Best car insurance companies in North Carolina
North Carolina car insurance costs less than in most other states, but you should consider more than just price. Insurify analyzed 120+ insurers to find the best car insurance in North Carolina, weighing price, coverage options, and customer satisfaction.
Erie: Best overall
| 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. | $56/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. | $96/mo |
Erie Insurance's score | Industry average | |
|---|---|---|
| Coverage options | 4.2 | 3.2 |
| Customer service | 3.7 | 3.6 |
| Discounts | 3.8 | 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.
Erie Insurance has operated in North Carolina since 1991, working through independent agents in cities like Asheville, Charlotte, and Raleigh. It earned the top customer satisfaction ranking in the J.D. Power U.S. Auto Insurance Study for the Southeast region.
Many of Erie’s policies include unique perks, like pet and personal item coverage, locksmith services, and auto glass repair.
Low average rates for liability coverage
Accident forgiveness available in North Carolina
Fewer-than-expected number of complaints with the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC)
May find better full-coverage rates from other insurers
Poor reviews on Google Play
AM Best financial strength rating downgraded from A+ to A
Progressive: Best for affordability
| JD Power J.D. Power data measures overall customer satisfaction and claims satisfaction based on a 1,000-point scale. | 622 |
|---|---|
| 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. | $61/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. | $89/mo |
Customers appreciate the insurer’s good customer service and initial affordability but dislike the consistent price increases and complex claims process.
Progressive offers some of the lowest rates in North Carolina for both full coverage and liability coverage. The insurer provides several ways to save, including safe driving, multi-car, and pay-in-full discounts.
About two-thirds of North Carolina housing units are owner-occupied, according to U.S. census data, so you may save even more by bundling auto and homeowners insurance.
Safe driving discount through Snapshot telematics program
AM Best financial strength rating of A+ (Superior)
Highly rated mobile apps
Below-average J.D. Power customer satisfaction rating in Southeast region
Ranked second to last in J.D. Power U.S. Auto Claims Satisfaction Study
Roadside assistance towing capped at 15 miles (any further costs extra)
National General: Best for seniors
| User Reviews | 3.7 |
|---|---|
| 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. | 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. | $65/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. | $89/mo |
National General's score | Industry average | |
|---|---|---|
| Coverage options | 3.4 | 3.2 |
| Customer service | 2.7 | 3.6 |
| Discounts | 3.1 | 2.9 |
| Policy transparency | 3.3 | 3.1 |
| Value | 3.0 | 2.9 |
Drivers appreciate the quick and easy setup but are dissatisfied with the frequent and unexplained rate increases. Many find the customer service lacking and the claims process slow.
Almost 19% of North Carolina’s population is 65 or older, according to U.S. census data — and they may find cheap car insurance from National General. Senior drivers can also save with the company’s DynamicDrive program, which tracks driving habits and rewards safe driving with a discount.
Headquartered in North Carolina, National General has a network of more than 55,000 independent insurance agents.
More than 100 years in business
24/7 claims reporting
Highly rated mobile apps
Ranked last in the J.D. Power customer and claims satisfaction studies
No senior discount advertised
Higher-than-expected number of complaints with the NAIC
Direct Auto: Best for high-risk drivers
| 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. | $65/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. | $89/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, also based in North Carolina, provides coverage for drivers who other insurers consider too high risk, such as drivers with a driving while impaired (DWI) conviction on their record.
The company offers some of the lowest rates in North Carolina for drivers with a DWI and for drivers with poor credit. A local agent can help you file a DL-123 form, which North Carolina may require after a license suspension.
Non-owner car insurance available
Flexible payment plans
Safe driving discount available with DynamicDrive
Below-average J.D. Power customer satisfaction rating in Southeast region
Negative Trustpilot rating
No rideshare insurance advertised
GEICO: Best for military members
| User Reviews | 4.0 |
|---|---|
| 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. | 9.2 /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. | $64/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. | $109/mo |
GEICO's score | Industry average | |
|---|---|---|
| Coverage options | 4.0 | 3.2 |
| Customer service | 4.1 | 3.6 |
| Discounts | 3.9 | 2.9 |
| Policy transparency | 4.0 | 3.1 |
| Value | 3.8 | 2.9 |
Customers appreciate the reliability and customer service but find the rates to be high and increase frequently, even without claims or accidents. The app has improved, but some find the claims process lacking.
North Carolina has the fourth-largest military and the eighth-largest veteran population in the U.S., as it’s home to bases like Fort Bragg and Camp Lejeune.[2] GEICO’s founder initially created the company to provide auto insurance for military officers and federal employees. While the insurer now serves more drivers, it still offers a military discount of up to 15%.
High J.D. Power customer satisfaction rating in Southeast region
AM Best financial strength rating of A++ (Superior)
Fewer-than-expected complaints with the NAIC
May find lower full-coverage rates from other insurers
Below-average ranking in J.D. Power U.S. Auto Claims Satisfaction Study
Gap insurance not available
Our editorial team analyzed regional and national auto insurance companies that sell policies in North Carolina 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 North Carolina
The average cost of car insurance in North Carolina is $69 per month for liability coverage and $115 per month for full coverage — well below the national monthly averages of $98 and $186. The state’s lower uninsured motorist rate may help keep costs down.
North Carolina also follows contributory negligence law, which means you can’t recover compensation after a crash if you were partially at fault. Tort litigation can drive up premiums, so this system may help keep accident lawsuits out of the courts and rates low.
The state’s insurance commissioner has also kept rates in check. The Rate Bureau, which represents North Carolina’s insurance companies, requests annual increases, but the insurance commissioner can approve or reject them.[3]
In 2025, the Rate Bureau requested a rate increase of nearly 23%, but the commissioner negotiated it down to just 5%. Insurify projects that North Carolina’s average annual premium will increase by less than 2% by the end of 2026.
Find Cheap Car Insurance in North Carolina
Liability policies average $69/mo. in the Tar Heel State
How to get the best car insurance in North Carolina
North Carolina car insurance requirements increased in July 2025, so it’s a good time to review your coverage.[4] The following tips can help you choose the best car insurance in North Carolina:
Meet North Carolina’s minimum-coverage requirements
As of July 2025, you must carry at least $50,000 per person and $100,000 per accident in bodily injury liability coverage and $50,000 in property damage liability coverage. New and renewed policies must also include uninsured motorist coverage.
Consider North Carolina’s weather risks
Hurricanes, flooding, and severe storms are common across North Carolina. Comprehensive coverage (also called other-than-collision coverage) can pay for storm damage to your vehicle, which liability insurance won’t cover.[5]
Keep a clean driving record
The North Carolina Safe Driver Incentive Plan rewards safe driving with lower premiums. At-fault accidents and violations, on the other hand, can result in higher auto insurance rates.[6]
Compare quotes
Rates for identical coverage can vary between companies — especially for young drivers — so shopping around can help you find the best price. You can check whether a company or agent is properly licensed by calling the North Carolina Department of Insurance directly.
Best car insurance in North Carolina FAQs
Before choosing a policy, the information below covers which car insurance companies in North Carolina have the lowest rates and the highest customer satisfaction.
Which car insurance companies offer the best rates in NC?
North Carolina drivers may find the best full-coverage rates with Progressive, at $89 per month. Erie offers the lowest liability insurance rates, averaging $56 monthly. Each company has its own rating model, though, so your actual premium can vary. Compare quotes and auto insurance discounts from multiple companies to find the best deal.
Which car insurance companies in NC have the best customer reviews?
Erie and GEICO had the highest customer satisfaction rankings in the Southeast region, which includes North Carolina, according to the most recent J.D. Power U.S. Auto Insurance Study.
What are the best car insurance companies in North Carolina?
The right insurer for you depends on your coverage needs and budget. That said, Erie, Direct Auto, GEICO, National General, and Progressive are among the best car insurance companies for average rates, coverage options, and customer satisfaction.
Sources
- Jdpower.com. "2023 U.S. Insurance Shopping Study."
- North Carolina Department of Military and Veterans Affairs. "What We Do."
- North Carolina Department of Insurance. "Commissioner Causey explains rate making process in new video."
- North Carolina Department of Insurance. "Changes to the Rating of Automobile Insurance Policies, Effective July 1, 2025."
- North Carolina Department of Insurance. "Basic and Miscellaneous Auto Coverages."
- North Carolina Department of Insurance. "Safe Driver Incentive Plan."
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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