Cheapest Car Insurance For College Students In North Carolina 2025
GEICO is one of the best car insurance companies for college students in North Carolina. Nationwide is the cheapest provider, with an average annual rate of $1,040.
We’ve saved shoppers an average of $600 per year on their car insurance.
In North Carolina, the average annual premium for a full coverage policy is more than $2,000. For college students, rates often climb even higher because insurers consider them a higher‑risk group. Limited driving experience, combined with behaviors such as distracted driving, inconsistent seat belt use, alcohol consumption, speeding, and late‑night travel, all contribute to elevated accident risks among young drivers.
Even so, there are practical strategies that can help students reduce costs. By maintaining good grades to qualify for academic discounts, staying on a parent’s policy, completing defensive driving courses, or exploring usage‑based insurance programs, North Carolina college students can find ways to make car insurance more affordable while still staying protected on the road.
Key Takeaways
Student drivers in North Carolina must have car insurance that meets the state’s minimum requirements.
Nationwide offers the cheapest insurance policy for students in North Carolina, at an average annual rate of $1,040.
There are multiple ways to reduce the cost of car insurance for students in North Carolina.
Best Car Insurance Companies For College Students In North Carolina
When selecting car insurance for college students in North Carolina, you need to consider your priorities and pick a policy that matches your needs, whether that is low rates or comprehensive coverage.
Use the table below to see our picks for the best auto insurers for students in North Carolina.
| Company | Average Rate Per Year |
| GEICO | $1,188 |
| State Farm | $1,130 |
| Nationwide | $1,040 |
| Allstate | $1,798 |
| Progressive | $1,120 |
* These figures are estimates based on general market trends, and they may differ from your actual rate.
Cheapest Liability-Only Car Insurance For College Students In North Carolina
Minimum coverage policies are often an effective way to decrease overall costs, but can leave you vulnerable in an accident. These low-cost plans will only cover the state minimum insurance needed to operate a vehicle, which means paying expenses out of pocket.
Minimum coverage policies are great options for college students as they provide the insurance needed to drive legally while keeping costs low.
As you can see from the table below, Nationwide is the cheapest average option at $528 per year.
| Company | Average Rate Per Year |
| Allstate | $660 |
| Progressive | $600 |
| State Farm | $552 |
| Nationwide | $528 |
| GEICO | $588 |
* These figures are estimates based on general market trends, and they may differ from your actual rate.
Cheapest Full Coverage Car Insurance For College Students In North Carolina
College students who commute to campus or routinely drive for work should consider a full coverage policy over minimum coverage. These plans offer additional protection, often including liability, comprehensive, and collision coverage.
While the full coverage policies offer more protection, they come at a higher cost. It’s essential to weigh the benefits of the additional insurance against the extra monthly cost.
North Carolina Farm Bureau is the cheapest full coverage car insurance policy for students in North Carolina, at an average annual rate of $1,404.
| Company | Average Rate Per Year |
| GEICO | $1,488 |
| Erie | $1,460 |
| North Carolina Farm Bureau | $1,404 |
| Nationwide | $1,788 |
| State Farm | $1,584 |
* These figures are estimates based on general market trends, and they may differ from your actual rate.
Cheapest Car Insurance For College Students With Low-Mileage In North Carolina
If you’re a college student who doesn’t plan on driving much throughout the school year, there’s no reason to pay for insurance you don’t need. While you’ll still need to maintain the state minimum auto insurance, most low-mileage policies offer discounted rates if you stay below a certain number of miles yearly.
The limit will vary between insurance companies but is usually around 7,500 to 10,000 miles annually.
Use the table below to view the cheapest low-mileage rates for college drivers in North Carolina.
| Company | Average Rate Per Year |
| State Farm | $900 |
| Allstate | $720 |
| GEICO | $1,020 |
| Nationwide | $780 |
| Erie | $840 |
* These figures are estimates based on general market trends, and they may differ from your actual rate.
Cheapest Car Insurance For College Students With Driving Violations In North Carolina
Driving violations can significantly increase the amount a driver pays for monthly coverage, regardless of age. College students will likely experience an even more significant rate increase after an accident or ticket due to their already high-risk rating.
One way to mitigate the damage of a driving violation is to work with a company like Erie that specializes in insuring motorists with a history of tickets or accidents.
| Company | Average Rate Per Year |
| Erie | $1,375 |
| GEICO | $1,495 |
| State Farm | $2,030 |
| Progressive | $1,670 |
| North Carolina Farm Bureau | $1,440 |
* These figures are estimates based on general market trends, and they may differ from your actual rate.
Average Cost Of Car Insurance For College Students In North Carolina – By City
Where you live in North Carolina can have a significant impact on your car insurance premiums.
Use the table below to view average rates for different cities in North Carolina.
| City | Average Monthly Cost |
| Charlotte | $142 |
| Raleigh | $123 |
| Greensboro | $115 |
| Durham | $117 |
| Asheville | $106 |
* These figures are estimates based on general market trends, and they may differ from your actual rate.
Average Cost Of Car Insurance For 18-Year-Old College Students In North Carolina
State Farm offers the cheapest rates for 18-year-old college drivers in North Carolina, at an average monthly cost of $102.
| Car Insurance Provider | Average Monthly Cost |
| GEICO | $180 |
| State Farm | $102 |
| Nationwide | $134 |
| Allstate | $279 |
| Progressive | $184 |
* These figures are estimates based on general market trends, and they may differ from your actual rate.
Average Cost Of Car Insurance For 19-Year-Old College Students In North Carolina
Progressive provides the cheapest policy for 19-year-old college students in North Carolina, averaging $92 per month.
| Car Insurance Provider | Average Monthly Cost |
| GEICO | $106 |
| State Farm | $98 |
| Progressive | $92 |
| Nationwide | $111 |
| Auto Owners | $175 |
* These figures are estimates based on general market trends, and they may differ from your actual rate.
Average Cost Of Car Insurance For 20-Year-Old College Students In North Carolina
The cheapest auto insurance rates for a 20-year-old college driver can be found with State Farm, averaging $92 per month.
| Car Insurance Provider | Average Monthly Cost |
| Nationwide | $99 |
| State Farm | $92 |
| Progressive | $95 |
| GEICO | $104 |
| Allstate | $172 |
* These figures are estimates based on general market trends, and they may differ from your actual rate.
Average Cost Of Car Insurance For 21-Year-Old College Students In North Carolina
The most affordable college student car insurance policy for a 21-year-old can be found at GEICO, with an average monthly cost of $78.
| Car Insurance Provider | Average Monthly Cost |
| GEICO | $78 |
| State Farm | $94 |
| Nationwide | $86 |
| Allstate | $149 |
| Progressive | $93 |
* These figures are estimates based on general market trends, and they may differ from your actual rate.
Average Cost Of Car Insurance For 22-Year-Old College Students In North Carolina
22-year-old student car insurance can be found from $76 per month, with a GEICO auto policy.
| Car Insurance Provider | Average Monthly Cost |
| GEICO | $76 |
| State Farm | $92 |
| Nationwide | $83 |
| Allstate | $142 |
| Progressive | $94 |
* These figures are estimates based on general market trends, and they may differ from your actual rate.
Average Cost Of Car Insurance For 23-Year-Old College Students In North Carolina
23-year-old college drivers can find affordable insurance from Nationwide at an average monthly cost of $75.
| Car Insurance Provider | Average Monthly Cost |
| GEICO | $94 |
| State Farm | $87 |
| Progressive | $93 |
| Nationwide | $75 |
| Allstate | $141 |
* These figures are estimates based on general market trends, and they may differ from your actual rate.
Average Cost Of Car Insurance For 24-Year-Old College Students In North Carolina
The cheapest car insurance policy for a 24-year-old college student is $71 per month, which can be found with GEICO.
| Car Insurance Provider | Average Monthly Cost |
| State Farm | $86 |
| Nationwide | $72 |
| GEICO | $71 |
| Progressive | $93 |
| Allstate | $135 |
* These figures are estimates based on general market trends, and they may differ from your actual rate.
Average Cost Of Car Insurance For 25-Year-Old College Students In North Carolina
Nationwide offers the cheapest auto policies for 25-year-old college students in North Carolina at $65 per month.
| Car Insurance Provider | Average Monthly Cost |
| State Farm | $80 |
| Allstate | $125 |
| GEICO | $71 |
| Progressive | $92 |
| Nationwide | $65 |
* These figures are estimates based on general market trends, and they may differ from your actual rate.
Average Cost Of Car Insurance On Family Policy Vs. Individual Policy
| Insurance Company | Family Policy | Individual Student Policy |
| GEICO | $76 | $99 |
| State Farm | $87 | $92 |
| Nationwide | $80 | $83 |
| Allstate | $127 | $142 |
| Progressive | $94 | $101 |
* These figures are estimates based on general market trends, and they may differ from your actual rate.
How Can College Students Save Money On Car Insurance In North Carolina
Car insurance premiums in North Carolina can be especially challenging for college students, since younger drivers often pay more than those just a few years older. If staying on a parent’s policy isn’t an option, here are several strategies to help reduce costs and keep coverage affordable.
| Discount Type | Eligibility | Potential Savings |
| Customer Loyalty | Stay with the same insurer for 3–5 years (ideal if you’ve had coverage since high school) | Up to 10% |
| Good Driver | Maintain a clean driving record with no at-fault accidents or claims for 3–5 years | 10%–30% |
| Continual Insurance | Keep the same policy active for 6 months or longer | 5%–25% |
| Billing | Enroll in automatic payments or paperless billing | 2%–20% |
| Good Student | Maintain at least a B average | 5%–20% |
| Safety Features | Install features like daytime running lights, car alarms, anti-theft devices, or anti-lock brakes | 2%–30% |
Below are some things to consider:
Student-Specific Discounts
The most common savings for North Carolina college students come from maintaining good grades. A B average or higher can reduce premiums by 5%–20%. Additional opportunities include:
- Completing a driver’s education course approved in North Carolina
- Qualifying for a distant student discount if your school is more than 100 miles from home
Affiliation Discounts
Membership in organizations can unlock savings. For example, GEICO offers discounts of 2%–5% for students involved in fraternities, sororities, alumni associations, or charitable groups.
Choosing Between Used And New Cars
The type of car you drive has a major impact on premiums. While newer cars may offer better mileage and advanced safety features, they are more expensive to insure due to higher repair costs and perceived risk factors. A reliable used car is often the more budget-friendly choice for college students.
Vehicle Security And Safety Improvements
Adding safety features can reduce accident risk and lower premiums. Research from the U.S. Department of Transportation shows that anti-lock brakes reduce accidents for about 17% of drivers. For North Carolina students, installing anti-lock brakes can lead to discounts of 5%–10%.
Discounts can help college students save money, but every policy is different. With PolicyOwl, you can upload your current policy and instantly see whether your student driver is fully protected
How To Buy Car Insurance As A College Student In North Carolina
For North Carolina college students, purchasing car insurance for the first time can feel overwhelming. Thankfully, comparison platforms like Insuranceopedia make the process easier by letting you review multiple quotes side by side. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process with confidence.
Step 1: Compare Multiple Quotes
Start by gathering at least three quotes from different insurers. Using online platforms ensures you’re comparing the same coverage levels across providers, making it easier to spot the best deal and see how discounts apply to your situation.
Step 2: Decide On Coverage Levels
North Carolina law requires minimum liability coverage, but you may want to add collision, comprehensive, or gap insurance depending on your car’s age and value. Optional add-ons like roadside assistance can provide peace of mind, but remember they also increase your premium.
Step 3: Gather Essential Information
Before requesting quotes, have your details ready. You’ll need your driver’s license number, vehicle information, driving history, and personal details for anyone else on the policy. Having this information upfront ensures accurate quotes and avoids delays.
Step 4: Choose How You’ll Purchase
Decide whether you’d prefer buying online or working with a local agent. Online platforms are quick and convenient, while agents can provide personalized guidance if you want extra support.
Step 5: Purchase And Transition Smoothly
Once you’ve chosen the best policy, complete the purchase online or in person. After paying your first premium, you’ll receive your insurance documents in the mail. If you’re switching providers, notify your old insurer to avoid billing overlaps and ensure a seamless transition.
Do College Students Need Their Own Insurance, Or Can They Stay On A Parent’s?
For North Carolina college students, whether you need your own car insurance or can remain on a parent’s plan depends on your living arrangements, vehicle ownership, and financial situation.
When Students Need Their Own Policy
If your vehicle is titled solely in your name and kept at your own permanent residence, insurers generally require you to purchase a separate policy. Students who lease or finance a car also need to carry collision and comprehensive coverage, which can raise premiums. Once the vehicle is fully paid off, you may be able to drop one or both coverages to reduce costs.
Staying On A Family Policy
Students who continue to list their parents’ home as their permanent residence can typically remain on the family policy. This applies even if you live in a dorm or student housing while away at school. In fact, insurers may offer a “student away at school” discount if the car remains at home and is rarely used.
North Carolina Car Insurance Laws To Know
All drivers must be continuously insured with minimum requirements of $30,000 for bodily injury for each person under the policy, $60,000 for total bodily injury for all persons in an accident, and $25,000 for property damage.
Drivers in North Carolina must also include uninsured motorist coverage, which provides protection in the event that you are injured by a driver who doesn’t carry insurance.
You can add underinsured motorist coverage if you want as a separate policy to protect when individuals with whom you have an accident do not have adequate insurance.
In addition to the minimum insurance requirements it is imperative that college students know North Carolina does not accept out of state policies. That means if you are going to college in North Carolina but you are from another state you will need to get new coverage offered by a company licensed in North carolina.
Liability coverage in North Carolina applies to anyone living in the household of the policyholder, so if you are under your parents’ policy, their liability coverage will apply to you, but if you are the primary policyholder, your liability coverage will extend to anyone living in your household. Similarly, your car insurance goes with your vehicle, not you as the driver, and that means letting a friend borrow your car, which means that they are also borrowing the insurance policy you have.
License plates in North Carolina will not be provided to drivers until they have proof of sufficient liability insurance. Failure to keep insurance can result in fines and similar penalties.
Compare College Student Rates To Other U.S. States
| State | Average Annual Premium |
| Alabama | $3,460 |
| Alaska | $3,276 |
| Arizona | $3,412 |
| Arkansas | $3,557 |
| California | $4,016 |
| Colorado | $3,937 |
| Connecticut | $3,325 |
| Delaware | $3,663 |
| Florida | $4,294 |
| Georgia | $3,570 |
| Hawaii | $3,117 |
| Idaho | $3,028 |
| Illinois | $3,132 |
| Indiana | $3,115 |
| Iowa | $3,230 |
| Kansas | $3,500 |
| Kentucky | $3,828 |
| Louisiana | $4,483 |
| Maine | $2,775 |
| Maryland | $3,346 |
| Massachusetts | $3,326 |
| Michigan | $3,952 |
| Minnesota | $3,511 |
| Mississippi | $3,608 |
| Missouri | $3,582 |
| Montana | $3,793 |
| Nebraska | $3,502 |
| Nevada | $3,660 |
| New Hampshire | $2,865 |
| New Jersey | $3,502 |
| New Mexico | $3,649 |
| New York | $3,470 |
| North Carolina | $3,341 |
| North Dakota | $3,265 |
| Ohio | $3,017 |
| Oklahoma | $3,738 |
| Oregon | $3,278 |
| Pennsylvania | $3,472 |
| Rhode Island | $3,661 |
| South Carolina | $3,422 |
| South Dakota | $3,880 |
| Tennessee | $3,277 |
| Texas | $3,643 |
| Utah | $3,425 |
| Vermont | $2,919 |
| Virginia | $3,069 |
| Washington | $3,208 |
| West Virginia | $3,605 |
| Wisconsin | $3,264 |
| Wyoming | $3,358 |
* These figures are estimates based on general market trends, and they may differ from your actual rate.
Our Methodology
To find the cheapest car insurance rates for college students in North Carolina, we analyzed findings from numerous insurance rating sites, some of which analyzed rates from public filings obtained by Quadrant Information Services. We also utilize the combined 25 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.
About Doug Schaffer
