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Ben Luthi has been writing about personal finance for over a decade with the intent to help people improve their finances and lifestyle. He’s covered just about every personal finance topic under the sun for a variety of publications, including the Wall Street Journal, Fortune Recommends, Yahoo Finance, Experian, Credit Karma, NerdWallet, and many more. Ben lives near Salt Lake City with his two kids and two cats.
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7+ years in content creation and management
5+ years in insurance and personal finance content
Ashley is a seasoned personal finance editor who’s produced a variety of digital content, including insurance, credit cards, mortgages, and consumer lending products.
Featured in
)
Corporate communications director for Insurance Information Institute
20+ years in insurance and communications
As Director, Corporate Communications for Triple-I, Mark serves as the non-profit’s national spokesperson, sharing information and education on a wide array of insurance issues.
Updated
At Insurify, our goal is to help customers compare insurance products and find the best policy for them. We strive to provide open, honest, and unbiased information about the insurance products and services we review. Our hard-working team of data analysts, insurance experts, insurance agents, editors and writers, has put in thousands of hours of research to create the content found on our site.
We do receive compensation when a sale or referral occurs from many of the insurance providers and marketing partners on our site. That may impact which products we display and where they appear on our site. But it does not influence our meticulously researched editorial content, what we write about, or any reviews or recommendations we may make. We do not guarantee favorable reviews or any coverage at all in exchange for compensation.
Table of contents
Table of contents
Shopping for car insurance can be difficult, and each person has different priorities when it comes to car insurance coverage.
To help you find the right fit, Insurify analyzed 50 car insurance companies to determine the best car insurance companies in Washington, D.C.
Here are our top five picks and why we chose them.
Best car insurance companies in Washington, D.C.
The best car insurance company for you depends on several factors, such as your coverage needs, gender, credit history, budget, driving record, and age. As you shop around, it’s also a good idea to consider each insurer’s coverage options, discounts, and track record for customer satisfaction and claims handling.
Here’s a quick look at our top choices to help you and other Washington, D.C., drivers get started on your search.
Erie Insurance: 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. | $197/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. | $290/mo |
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.
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.
Whether you need liability only or full coverage, Erie Insurance offers some of the cheapest auto insurance rates in Washington, D.C. The insurer has also received the top ranking for customer satisfaction in the Mid-Atlantic region for the past three years, according to J.D. Power.[1] It was also ranked third nationally for claims satisfaction.
The company offers a wide range of insurance products and even boasts a discount of up to 25% if you bundle your auto insurance with your home coverage.
No. 1 J.D. Power customer satisfaction rating in the Mid-Atlantic region
Ranks highly for claims satisfaction
Rate Lock feature ensures stable premiums
All policies must be purchased through an independent agent
Can’t file a claim online
Only offers coverage in 12 states and Washington, D.C.
State Farm: Best for claims satisfaction
| User Reviews | 4.1 |
|---|---|
| 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. | 9.3 /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. | $212/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. | $312/mo |
Customers appreciate the insurer’s excellent customer service and personal attention but dislike the high prices and frequent rate increases. They also express frustration with the claims process.
Customers appreciate the insurer’s excellent customer service and personal attention but dislike the high prices and frequent rate increases. They also express frustration with the claims process.
Other than Erie, State Farm is the only insurer on this list with an above-average rating for claims satisfaction, according to J.D. Power. The insurance company has more than two dozen local agents in Washington, D.C., and it offers affordable rates for both liability insurance and full coverage.
State Farm also offers a host of discounts to help you maximize your savings.
Expansive network of local, exclusive agents
High J.D. Power claims satisfaction rating
Many discounts available
Accident forgiveness not available
Payoff Protector (gap) coverage is restricted to customers who originate an auto loan through State Farm Bank
Below-average J.D. Power customer satisfaction rating in the Mid-Atlantic region
GEICO: Best for cheap car insurance
| 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. | $213/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. | $311/mo |
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.
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.
Among our top picks for best insurance companies in Washington, D.C., GEICO offers some of the lowest rates in the District, both for liability-only and full coverage. The insurer also provides more transparency about potential savings from discounts compared to other companies.
GEICO also offers a host of other insurance products, making it easy to keep all your coverages under one proverbial roof.
Low average rates
Many discounts available
Easy policy management
Rideshare coverage not available
Gap insurance not available
Below-average J.D. Power claims and customer satisfaction ratings
Travelers: Best for young drivers
| User Reviews | 4.8 |
|---|---|
| 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 |
| 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. | $99/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. | $186/mo |
Customers appreciate the insurer’s communicative customer service and efficient claims process. But they’re dissatisfied with the consistent and sometimes significant price increases, even for those with clean driving records.
Customers appreciate the insurer’s communicative customer service and efficient claims process. But they’re dissatisfied with the consistent and sometimes significant price increases, even for those with clean driving records.
Travelers doesn’t offer the cheapest rates, but its premiums are more competitive than many other insurers in Washington, D.C. What’s more, the insurance company’s good student, student away at school, and driver training discounts can make it an affordable option for young drivers.
Travelers also offers several other discount opportunities, and it has nearly three dozen independent agents in Washington, D.C.
Multiple discounts for younger drivers
Discount for hybrid and electric vehicles
Wide distribution network of independent agents in the District
Below-average J.D. Power claims satisfaction and customer satisfaction ratings
Must work with an independent agent to get a quote and purchase a policy
Rideshare coverage not available in Washington, D.C.
USAA: Best for military members and their families
| 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. | $217/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. | $319/mo |
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.
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.
USAA specializes in working with the military community, including U.S. active-duty military members, veterans, pre-commissioned officers, and their families. The company offers competitive rates for full coverage for many D.C. residents.
As a member, you can also take advantage of several other financial products and services, including home and renters insurance, banking, loans, and investing. USAA also offers a variety of member perks and discounts, making it a good option for the more than 20,000 veterans living in Washington, D.C.[2]
Offers banking and other financial products and services
Above-average J.D. Power customer satisfaction rating in the Mid-Atlantic region
Discount for vehicles garaged on base
Available only to members of the military community
No brick-and-mortar office locations in the District
Does not offer 24/7 customer support
Our editorial team analyzed regional and national auto insurance companies that sell policies in Washington, D.C., 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.
How to get the best car insurance in Washington, D.C.
While our top picks can help you get started with your hunt for the best car insurance, it’s important to do your own research to ensure you get the best of the best.
Here are some tips you can use.
Consider how much coverage you need
Insurers may differ in the types of coverage they offer, so you’ll want to consider your coverage needs, including the types and limits you choose.
Read reviews from policyholders
Take some time to read reviews from current and previous policyholders on websites, like Trustpilot. These reviews can give you an idea of what your experience might look like and help you avoid potential red flags.
It’s a good idea to read both positive and negative reviews to get a full picture.
Look at discounts and perks
While many auto insurers offer a variety of discounts, some may provide savings that are more tailored to you. For example, if you have young drivers at home, a company with more discounts aimed at them can help you mitigate some of the costs of insuring them.
You can also consider other benefits, such as accident forgiveness and vanishing deductible, that can help you save money in the event of a claim.
Shop around and compare quotes
Every insurer is different in how it sets rates, so it’s crucial that you take the time to shop around and get quotes from multiple companies. As you go about the process, make sure you use the same coverage information with each insurer so you’re comparing apples to apples.
Average cost of car insurance in Washington, D.C.
The average cost of car insurance in Washington, D.C., is $217 per month for liability-only coverage and $308 per month for full coverage, according to Insurify data. That’s quite a bit higher than the national monthly averages of $100 and $177, respectively.
Over the past two years, car insurance rates in the District have spiked, with average full-coverage rates jumping 24% since 2023, according to Insurify’s latest study. That’s substantially higher than the 15% average increase nationwide.
Best car insurance in Washington, D.C., FAQs
As you consider your options for car insurance, here are some answers to common questions to help you make a decision.
How much is car insurance in Washington, D.C.?
The average D.C. driver pays around $263 per month for car insurance. Breaking things down a bit further, drivers pay around $217 for basic liability coverage or $308 for a more robust full-coverage policy.
What are the best car insurance companies in Washington, D.C.?
Insurify’s top choices for the best car insurance companies in D.C. include Erie Insurance, State Farm, GEICO, Travelers, and USAA.
What is the required auto insurance coverage amount in Washington, D.C.?
The minimum coverage requirements for drivers in Washington, D.C., include:[3]
Property damage liability: $10,000
Bodily injury liability: $25,000 per person, $50,000 per accident
Uninsured motorist bodily injury: $25,000 per person, $50,000 per accident
Uninsured motorist property damage: $5,000 (subject to a $200 deductible)
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Sources
- J.D. Power. "2024 U.S. Auto Insurance Study."
- United States Census Bureau. "QuickFacts - District of Columbia."
- DC DMV. "Vehicle Insurance."
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Ben Luthi has been writing about personal finance for over a decade with the intent to help people improve their finances and lifestyle. He’s covered just about every personal finance topic under the sun for a variety of publications, including the Wall Street Journal, Fortune Recommends, Yahoo Finance, Experian, Credit Karma, NerdWallet, and many more. Ben lives near Salt Lake City with his two kids and two cats.
)
7+ years in content creation and management
5+ years in insurance and personal finance content
Ashley is a seasoned personal finance editor who’s produced a variety of digital content, including insurance, credit cards, mortgages, and consumer lending products.
Featured in
)
Corporate communications director for Insurance Information Institute
20+ years in insurance and communications
As Director, Corporate Communications for Triple-I, Mark serves as the non-profit’s national spokesperson, sharing information and education on a wide array of insurance issues.
)
)