Cheapest Car Insurance In New Jersey For May, 2024
I believe GEICO offers the best cheap car insurance in New Jersey.
With more than 30 hours of research spent reviewing 54 quotes from the top insurance providers in New Jersey, we’ve found that GEICO offers the cheapest car insurance rates for many categories.
The insurance provider was the cheapest overall and the best for New Jersey drivers with driving violations or motorists seeking minimum and full coverage policies. GEICO also has the best rates for senior drivers, while NJM is the best option for younger drivers.
Most New Jersey drivers can expect to pay around $1,754 for full coverage insurance. However, there are several locations in the state where motorists can find lower rates .
Within the following sections, we’ll explore the landscape of car insurance throughout New Jersey — comparing companies and identifying the rates different categories of drivers can expect to pay in The Garden State.
Cheapest Overall Rates In New Jersey
Company | Average Rate Per Year |
GEICO | $1,262 |
Travelers | $1,708 |
State Farm | $1,762 |
AllState | $2,238 |
Plymouth Rock | $2,346 |
Nationwide | $3,012 |
Cheapest Rates For Motorists With Driving Violations In New Jersey
Company | Average Rate Per Year |
GEICO | $2,254 |
NJM Insurance | $2,326 |
Plymouth Rock | $2,573 |
Progressive | $2,836 |
Travelers | $3,948 |
Cheapest Full Coverage Rates In New Jersey
Company | Average Rate Per Year |
GEICO | $1,404 |
State Farm | $1,512 |
Progressive | $1,692 |
NJM Insurance | $1,705 |
Plymouth Rock | $1,750 |
Allstate | $2,351 |
Cheapest Minimum Coverage Rates In New Jersey
Company | Average Rate Per Year |
GEICO | $972 |
NJM Insurance | $1,247 |
Progressive | $1,389 |
State Farm | $1,583 |
Travelers | $1,623 |
Cheapest Rates For Young Drivers In New Jersey
Company | Average Rate Per Year |
NJM Insurance | $2,930 |
GEICO | $2,962 |
State Farm | $4,008 |
Allstate | $5,993 |
Travelers | $6,674 |
Cheapest Rates For Senior Drivers In New Jersey
Company | Average Rate Per Year |
GEICO | $1,302 |
Progressive | $1,364 |
State Farm | $1,478 |
Travelers | $1,582 |
Mercury | $1,621 |
Cheapest Car Insurance Companies In New Jersey, 2024
Compare The Cheapest Car Insurance In New Jersey
Overall Rating | Best For | JD Power Rating | Average Annual Cost | AM Best Rating | Get A Quote | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
GEICO |
|
Best Overall |
824 |
$1,262 |
A++ |
Instant Quote |
Nationwide |
|
Young Adults |
812 |
$1,708 |
A+ |
Instant Quote |
GEICO |
|
Minimum Coverage |
824 |
$972 |
A++ |
Instant Quote |
State Farm |
|
Married Drivers |
877 |
$1,762 |
A++ |
Instant Quote |
GEICO |
|
Full Coverage |
824 |
$1,404 |
A++ |
Instant Quote |
Travelers |
|
Bad Credit |
822 |
$3,140 |
A++ |
Instant Quote |
New Jersey Manufacturers(NJM) |
|
Young Drivers |
867 |
$2,930 |
A+ |
Instant Quote |
GEICO |
|
Senior Drivers |
824 |
$1,302 |
A++ |
Instant Quote |
GEICO |
|
Driving Violations |
824 |
$2,254 |
A++ |
Instant Quote |
Our Methodology
To find the cheapest car insurance rates in New Jersey, we analyzed findings from numerous car insurance review sites, some of which analyzed rates from public filings obtained by Quadrant Information Services. We also utilize the combined twenty-five years of experience from our team of insurance experts to evaluate each carrier.
It’s important to note that even though the rates listed in this guide are accurate, premiums shift daily and can fluctuate based on each driver.
Quotes Analyzed
Years Of Industry Experience
Brands Reviewed
Research Hours
Reviews Of The Best Car Insurance Companies In New Jersey
Cheapest Overall
Key Statistics
Why We Like Them
⇅For many people, purchasing car insurance is a time-consuming and stressful process. However, with a company like GEICO, the ability to find, select, and buy an auto insurance policy has never been easier.
The company offers an easy-to-use website that allows potential policyholders to quickly navigate the application process and find the perfect coverage for their needs. It also helps that GEICO continues to be one of the cheapest insurance carriers in New Jersey.
Overall, very few companies in the region can match the affordability and customer experience that GEICO offers.
Benefits & Drawbacks
⇅- Affordable coverage options for nearly all driver categories
- Offers a large variety of discount options for policyholders
- Easy-to-use website and mobile app
- Ranked highly for customer service and customer satisfaction ✓
- Very few local agents are available to assist current or prospective customers
- Drivers will need to look elsewhere for coverages such as gap and rideshare insurance ✘
Best For Young Adults
Key Statistics
Why We Like Them
⇅While Nationwide may have higher premiums for young drivers compared to some of its competitors, it stands out due to the extensive policy customization options it offers. This flexibility allows young adults to tailor their coverage to match their specific needs and budget.
Nationwide’s car insurance is especially beneficial for older vehicles or those with high mileage, as it provides the option to choose liability coverage over collision or comprehensive coverage. This could be a cost-effective choice for young adults who may not need full coverage for an older vehicle.
Nationwide also offers a Good Student Discount on car insurance, making it an even more attractive option for young drivers. The discount is available to full-time high school or college students aged 16 to 24 who maintain a minimum “B” average. Nationwide policyholders who qualify for the Good Student Discount can save an average of 15% on their premiums.
In addition, Nationwide’s usage-based (SmartRide) and pay-per-mile insurance programs make it a good choice for young adults, especially those who don’t drive frequently. By charging based on actual usage, these programs can help young adults save money on their car insurance.
Benefits & Drawbacks
⇅- SmartRide usage-based program can lower rates
- Student Discounts are available for students with a B average or better
- Free insurance review, which can ensure that young adults have proper coverage ✓
- Higher premiums for teen drivers
- Potential for rate increases after filing a claim
- Does not offer a military discount ✘
Cheapest For Motorists With Driving Violations
Key Statistics
Why We Like Them
⇅Even though GEICO has slightly higher rates for drivers with DUIs, they are more forgiving when it comes to other driving violations such as speeding tickets or minor incidents. This forgiveness is seen in the pricing difference between the insurance provider and other companies like Travelers or Progressive.
GEICO also offers one of the best customer shopping experiences for potential policyholders thanks to its interactive website and mobile app. Drivers with a history of driving violations would be hard-pressed to find a better insurance company in New Jersey to purchase their car insurance coverage through.
When car insurance companies receive an application from a potential policyholder, they create a risk profile based on several factors. One of the most significant components of these profiles is the motorists driving history.
If your record shows a history of multiple speeding violations or other incidents, you’ll be classified as a medium to high-risk driver, resulting in higher premiums. Likewise, drivers with a clean record will receive lower rates since they don’t have a history of driving violations.
Benefits & Drawbacks
⇅- Continuously scores as one of the best insurance companies for customer loyalty and service
- Impressive rankings for how they handle claims
- Numerous discount options are available to lower monthly premiums further
- Affordable rates available for most drivers ✓
- There aren’t many local agents to speak to if you have issues with your policy
- Slightly higher than average rates for drivers with DUIs
- Additional coverage options like vanishing deductibles and car replacement coverage are not available ✘
Best For Bad Credit
Key Statistics
Why We Like Them
⇅Having bad credit can significantly increase your car insurance premiums, making it challenging to find affordable coverage. However, one company stands out as the best solution: Travelers, which is known for offering some of the cheapest rates for drivers with poor credit.
Travelers offers low average rates without compromising on the comprehensiveness of its coverage. This means you can secure robust protection for your vehicle at an affordable rate, even if your credit score is less than stellar.
Travelers allows policyholders to tailor their coverage according to their specific needs. This flexibility is particularly beneficial for drivers with poor credit, as they can select only the coverages they need, avoiding unnecessary costs.
Travelers also has a reputation for providing excellent customer service. This can be especially reassuring for drivers with poor credit, who may need more guidance when choosing and managing their car insurance policies.
Finally, Travelers demonstrates a commitment to affordability that extends beyond just its low premiums. The company offers a variety of discounts that can help lower your costs even further. From multi-policy discounts to safe driver discounts, these additional savings opportunities make Travelers an even more attractive choice for drivers with bad credit.
Benefits & Drawbacks
⇅- Offers a safe driver discount
- Rates are lower than the national average
- Low complaint index ✓
- No pay-per-mile program
- No grace period unless required by state law
- Potential higher rates for poor driving habits ✘
Cheapest For Full Coverage
Key Statistics
Why We Like Them
⇅With nearly 79% of drivers opting for full comprehensive coverage compared to minimum coverage, it’s easy to see why many motorists choose GEICO as their preferred auto insurance provider.
GEICO continues to be one of the most affordable car insurance companies in New Jersey while offering an excellent shopping experience for potential customers. Along with cheap rates, the insurance provider has several discounts many policyholders qualify for, making their monthly premiums even cheaper.
When most drivers start looking for car insurance, the most important decision is whether to purchase a full coverage policy or a minimum coverage plan. Both options fulfill the New Jersey requirements for auto insurance, but they don’t offer the same protection to drivers and others involved in an accident.
Drivers without a full coverage plan are often responsible for the costs associated with their vehicle during an at-fault accident. However, with a comprehensive full coverage policy, you’ll receive the following added protections:
- Bodily injury liability
- Property damage liability
- Comprehensive and collision protection
Benefits & Drawbacks
⇅- Offers one of the lowest average premium rates in the industry
- Consistently scores highly for customer service, customer loyalty, and overall experience
- Various discounts are available to help drivers lower their monthly premiums ✓
- Limited number of local agents to meet with in-person
- Doesn’t offer additional add-on coverage like rideshare insurance or car replacement insurance ✘
Best For Married Drivers
Key Statistics
Why We Like Them
⇅When it comes to finding car insurance that is both affordable and reliable, State Farm emerges as a top contender, particularly for married drivers.
State Farm offers some of the most competitive rates in the industry, making it an affordable choice for many drivers. This is especially true for married couples, who often enjoy lower premiums due to their perceived lower risk.
Despite its affordability, State Farm does not compromise on the comprehensiveness of its coverage. This means married drivers can secure affordable, robust protection. Whether you’re looking for liability coverage or comprehensive coverage, State Farm likely has a policy that will meet your needs.
State Farm is also known for providing significant discounts to good drivers. If you and your spouse maintain a clean driving record, you could see your premiums decrease even further. This commitment to rewarding safe driving makes State Farm an attractive option for conscientious married drivers.
State Farm has a reputation for its excellent customer service. This can be particularly beneficial for newly married couples who may be combining policies for the first time.
Finally, State Farm rewards customer loyalty with substantial renewal discounts. If you stay with State Farm for at least three consecutive years, you can expect an average renewal discount of 14%. This commitment to customer loyalty further enhances State Farm’s appeal as a cost-effective option for married drivers.
Benefits & Drawbacks
⇅- Has some of the most competitive rates available
- Offers many discounts to lower premiums
- Provides substantial renewal discounts for loyal customers ✓
- High rates for high-risk drivers
- Doesn’t offer gap coverage
- Limited digital tools (website and app complaints) ✘
Cheapest For Minimum Coverage
Key Statistics
Why We Love Them
⇅When it comes to purchasing a minimum coverage car insurance policy, you want a provider who is not only affordable but also has excellent customer service. With GEICO, you get both and more.
GEICO is known for its cheap monthly rates and industry-leading service team. However, it also features an easy-to-use mobile app that allows you to manage your policy without calling a representative.
The affordable pricing and low maintenance management make GEICO the perfect option for anyone looking for a minimum coverage auto insurance policy in New Jersey..
Even though full coverage offers the most protection for New Jersey drivers, having a minimum coverage policy will still allow you to legally operate a vehicle in the state. Since these plans tend only to have a limited number of coverages, they are often the least expensive option.
In some cases, purchasing a minimum coverage plan over comprehensive car insurance makes sense. For example, motorists who only drive their vehicle a few times a year are less likely to be involved in an accident and don’t need to pay for additional coverage. These limited plans can be a great option for college students who leave their vehicles at home.
Benefits & Drawbacks
⇅- Extensive list of discounts available
- Robust and interactive mobile app/website
- Several affordable options for most driver categories
- Ranked as one of the best for customer service and experience ✓
- Very few local agents available for in-person meetings
- Limited options for rideshare drivers ✘
Cheapest For Young Drivers
Key Statistics
Why We Like Them
⇅Even though NJM Insurance is only available in five states, they offer some of the most affordable rates for young drivers. Along with manageable monthly premiums, NJM also has a reputation for providing excellent customer service in a personal one-on-one environment.
Since many younger drivers aren’t fully aware of what to expect or what they need regarding auto insurance, having an experienced agent who can answer questions is a huge bonus.
It’s common for young drivers to think only about the open road and the freedom that comes with getting their license. However, motorists under 25 often pay the most for car insurance due to their lack of experience behind the wheel. The additional costs of carrying auto coverage are something every young driver needs to think about.
The good news is that young drivers in New Jersey have affordable options like NJM Insurance and GEICO. Both companies offer student discounts and tend to have some of the most affordable rates in the state.
Benefits & Drawbacks
⇅- Exceptional one-on-one service with a customer care team
- Customizable auto insurance plans
- Low number of customer complaints ✓
- Insurance is only provided in five states — Maryland, Ohio, Connecticut, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania
- Lack of mobile app
- Can’t purchase a policy online ✘
Cheapest For Senior Drivers
Key Statistics
Why We Like Them
⇅GEICO continues to impress with its consistently affordable rates and dedication to providing policyholders excellent customer service. For many senior drivers, having the ability to get questions answered quickly is a top priority, and GEICO delivers on that.
Not only does the car insurance company have a well-trained care team ready to answer questions, but it also has created a robust website and app full of important information that policy members might have questions about.
As drivers start to move into their senior years, many insurance companies view the transition as a positive sign. After many years behind the wheel, car insurance providers have a healthy amount of data to determine your driver profile. They also assume that you will be driving less since many seniors decide to retire from full-time work.
These criteria often mean that monthly premiums become less expensive as we age. For senior drivers in New Jersey, there are several affordable companies to consider, including GEICO and Progressive.
Benefits & Drawbacks
⇅- One of the top-ranked insurance providers for customer experience
- Affordable monthly rates and a long list of discounts to help lower costs further
- Easy-to-use web and mobile options for managing policies and updating account information ✓
- Limited options are available for policyholders looking to speak with an agent in-person
- There aren’t many choices for drivers looking to add additional coverages like rideshare insurance ✘
Average Cost Of Car Insurance In New Jersey
Insurance Company | Average Monthly Quote |
GEICO | $106 |
Plymouth Rock | $186 |
State Farm | $147 |
Travelers | $142 |
Nationwide | $251 |
Average Cost In New Jersey – By Age
Age Group | Average Monthly Rate |
Teenagers | $587 |
Under 25 | $371 |
25-29 | $196 |
30s | $152 |
40s | $147 |
50s | $139 |
60s | $139 |
70s | $185 |
80s | $180 |
Average Cost In New Jersey – By Gender
Gender | Average Monthly Cost |
Female | $312 |
Male | $319 |
Average Cost In New Jersey – Marital Status
Marital Status | Average Monthly Cost |
Single | $320 |
Married | $276 |
Average Cost In New Jersey – By Accident And Violation History
Violation/Incident Type | Average Monthly Rate |
Clean Record | $316 |
Speeding Ticket | $427 |
DUI/DWI | $629 |
At-Fault Accident | $448 |
Average Cost In New Jersey – By Credit Tier
Credit Tier | Average Monthly Rate |
Excellent | $241 |
Good | $286 |
Fair | $311 |
Poor | $489 |
Average Cost In New Jersey – By Zip Code
Zip Code | Average Monthly Cost |
08732 | $208 |
08754 | $208 |
08735 | $209 |
08755 | $210 |
08751 | $210 |
08756 | $210 |
08753 | $212 |
07047 | $324 |
07087 | $324 |
07094 | $327 |
Minimum Car Insurance Requirements In New Jersey
Nearly every state requires auto insurance to operate a motor vehicle — New Jersey is no different. However, the state recently introduced a new law that went into effect on January 1st, 2023, that increased the amount of coverage needed to drive in the state legally.
Below are the new state car insurance requirements for New Jersey drivers:
- $25,000 in bodily injury liability per person and $50,000 per accident
- $25,000 in property damage liability per accident
- $15,000 in personal injury protection per person
- Uninsured and underinsured coverage equal to the minimum bodily injury liability coverage
How To Buy Car Insurance In New Jersey
It’s easy to let the car insurance buying process overwhelm you, especially if it’s your first time purchasing coverage. However, a platform like Insuranceopedia can simplify the shopping experience.
Here are a few steps to take while looking for your New Jersey car insurance policy.
Step 1: Gather Information
One of the reasons many shoppers feel stressed when buying car insurance is the fear of not knowing what information is required to get a quote. Gathering the appropriate information before comparing options can help eliminate the stress and prepare you for the following steps.
Below is a list of the most common types of information you’ll need to purchase your auto insurance:
- Driving history for all drivers on the plan
- Information about your vehicle — annual mileage, safety features, current odometer reading, VIN, make, model, and year of the vehicle
- Driver’s license numbers for all policy members
- Name and birthdate of all policy members
- Information on the current insurer, if you’re switching carriers
Step 2: Understand Your Coverage Needs
As you compare different car insurance plans, you’ll notice that each has its coverage limits. While you’ll want to pick the plan that makes the most sense for you and your family, you’ll also want to ensure it meets the following New Jersey state minimum limits:
- $25,000 in bodily injury liability per person and $50,000 per accident
- $25,000 in property damage liability per accident
- $15,000 in personal injury protection per person
- Uninsured and underinsured coverage equal to the minimum bodily injury liability coverage
Step 3: Select A Purchasing Method
New Jersey has several ways to shop for a car insurance policy. The most popular way to purchase coverage is online through an insurance platform. However, several car insurance companies allow you to meet with an agent and discuss your quotes.
Both options offer their benefits. For example, working with a licensed agent allows you to ask questions and get immediate answers. While shopping online tends to be quicker, with many potential policy members finding coverage within minutes.
Step 4: Compare Auto Insurance Policies
Many consumers often select the first quote presented to them instead of comparing multiple offers. While the first option might be the best, collecting at least three quotes from different insurance providers is recommended to ensure you’re getting the best rates and discounts.
Step 5: Purchase Your New Auto Insurance Policy
When purchasing your car insurance plan, closing the loop on any outstanding insurance policies is essential. If you’re switching companies, you’ll want to call the previous insurance provider and let them know of your move so that you don’t get billed by both organizations.
Factors That Impact Cost Of Your Car Insurance Policy In New Jersey
Even though many drivers pay around $314 for a full coverage auto insurance policy in New Jersey, multiple factors ultimately play a role in determining monthly premiums. For example, your location in the state can significantly impact overall rates.
Many insurance companies utilize past data about different cities and zip codes to gain insight into how likely your vehicle is to be vandalized or involved in an accident. Living in a high-risk zone could mean paying more for coverage.
In addition to location, several other elements impact a driver’s rates, such as:
- Marital status
- Gender
- Age
- Driving record
- Credit history
- Average annual mileage
- Vehicle type
- State mandated requirements
New Jersey Car Insurance Laws To Know
According to the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission, all drivers must provide proof of the following three types of insurance to operate a vehicle legally:
- Liability insurance to pay for damages you cause from an at-fault accident
- Personal injury protection (PIP) to pay for medical expenses resulting from an automobile accident regardless of who was at-fault
- Uninsured motorists coverage to protect yourself against other drivers who don’t have the appropriate insurance to cover your expenses if they are considered at-fault
In The News
- Monthly premiums in New Jersey continue to rise as drivers are mandated to carry an additional $10,000 in liability insurance
- Some insurance carriers in New Jersey are utilizing education levels as a means of determining a driver’s monthly premium rate
Car Insurance Discounts In New Jersey
Since New Jersey ranks as one of the most expensive states for auto insurance coverage, it’s important to understand how you can save on monthly payments. The following discounts offer opportunities to lower your premium and find an affordable car insurance plan:
- Student away
- Good student
- Senior
- Multi-policy
- Multi-vehicle
- Military
- Paid in full
- Low mileage
- Safe driver
- Accident-free
- Defensive driving
FAQs
How much is car insurance in NJ per month?
Generally, many factors go into determining a driver’s car insurance rates. For instance, a driver’s history, credit, vehicle type, mileage, age, and location can all cause an increase in the monthly premium. However, most New Jersey drivers can expect to pay around $254 for a liability-only plan and $314 for full coverage.
What is the minimum car insurance required in NJ?
Like other states throughout the country, New Jersey requires multiple coverages to legally operate a vehicle. Here is a closer look at these requirements:
- $25,000 in bodily injury liability per person and $50,000 per accident
- $25,000 in property damage liability per accident
- $15,000 in personal injury protection per person
- Uninsured and underinsured coverage equal to the minimum bodily injury liability coverage
What type of insurance does every driver need in New Jersey?
To legally drive in New Jersey, motorists will need the following four coverages:
- Bodily injury liability insurance
- Property damage liability insurance
- Personal injury protection (PIP)
- Uninsured/Underinsured coverage
How much liability insurance do I need on my car NJ?
If you plan on driving in New Jersey, you’ll need to acquire an auto insurance policy with a minimum of $25,000 in bodily injury liability per person and $50,000 in bodily injury liability per accident. Your policy should also feature a minimum of $25,000 in property damage liability coverage per accident.