Best Life Insurance Companies In Charlotte, NC

Metlife offer residents of Charlotte the best life insurance policy.

min read
Updated: 23 January 2024
Written by
Bob Phillips
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If you want to choose the right life insurance policy from among the best life insurance companies in Charlotte, you’ve come to the right place. Our team at Insuranceopedia takes life insurance seriously, and we’re here to help you make the best decision to secure your family’s financial future.

After a comprehensive analysis of life insurance providers in Charlotte, we recommend MetLife as the top choice. It offers exceptional life insurance products backed by the largest life insurance seller in Charlotte.

This review will cover the different types of life insurance policies, including whole life, term life, and variable universal life. We’ll also discuss the average cost of life insurance in Charlotte. Selecting the right company and policy for your age group is essential to avoid long-term financial difficulties for your loved ones.

As a former career agent and after my years invested in evaluating life insurance companies, I’m very familiar with the insurers we’ll discuss in this review. Each caters to a different demographic but is financially stable and well-respected.

Best Life Insurance Companies In Charlotte, NC 2024

Best Life Insurance, Charlotte 2024

Comparison Of The Best Life Insurance Companies In Charlotte, NC

To help you evaluate the best life insurance companies in Charlotte, we’ve provided a table that displays our preferred companies based on specific criteria.

Overall Rating Best For A.M. Best Rating J.D. Power Rating (Best 1000) Online Experience (Best 10.0) Get A Quote
MetLife
4.9

Best Overall

A+

786

9.5

Instant Quote
Northwestern Mutual
4.8

Best Overall Runner-Up

A++

794

9.5

Instant Quote
MassMutual
4.7

Best For Seniors

A++

780

9.2

Instant Quote
Mutual of Omaha
4.7

Best For Young Adults

A+

801

9.7

Instant Quote
Transamerica
4.8

Best For Cheapest Life Insurance

A+

740

9.6

Instant Quote
Lemonade
4.6

No Medical Exam Term Life

NR

Not Rated

9.5

Instant Quote
Scroll to see comparisons

Our Methodology

At InsuranceWise, we consider various aspects such as customer service ratings, product offerings, pricing, and online experience when evaluating. Additionally, my background in selling life insurance, interactions with agents from other life insurance companies, and years spent reviewing life insurance companies have contributed to my knowledge and insights into their offerings and service.

52

Quotes Analyzed

15+

Years Of Industry Experience

14

Brands Reviewed

22+

Research Hours

Reviews Of The Best Life Insurance Companies


Best Overall

Overall Rating
4.9

Key Statistics

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

Why We Like Them

MetLife has been a household name for decades. It has the largest market share of any U.S.-based life insurer doing business in Charlotte.

MetLife’s success in Charlotte is due to several factors. First, its market presence in Charlotte is impressive. Its U.S. retail headquarters is located in the prestigious Gregg and Woodward buildings, which has helped its visibility in the Charlotte market.

Second, MetLife has been very successful not only in selling life insurance policies to individuals, but it has been a leading provider of group life insurance to companies in Charlotte. Selling group life insurance has helped MetLife enroll many employees in their workplace life insurance plans that they otherwise wouldn’t have had exposure to.

MetLife has also provided partial funding for a number of agents who have opened neighborhood offices. Having the MetLife logo visible throughout Charlotte helps all MetLife agents sell more life insurance.

Although MetLife has occasionally received criticism for some of its marketing practices, the company is still well-respected within the insurance industry and is still the most popular in Charlotte, as evidenced by its market share. In addition, it has done an excellent job of being visible in all major cities in the U.S. and continues to maintain its commitment to its life insurance product line.

Benefits & Drawbacks

Benefits
  • Has shown a commitment to the Charlotte area
  • Diverse product portfolio
  • Strong agent presence in Charlotte
Drawbacks
  • Does not offer quotes or sales online
  • Products are only sold through company agents
  • Mobile App doesn’t apply to life insurance customers

Best Overall Runner-Up

Overall Rating
4.8

Key Statistics

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

Why We Like Them

Northwestern Mutual is the US’s leading seller of life insurance, offering both term and permanent policies. Their term life insurance can be converted to permanent coverage without a medical exam.

In Charlotte, Northwestern Mutual has also committed to the local market by having a large, Class A office in which they train and provide offices for dozens of agents who are company employees, not independent brokers. Agents prioritize educating Charlotteans on the importance of life insurance and helping them choose the best policy for their needs.

Their agents also have high customer retention rates because of the superior level of service they and the company provide, which contributes to the company’s financial stability. Because Northwestern Mutual is a mutual insurance company owned by policyholders, it is projected to pay out $6.8 billion in dividends in 2023.

Other career life insurance agents acknowledge Northwestern Mutual as the most respected name in the life insurance industry. Northwestern Mutual is recognized as the top provider of whole life insurance products, presenting exceptional options to life insurance purchasers who prioritize high-quality products offered by a top-rated company.

Benefits & Drawbacks

Benefits
  • A low number of complaints filed with state regulators
  • Diverse product portfolio
  • Well-trained agents represent the company
Drawbacks
  • Rates are higher than most competitors
  • Products are only sold through company agents
  • Can’t get quotes or apply online

Best For Seniors

Overall Rating
4.7

Key Statistics

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

Why We Like Them

MassMutual, founded in 1851, offers a variety of life insurance products, including term, whole, and universal life. Their variable universal life insurance provides flexibility in premiums and investment opportunities.

For seniors, MassMutual is a trusted and well-known name in the insurance industry. It has a reputation for stability and financial strength, which gives peace of mind to policyholders. Seniors often worry about smaller or unfamiliar insurance companies being unable to pay out the death benefit, but that is not a concern with MassMutual.

In terms of pricing, MassMutual offers the most competitive premiums for seniors in the Charlotte market. While they are not typically known for having cheap rates, they have been very aggressive with pricing for seniors in Charlotte.

Being chosen as the Best for Seniors reflects MassMutual’s dedication to providing affordable life insurance for this market segment. It is supported by a well-trained sales team, in addition to its competitive rates. Although MassMutual may not have the same level of national brand recognition or market share as some of its competitors, it is a highly respected brand in Charlotte and the state of North Carolina.

Benefits & Drawbacks

Benefits
  • Most competitive rates for seniors in Charlotte
  • The company is very sound financially
  • Well-trained agents sell life insurance to seniors
Drawbacks
  • Only sold through MassMutual agents
  • No guaranteed issue policy for seniors
  • Can’t be purchased online

Best 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

For young adults in Charlotte, Mutual of Omaha offers the best insurance option due to its low premiums. While the company is most known for its senior life and Medicare supplement insurance products, its competitive pricing makes it an ideal choice for those on a budget, as many younger adults typically are.

Mutual of Omaha’s whole life insurance is also a wise investment for individuals in their 20s and 30s who are beginning to establish their careers. Not only do the company’s whole life policies provide life insurance benefits, but they also accumulate cash value that can be used for future needs, such as a down payment on a home or funding a child’s education.

With high J.D. Powers rankings for its attention to customer service and a strong A.M. Best rating, Mutual of Omaha is a solid and financially stable company that younger life insurance buyers can rely on for decades to come.

Although not typically associated with low rates, Mutual of Omaha has recently become more competitive in both the senior and younger markets. Additionally, the company has maintained its strong reputation with parents of the younger generation, which gives credibility and reassurance to young life insurance buyers.

Benefits & Drawbacks

Benefits
  • Lowest premiums for young adults
  • Whole life policies are available in small face amounts
  • No medical exam is required for some of its policies
Drawbacks
  • Policies are not sold online
  • The underwriting process can be slow
  • Does not market aggressively to young adults

Best For No Medical Exam Term Life

Overall Rating
4.6

Key Statistics

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

Why We Like Them

Though it’s only been in business since 2015, Lemonade is making a splash in the life insurance marketplace. It offers high coverage limits, simple term life policies, and no medical examination is needed. With Lemonade, life insurance buyers between 18 and 60 can find out if they qualify for life insurance in minutes. If you qualify, you’ll also get an approval decision almost immediately.

Many life insurance buyers don’t want to undergo a medical exam when they buy life insurance because of having a busy schedule or being averse to having their blood drawn. Lemonade appeals to this crowd because to apply, you only have to answer a series of personal and health history questions online.

Like many companies with no medical exam life insurance, Lemonade’s rates will be a bit higher than standard rates, but they’re still affordable for most life insurance buyers.

Lemonade largely handles policyholder service and communication through its mobile app and online chatbot, Maya. Through both channels, customers can view policy details, modify beneficiaries, pay premiums, and more, making it very easy to do business with Lemonade.

Benefits & Drawbacks

Benefits
  • Offers a 100% online buying experience
  • Has a no-medical-exam term life policy
  • Underwriting decisions are made in minutes, not days
Drawbacks
  • Not rated by J.D. Powers or AM Best
  • Insurance is provided by a third party
  • Only offers term life insurance

Best For Cheapest Life Insurance

Overall Rating
4.8

Key Statistics

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

Why We Like Them

Although Transamerica offers indexed universal and whole life policies, it is best known for having the cheapest term life insurance in many markets, including Charlotte. Transamerica keeps its rates low by selling its products through independent life insurance agents, which negates its need to have expensive regional or local agency offices.

Transamerica sells two types of cheap term life insurance policies, with terms of 10, 15, 20, 25, and 30 years available. Face amounts can be as high as $10 million or higher, depending on individual circumstances.

If Transamerica has a downside, it would be its customer service. It has the second-lowest J.D. Powers customer satisfaction ratings of all major U.S. life insurance companies and has the lowest of those we’ve reviewed here.

Benefits & Drawbacks

Benefits
  • An extensive network of trained agents sell Transamerica policies
  • Offers a full complement of life insurance products and riders
  • Has the cheapest life insurance rates in Charlotte
Drawbacks
  • A high number of customer complaints filed
  • Policy fees and expenses are high with their permanent policies

How To Find The Best Life Insurance Company For You

When buying life insurance, consider these important steps:

Assess Your Needs:

  • Evaluate your financial obligations and goals.
  • Determine the coverage amount based on factors such as income, debts, and future expenses.
  • Consider the financial security you want to provide for your loved ones.

Understand The Types Of Life Insurance:

  • Differentiate between term life insurance and permanent life insurance.
  • Learn about the features, benefits, and costs associated with each type.
  • Determine which type aligns with your needs and preferences.

Research Insurance Providers And Policies:

  • Explore different insurance companies and their reputations.
  • Compare policy features, such as riders and flexibility.
  • Consider customer reviews and ratings.

Obtain And Compare Quotes:

  • Request quotes from multiple insurance companies.
  • Compare premiums, payment frequency, and potential discounts.
  • Understand the premium structure and any hidden costs or fees.

Review Policy Terms And Seek Clarification:

  • Read and understand the policy documents thoroughly.
  • Pay attention to terms, conditions, and exclusions.
  • Seek clarification from the insurance company or agent if needed.

By following these steps, you can make an informed decision when buying life insurance that aligns with your financial goals and provides the necessary coverage for your loved ones.

Largest Life Insurance Companies In Charlotte, North Carolina

There are dozens of life insurance companies doing business in Charlotte. These are the five largest as measured by market share:

Company Market Share
MetLife 7.04%
Lincoln Financial 6.42%
Northwestern Mutual 6.15%
New York Life 4.49%
Prudential 4.06%

Average Cost Of Life Insurance In Charlotte, North Carolina

Best Cheap Life Insurance Companies In Charlotte For Females

Company Rates for $250,000 Coverage Rates for $926,000 Coverage (Recommended)
Transamerica $10 $15
Nationwide $12 $18
Mutual of Omaha $14 $19
MassMutual $12 $17
AAA $14 $24

Best Cheap Life Insurance Companies In Charlotte For Males

Company Rates for $250,000 Coverage Rates for $926,000 Coverage (Recommended)
MassMutual $12 $18
Nationwide $14 $19
Mutual of Omaha $15 $21
Transamerica $16 $32
State Farm $23 $40

Best Life Insurance Companies For Young People In Charlotte, North Carolina

(Male, average age of 25, average weight of 167, nonsmoker, average coverage need of $250,000)

Company Rates for $250,000 Coverage
Transamerica $16
Mutual of Omaha $17
MassMutual $18
AAA $20
Nationwide $22

Best Life Insurance Companies For Seniors In Charlotte, North Carolina

(Average age 60, average weight of 197, nonsmoker, average coverage need of $75,000)

Company Rates for $85,000 Coverage
MassMutual $45
Mutual of Omaha $52
Nationwide $51
State Farm $61
Progressive $80

Factors That Impact The Cost Of Life Insurance In Charlotte

Many factors affect the cost of life insurance in Charlotte. Here are ten:

  1. Age: Generally, younger individuals tend to pay lower premiums for life insurance as they are perceived to be at a lower risk of mortality. Premiums tend to increase as you get older, especially after significant age milestones like 40, 50, and 60.
  2. Health and Medical History: Your overall health and medical history play a significant role in determining life insurance rates. Insurance companies typically assess factors such as pre-existing conditions, chronic illnesses, family medical history, and lifestyle choices like smoking or excessive alcohol consumption. As a result, healthier individuals generally receive lower premiums.
  3. Gender: Statistics show that women generally have longer life expectancies and lower mortality rates than men. Consequently, women often pay lower life insurance premiums.
  4. Occupation and Hobbies: Some professions and hobbies are considered riskier than others.
  5. Certain occupations, such as pilots or firefighters, or engaging in extreme sports like skydiving or racing, may result in higher insurance premiums due to the perceived higher risk involved.
  6. Coverage Amount and Policy Type: The amount of coverage you choose and the type of policy you opt for will impact your premiums. Term life insurance policies are typically more affordable than permanent life insurance policies due to their temporary nature.
  7. Underwriting and Medical Exams: Some life insurance policies require a medical exam as part of the underwriting process. The results of the medical exam, including blood tests, BMI, and other health indicators, can influence your rates.
  8. Lifestyle Factors: Certain lifestyle choices, such as engaging in hazardous activities, having a high-risk occupation, or residing in an area prone to natural disasters, can impact your life insurance rates.
  9. Family History: If you have a family history of certain medical conditions, such as heart disease or cancer, it may affect your premiums.
  10. Driving Record: Your driving history, including any traffic violations or accidents, can be considered by insurance companies when determining your rates.

It’s important to note that each insurance company has its own underwriting guidelines and rating factors, so rates can vary. Shopping around and comparing quotes from multiple insurers through InsuranceWise can help you find the best life insurance policy at the most competitive rates based on your unique circumstances.

North Carolina Life Insurance Laws To Know

Life insurance companies operating in North Carolina must adhere to state regulations that safeguard policyholders and lay down operational procedures for policies.

Contestable Period

In North Carolina, life insurance policies have a contestability period of two years from the effective date. If the policyholder provided inaccurate, misleading, or false information on their application, the insurance company has the right to reject a claim.

Free Look Period

After individuals receive their life insurance policy from the company or agent, they have a ten-day window to return the policy and get a complete refund of any premiums they paid to the insurance company.

Grace Period

Life insurance companies in North Carolina must give policyholders a 31-day grace period to make up for a missed premium and keep their policy from lapsing.

In The News

According to WRAL News in Durham, October 10th, 2022, marked the end of an era as a judge approved the liquidation of North Carolina Mutual Life Insurance Company during a virtual court hearing. North Carolina Mutual Life Insurance Company was started in 1898 by seven Black men. It became the largest and oldest Black-owned insurance company in the country.

Information About Charlotte

Charlotte, North Carolina, is a vibrant and rapidly growing city that serves as the economic and cultural hub of the state. With over 870,000 residents, Charlotte offers a thriving business environment, diverse neighborhoods, and a rich history. The city’s impressive skyline is dominated by the Bank of America Corporate Center, a symbol of its prominence in the financial sector.

According to Forbes, Charlotte consistently ranks among the top cities for business and careers, attracting companies from various industries, including finance, technology, and healthcare.

Aside from its economic prowess, Charlotte boasts a dynamic cultural scene. The city is home to numerous museums, art galleries, and theaters, catering to a wide range of artistic tastes. The Mint Museum, Levine Museum of the New South, and the Bechtler Museum of Modern Art are just a few examples of the cultural institutions contributing to Charlotte’s vibrant arts community.

FAQs

Is life insurance more expensive in Charlotte?

The cost of life insurance in Charlotte is similar to anywhere else. Many factors, such as age, health history, height, weight, and smoking habits, influence the cost of life insurance.

How much per month is a million dollar life insurance policy in Charlotte?

Depending on your age and gender, you can buy a million dollar life insurance policy in Charlotte for about $120 per month.

What is the average monthly cost of life insurance in Charlotte?

On average, the cost of life insurance in Charlotte for a $250,000 policy is about $12 for a 10-year term life policy.

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