The best car insurance companies in Maryland balance low average rates, high customer satisfaction, and various coverage options to customize your policy.
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Finding the best car insurance in Maryland can be tricky. What’s “best” for you depends on your situation; but a company’s coverage options, financial strength, customer service, and pricing are usually important factors.
Getting a policy that fits your needs and budget in Maryland is important — especially when considering the state’s average monthly cost of $308, which is more than double than the national average of $148. Here’s what you need to know about comparing car insurance in Maryland and how to shop for the best one for you.
Best car insurance companies in Maryland
Finding one car insurance company that’s right for everyone is impossible. Your ideal insurer will depend on various factors like your budget, driving history, and type of coverage you need.
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Insurance Company
Best For
Average Monthly Quote: Liability Only
Insurify Quality Score
The Insurify Quality (IQ) Score uses more than 15 criteria to objectively rate insurance companies on a one-to-five scale. The Insurify editorial team researches insurer data to determine the final scores.
Allstate
Overall
$239
4.1
USAA
Low rates
$104
4.5
State Farm
Value
$134
4.4
Progressive
Commuters
$210
4.0
Erie
Families
$152
4.4
Liberty Mutual
College students
$181
3.7
Travelers
Luxury car owners
$122
4.2
GEICO
High-risk drivers
$123
4.2
Nationwide
Retirees
N/A
4.1
Disclaimer: Table data sourced from real-time quotes from Insurify's 50-plus partner insurance providers and quote estimates from Quadrant Information Services. Actual quotes may vary based on the policy buyer's unique driver profile.
The Insurify Quality (IQ) Score uses more than 15 criteria to objectively rate insurance companies on a one-to-five scale. The Insurify editorial team researches insurer data to determine the final scores.
4.2
JD Power
J.D. Power data measures overall customer satisfaction and claims satisfaction based on a 1,000-point scale.
833
Liability Only
Liability-only insurance, sometimes called minimum-coverage insurance, pays for bodily injury and property damage to others in an accident the policyholder causes. It does not pay for the insured’s own damages.
$216/mo
Full Coverage
Full-coverage car insurance generally includes liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage, and may include other optional coverages such as uninsured motorist coverage. Collision covers a policyholder’s repair or replacement costs in case of an accident. Comprehensive covers damages caused by non-accident events. The average quote displayed here reflects policies with the following coverage limits: $50,000 bodily injury liability per person; $100,000 bodily injury liability per accident; $50,00 property damage liability per accident; $1,000 collision deductible; and a $1,000 comprehensive deductible.
$254/mo
Founded by Sears department store executives in 1931, Allstate offers auto, home, motorcycle, ATV, renters, condo, and term life insurance. Operating in all 50 states, the company has superior ratings from A.M. Best for financial strength and credit. However, Allstate has many negative reviews on consumer websites, and a slightly higher-than-average complaint rating in the National Association of Insurance Commissioners Consumer Complaint Index. Allstate offers many discounts, including for good students, multiple policies, bundling auto and home insurance, new vehicles, safe driving, and good payment history.
Pros
Well-established with superior ratings from A.M. Best
Pay-per-mile option available
Cons
Low customer satisfaction
Rates are merely average compared to other insurers
Good company, but costs more for premiums
Patricia - February 1, 2023
Verified
My rate for auto insurance jumped approximately $100 after six months and I was unable to get a satisfactory explanation.
Burl - January 30, 2023
Verified
They’ve given good service, but there were times when things could have been handled a bit more professionally.
Allstate is Insurify’s top choice for auto insurance in Maryland. It has several benefits, including various coverage options and a user-friendly website and mobile app. The online tools make managing your policy, filing a claim, or making policy changes quick and easy.
The company has an IQ Score of 4.1 and received solid ratings for customer satisfaction from J.D. Power's annual U.S. Auto Insurance Study for the mid-Atlantic region.[1] Allstate also has a solid financial rating, indicating its ability to pay out future claims.
Maryland drivers pay an average monthly cost of $239 for liability-only insurance with Allstate. However, it has various discounts and benefits available to its customers, making it a good choice for Maryland drivers who want reliable coverage and digital account management.
Allstate pros and cons
Pros
User-friendly website and mobile app
Access to local agents for personalized service and support
Strong financial stability and reputation
Cons
Higher premiums compared to other insurers
Above-average complaint index, according to the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC)
Roadside assistance requires an ongoing membership fee
The Insurify Quality (IQ) Score uses more than 15 criteria to objectively rate insurance companies on a one-to-five scale. The Insurify editorial team researches insurer data to determine the final scores.
4.3
JD Power
J.D. Power data measures overall customer satisfaction and claims satisfaction based on a 1,000-point scale.
880
Liability Only
Liability-only insurance, sometimes called minimum-coverage insurance, pays for bodily injury and property damage to others in an accident the policyholder causes. It does not pay for the insured’s own damages.
$94/mo
Full Coverage
Full-coverage car insurance generally includes liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage, and may include other optional coverages such as uninsured motorist coverage. Collision covers a policyholder’s repair or replacement costs in case of an accident. Comprehensive covers damages caused by non-accident events. The average quote displayed here reflects policies with the following coverage limits: $50,000 bodily injury liability per person; $100,000 bodily injury liability per accident; $50,00 property damage liability per accident; $1,000 collision deductible; and a $1,000 comprehensive deductible.
$110/mo
In business for more than 100 years, USAA exclusively serves members of the military and their immediate families. The company offers multiple types of insurance products, as well as banking, investing, and retirement services. Auto insurance customers have access to a number of discounts, including for bundling, insuring multiple vehicles, living on a military base, and more. A.M. Best gives USAA an A++ rating for financial strength, and the company had the highest or second-highest rating of all insurers in every region in J.D. Power’s Overall Customer Satisfaction Index. Customer reviews are mixed for service and claims processing.
Pros
Low premiums
SafePilot program rewards good driving with up to 30% discount
Cons
Only available to active-duty military, veterans, military spouses, or children of service members or veterans
No 24/7 customer phone support
Overall poor service, took a safe driving discount away because I wasn’t driving enough.
USAA is a great option for Maryland drivers looking to balance affordability with quality coverage and customer service. Not only does it offer the cheapest auto insurance in the state, but its IQ Score of 4.5 reflects its commitment to providing high-quality service.
Budget-savvy drivers will find USAA’s policies appealing, with an average monthly cost of $104 for liability-only coverage. It also offers various discounts to help you save even more money on your policy — the company reports an average annual savings of $725 when switching to USAA.
USAA ranks above average for overall customer satisfaction in J.D. Power’s 2022 U.S. Auto Insurance Study in the mid-Atlantic region.[1] You’ll also find online and mobile tools and 24/7 support, giving you access to the help you need when you need it.
USAA pros and cons
Pros
Lowest rates compared to other insurers
Offers accident forgiveness
Ranks higher than average in customer service
Cons
Only available to active military, veterans, and their families
NAIC reports 207 complaints in Maryland in the past three years
The Insurify Quality (IQ) Score uses more than 15 criteria to objectively rate insurance companies on a one-to-five scale. The Insurify editorial team researches insurer data to determine the final scores.
4.4
JD Power
J.D. Power data measures overall customer satisfaction and claims satisfaction based on a 1,000-point scale.
842
Liability Only
Liability-only insurance, sometimes called minimum-coverage insurance, pays for bodily injury and property damage to others in an accident the policyholder causes. It does not pay for the insured’s own damages.
$121/mo
Full Coverage
Full-coverage car insurance generally includes liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage, and may include other optional coverages such as uninsured motorist coverage. Collision covers a policyholder’s repair or replacement costs in case of an accident. Comprehensive covers damages caused by non-accident events. The average quote displayed here reflects policies with the following coverage limits: $50,000 bodily injury liability per person; $100,000 bodily injury liability per accident; $50,00 property damage liability per accident; $1,000 collision deductible; and a $1,000 comprehensive deductible.
$142/mo
State Farm has been in business for more than 100 years, and today sells auto and other vehicle insurance, homeowners, life, health, pet, disability, and small business insurance. Available in all 50 states, State Farm car insurance policies offer multiple ways to save, from customizing coverage types, to a robust list of discounts. The company has far fewer complaints than expected for the industry, according to the National Association of Insurance Commissioner’s Consumer Complaints Index. State Farm also ranks among the top 10 companies for customer satisfaction in every region on the J.D. Power Overall Customer Satisfaction Index.
Pros
High rates of customer satisfaction
Rideshare insurance available
Cons
No gap insurance offering
May not be the cheapest choice for drivers with violations
When it comes to car insurance, finding the best value for your money is crucial. State Farm is a trusted and well-known insurance provider offering affordable coverage and boasting an IQ Score of 4.4. It’s a good indicator that the company places a high priority on quality, reliability, and financial stability.
You’ll find various discounts and benefits, like safe driving and bundling discounts, emergency road service, and car rental and travel expense coverage. The insurer also has competitive pricing. Customers pay an average of $134 per month for liability-only coverage, which is lower than some of its competitors.
The Insurify Quality (IQ) Score uses more than 15 criteria to objectively rate insurance companies on a one-to-five scale. The Insurify editorial team researches insurer data to determine the final scores.
4
JD Power
J.D. Power data measures overall customer satisfaction and claims satisfaction based on a 1,000-point scale.
819
Liability Only
Liability-only insurance, sometimes called minimum-coverage insurance, pays for bodily injury and property damage to others in an accident the policyholder causes. It does not pay for the insured’s own damages.
$164/mo
Full Coverage
Full-coverage car insurance generally includes liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage, and may include other optional coverages such as uninsured motorist coverage. Collision covers a policyholder’s repair or replacement costs in case of an accident. Comprehensive covers damages caused by non-accident events. The average quote displayed here reflects policies with the following coverage limits: $50,000 bodily injury liability per person; $100,000 bodily injury liability per accident; $50,00 property damage liability per accident; $1,000 collision deductible; and a $1,000 comprehensive deductible.
$226/mo
Although its founding in 1937 makes Progressive comparatively young, it is among the largest car insurers in the U.S. The company offers car, home, renters, commercial, and other types of insurance. Progressive customers can enjoy savings by bundling their car insurance with another type of Progressive policy – typically homeowners or renters. Available discounts range from multi-policy and multi-car discounts, to the Snapshot save driver discount. Progressive has an A.M. Best rating of A+ for financial stability. However, the company has a slightly higher-than-expected number of complaints in the National Association of Insurance Commissioner’s Consumer Complaints Index.
Pros
Rewards for good drivers
Numerous coverage options and discounts available
Cons
Higher-than-expected amount of complaints
Ranked 11 out of 15 companies in the J.D. Power Customer Satisfaction Index Ranking
Very good service but too expensive
Dewey - February 2, 2023
Verified
I called with questions; the answers were complete and to the point.
If you’re a frequent commuter, the more time you spend on the road means a higher likelihood of an accident.[3] Progressive’s Snapshot program can help alleviate some of that stress with lower insurance rates. Avoiding hard braking and driving during off-peak hours can improve your chances of getting a better insurance premium.
Progressive has a 4.0 IQ Score and very few customer complaints, according to the NAIC complaint index, demonstrating its commitment to providing top-notch service to its customers. Policyholders pay an average monthly cost of $210 for liability-only insurance, which is lower than the state average. Drivers can also access many discount options, such as loyalty discounts, driver discounts, and discounts for how you get a quote and buy a policy.
The Insurify Quality (IQ) Score uses more than 15 criteria to objectively rate insurance companies on a one-to-five scale. The Insurify editorial team researches insurer data to determine the final scores.
4.4
JD Power
J.D. Power data measures overall customer satisfaction and claims satisfaction based on a 1,000-point scale.
870
Liability Only
Liability-only insurance, sometimes called minimum-coverage insurance, pays for bodily injury and property damage to others in an accident the policyholder causes. It does not pay for the insured’s own damages.
$137/mo
Full Coverage
Full-coverage car insurance generally includes liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage, and may include other optional coverages such as uninsured motorist coverage. Collision covers a policyholder’s repair or replacement costs in case of an accident. Comprehensive covers damages caused by non-accident events. The average quote displayed here reflects policies with the following coverage limits: $50,000 bodily injury liability per person; $100,000 bodily injury liability per accident; $50,00 property damage liability per accident; $1,000 collision deductible; and a $1,000 comprehensive deductible.
$161/mo
For nearly 100 years, Erie Insurance has been selling auto coverage. The company operates in 12 states and Washington, D.C., and also offers more than two dozen types of insurance, including home, life, and business insurance. A.M. Best gives Erie an A+ rating for financial stability and credit strength. The company has a lower-than-expected number of complaints with the National Association of Insurance Commissioners Customer Complaint Index, and ranks third in overall customer satisfaction according to J.D. Power rankings. The company also has an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau.
Pros
Excellent BBB, J.D. Power, and A.M. Best ratings
Competitive rates for teenagers and drivers with speeding tickets
Cons
Available in only 12 states
Customers can’t buy a policy or file a claim online
Over the years, they have always gone over and above what I would have expected. They are fair and prompt in customer service issues. They have always tailored my policy to meet my needs at a very fair price.
Erie offers various discounts and benefits that cater specifically to the unique insurance needs of families. The multi-policy discount is a prime example, providing families with savings of up to 20%. It can make a huge difference, since families often have multiple vehicles to insure and may also need homeowners or renters insurance.
Erie is first for customer satisfaction in J.D. Power’s annual U.S. Auto Insurance Study for the mid-Atlantic region.[1] The insurer also has a below-average complaint index from the NAIC, won awards for its claims service, and earned an IQ Score of 4.4.
With a low average monthly premium of just $152 for liability-only coverage, Erie is an excellent choice for families seeking affordable coverage without sacrificing quality.
Erie pros and cons
Pros
Lower-than-average rates
Option to lock in your auto insurance premium
Above-average customer service ratings
Cons
Doesn’t offer online claims filing
Low user ratings for the mobile app
Limited endorsement options for bundling homeowners and renters insurance
Best car insurance for college students in Maryland: Liberty Mutual
The Insurify Quality (IQ) Score uses more than 15 criteria to objectively rate insurance companies on a one-to-five scale. The Insurify editorial team researches insurer data to determine the final scores.
3.8
JD Power
J.D. Power data measures overall customer satisfaction and claims satisfaction based on a 1,000-point scale.
819
Liability Only
Liability-only insurance, sometimes called minimum-coverage insurance, pays for bodily injury and property damage to others in an accident the policyholder causes. It does not pay for the insured’s own damages.
$131/mo
Full Coverage
Full-coverage car insurance generally includes liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage, and may include other optional coverages such as uninsured motorist coverage. Collision covers a policyholder’s repair or replacement costs in case of an accident. Comprehensive covers damages caused by non-accident events. The average quote displayed here reflects policies with the following coverage limits: $50,000 bodily injury liability per person; $100,000 bodily injury liability per accident; $50,00 property damage liability per accident; $1,000 collision deductible; and a $1,000 comprehensive deductible.
$220/mo
In business for more than 100 years, Liberty Mutual offers auto, homeowners, condo, renters, flood, life and other insurance products. Policyholders have access to numerous discounts, including bundling, good student, military, student-away-at-school, claims-free, violation-free, and multi-car discounts. Liberty Mutual has an A rating for financial strength from A.M. Best and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. However, the company has three times the expected rate of complaints in the National Association of Insurance Commissioner’s Consumer Complaints Index, and low ratings on consumer review sites Trustpilot and Sitejabber.
Pros
Wide range of available discounts
Accident forgiveness available
Cons
Many negative reviews and customer complaints
Premiums are relatively high compared to industry average
Service has always been great
Jackie - January 30, 2023
Verified
I can’t figure how much I am paying.
Rickie - January 29, 2023
Verified
I got uninsured motorist added to meet the minimum state liability for less than what I was paying before, but now my rates have gone up even though I have an impeccable driving record and travel way under 10K miles annually.
If you’re a college student, you have a chance to save on your auto insurance with Liberty Mutual. The insurer offers two different discounts for students. First, its good student discount lowers your rates if you have a GPA equivalent of B or better. Then, you can save even more with the student away at school discount if you go to college away from home and don’t drive much.
The average monthly premium is just $181 for liability-only coverage. However, Liberty Mutual ranks below average for overall customer satisfaction in the mid-Atlantic region, according to J.D. Power’s 2022 U.S. Auto Insurance Study.[1] Liberty Mutual’s NAIC complaint index is also three times higher than expected, which may mean frustrating customer service.
Liberty Mutual pros and cons
Pros
Two distinct discount options to help students lower premiums
Affordable monthly premiums compared to competitors
Offers a mobile app for easy policy management and claims filing
Cons
Above-average complaint index, according to the NAIC
Lower IQ Score than other insurers
Premiums may be higher for students with poor driving records or without discounts
Best car insurance for luxury car owners in Maryland: Travelers
The Insurify Quality (IQ) Score uses more than 15 criteria to objectively rate insurance companies on a one-to-five scale. The Insurify editorial team researches insurer data to determine the final scores.
4.3
JD Power
J.D. Power data measures overall customer satisfaction and claims satisfaction based on a 1,000-point scale.
829
A.M. Best
A.M. Best analyzes an insurer’s financials, operating performance, business profile, and other factors to generate an opinion-based rating of a company’s financial and credit strength. Ratings range from A++ (exceptional) to D (poor).
A++
Full Coverage
Full-coverage car insurance generally includes liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage, and may include other optional coverages such as uninsured motorist coverage. Collision covers a policyholder’s repair or replacement costs in case of an accident. Comprehensive covers damages caused by non-accident events. The average quote displayed here reflects policies with the following coverage limits: $50,000 bodily injury liability per person; $100,000 bodily injury liability per accident; $50,00 property damage liability per accident; $1,000 collision deductible; and a $1,000 comprehensive deductible.
$153/mo
Travelers has been in business for more than 165 years. Today, the company sells auto insurance, homeowners, renters, flood, pet, and other types of insurance. In addition to liability and full-coverage car insurance, Travelers offers gap insurance, rental car reimbursement, roadside assistance, rideshare insurance, new car replacement coverage, and more. Policyholders can save with a number of discounts, including for bundling multiple policies, safe driving, paying in full, student discounts, and more. Travelers has fewer complaints than expected with the National Association of Insurance Commissioner’s Consumer Complaints Index. A.M. Best gives the company an A++ for financial strength.
Pros
Accident forgiveness available
Robust coverage selections and discount offerings
Cons
Rideshare coverage only available in Colorado and Illinois
High number of negative customer reviews with the Better Business Bureau
They have the lowest rates I could find.
Elise - September 11, 2023
Verified
They are one of the few companies writing policies for a full year. All these "discount companies " miss lead you by quoting 6 month policies.
Travelers is the top choice for luxury car owners in Maryland. The company’s Premier New Car Replacement coverage pays for a brand-new car of the same make and model if you total your new car within the first five years. It also includes gap coverage, which helps protect you in case the insurance payout isn’t enough to pay off your loan.
The premium is cheaper than the state average, at $122 per month for liability-only coverage. Travelers has an IQ Score of 4.2, above-average scores in customer satisfaction, and the lowest complaint index of all the insurers on this list, with just one complaint filed in Maryland over the past three years.[1]
Travelers pros and cons
Pros
Accident forgiveness helps to avoid rate hikes
Premier New Car Replacement coverage is ideal for luxury car owners
Ranks above average in customer satisfaction and has a low complaint index
Cons
Must contact an agent to buy coverage
Missing common discounts like anti-theft systems and airbag
Bundling discount lower than other insurers at just 10%
Best car insurance for high-risk drivers in Maryland: GEICO
The Insurify Quality (IQ) Score uses more than 15 criteria to objectively rate insurance companies on a one-to-five scale. The Insurify editorial team researches insurer data to determine the final scores.
4.3
JD Power
J.D. Power data measures overall customer satisfaction and claims satisfaction based on a 1,000-point scale.
835
Liability Only
Liability-only insurance, sometimes called minimum-coverage insurance, pays for bodily injury and property damage to others in an accident the policyholder causes. It does not pay for the insured’s own damages.
$112/mo
Full Coverage
Full-coverage car insurance generally includes liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage, and may include other optional coverages such as uninsured motorist coverage. Collision covers a policyholder’s repair or replacement costs in case of an accident. Comprehensive covers damages caused by non-accident events. The average quote displayed here reflects policies with the following coverage limits: $50,000 bodily injury liability per person; $100,000 bodily injury liability per accident; $50,00 property damage liability per accident; $1,000 collision deductible; and a $1,000 comprehensive deductible.
$131/mo
A highly recognizable name in car insurance, GEICO is a subsidiary of Berkshire Hathaway. The company started out as the Government Employees Insurance Company, serving U.S. government workers and military personnel. In addition to auto insurance, GEICO also sells homeowner, flood insurance, life insurance, business insurance, and identity protection, among other products. A.M. Best gives GEICO its highest rating for financial stability and credit. However, GEICO has nearly twice as many complaints as expected in the National Association of Insurance Commissioner’s Consumer Complaints Index.
Pros
Good rates for good drivers, seniors, and young drivers
Accident forgiveness available
Cons
High rates for drivers with certain violations, like DUIs
No rideshare or new car replacement coverage available
Good communication
John - February 4, 2023
Verified
They offer the best rate.
Shannon - February 1, 2023
Verified
Any time I called them, they were on top of it and gave me an answer right away.
GEICO offers some of the lowest rates in Maryland, even for high-risk drivers. The average monthly premium for drivers with accidents, DUIs, or tickets is $219, which is 40% less than the state average of $308.
The company has a 4.2 IQ Score. However, J.D. Power ranks GEICO below average for customer satisfaction, and the NAIC reports an above-average complaint index, with 77 complaints filed in Maryland in the past three years. Overall, these factors suggest that some customers may not be entirely happy with the service they receive from GEICO.
GEICO pros and cons
Pros
Some of the lowest rates for drivers with accidents, DUIs, or tickets
Various discounts to help high-risk drivers save on premiums
Highly rated mobile app
Cons
Low customer satisfaction rating
Limited number of local agents
Gap coverage not available
Best car insurance for retirees in Maryland: Nationwide
The Insurify Quality (IQ) Score uses more than 15 criteria to objectively rate insurance companies on a one-to-five scale. The Insurify editorial team researches insurer data to determine the final scores.
4.1
JD Power
J.D. Power data measures overall customer satisfaction and claims satisfaction based on a 1,000-point scale.
815
Liability Only
Liability-only insurance, sometimes called minimum-coverage insurance, pays for bodily injury and property damage to others in an accident the policyholder causes. It does not pay for the insured’s own damages.
$123/mo
Full Coverage
Full-coverage car insurance generally includes liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage, and may include other optional coverages such as uninsured motorist coverage. Collision covers a policyholder’s repair or replacement costs in case of an accident. Comprehensive covers damages caused by non-accident events. The average quote displayed here reflects policies with the following coverage limits: $50,000 bodily injury liability per person; $100,000 bodily injury liability per accident; $50,00 property damage liability per accident; $1,000 collision deductible; and a $1,000 comprehensive deductible.
$202/mo
In business since 1925, Nationwide is one of the largest insurers, and sells car, homeowners, life insurance, umbrella insurance, and more. In addition to liability, collision and comprehensive, Nationwide provides optional coverages such as towing and labor, rental car, and gap. The company also offers accident forgiveness, and a vanishing deductible that lowers your deductible for each year you drive safely. Nationwide has an A+ rating from A.M. Best for financial stability, and an only slightly higher-than-expected number of customer complaints in the National Association of Insurance Commissioner’s Consumer Complaints Index.
Pros
Numerous discount and savings opportunities
SmartRide (for safe drivers) and SmartMiles (for low-mileage drivers)
Cons
Not available in every state
Some discounts and programs not available in all states
Reliable when needed; will fight for you; good discounts for being a loyal customer. They’re on your side.
Alexander - December 4, 2022
Verified
Premiums are high and they dropped us after two claims.
If you’re like most retirees who drive fewer miles than the average motorist, Nationwide's pay-per-mile coverage through its SmartMiles program is worth considering. Your monthly premium could be lower than the company’s average full-coverage rate of $267 if you don’t spend much time on the road.
Nationwide scores just below average for customer satisfaction, according to J.D. Power’s U.S. Auto Insurance Study.[1] However, the NAIC reports a better-than-average complaint index, and it has an IQ Score of 4.1. It seems customer experiences tend to be positive, although some complaints may still arise from time to time.
Nationwide pros and cons
Pros
Easy-to-use website and mobile app for managing policies and filing claims
Offers accident forgiveness and vanishing deductible
SmartMiles and SmartRide options can lower premiums
Cons
Lower than average customer satisfaction
Missing common discounts for paying in full and installed airbags
How Insurify rates the top auto insurers
Insurify uses an in-house, proprietary method to rate and review the best car insurance companies. The Insurify Quality (IQ) Score uses more than 15 crucial criteria, including average premiums, customer satisfaction, discounts, third-party ratings, and more, to calculate a final score for a company.
Criteria are weighted by importance to the consumer — factors such as customer reviews and affordability influence the score more than availability and third-party ratings. With the Insurify Quality Score, Insurify is able to provide quantitative ratings for drivers to better compare car insurance companies and make informed decisions to meet their coverage needs.
How to shop for the best car insurance in Maryland
While shopping for car insurance in Maryland, keep a few things in mind. “Drivers need to consider the company they plan on working with as well as the agency. There are many independent insurance brokerages as well as ‘captive agencies,’” says Jesse Cunningham, an independent licensed insurance agent and owner of insurance platform Bauple in Maryland.
While independent insurance agents may sell policies from different insurance companies, “captive” agents work for one insurance company and sell only its policies.[5] Cunningham says that either independent or captive agents can be good options. When getting a quote from an independent brokerage, he recommends making sure you're comfortable with the people you talk to since they’re handling your policy, filing claims, and more.
Here are other factors to help you decide on an insurance provider:
Coverage options: Don’t settle for an insurer that only offers basic coverage. Look for a company that has various options, so you can hit the road with peace of mind.
Financial strength: Choose an insurer with a strong financial rating so you can be confident the company has the resources to pay out claims.
Customer service: You deserve responsive service and quick claims processing from an insurer that values you as a customer.
Rates: Keep your budget in check by comparing rates from multiple car insurance companies and finding the one that offers the best value for your needs.
Reputation: Look at customer reviews and complaints. It can also be helpful to look at ratings from third-party organizations, like J.D. Power.
How to get the cheapest car insurance in Maryland
Your driving record, location, age, marital status, and prior insurance coverage are a few factors that affect your rate.[6]
"Do not settle for the first quote out of convenience,” says Cunningham. “On top of that, managing your credit score and making sure you don’t get into accidents [or] tickets will ensure the best and cheapest car insurance possibilities.”
Here’s what else to you can do to lower your car insurance costs in Maryland:[7]
Compare quotes. Get more than one quote before buying a policy. Shop around and compare rates from at least three insurance companies to find the best deal.
Up your deductible. A higher deductible can lower your premiums. Just be sure to have the cash on hand to cover the higher deductible if you need to make a claim.
Ask for discounts. Affordable car insurance shouldn’t be hard to find. Look for discounts like multi-policy, safe driver, and low mileage.
Drive safely. Keep your driving record clean and free of accidents and violations to avoid costly rate increases.
Minimum car insurance requirements in Maryland
Knowing the minimum requirements for car insurance can help you protect yourself and other drivers on the road.
"Note that these are very low limits, and you will still be financially responsible if you cause more property damage or bodily injury expenses above your policy limit," says Cunningham.
Here are Maryland’s minimum car insurance requirements:[6]
Liability-only vs. full-coverage insurance in Maryland
Liability auto insurance in Maryland is mandatory for all drivers. The minimum coverage pays for injuries and damages you cause to other drivers and their vehicles. Having liability-only insurance makes sense if you drive older or less expensive cars that may not be worth the cost of full coverage, drive infrequently, or are on a tight budget.
For more protection, consider full-coverage insurance. It’s a catch-all phrase that typically includes collision to cover damages to your vehicle and comprehensive coverage for other non-collision claims, such as theft and vandalism. Full coverage is a smart option if you drive in high-traffic areas, have a loan or lease on your car, or own a more expensive vehicle.
Prices can vary among car insurance companies, which is why it’s important to compare quotes to find the best price that also meets your coverage needs. The table below shows the average liability-only and full-coverage premiums for car insurance companies in Maryland.
Insurance Company
Average Monthly Quote: Liability Only
Average Monthly Quote: Full Coverage
USAA
$104
$116
GEICO
$123
$138
State Farm
$134
$149
Erie
$152
$169
Travelers
$122
$171
Safeco
$129
$224
Clearcover
$201
$264
Nationwide
N/A
$267
Allstate
$239
$267
Progressive
$210
$284
Liberty Mutual
$181
$291
Esurance
$282
$315
Midvale Home & Auto
$169
$315
Direct Auto
$310
$359
State Auto
$199
$368
CSAA
$330
$501
Bristol West
$301
$618
Disclaimer: Table data sourced from real-time quotes from Insurify's 50-plus partner insurance providers and quote estimates from Quadrant Information Services. Actual quotes may vary based on the policy buyer's unique driver profile.
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Maryland car insurance rates by driving and accident history
Your driving history can greatly influence your car insurance rates.[6] A spotty driving record indicates you’re riskier and more likely to cause an accident. For example, a history of speeding tickets, driving under the influence, or an at-fault accident can lead to higher rates than a clean record.[8]
To give you an idea of how much difference it can make, here’s a breakdown of average monthly quotes for the cheapest car insurance in Maryland based on driving and accident history.
Insurance Company
Clean Record
At-Fault Accident
With a DUI
Speeding Ticket
USAA
$116
$166
$231
$156
GEICO
$138
$197
$275
$185
State Farm
$149
$214
$297
$200
Erie
$169
$242
$337
$227
Travelers
$171
$244
$339
$228
Safeco
$224
$320
$446
$300
Clearcover
$264
$378
$525
$354
Nationwide
$267
$381
$530
$357
Allstate
$267
$382
$532
$358
Progressive
$284
$405
$564
$380
Liberty Mutual
$291
$416
$579
$390
Esurance
$315
$450
$626
$422
Midvale Home & Auto
$315
$450
$627
$422
Direct Auto
$359
$513
$713
$480
State Auto
$368
$526
$732
$493
Csaa
$501
$716
$996
$671
Bristol West
$618
$883
$1,229
$827
Disclaimer: Table data sourced from real-time quotes from Insurify's 50-plus partner insurance providers and quote estimates from Quadrant Information Services. Actual quotes may vary based on the policy buyer's unique driver profile.
SR-22 insurance in Maryland
SR-22 insurance isn’t a type of insurance policy. Instead, it’s a form that verifies you have insurance.[9] Drivers usually need an SR-22 after a serious infraction, so you’ll likely see a hefty spike in your insurance rates. GEICO, State Farm, and Nationwide typically offer coverage for drivers who need SR-22 forms on file.
Maryland doesn’t seem to require SR-22 forms for people who drive while uninsured or with serious driving violations. Instead, the state may impose fines, suspend drivers’ licenses, prohibit drivers from registering any more vehicles, and more.[10][11]
Maryland car insurance quotes by credit tier
Your credit score can affect how much you pay for Maryland car insurance.
“There is a correlation between low credit scores and filing more claims,” Cunningham says. “Policyholders with lower credit scores typically pay higher premiums.”
Drivers with excellent or good credit scores are usually eligible for lower rates. If you have a poor credit score, try to improve it by paying bills on time, reducing debt, or disputing errors on your credit report. Boosting your credit score can help you qualify for lower premiums on your car insurance policy and save money in the long run.[12]
Even though car insurers in Maryland can use your credit score to set premiums, state law prevents them from using your credit score to deny coverage, increase rates, cancel your policy, or not renew your policy. Furthermore, insurance companies in Maryland must disclose how much your credit score influenced your premiums.[6]
Car insurance quotes in Maryland cities
Where you live plays a major role in your car insurance rates. Premiums can change from city to city and even from one neighborhood to another. For example, you’ll pay less on average for coverage if you live in Rockville than Upper Marlboro, as shown in the table below.
Weather patterns, crime rates, and cost of living can all affect rates. Generally, accidents and theft are more likely to occur in urban areas, which can drive up your premiums. Rural drivers are more likely to enjoy lower rates because of less traffic and fewer accidents.[3]
Least expensive cities in Maryland
City
Average Monthly Quote
Compared to State Average
Rockville
$215
$308
Salisbury
$217
$308
Frederick
$232
$308
Columbia
$258
$308
Glen Burnie
$261
$308
Silver Spring
$268
$308
Laurel
$300
$308
Waldorf
$307
$308
Hyattsville
$312
$308
Upper Marlboro
$328
$308
Disclaimer: Table data sourced from real-time quotes from Insurify's 50-plus partner insurance providers. Actual quotes may vary based on the policy buyer's unique driver profile.
Most expensive cities in Maryland
City
Average Monthly Quote
Compared to State Average
Baltimore
$455
$308
Dundalk
$354
$308
Upper Marlboro
$328
$308
Hyattsville
$312
$308
Waldorf
$307
$308
Laurel
$300
$308
Silver Spring
$268
$308
Glen Burnie
$261
$308
Columbia
$258
$308
Frederick
$232
$308
Disclaimer: Table data sourced from real-time quotes from Insurify's 50-plus partner insurance providers. Actual quotes may vary based on the policy buyer's unique driver profile.
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Maryland car insurance rates by driver age
Young drivers, especially teenagers, are riskier to insure than older drivers because they lack experience on the road.[3] It’s a prime example of how age can affect insurance rates. In Maryland, teens and drivers under 25 pay the highest amounts. You’ll generally see your rates go down as you get older.
Disclaimer: Table data sourced from real-time quotes from Insurify's 50-plus partner insurance providers. Actual quotes may vary based on the policy buyer's unique driver profile.
Maryland car insurance FAQs
With so many factors affecting car insurance, it’s important to understand how to get the best policy for your budget. Here’s additional information to help you find car insurance that works for you in Maryland.
Who has the cheapest car insurance in Maryland?
The cheapest car insurance companies for liability-only coverage are USAA, GEICO, and State Farm. However, car insurance rates depend on personal factors like driving history, age, vehicle, and more, so you should always compare multiple quotes to find the best rate for you.
What is the required car insurance coverage in Maryland?
Maryland has more minimum requirements for car insurance than other states. In addition to bodily injury and property damage liability, Maryland requires $2,500 for personal injury protection, and uninsured/underinsured bodily injury and property damage coverage.
What are the best car insurance companies in Maryland?
The best car insurance companies in Maryland include USAA, Erie, Travelers, and State Farm. These companies scored well in J.D. Power’s 2022 customer satisfaction study for the mid-Atlantic region and have high IQ Scores.
You should always compare quotes from at least three different insurance companies to find the best one that meets your coverage needs and fits your budget.
How does credit score affect car insurance premiums in Maryland?
Maryland allows car insurance companies to use your credit score to determine your premiums. However, the state prohibits insurers from increasing your premiums due to changes in your credit score. If you have poor credit, you can expect to pay higher premiums than drivers with good or excellent credit scores.[6]
Is Maryland a no-fault state?
No. Maryland isn’t a no-fault state. It’s an at-fault state. State laws allow drivers to file claims and pursue financial compensation with at-fault drivers’ insurance companies.[6]
What is the most expensive car insurance in Maryland?
The most expensive car insurance companies in Maryland are CSAA, with $330 a month in average premiums for liability-only coverage, and Bristol West, with $618 a month in average premiums for full-coverage insurance, according to Insurify data.
Insurify Insights
How Maryland Drivers Measure Up
While most drivers know that car insurance quotes are determined in part by your personal driving history, many may be unaware that rates are also impacted by the average risk of the drivers around you as well. Check out Insurify's latest analysis of driving records in Maryland below:
Methodology
Drawing from an internal database of over 4 million car insurance applications, the research team at Insurify analyzes patterns in car ownership and driver behavior - including how Maryland drivers measure up to their fellow motorists across the United States in areas including speeding, DUIs, and more. Insurify Insights publishes data-driven articles, trend analyses, and national rankings each week on all factors related to cars and those who drive them.
Honda Accord
Most Popular Car in Maryland
#22
State with the Most Speeding Tickets Rank
#21
State with the Moving Violations Rank
#43
State with the Most DUIs Rank
#49
State with the most Suspended Licenses
While car accidents are a sadly unavoidable feature of time spent on the road, rates of accidents do vary from city to city and from state to state. Maryland is the #6 state in the country for drivers with an at-fault accident on their driving record.
Rank among states: #6
Percent of drivers in Maryland with an accident: 10.3%
While driving while intoxicated is never acceptable, it’s a more common offense than many assume. Maryland is the #43 state in the country for drivers with a prior drunk driving conviction.
Rank among states: #43
Percent of drivers in Maryland with a DUI: 1%
Reckless driving refers to a specific traffic violation: when drivers willfully act dangerously in spite of the risks they’re imposing on both themselves and others. Maryland is the #47 state in the country for drivers with a reckless driving offense on record.
Rank among states: #47
Percent of drivers in Maryland with a reckless driving offense: 0.8%
The Insurify team classifies rude drivers as those who commit one or more of the following driving offenses: failure to yield or failure to stop, improper backing, passing where prohibited, tailgating, street racing, or hit-and-run. Maryland is the #48 state in the country for drivers with a rude driving violation on record.
Rank among states: #48
Percent of drivers in Maryland with a rude driving violation: 0.9%
Exceeding the speed limit can endanger others and have a serious impact on your insurance costs. Maryland is the #22 state in the country for drivers with a speeding ticket on record.
Rank among states: #22
Percent of drivers in Maryland with a speeding ticket: 8.8%
Failing to yield the right of way isn’t just frustrating for other drivers; it’s dangerous, too. Maryland is the #34 state in the country for drivers with a failure to yield violation on record.
Rank among states: #34
Percent of drivers in Maryland with a failure to yield violation: 0.1%
Insurify Insights
Insurify's team of data scientists and content specialists presents Insurify Insights, a series of automotive, home, and health studies focusing on the topics that impact us all. through expert analysis of over 4 million car insurance applications and an array of top data sources, the Insurify Insights team produces new data-driven articles, trend analyses, regional superlatives, and national rankings every week. See Insurify Insights as featured in Forbes, Fox News, USA Today, NPR, and more.
Methodology
Insurify data scientists analyzed more than 90 million quotes served to car insurance applicants in Insurify’s proprietary database to calculate the premium averages displayed on this page. These premiums are real quotes that come directly from Insurify’s 50+ partner insurance companies in all 50 states and Washington, D.C. Quote averages represent the median price for a quote across the given coverage level, driver subset, and geographic area.
Unless otherwise specified, quoted rates reflect the average cost for drivers between 20 and 70 years old with a clean driving record and average or better credit (a credit score of 600 or higher).
Liability-only premium averages correspond to policies with the following coverage limits:
Bodily injury limits between state-minimum rates and $50,000 per person, $100,000 per accident
Property damage limits between $10,000 and $50,000
No additional coverage
Full-coverage premium averages correspond to the same bodily injury and property damage limits in addition to:
Comprehensive coverage with a $1,000 deductible
Collision coverage with a $1,000 deductible
Quotes for Allstate, Farmers, GEICO, State Farm, and USAA are estimates based on Quadrant Information Services’ database of auto insurance rates.
Amy is a personal finance and technology writer. With a background in the legal field and a bachelor's degree from Ferris State University, she has a talent for transforming complex topics into content that’s easy to understand. Connect with Amy on LinkedIn.
3+ years producing insurance and personal finance content
Main architect of the Insurify Quality Score
Courtney’s deep personal finance knowledge extends beyond insurance to credit cards, consumer lending, and banking. She thrives on creating actionable content.
Konstantin has led data teams across multiple industries, including insurance, travel, and biology. He’s led Insurify’s engineering team for more than three years.