10 Best Auto Insurance Companies in North Carolina for 2025 (Top NC Providers)
Erie, Farmers, and State Farm are the best auto insurance companies in North Carolina. Erie stands out for affordability, with rates starting at $35 a month. Farmers is best for multiple vehicles, and State Farm has high satisfaction and strong local support, making it a top pick for North Carolina car insurance.
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Brandon Frady
Licensed Insurance Agent
Brandon Frady has been a licensed insurance agent and insurance office manager since 2018. He has experience in ventures from retail to finance, working positions from cashier to management, but it wasn’t until Brandon started working in the insurance industry that he truly felt at home in his career. In his day-to-day interactions, he aims to live out his business philosophy in how he treats hi...
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UPDATED: Jul 17, 2025
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We strive to help you make confident insurance and legal decisions. Finding trusted and reliable insurance quotes should be easy. This doesn’t influence our content. Our opinions are our own.
Editorial Guidelines: We are a free online resource for anyone interested in learning more about insurance. Our goal is to be an objective, third-party resource for everything legal and insurance related. We update our site regularly, and all content is reviewed by experts.
UPDATED: Jul 17, 2025
It’s all about you. We want to help you make the right legal decisions.
We strive to help you make confident insurance and legal decisions. Finding trusted and reliable insurance quotes should be easy. This doesn’t influence our content. Our opinions are our own.
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North Carolina Full Coverage
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18,155 reviewsThe best auto insurance companies in North Carolina are Erie, Farmers, and State Farm, with rates starting at just $35 per month. Erie ranks as the top overall pick, offering excellent savings for low-mileage drivers.
Our Top 10 Picks: Best Auto Insurance Companies in North Carolina| Company | Rank | Claims Satisfaction | A.M. Best | Best For | Jump to Pros/Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | #1 | 676 / 1,000 | A+ | Affordable Coverage | Erie |
 | #2 | 676 / 1,000 | A | Multi-Vehicle Policies | Farmers |
 | #3 | 673 / 1,000 | A++ | High Satisfaction | State Farm |
 | #4 | 669 / 1,000 | A+ | Vanishing Deductible | Nationwide |
 | #5 | 667 / 1,000 | A- | High-Risk Drivers | NC Farm Bureau |
 | #6 | 651 / 1,000 | A++ | Young Drivers | Geico |
 | #7 | 650 / 1,000 | A++ | Customer Service | Auto-Owners |
 | #8 | 642 / 1,000 | A++ | Bundling Policies | Travelers |
 | #9 | 637 / 1,000 | A+ | Customizable Plans | Progressive |
 | #10 | 634 / 1,000 | A+ | Digital Tools | Allstate |
Erie has some of the cheapest car insurance in NC, but Farmers is a strong choice for families with multiple vehicles, while State Farm excels in customer satisfaction and offers consistent pricing, even after an accident.
This guide breaks down North Carolina auto insurance rates, discounts, coverage options, and satisfaction scores across the top ten companies.
- The best car insurance companies in North Carolina offer rates from $35 a month
- Erie, Farmers, and State Farm have the best NC auto insurance policies
- North Carolina requires 30/60/25 limits for liability and uninsured motorist coverage
Finding cheap rates can be difficult for high-risk drivers in NC, but you don’t have to do it alone. Enter your ZIP code to find the most affordable quotes in your area.
Auto Insurance Rates in North Carolina
Auto insurance rates in North Carolina vary widely by provider, especially when comparing minimum and full coverage options. Erie and Auto-Owners offer some of the most affordable monthly rates for minimum coverage at $35 and $42, respectively, making them standout choices for budget-conscious drivers.
Auto Insurance Monthly Rates by Coverage| Insurance Company | Minimum Coverage | Full Coverage |
|---|---|---|
| $109 | $257 |
| $42 | $99 |
| $35 | $96 |
| $63 | $150 |
| $44 | $104 |
| $71 | $168 |
| $47 | $111 |
| $20 | $48 |
| $49 | $116 |
| $64 | 151 |
Full coverage car insurance in NC can cost significantly more, but offers stronger protection for drivers who want more than just the legal minimum. Progressive offers the lowest monthly rate at $48 for full coverage, making it a strong option for drivers seeking basic, low-cost protection (Read More: State Farm vs. Progressive Auto Insurance)
Meanwhile, mid-range options like State Farm provide a solid balance between cost and coverage, with minimum coverage starting at $49 per month and full coverage at $116 monthly. It also offers competitive discount opportunities for bundling and safe driving.
North Carolina Auto Insurance Rates by Age and Gender
Age and gender significantly influence auto insurance rates in North Carolina, with younger drivers facing the steepest premiums. At age 16, male drivers pay the highest average rate at $238 per month, while female drivers of the same age pay slightly less at $212, though both are substantially more expensive than rates for older drivers.
The most affordable rates are seen among drivers aged 60, with women paying $58 and men paying $60 per month. Overall, the data confirms that premiums decrease steadily with age and driving experience, and that females generally receive lower rates than males at nearly every age group in North Carolina. Check out our guide about cheap auto insurance for seniors.
North Carolina Auto Insurance Rates by Driving Record
Driving history has a major impact on car insurance premiums in North Carolina, with clean record drivers paying significantly less than those with accidents, tickets, or DUIs.
North Carolina Auto Insurance Monthly Rates by Driving Record
| Insurance Company | Clean Record | One Accident | One DUI | One Ticket |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| $109 | $217 | $469 | $162 |
| $42 | $82 | $176 | $73 |
| $35 | $78 | $168 | $67 |
| $63 | $91 | $88 | $79 |
| $44 | $93 | $269 | $79 |
| $71 | $99 | $284 | $99 |
| $47 | $83 | $172 | $70 |
| $20 | $44 | $258 | $39 |
| $49 | $74 | $206 | $74 |
| $64 | $103 | $293 | $97 |
Progressive and Erie offer the most affordable rates across nearly all categories. Progressive’s minimum coverage for a clean record starts at $20 per month and only $44 monthly after one accident.
Erie is the cheapest after a ticket at $67 a month, far below the state average for cheap auto insurance for high-risk drivers.
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Risks Impacting North Carolina Auto Insurance Costs
Several local risk factors influence auto insurance rates in North Carolina, including vehicle theft rates, traffic patterns, weather threats, and claim costs. While the state performs well in theft prevention and traffic management, higher-than-average claim sizes can contribute to elevated premiums in some areas.
North Carolina Report Card: Auto Insurance Premiums
| Category | Grade | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| Vehicle Theft Rate | A- | Low thefts per 100k vehicles |
| Traffic Density | B | Urban congestion, rural balance |
| Weather-Related Risks | B | Moderate hurricanes, rare hail |
| Average Claim Size | C+ | Claims cost moderately high |
Filing a claim in North Carolina can lead to higher premiums, especially if the claim involves a collision or results in significant payouts. Insurance companies use claims history to assess future risk, so even a single accident can cause rates to spike for several years (Read More: How to File an Auto Insurance Claim & Win It Each Time).
If you live in a high-traffic or storm-prone area of North Carolina, expect higher rates due to the elevated risk of claims.
Kristine Lee Licensed Insurance Agent
Drivers living in the biggest cities, like Charlotte and Raleigh, or regions on the coast that are more prone to storms and flooding, often face elevated rates due to the increased likelihood of claims. These geographic factors, traffic density, and weather exposure make location a key component in determining what you’ll pay for coverage.
North Carolina Annual Traffic Accidents & Claims by Major City
| City | Annual Accidents | Annual Claims |
|---|---|---|
| Asheville | 10,000 | 9,200 |
| Cary | 9,000 | 8,200 |
| Charlotte | 45,000 | 40,000 |
| Durham | 19,000 | 17,500 |
| Fayetteville | 16,000 | 14,500 |
| Greensboro | 22,000 | 20,000 |
| High Point | 8,500 | 7,800 |
| Raleigh | 30,000 | 27,000 |
| Wilmington | 11,000 | 10,000 |
| Winston-Salem | 17,000 | 15,500 |
Collisions and auto accidents account for more than half of all claims across the state. However, weather-related claims due to hurricanes and water damage make up 20% of claims.
5 Most Common Auto Insurance Claims in North Carolina
| Rank | Claim Type | Portion of Claims | Cost per Claim |
|---|---|---|---|
| #1 | Collision Accidents | 55% | $4,200 |
| #2 | Weather-Related Damage | 20% | $2,800 |
| #3 | Theft and Vandalism | 10% | $3,500 |
| #4 | Animal Collisions | 8% | $4,000 |
| #5 | Glass and Windshield Damage | 7% | $450 |
These trends highlight the importance of comprehensive and collision coverage for drivers across the state. It provides essential financial protection against some of the most common and costly claims in North Carolina.
North Carolina Auto Insurance Requirements
North Carolina requires drivers to carry liability insurance and uninsured motorist coverage to legally operate a vehicle.
North Carolina Auto Insurance Minimum Coverage Requirements
| Coverage | Limits |
|---|---|
| Bodily Injury Liability | $30,000 per person $60,000 per accident |
| Property Damage Liability | $25,000 per accident |
| Uninsured Motorist Bodily Injury | $30,000 per person $60,000 per accident |
Drivers should consider purchasing coverage beyond the state minimums to avoid out-of-pocket costs in serious accidents and ensure adequate financial protection for medical expenses and property damage. See the difference between liability vs. full coverage auto insurance.
Additional Auto Insurance Coverage in North Carolina
In addition to the required liability and uninsured motorist coverage, North Carolina drivers can choose from a variety of optional auto insurance coverages to enhance their protection.
North Carolina Auto Insurance Coverage Options
| Coverage | Description |
|---|---|
| Collision | Pays for your vehicle damage |
| Comprehensive | Covers non-crash-related vehicle damage |
| Custom Parts Coverage | Protects aftermarket or custom equipment |
| Gap Insurance | Covers loan balance after total loss |
| Liability | Covers others if you're at fault |
| Medical Payments (MedPay) | Pays medical bills after accident |
| Rental Reimbursement | Covers rental if your car's unusable |
| Towing & Labor | Pays for towing and roadside help |
| Underinsured Motorist | Helps when at-fault driver lacks funds |
| Uninsured Motorist | Covers hit-and-run or uninsured drivers |
These options offer added financial security for situations like vehicle repairs, medical payments coverage, rental cars, and accidents caused by underinsured drivers.
Top Ways to Save on North Carolina Auto Insurance
North Carolina drivers looking to save on auto insurance can benefit significantly from companies that offer extensive discounts across multiple categories. Farmers stands out with more discounts than any other provider, including up to 30% for safe drivers.
Top Auto Insurance Discounts in North Carolina| Insurance Company | Anti- Theft | Bundling | Claim- Free | Good Driver | Low Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10% | 25% | 10% | 25% | 30% |
| 12% | 16% | 10% | 25% | 30% |
| 15% | 25% | 10% | 23% | 30% |
| 10% | 20% | 9% | 30% | 10% |
| 25% | 25% | 12% | 26% | 30% |
| 5% | 20% | 14% | 40% | 20% |
| 10% | 15% | 8% | 22% | 20% |
| 25% | 10% | 10% | 30% | 30% |
| 15% | 17% | 11% | 25% | 30% |
| 15% | 13% | 13% | 10% | 20% |
Erie and State Farm offer some of the best low-mileage auto insurance discounts, up to 30%, for drivers who travel less than 7,500 miles per year.
North Carolina drivers can get the best price on auto insurance by comparing quotes from multiple companies based on their location, driving history, and coverage needs. It’s important to evaluate not just the base rate, but also available discounts.
Using online comparison tools makes it easy to see which insurer offers the best value for your specific situation. Reviewing policy details side by side ensures you’re not only getting the lowest rate, but also the right protection.
Enter your zip code below to view companies that have cheap insurance rates.
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10 Best Auto Insurance Companies in North Carolina
Erie, Farmers, and State Farm are the best auto insurance companies in North Carolina, known for top-tier affordability, multi-vehicle discounts, and high customer satisfaction. Below, we break down the pros and cons of each provider to help you decide which one fits your needs.
#1 – Erie: Top Overall Pick
Pros
- Strong Claims Satisfaction: With a 676/1,000 satisfaction score, Erie outperforms many competitors in NC for claims handling and responsiveness.
- Affordable Rates: Erie offers the lowest minimum coverage rates in North Carolina at just $35 per month, making it ideal for budget-conscious drivers. Compare quotes now in our Erie insurance review.
- Low-Mileage Discounts: North Carolina drivers can save up to 30% with Erie’s low-mileage discount, significantly lowering overall premium costs.
Cons
- Limited Availability: Erie auto insurance in North Carolina is not available in all ZIP codes, which may limit access for some drivers.
- Few Digital Tools: Erie lacks advanced mobile app features and digital claim tracking compared to other NC providers.
#2 – Farmers: Best for Multi-Vehicle Policies
Pros
- Multi-Car Savings: Farmers provides 20% multi-vehicle policy discounts in North Carolina, benefitting families with multiple drivers.
- Competitive Minimum Rates: Farmers’ NC minimum coverage starts at $63 a month, which balances cost and comprehensive benefits well.
- Broad Agent Network: Farmers’ in-person support across North Carolina helps simplify claims and policy adjustments. See a full list of options in our Farmers review.
Cons
- Mediocre Claims Satisfaction: With a 676/1,000 rating, Farmers lags behind top-tier competitors in NC in claim satisfaction.
- Higher DUI Premiums: Drivers with a DUI in North Carolina may face steep rate increases with Farmers compared to Progressive or Erie.
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#3 – State Farm: Best for High Satisfaction
Pros
- High Customer Satisfaction: State Farm scores 673/1,000 in claims satisfaction in North Carolina, backed by personalized service and quick payouts.
- Stable Minimum Coverage Rates: With NC minimum coverage starting at $49 a month, State Farm maintains consistent pricing, even after one accident.
- Safe Driver Discounts: State Farm in North Carolina offers up to 30% off for clean driving records, ideal for long-term policyholders. Discover discounts in our State Farm review.
Cons
- DUI Penalty Costs: A DUI in NC can push State Farm premiums to $206 a month for minimum coverage, higher than most competitors.
- Smaller Bundling Discounts: Compared to companies like Erie or Nationwide, State Farm offers lower bundling benefits in NC.
#4 – Nationwide: Best for Vanishing Deductible
Pros
- Deductible Reduction Benefit: Nationwide’s vanishing deductible program in North Carolina rewards claim-free years by reducing out-of-pocket costs.
- Safe Driving Savings: Drivers in NC can receive up to 40% off minimum coverage for maintaining clean driving histories. See why drivers choose it in our Nationwide insurance review.
- Robust Digital Management: Nationwide’s app and online tools make it easy for NC drivers to manage policies, claims, and payments.
Cons
- High DUI Rates: North Carolina drivers with a DUI face minimum coverage premiums up to $284 a month with Nationwide.
- Above-Average Base Rates: Even without violations, Nationwide’s $71 a month minimum coverage is significantly higher than Erie or Auto-Owners in NC.
#5 – NC Farm Bureau: Best for High-Risk Drivers
Pros
- Leniency for High-Risk Drivers: NC Farm Bureau offers competitive rates to high-risk profiles, including DUIs and multiple accidents (Learn More: Cheap Auto Insurance for Multiple Vehicles).
- Affordable NC Rates: Their minimum coverage starts at $47 a month, making it one of the more accessible options statewide.
- Local Agent Access: With offices throughout North Carolina, policyholders benefit from personalized service and claims assistance.
Cons
- Membership Required: NC Farm Bureau policies require membership, adding a small annual fee to your overall insurance cost.
- Limited Digital Tools: Compared to Geico or Progressive, NC Farm Bureau lacks robust online policy management features.
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#6 – Geico: Best for Young Drivers
Pros
- Youth-Friendly Rates: Geico offers North Carolina’s young drivers low minimum coverage at $44 a month and up to 26% good driver discounts.
- Tech-Savvy Features: Geico’s mobile app and online services provide seamless claims filing and bill pay for NC users. Explore everything you need to know about Geico before picking a policy.
- Accident Forgiveness Option: Available in North Carolina, this helps prevent rate hikes after a driver’s first at-fault accident.
Cons
- Sharp DUI Rate Increases: Geico’s NC premiums for drivers with a DUI can surge to $269 a month for minimum coverage.
- Middling Claims Satisfaction: With a 651/1,000 score, Geico ranks lower than Erie or State Farm for handling NC claims.
#7 – Auto-Owners: Best for Customer Service
Pros
- Exceptional Service Reputation: Auto-Owners is known for personal claims support and local agent relationships across NC.
- Affordable Premiums: Minimum coverage costs just $42 a month in North Carolina, among the most budget-friendly options.
- Generous Discount Options: Save up to 30% on NC auto insurance through low mileage and bundling discounts. See a full list of discounts in our Auto-Owners insurance review.
Cons
- Less App Functionality: Auto-Owners lacks the mobile app features offered by competitors like Geico or Travelers in NC.
- Limited Online Quotes: North Carolina drivers may need to work through agents rather than getting immediate online pricing.
#8 – Travelers: Best for Bundling Policies
Pros
- Strong Bundling Discounts: North Carolina drivers can save up to 13% by combining auto with renters or homeowners insurance.
- Reliable Claims Response: With a 642/1,000 claims rating, Travelers offers solid support for standard and bundled NC policies.
- Stable NC Premiums: Minimum coverage starts at $64 a month, with moderate increases even after one accident or ticket. Learn more in our Travelers auto insurance review.
Cons
- Higher DUI Premiums: DUI-affected NC drivers may face rates up to $293 a month, above the state average.
- Low Good Driver Discount: Travelers’ 10% discount for safe drivers in NC is lower than many top competitors.
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#9 – Progressive: Best for Customizable Plans
Pros
- Lowest Entry Rate: Progressive’s minimum coverage starts at just $20 a month in NC, ideal for basic legal compliance.
- Name Your Price Tool: NC drivers can tailor policies around their budget using Progressive’s unique pricing tool. Find more ways to save in our Progressive auto insurance review.
- Strong Telemetrics Program: Progressive’s Snapshot program helps NC drivers earn up to 30% off based on real-time driving data.
Cons
- Price Volatility for High-Risk Drivers: Progressive high-risk auto insurance in North Carolina is more expensive than other companies after a DUI.
- Mixed Service Reviews: With a 637/1,000 satisfaction rating, Progressive scores below other major NC providers in claims experience.
#10 – Allstate: Best for Digital Tools
Pros
- Advanced Tech Features: Allstate’s mobile app in NC supports digital ID cards, virtual claims, and roadside assistance. Get a coverage breakdown in our Allstate insurance review.
- Broad Discount List: North Carolina drivers can access up to 30% in discounts across low mileage, good driver, and anti-theft categories.
- Strong Network Access: Allstate’s large NC agent base ensures easy access to in-person help for complex policy issues.
Cons
- High Starting Premiums: With minimum coverage starting at $109 a month, Allstate is the most expensive option in North Carolina.
- Low Claims Satisfaction: Allstate scored 634/1,000 in NC, the lowest among the top 10, especially on claim turnaround times.
Getting the Best Auto Insurance in North Carolina
Choosing the right auto insurance policy in North Carolina starts with comparing trusted providers and understanding what coverage best fits your needs. Companies like Erie, Farmers, and State Farm consistently deliver strong value through affordable rates, generous discounts, and dependable customer service.
In North Carolina, choose coverage by factoring in your vehicle’s value, commute distance, and whether you can afford to pay out of pocket after an at-fault accident.
Justin Wright Licensed Insurance Agent
Taking advantage of available savings—such as low-mileage, bundling, or good driver discounts—can significantly lower your premiums. By evaluating both required and optional coverages, North Carolina drivers can find a policy that offers the right balance of protection and price.
To find out if you can get cheaper auto insurance rates, enter your ZIP code into our free quote tool to instantly compare auto insurance companies near you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the best car insurance company in NC?
The best car insurance company in North Carolina depends on your specific needs, but Erie is widely regarded as the top overall provider due to its affordable rates, strong customer satisfaction, and generous discount options (Learn More: Best Anti-Theft Auto Insurance Discounts).
What insurance company has the best rates in NC?
Progressive offers the lowest minimum coverage rates in North Carolina, starting at just $20 per month, making it the best option for budget-conscious drivers. Get fast and cheap auto insurance coverage today with our quote comparison tool.
Who is the cheapest auto insurance in NC?
Progressive is currently the cheapest auto insurance provider in North Carolina for minimum coverage, followed closely by Erie and Auto-Owners.
What is the recommended auto insurance coverage in North Carolina?
While North Carolina requires minimum liability and uninsured motorist coverage, it’s recommended to add collision, comprehensive auto insurance, and medical payments (MedPay) for better protection, especially if you own a newer vehicle or drive frequently.
Who is the most trusted North Carolina auto insurance company?
State Farm is often considered one of the most trusted North Carolina auto insurance companies thanks to its high claims satisfaction, financial strength, and long-standing customer relationships.
Why is car insurance so cheap in North Carolina?
North Carolina car insurance companies are generally more affordable due to low vehicle theft rates, a balance between urban and rural traffic density, and state-regulated insurance pricing structures.
Who has the best coverage in North Carolina?
Erie offers some of the best coverage options in North Carolina, with strong liability protection, optional endorsements, and flexible policy customization at competitive prices.
How much should car insurance cost in North Carolina?
Is insurance high in North Carolina? On average, minimum coverage in North Carolina ranges from $35 to $71 per month, while full coverage typically costs between $96 and $168, depending on the provider and driver profile. Browse our guide about the best auto insurance for good drivers to unlock savings.
What is the new law for auto insurance in NC?
North Carolina law continues to require 30/60/25 minimum liability auto insurance coverage and uninsured motorist protection, with recent regulatory attention focusing on telematics and fair pricing models.
Who has the cheapest and best car insurance in North Carolina?
Erie strikes the best balance between price and quality, offering the cheapest full coverage at $96 per month along with excellent customer service and strong discount availability.
Which insurance company has the best reputation in NC?
State Farm has the best reputation in North Carolina for reliability, claims satisfaction, and agent support, followed closely by Erie and Auto-Owners for overall value and customer experience. Start saving on your auto insurance by entering your ZIP code and comparing quotes.
Enter your zip code below to view companies that have cheap insurance rates.
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Brandon Frady
Licensed Insurance Agent
Brandon Frady has been a licensed insurance agent and insurance office manager since 2018. He has experience in ventures from retail to finance, working positions from cashier to management, but it wasn’t until Brandon started working in the insurance industry that he truly felt at home in his career. In his day-to-day interactions, he aims to live out his business philosophy in how he treats hi...
Licensed Insurance Agent
Editorial Guidelines: We are a free online resource for anyone interested in learning more about insurance. Our goal is to be an objective, third-party resource for everything legal and insurance related. We update our site regularly, and all content is reviewed by experts.
