Updated
Best car insurance companies in Maryland
Insurify analyzed 120+ car insurance companies to determine the best car insurance companies in Maryland. We compared rates, discount offerings, customer reviews, and third-party ratings. Here are the five companies that offer the best car insurance in Maryland.
Direct Auto: Best overall
| 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 |
|---|---|
| IQ Score The Insurify Quality (IQ) Score uses more than 15 criteria to objectively rate insurance companies on a one-to-ten scale. The Insurify editorial team researches insurer data to determine the final scores. | 8.3 /10 |
| 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. | $136/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. | $257/mo |
Drivers appreciate the insurer’s helpful customer service and easy-to-use website. But they dislike the frequent and significant rate increases, especially for those with clean driving records. Some also report difficulties with roadside assistance.
Direct Auto offers some of the lowest rates and accepts a broader range of drivers with different histories. Direct Auto is an Allstate company, which has an AM Best financial strength rating of A+ (Superior) and fewer-than-average number of complaints with the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC).
Direct Auto sells liability insurance that meets Maryland’s minimum car insurance requirements, as well as comprehensive and collision coverage, and medical payments coverage.
Discounts for seniors, military members, good students, and safe drivers
Telematics program available for additional savings
Claims service available 24/7 by phone or online
No accident forgiveness incentives listed
No physical agent offices listed in Maryland
Rental reimbursement only available for full-coverage policies
Erie: Best for customer satisfaction
| User Reviews | 4.4 |
|---|---|
| IQ Score The Insurify Quality (IQ) Score uses more than 15 criteria to objectively rate insurance companies on a one-to-ten scale. The Insurify editorial team researches insurer data to determine the final scores. | 8.4 /10 |
| 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. | $172/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. | $260/mo |
Erie Insurance's score | Industry average | |
|---|---|---|
| Coverage options | 4.2 | 3.2 |
| Customer service | 3.8 | 3.6 |
| Discounts | 3.7 | 2.9 |
| Policy transparency | 4.0 | 3.1 |
| Value | 3.7 | 2.9 |
Customers appreciate the insurer’s excellent customer service and quick claim handling but are dissatisfied with the unexpected and unexplained rate increases. Some also found the policy details hard to understand.
It’s important to compare factors like customer service alongside car insurance premiums when selecting an insurance company. Erie Insurance holds the top spot on J.D. Power’s overall customer satisfaction in Maryland’s region.
Average rates for policyholders with clean driving records are higher than some competitors, though some feedback on Trustpilot from longtime customers suggests that their individual quotes are affordable.
Highest J.D. Power customer satisfaction rating in Maryland
Comprehensive coverage includes windshield and glass repair
Agents available in nearly 100 Maryland cities
Must enroll in Erie Auto Plus for certain coverages and incentives
Low Better Business Bureau rating and hundreds of complaints
Erie Rate Lock not available in Maryland
CSAA: Best for drivers with speeding tickets
| User Reviews | 4.6 |
|---|---|
| IQ Score The Insurify Quality (IQ) Score uses more than 15 criteria to objectively rate insurance companies on a one-to-ten scale. The Insurify editorial team researches insurer data to determine the final scores. | 8.5 /10 |
| 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. | $215/mo |
CSAA's score | Industry average | |
|---|---|---|
| Coverage options | 4.3 | 3.2 |
| Customer service | 4.3 | 3.6 |
| Discounts | 4.3 | 2.9 |
| Policy transparency | 4.2 | 3.1 |
| Value | 4.2 | 2.9 |
Drivers appreciate the professional customer service and quick claim handling but dislike the consistent rate increases and expensive premiums. Some also found the communication lacking and felt neglected.
Maryland has more than 500 traffic fatalities annually, and new statewide campaigns are targeting speeders.[1]
CSAA, which is car insurance through AAA, has some of the lowest full-coverage rates for drivers with a speeding ticket. Discounts offer opportunities for drivers with incidents to lower their premiums, such as paying in full and renewing in advance.
Low average cost for drivers with infractions in Maryland
May qualify for additional discounts as a member of AAA
Low average rates for rideshare drivers in Maryland
Website doesn’t specify car insurance discounts offered in Maryland
Less than 20 physical offices in Maryland
Must be a member of AAA to qualify
USAA: Best for safe driving rewards
| User Reviews | 4.9 |
|---|---|
| IQ Score The Insurify Quality (IQ) Score uses more than 15 criteria to objectively rate insurance companies on a one-to-ten scale. The Insurify editorial team researches insurer data to determine the final scores. | 9.1 /10 |
| 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. | $118/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. | $178/mo |
USAA's score | Industry average | |
|---|---|---|
| Coverage options | 4.9 | 3.2 |
| Customer service | 4.9 | 3.6 |
| Discounts | 4.9 | 2.9 |
| Policy transparency | 4.9 | 3.1 |
| Value | 4.9 | 2.9 |
Customers appreciate the insurer’s reliable customer service and claim handling but express concerns about high rates and frequent price increases. Some also find the insurer’s security protocols and communication methods frustrating.
Maryland passed new legislation banning the use of cell phones while driving, including holding your cell phone to your ear.[2] USAA’s SafePilot program helps Maryland drivers stay hands-free by monitoring driving habits, which includes the use of a cell phone. Eligible policyholders can save up to 30% on their premiums.
Maryland is also home to more than 100,000 members of the armed forces and more than 350,000 veterans, making USAA’s limited membership availability accessible to more drivers in the Old Line State.[3]
Save up to 30% for safe driving habits
Military-focused driving discounts
Low average premiums in Maryland
Limited membership eligibility
SafePilot habits can affect discount
Fewer discount options than competitors
Progressive: Best for pothole protection
| JD Power J.D. Power data measures overall customer satisfaction and claims satisfaction based on a 1,000-point scale. | 624 |
|---|---|
| IQ Score The Insurify Quality (IQ) Score uses more than 15 criteria to objectively rate insurance companies on a one-to-ten scale. The Insurify editorial team researches insurer data to determine the final scores. | 8.7 /10 |
| 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. | $172/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. | $244/mo |
Customers appreciate the insurer’s good customer service and initial affordability but dislike the consistent price increases and complex claims process.
Maryland has more than 30,000 potholes across its roadways, and Progressive’s accident forgiveness helps make a bump in the road less costly.[4]
The insurer enrolls all policyholders in a Small Accident Forgiveness program, which won’t raise rates on your first claim, such as pothole damage, if the claim is less than $500. Policyholders can also purchase expanded accident forgiveness packages that allow for one forgiven claim per policy period, which is ideal for commuters on Baltimore’s Jones Falls Expressway.
AM Best financial strength rating of A+ (Superior)
Roadside assistance available for flat-tire changes
Collision deductible can decrease with Deductible Savings Bank add-on
Some accident forgiveness programs require years of claims-free driving
Lower-than-average J.D. Power customer satisfaction score in Maryland
Higher rates than some competitors
How we chose the best car insurance companies in Maryland
Our editorial team analyzed regional and national auto insurance companies that sell policies in Maryland to assess which offer the best rates, coverage options, customer service, and savings to drivers. We prioritized competitive rates, 24/7 customer service, low-mileage discounts or programs, safe driving discounts, homeownership discounts or bundling options, and specialty or supplemental coverages.
Average cost of car insurance in Maryland
The average cost of car insurance in Maryland is $248, which is significantly higher than the national average. Maryland ranks second only to Washington, D.C., as most expensive for car insurance, according to a recent Insurify report. Rates have decreased over the last two years, though.
Maryland has a high rate of uninsured drivers, according to the Insurance Information Institute. Insurers must offer matching underinsured and uninsured motorist coverage in Maryland, but policyholders have the right to waive it to further lower their premiums.[5]
Maryland drivers must carry a minimum amount of coverage that includes:[6]
$30,000 for bodily injury per person
$60,000 for bodily injury per accident
$15,000 for property damage
Find Cheap Car Insurance in Maryland
Liability quotes start at $116/mo.
How to get the best car insurance in Maryland
The best car insurance in Maryland is a policy that aligns with your budget and coverage needs. Consider these tips when selecting which mandatory levels and optional coverages to include in your policy:
Consider if you want additional coverage
Insurance agents must offer policyholders uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage and personal injury protection, but you can reject them to keep your overall costs low.
Raise your deductible
Maryland’s high percentage of uninsured drivers and accidents, and its road conditions, mean you may want full coverage. Consider raising your deductible to keep your monthly premium low.
Look into the Maryland Automobile Insurance Fund
Drivers who have trouble obtaining or keeping a policy with a traditional insurance company can secure the state’s minimum-required coverage through the Maryland Automobile Insurance Fund (MAIF).[7]
Enroll in a telematics program
It’s illegal for Maryland drivers to hold a phone in their hand or to their ear while driving. Compare rates from car insurance companies that offer discounts via telematics programs and reward safe driving habits.
Consider local risks
Some counties, like Carroll County, don’t use salt to maintain gravel roads in the winter. For drivers living in rural or underdeveloped areas of Maryland, consider maintaining low levels of collision and comprehensive insurance to reduce costs while staying protected for winter weather hazards.
Best car insurance in Maryland FAQs
Car insurance in Maryland looks different for every driver. Read these insights to ensure you get the coverage and value you need.
What is the average car insurance cost in Maryland?
Maryland car insurance coverage costs an average of $248 per month. For liability-only insurance, Maryland drivers pay an average of $192 per month. For full coverage, drivers pay an average of $303 per month.
How can you lower your car insurance costs in Maryland?
Maryland drivers can lower their car insurance by comparing multiple quotes, reviewing discount offerings, trying out a telematics program, or raising their deductible.
What is the Maryland Automobile Insurance Fund (MAIF)?
The Maryland Automobile Insurance Fund is a program that sells liability insurance to drivers who have difficulty getting car insurance in Maryland. MAIF provides the state-required minimum coverage.
Sources
- MDOT Motor Vehicle Administration. "ICYMI: Governor Moore Unveils Maryland’s New Highway Safety Campaign, “Slow The Fast Down”."
- Maryland Department of Transportation. "New Cell Phone And Seat Belt Laws Launched to Save Lives."
- Department of Veterans and Military Families. "Landing Zone Maryland."
- Maryland.gov. "This Pothole Season, New “Hot Box” Makes Repairs Even More Efficient."
- Maryland Insurance Administration. "Understanding Enhanced Underinsured Motorist Coverage."
- MDOT Motor Vehicle Administration. "Auto Insurance Requirements in Maryland."
- Maryland Automobile Insurance Fund. "Origin & Functions."
Methodology
Insurify data scientists analyzed more than 250 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 500+ 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
- 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.
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