effect. You should receive a refund for any unused premium, minus any cancellation fees.

Factors That Impact The Cost Of Your Car Insurance Policy In Grand Rapids

Insurers consider various factors when determining the cost of your auto insurance in Grand Rapids, including:

● State requirements: Your policy must meet the minimum coverage required by Michigan law.

● Age: Your age significantly influences your car insurance rates, with younger drivers paying more due to inexperience and a higher likelihood of accidents. Rates usually begin to drop after age 25.

● Car make and model: The safety features of your vehicle can impact your rates, with safer cars costing less to insure. For instance, you may pay twice as much to insure a Ford Mustang GT compared to a Ford Focus with a 4-cylinder engine.

● Driving record: Your driving history can cause your car insurance rates to double or more if you have accidents and traffic violations that make you a higher risk to the insurer.

● Annual mileage: Longer commutes mean higher rates than those who only drive for leisure.

● Credit history: Insurers perceive drivers with good credit scores as being responsible and less risky, so they offer lower rates to these drivers.

● Zip code: Your location can influence your rates depending on where you work and park your car at night, with discounts or rate increases based on the likelihood of your vehicle being damaged.

● Marital status: Married drivers receive lower rates because they are less expensive to insure than single drivers.

● Gender: Men around age 45 pay an average of 6% lower than females of the same age, but the gender gap evens out for drivers in their 30s.

Michigan Car Insurance Laws To Know

In Michigan, drivers are required to have a minimum level of car insurance coverage, which includes 50/100/10 in liability insurance, Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage, and a minimum of $1 million in Property Protection Insurance (PPI). It’s important to note that Michigan operates under a no-fault insurance law, which means that drivers must carry proof of insurance showing that they have PIP, PPI, and third-party liability coverage. This helps ensure that all parties involved in an accident receive necessary coverage and compensation regardless of who is deemed at fault.

In The News

According to Repairer Driven News, car insurance premiums are expected to increase by an average of 8.4% this year, following a slight decrease of 0.6% in 2022. This is the biggest rate hike since 2017.

Information About Grand Rapids

Grand Rapids is the second-largest city in Michigan and is located in the western part of the state, situated along the Grand River. The city is known for its lively art and culture scene, being home to numerous museums, theaters, and music venues. Additionally, the city’s location near Lake Michigan contributes to its thriving tourism industry.

While Grand Rapids may not be as widely recognized for its automotive industry as Grand Rapids, it is still an important contributor to Michigan’s economy, with numerous manufacturing companies located in the area. The city is also home to several breweries and is often referred to as “Beer City USA.”

Although the city has experienced population growth over the years, it has maintained a strong sense of community and small-town charm. With a population of 201,013, it is the second-largest city in Michigan and is recognized as a major economic and cultural hub in the Midwest.

Car Insurance Discounts In Grand Rapids

Car insurance in Grand Rapids can be expensive, so it’s essential to look for discounts to save on costs. Here are some of the most common discounts you can take advantage of:

  • Good driving history
  • Vehicle safety features
  • Customer loyalty
  • Good student discount
  • Military discount
  • Senior discount
  • Being claims-free
  • Low mileage discount

FAQs

What is the cheapest car insurance in the state of Michigan?

According to recent data, Travelers is considered the most affordable car insurance option for good drivers in Michigan. However, if you’re looking for full coverage, Secura Insurance is the cheapest option.

Do I need car insurance in Grand Rapids?

Michigan state law requires drivers in Grand Rapids to have auto liability insurance, which covers the cost of damages or injuries that you may cause to others in a car accident. Without this insurance, drivers in Grand Rapids could face penalties, fines, and even legal action.

How much does car insurance cost in Grand Rapids on average?

The average cost of car insurance in Grand Rapids is $3,429 per year, slightly higher than the state average. However, shopping around for the best deals and discounts can help you save money on your car insurance.

Go back to top