Cheapest Car Insurance For College Students In Texas 2026
GEICO is one of the best car insurance companies for college students in Texas. State Farm is the cheapest provider, with an average annual rate of $1,668.
We’ve saved shoppers an average of $600 per year on their car insurance.
Texas ranks among the top five states nationwide for its sheer number of colleges and universities. At the largest institution, Texas A&M University, enrollment regularly exceeds 74,000 students, while other major schools such as the University of Texas at Austin, University of Houston, and University of North Texas each average around 48,000 students annually.
With such a massive student population spread across both large universities and smaller campuses, the need for affordable car insurance is universal. Whether you’re navigating the busy streets of Austin or commuting to class in a smaller Texas town, finding coverage that fits a student budget is essential.
Key Takeaways
Student drivers in Texas must have car insurance that meets the state’s minimum requirements.
State Farm offers the cheapest insurance policy for students in Texas, at an average annual rate of $1,668.
There are multiple ways to reduce the cost of car insurance for students in Texas.
Best Car Insurance Companies For College Students In Texas
When selecting car insurance for college students in Texas, 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 Texas.
| Company | Average Rate Per Year |
| State Farm | $1,668 |
| Allstate | $2,256 |
| GEICO | $1,776 |
| Nationwide | $2,208 |
| Progressive | $3,384 |
* 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 Texas
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, GEICO is the cheapest average option at $588 per year.
| Company | Average Rate Per Year |
| Texas Farm Bureau | $720 |
| State Farm | $684 |
| GEICO | $588 |
| Mercury | $780 |
| Progressive | $612 |
* 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 Texas
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.
USAA is the cheapest full coverage car insurance policy for students in Texas, at an average annual rate of $2,940.
| Company | Average Rate Per Year |
| Auto‑Owners | $3,240 |
| State Farm | $3,120 |
| GEICO | $3,360 |
| Texas Farm Bureau | $3,540 |
| USAA | $2,940 |
* 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 Texas
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 Texas.
| Company | Average Rate Per Year |
| Allstate | $1,440 |
| USAA | $1,200 |
| State Farm | $1,500 |
| Nationwide | $1,140 |
| Progressive | $1,320 |
* 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 Texas
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 Texas Farm Bureau that specializes in insuring motorists with a history of tickets or accidents.
| Company | Average Rate Per Year |
| Texas Farm Bureau | $3,960 |
| State Farm | $4,440 |
| GEICO | $5,160 |
| Fred Loya Insurance | $4,560 |
| Mercury Insurance | $4,320 |
* 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 Texas – By City
Where you live in Texas can have a significant impact on your car insurance premiums.
Use the table below to view average rates for different cities in Texas.
| City | Average Monthly Cost |
| Houston | $184 |
| Dallas | $189 |
| Austin | $163 |
| San Antonio | $170 |
| El Paso | $160 |
* 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 Texas
State Farm offers the cheapest rates for 18-year-old college drivers in Texas, at an average monthly cost of $180.
| Car Insurance Provider | Average Monthly Cost |
| GEICO | $210 |
| State Farm | $180 |
| Allstate | $360 |
| Nationwide | $340 |
| Progressive | $780 |
* 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 Texas
State Farm provides the cheapest policy for 19-year-old college students in Texas, averaging $160 per month.
| Car Insurance Provider | Average Monthly Cost |
| State Farm | $160 |
| GEICO | $182 |
| Allstate | $297 |
| Nationwide | $280 |
| Progressive | $374 |
* 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 Texas
The cheapest auto insurance rates for a 20-year-old college driver can be found with State Farm, averaging $140 per month.
| Car Insurance Provider | Average Monthly Cost |
| State Farm | $140 |
| Allstate | $248 |
| GEICO | $165 |
| Nationwide | $245 |
| Progressive | $346 |
* 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 Texas
The most affordable college student car insurance policy for a 21-year-old can be found at State Farm, with an average monthly cost of $117.
| Car Insurance Provider | Average Monthly Cost |
| GEICO | $135 |
| State Farm | $117 |
| Allstate | $301 |
| Nationwide | $184 |
| Progressive | $278 |
* 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 Texas
22-year-old student car insurance can be found from $109 per month, with a State Farm auto policy.
| Car Insurance Provider | Average Monthly Cost |
| Nationwide | $165 |
| Allstate | $159 |
| GEICO | $129 |
| State Farm | $109 |
| Progressive | $612 |
* 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 Texas
23-year-old college drivers can find affordable insurance from State Farm at an average monthly cost of $99.
| Car Insurance Provider | Average Monthly Cost |
| GEICO | $120 |
| State Farm | $99 |
| Progressive | $215 |
| Nationwide | $158 |
| Allstate | $149 |
* 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 Texas
The cheapest car insurance policy for a 24-year-old college student is $92 per month, which can be found with State Farm.
| Car Insurance Provider | Average Monthly Cost |
| State Farm | $92 |
| Allstate | $139 |
| GEICO | $120 |
| Nationwide | $146 |
| Progressive | $192 |
* 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 Texas
State Farm offers the cheapest auto policies for 25-year-old college students in Texas at $79 per month.
| Car Insurance Provider | Average Monthly Cost |
| Nationwide | $125 |
| Allstate | $120 |
| GEICO | $118 |
| State Farm | $79 |
| Progressive | $176 |
* 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 |
| State Farm | $90 | $139 |
| Allstate | $172 | $188 |
| GEICO | $136 | $148 |
| Nationwide | $103 | $188 |
| Progressive | $176 | $282 |
* These figures are estimates based on general market trends, and they may differ from your actual rate.
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 Can College Students Save Money On Car Insurance In Texas
Texas is known for having some of the highest car insurance rates in the country, with average costs running about $305 more per year compared to national figures. For college students—who already face higher premiums than older drivers—finding ways to save is essential. If staying on a parent’s policy isn’t an option, here are several strategies to help reduce costs.
Student-Specific Discounts
Maintaining strong academics can pay off. Many Texas insurers reward students with good grades, often requiring a GPA of 3.0 or higher or ranking in the top 20% of their class. Other student-focused discounts include:
- Safe driver discount for maintaining a clean driving record
- Driver’s education discount for completing approved courses
- Distant student discount if your car stays at home while you attend school far away
Choosing The Right Vehicle
The type of car you drive has a major impact on premiums. To keep costs down, avoid:
- Sports cars with high-performance engines
- Luxury vehicles with expensive repair costs
- Electric vehicles, since battery replacements can be costly
- Commonly stolen models, such as Chevy and Ford full-sized trucks (the Chevrolet Silverado was the most stolen vehicle in Texas in 2023, with nearly 7,000 reported cases)
Opting for a reliable used car with added safety features is often the most budget-friendly choice for students.
Vehicle Security And Safety Improvements
Texas college towns like San Marcos have seen rising car theft rates, averaging about 200 thefts annually. Installing anti-theft devices, GPS trackers, or safety features such as daytime running lights can reduce risk and qualify you for discounts. Insurers often lower premiums when you take proactive steps to protect your vehicle.
Affiliation Discounts
Membership in organizations can unlock savings. Texas students may qualify for discounts through:
- UNT Alumni Association
- Texas A&M PerksConnect Discount Program
- Texas Exes alumni network
- ERS Texas Discount Purchase Program
Additionally, fraternities, sororities, honor societies, and other campus groups may partner with insurers to provide reduced rates.
How To Buy Car Insurance As A College Student In Texas
For Texas college students, purchasing car insurance for the first time can feel overwhelming. Luckily, 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 stack up.
Step 2: Decide On Coverage Levels
Texas 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: Balance Deductibles And Premiums
Choosing higher deductibles can lower your monthly premium, but make sure you have savings set aside to cover unexpected claims. This balance between affordability and protection is key for college students managing tight budgets.
Step 5: Purchase And Transition Smoothly
Once you’ve chosen the best policy, complete the purchase online or in person. 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 Texas college students, whether you need your own car insurance or can remain on a parent’s plan depends on your living arrangements and where your vehicle is primarily kept. Let’s break down the scenarios.
When Students Need Their Own Policy
If you purchase your own vehicle and establish a permanent residence separate from your parents, insurers generally require you to carry your own policy. This ensures coverage reflects the location where the car is parked and driven full-time. Additionally, if you move out of state for school, you’ll need to check that state’s insurance requirements to determine whether your Texas policy remains valid or if you must purchase new coverage.
Staying On A Family Policy
Unlike health insurance, auto insurance in Texas does not impose age limits. As long as you continue to use your parents’ permanent address or live at home while attending college, you can remain on their plan. This applies even if you attend school in Texas as an out-of-state student, provided your parents’ home remains your permanent residence.
Texas Car Insurance Laws To Know
Texas requires what is called 30/60/25 coverage:
- $30,000 per person for bodily injury
- $60,000 per accident
- $25,000 for property damage per accident
Any driver who is driving in Texas, whether or not they live there, must have physical or digital proof of their insurance. All drivers must show proof of insurance when they register a vehicle, get a driver’s license, or renew their registration.
If caught driving without insurance or without proof of insurance can result in a ticket with a fine of up to $350 but if involved in an accident, that fine can be up to $4,000 with one year in jail and a driver’s license suspension and vehicle registration suspension for up to 2 years.
It is important to note that these minimum liability limits may not be adequate for those involved in serious accidents or if the vehicle is totaled, and the rest of the costs will have to be paid out of pocket if the insurance coverage is insufficient.
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 Texas, 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
