Cheapest Car Insurance In St. Petersburg, FL

State Farm offers residents of St. Petersburg the best cheap car insurance policy.

min read
Updated: 02 May 2024
Written by
Bob Phillips
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St. Petersburg, renowned as a vibrant city in Florida, beckons as a coastal gem and is often dubbed the “Sunshine City.” It attracts numerous newcomers from the Northeast and welcomes winter residents who establish abodes along the scenic shores. Amidst its charm, St. Petersburg boasts a multitude of vehicles, making the roads bustling. As car insurance seekers in St. Petersburg, the quest for the cheapest rates without compromising quality is a common pursuit. If you’re on this journey, you’ve landed in the right place.

For St. Petersburg residents, the average annual auto insurance expense totals $1,964. This falls below the statewide Florida average ($2,309) yet exceeds the national average of $1,548.

Within this assessment, our goal is to guide you towards the best choice for you. We’ll steer you not only toward the most budget-friendly option overall (State Farm), but also the cheapest for comprehensive coverage (Travelers), the least expensive for minimal coverage (GEICO), the cheapest for those with driving infractions (USAA), and the most affordable for seniors (Progressive).

Cheapest And Best Car Insurance Companies In St. Petersburg, FL 2024

Cheapest Car Insurance, St. Petersburg 2024

Compare The Cheapest Car Insurance Companies In St. Petersburg, FL

Overall Rating Best For J.D. Power Rating (Florida) Average Annual Cost AM Best Rating
GEICO
4.9

Cheapest Minimum Coverage

833

$553

A++

Instant Quote
State Farm
4.9

Cheapest Overall

840

$1,273

A++

Instant Quote
Travelers
4.8

Full Coverage

818

$1,672

A++

Instant Quote
USAA
4.9

Cheapest For Driving Violations

884

$851
Increase after violation

A++

Instant Quote
Progressive
4.9

Seniors

810

$1,602

A+

Instant Quote
GEICO
4.9

Young Drivers

833

$2,068

A++

Instant Quote
Scroll to see comparisons

Our Methodology

In searching for affordable car insurance rates in St. Petersburg, we thoroughly analyzed data from various review platforms, including public records from Quadrant Information Services. Our evaluation is based on average rates, but keep in mind rates vary frequently and depend on your situation.

Additionally, my assessment is shaped by 15 years as a licensed insurance agent, 14 years of Florida residency, and over 30 years of procuring car insurance.

52

Quotes Analyzed

15+

Years Of Industry Experience

14

Brands Reviewed

22+

Research Hours

Reviews Of The Cheapest Car Insurance Companies In St. Petersburg, FL


Cheapest Overall

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

During our analysis of cheap car insurance options in St. Petersburg, Florida, we found that State Farm stands out as a strong competitor across all categories. Their average rate, covering both minimum and full coverage, is the cheapest choice overall.

With a nearly century-long history, State Farm has a rich tradition of providing vehicle insurance. It boasts the largest network of local offices among insurers nationwide.

Drivers have access to a wide array of coverage options, including standard plans and additional features like rental car reimbursement, roadside assistance, travel expense insurance, and even rideshare coverage.

An innovative telematics program operates seamlessly, remotely monitoring driving behaviors. This initiative offers discounts as an incentive for safe driving practices, particularly benefiting those with limited driving experience.

State Farm has earned distinction with a strong industry standing and reputable customer service. This is supported by the highest financial strength ratings (A++ Superior) from AM Best. Additionally, the company receives commendable ratings from J.D. Power’s evaluations of insurers operating within Florida.

Benefits & Drawbacks

Benefits
  • Discount offered for usage-based insurance
  • Extensive network of local agents throughout the country
  • Favorable discount options available for teenagers and students
Drawbacks
  • Drivers with low credit scores face elevated annual rates

Cheapest Overall Rates In St. Petersburg

Company Rate Per Year
State Farm $1,273
GEICO $1,461
Farmers $1,960
Nationwide $1,716
Progressive $2,175

Cheapest For Full Coverage

Overall Rating
4.8

Key Statistics

10/10 Affordability
7/10 Customer Reviews
8/10 Claims/Payouts
8/10 Coverage Level

Why We Like Them

When assessing the realm of most affordable full coverage in St. Petersburg, Travelers emerges as the frontrunner. The dimensions of full coverage encompass:

  • $100,000 coverage for bodily injury liability per individual
  • $300,000 coverage for bodily injury liability per accident
  • $50,000 coverage for property damage liability per accident
  • $100,000 coverage for uninsured motorist bodily injury per individual
  • $300,000 coverage for uninsured motorist bodily injury per accident
  • Collision coverage with a deductible of $1,000
  • Comprehensive coverage with a deductible of $1,000

Recognized as a prominent name in the insurance sector, Travelers secures a significant presence. It ranks among the largest car insurance providers nationwide and garners popularity among those who seek collaboration with independent agents. This resonance is particularly with individuals aiming to consolidate various products from a singular insurer.

Travelers’ distinctiveness extends to several facets. Primarily, the provision of gap insurance is noteworthy. This coverage shields auto leases or loans, safeguarding against scenarios where a vehicle is totaled prior to the completion of payments or the lease term. Here, Travelers bridges the gap between the outstanding loan balance and the car’s assessed value upon being totaled.

Additionally, the Travelers’ Responsible Driver Plan presents a notable feature. This initiative grants forgiveness for one accident and one minor violation within a specified timeframe. The direct outcome of this is that policyholders’ rates remain unaffected, ensuring that rates do not rise following an incident or a minor infraction.

Benefits & Drawbacks

Benefits
  • Affordable rates for comprehensive coverage
  • Wide range of coverage choices offered
  • One of the leading insurance providers in the United States
Drawbacks
  • Customer satisfaction ratings fall below the average
  • Rideshare insurance is not offered in Florida

Cheapest Full Coverage In St. Petersburg

Company Rate Per Year
Travelers $1,672
Mercury $2,062
Farmers $1,960
Nationwide $1,716
Progressive $2,175

Cheapest For Driving Violations

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’ve ever been pulled over and issued a ticket, you’re likely familiar with the subsequent rate hike from your auto insurer, especially if you’re a young driver. The severity of the offense (DUI, DWI, reckless driving, etc.) often corresponds to the magnitude of the rate increase.

USAA stands out for its leniency in relation to rate adjustments following incidents such as receiving a speeding ticket, being involved in an at-fault accident, or being convicted of driving under the influence (DUI). While drivers with a record of driving violations have witnessed rate increases with USAA, these hikes are notably less substantial compared to other auto insurance providers.

USAA offers standard liability coverage, along with comprehensive and collision insurance similar to other industry counterparts. The company also presents an array of commonplace supplementary auto insurance coverages, including roadside assistance, reimbursement for rental cars and travel expenses, as well as accident forgiveness.

However, it’s important to note that USAA exclusively serves active military personnel, veterans, and their families.

Benefits & Drawbacks

Benefits
  • Top J.D. Power rating for customer satisfaction
  • Comprehensive offering of insurance, investing, and banking products
Drawbacks
  • Limited to serving veterans, active military personnel, and their family members with insurance

Cheapest For Rate Increase After A Driving Violation

Company Annual Increase
USAA $863
State Farm $1,531
Allstate $1,916
GEICO $1,994
MetLife $2,113

Cheapest For Minimum 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

Our exploration of St. Petersburg reveals that GEICO emerges as the provider with the most cheapest state minimum coverage on average. Florida’s regulations stipulate that drivers must possess a minimum of $10,000 in property damage liability insurance and $10,000 in personal injury protection (PIP). It’s noteworthy that Florida drivers are not obligated to secure bodily injury liability coverage.

Notably, GEICO garners consistently high ratings in diverse areas including customer service, claims processing, customer recommendations, policy renewals, and fostering customer loyalty. Occupying the position of the second-largest auto insurance company in the United States, GEICO has built a reputation for offering economical rates to consumers via both online platforms and phone services.

GEICO’s array of discounts further adds to its appeal, making it a top choice for St. Petersburg drivers with older vehicles who seek to trim expenses while adhering to Florida’s obligatory minimum auto insurance coverage. The company facilitates policy management through its user-friendly website and mobile application, enhancing convenience for policyholders.

Benefits & Drawbacks

Benefits
  • Higher than average J.D. Power score for customer satisfaction
  • Well-developed website and mobile app
  • Numerous available discounts
Drawbacks
  • Lack of gap or rideshare insurance options
  • Limited availability of local agents

Cheapest For Minimum Coverage

Company Rate Per Year
GEICO $553
State Farm $651
Nationwide $820
Allstate $1,073
Mercury $972

Cheapest For Seniors

Overall Rating
4.9

Key Statistics

9/10 Affordability
8/10 Customer Reviews
8/10 Claims/Payouts
9/10 Coverage Level

Why We Like Them

Among age groups, senior drivers often get affordable car insurance rates in St. Petersburg. Progressive offers the lowest rates for seniors.

As the third-largest auto insurance company in the nation, Progressive provides extensive discounts and coverage options, including rideshare insurance and pet injury coverage. They also stand out with gap and rideshare insurance options.

Progressive prioritizes long-term policyholders, assuring no significant premium increase after five years without accidents. Accident forgiveness insurance and multiple incident pardons are available.

Benefits & Drawbacks

Benefits
  • Ranked as the third-largest personal auto insurer in the U.S.
  • Offers coverage for veterinary bills if your pet is injured in a car accident
  • Provides rideshare coverage
Drawbacks
  • Receives below-average ratings for customer satisfaction according to J.D. Power
  • Available through a limited number of agents

Cheapest Coverage For Seniors

Company Rate Per Year
Progressive $1,602
Travelers $1,789
Mercury $1,706
Safeco $1,937
Liberty Mutual $2,115

Cheapest For Young Drivers

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

Young drivers in St. Petersburg face high car insurance rates due to their limited experience and higher accident risk.

Among options, GEICO stands out for offering affordable rates at $3,451 on average. However, affording it can still be challenging.

GEICO extends accessible discounts to young drivers, including up to 15% for good students and up to 22% for safe driving. New car discounts are available for vehicles three years old or newer. Additional discounts apply for driver’s education or defensive driving courses.

Benefits & Drawbacks

Benefits
  • Offers high policy limits for coverage
  • Features a highly-rated mobile app for convenient management
  • Holds an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau (BBB)
Drawbacks
  • Does not provide gap insurance
  • Operates with a restricted number of local agents

Cheapest For Young Drivers

Company Rate Per Year
GEICO $2,068
Farmers $2,450
Allstate $2,601
Mercury $2,817
Progressive $2,573

Average Cost Of Car Insurance In St. Petersburg

Average Cost In St. Petersburg– By Age

Age Group Average Yearly Rate
Teenagers $5,062
20s $3,372
30s $2,567
40s $2,392
50s $2,184
60s $2,154
70s $2,494

Average Cost In St. Petersburg – By Gender

Gender Average Annual Rate
Male $2,269
Female $2,291

Average Cost In St. Petersburg – By Marital Status

Marital Status Average Annual Rate
Single $2,173
Married $2,172
Divorced $2,247
Widowed $2,185

Average Cost In St. Petersburg – By Accident And Violation History

Violation Average Annual Premium
DWI/DUI $3,272
Reckless Driving $3,363
At-Fault Accident (damage <$1,000) $3,087
At-Fault Accident (damage >$2,000) $3,080
Speeding (16-20 MPH > limit) $2,819

Average Cost In St. Petersburg – By Credit Tier

Very poor: $4,407
Fair: $2,783
Good: $2,267
Very good: $2,081
Exceptional: $1,852

Average Cost In St. Petersburg – By Zip Code

ZIP Code Average Rate
33755 $2,279
32202 $2,544
33714 $2,427
33705 $2,570
33743 $1,330
33732 $1,886

Minimum Car Insurance Requirements In Florida

When you’re in the process of shopping for car insurance, it’s important to have a clear understanding of Florida’s minimum coverage requirements:

  • Property damage liability per accident: $10,000
  • Personal injury protection: $10,000

These coverage amounts represent the bare minimum mandated by Florida law. Depending on your specific circumstances, such as the type of vehicle you own and your driving habits, you might consider opting for higher coverage limits and adding collision and comprehensive insurance to your policy.

How To Buy Car Insurance In St. Petersburg

If you’re in the process of purchasing car insurance in St. Petersburg, consider these five steps to ensure a smooth and straightforward experience:

  1. Determine the type of car insurance that suits your needs. Are you looking for minimum coverage, full coverage, or something in between? Take into consideration your vehicle’s value and your annual mileage.
  2. Have your personal and vehicle details ready. Be prepared with essential information such as your driver’s license number, social security number, Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), and your current mileage.
  3. Obtain quotes from at least three different companies. Ensure that the coverage amounts and limits you’re comparing are similar.
  4. Make an informed decision and purchase your policy. While price is a factor, don’t solely base your decision on it. The best insurance provider for you might not necessarily be the cheapest.
  5. Handle the transition from your old policy to the new one. You’re responsible for canceling your previous policy; your new insurer won’t do it for you. Make sure to wait until you’re certain your new coverage is in effect before canceling the old policy.

Factors That Impact The Cost Of Your Car Insurance Policy In St. Petersburg

When determining your auto insurance cost in St. Petersburg, insurance companies consider various factors, including:

State requirements: Your policy should meet Florida’s minimum coverage, which includes $10,000 in damage liability and $10,000 in personal injury protection (PIP).

Age: Younger drivers face higher rates due to their inexperience and greater likelihood of accidents. Rates generally decrease after turning 25.

Car’s make and model: Safer vehicles lead to lower rates. For instance, insuring a late-model Toyota Corolla is more affordable than a Chevrolet Corvette.

Driving record: Previous accidents and traffic violations can substantially raise your rates, as they indicate a higher likelihood of future claims.

Yearly mileage: Long commutes typically result in higher rates compared to those who drive less frequently.

Credit history: Higher credit scores often lead to lower rates, as individuals with better scores tend to file fewer claims.

Zip code: Where you work and park your car influences rates. Some areas might offer discounts, while others could lead to rate increases based on the risk of vandalism or damage.

Marital status: Married drivers generally enjoy lower rates than single drivers.

Gender: Men around age 45 often pay about 6% less than women of the same age. However, this gender gap tends to level out for drivers in their 30s.

Florida Car Insurance Laws To Know

Florida drivers must adhere to certain insurance requirements, including carrying at least $10,000 in property liability coverage and $10,000 in personal injury protection (PIP).

Furthermore, Florida operates as a no-fault state. This means that no-fault insurance mandates insurers to cover medical expenses irrespective of the party at fault in an accident.

In The News

As reported by the Dallas Morning News, residents throughout Florida are currently grappling with financial challenges due to heightened expenses across various sectors, driven by the most significant inflation in four decades. Notably, they are also contending with the most substantial annual surge in auto insurance premiums observed in over two decades.

In 2022, auto insurance rates in Florida witnessed a remarkable upswing, averaging 23.8%. This surge is eight times larger than the increase observed in 2021 and stands as the most substantial annual rise in at least 20 years, as reported by the Florida Department of Insurance. Furthermore, the state experienced an average increase of 10.8% in homeowners insurance rates last year, marking the most notable yearly growth since 2012.

Information About St. Petersburg

St. Petersburg, nestled in Florida’s west coast, stands out with its vibrant community, thriving economy, diverse cultural scene, recreational options, and abundant natural beauty, establishing itself as a city of great dynamism. Encompassing a land area of 137.6 square miles, St. Petersburg exudes its own unique charm.

Ranked as the fifth most populous city in Florida, St. Petersburg boasts a balanced cost of living, adding to its appeal. The city offers distinct tax benefits, devoid of corporate franchise tax, state personal tax, inventory tax, or foreign income tax. The presence of renowned educational institutions and the influence of MacDill Air Force Base contribute to a skilled and diverse workforce, driving the city’s prosperity.

Car Insurance Discounts In St. Petersburg

Car insurance in St. Petersburg stands as a cost-effective alternative to rates in other major Florida cities, such as Tampa and Miami. Yet, to effectively trim expenses, it’s imperative to explore potential discounts. Among the most prevalent discount opportunities are the following:

  • Having a good driving history
  • Installing vehicle safety features
  • Customer loyalty
  • Being claims-free
  • Driving fewer than average miles
  • Being a student with at least a “B” average
  • Military discount
  • Senior discount

FAQs

What is the cheapest car insurance in the State of Florida?  

For minimum liability coverage, GEICO offers the most budget-friendly car insurance option in Florida, coming in at an annual rate of $553.

How much does car insurance cost in St. Petersburg on average?  

For complete coverage, the typical annual expense of car insurance in St. Petersburg stands at $1,964.

Do I need car insurance in St. Petersburg?  

St. Petersburg drivers are legally obligated to have auto liability insurance according to Florida law.

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