Senior Citizen Discounts for Car Insurance
- Cheapest companies for seniors: USAA, Nationwide and GEICO
- Tip: Ask about discounts for veterans, defensive driving courses, low mileage, and more.
Find the best car insurance for seniors—compare top insurers in seconds. Enter your zip code to start saving today
Car insurance for seniors: discounts, rates, and savings tips
As driving habits change with age, so do insurance needs. Many seniors drive less, which can lead to lower premiums through reduced mileage discounts. Some insurers offer benefits like roadside assistance and accident forgiveness, adding extra peace of mind.
Seniors can save with discounts based on age, driving history, and memberships in organizations like AARP, which partners with insurers for exclusive savings. Keeping a clean driving record and completing a defensive driving course can help lower costs even more.
How much do seniors pay for car insurance?
On average, drivers between 50 and 80 years of age pay about $1,644 per year ($137 monthly) for car insurance. Drivers in their 60s often get some of the lowest rates, just behind those in their 50s.Â
While rates start rising after 70, drivers in their mid-60s still see some of the lowest claim rates for property damage and collisions. Elderly drivers over 80 years of age will notice significant increases due to the higher risk of accidents.[1] The table below highlights how car insurance costs change by age group.
Updating data...
| Age | Avg. Monthly Premium | Avg. 6 Mo. Premium |
|---|---|---|
| 50s | $130 | $777 |
| 60s | $131 | $785 |
| 40s | $139 | $834 |
| 30s | $144 | $862 |
| 70s | $151 | $903 |
| 20s | $190 | $1,142 |
Source: The Zebra
The Zebra’s Dynamic Insurance Rating Tool data methodology
The Zebra’s Dynamic Insurance Rating Tool for home and auto insurance rates utilizes the latest ZIP code-level rate filings from across the U.S., sourced from Quadrant Information Services and S&P Global. These filings, typically updated annually or biennially by insurers, are verified through Quadrant’s QA process and then integrated into The Zebra’s estimator.
The displayed rates are based on a dynamic home and auto profile designed to reflect the content of the page. This profile is tailored to match specific factors such as age, location, and coverage level, which are adjusted based on the page content to show how these variables can impact premiums.
For a comprehensive understanding, see our detailed methodology.
Best ways for seniors to save on car insurance
Most insurance companies offer similar discounts, so it can be tough to see big differences between providers. Instead of focusing just on the company name, use these simple strategies to keep your costs down:
- Compare policies, not just prices: Look at coverage line by line to make sure you're getting the best value, not just the lowest rate.
- Bundle your policies: If you have home or renters insurance, combining it with your auto policy could lead to extra savings.
- Adjust your coverage: Raising your deductible or lowering coverage on an older vehicle can help reduce your monthly bill, especially if you’re driving less.
- Keep a clean driving record: Safe driving helps prevent rate increases and may qualify you for additional discounts.
- Check your credit score: In most states, insurers factor in credit scores, so maintaining a good one can lead to lower premiums.
- Ask about discounts: There may be savings you qualify for but aren’t aware of, so don’t hesitate to check with your agent.
A little research and a few small changes can make a big difference in what you pay for car insurance.[2]
"There are smaller discounts that can add up, like paying your premium in full, which some carriers offer a significant discount for. There’s also an "early shopper" discount if you set your policy to start at a future date. The timing for this discount varies by carrier—some require the policy to be set a week in advance, while others might offer it if it’s scheduled a few weeks or even a month out. It really depends on the insurer’s specific rules."
-Blake Trew, Agency Manager at The Zebra
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Which company offers the cheapest rates for senior drivers?
USAA, GEICO, and Nationwide offer some of the best full coverage auto insurance rates for drivers between ages 50 and 80 overall, but actual prices vary based on individual factors.
The estimates below provide a general idea of what you might pay, but your rate will depend on your unique situation. The good news? Experienced drivers over 50 tend to pay lower rates than younger drivers, thanks to years of safe driving.
Source: The Zebra
Get the best rates for senior drivers—start comparing today!
Top insurance companies for senior drivers
The company with the best value depends on the most important features of car insurance and what you value in a company. We've outlined some of the top names in car insurance and highlighted important details that might help you make an educated choice. Based on price and customer service alone, Erie and USAA are top choices. However, they're limited in availability. For a nationwide company that caters to older adults, we recommend The Hartford. State Farm is also a good option for most drivers due to their mid-level cost and wide availability.[3]
Take a look at the companies we've listed below to see if any of them might be good contenders for your next car insurance policy.
Best senior-specific company
Though not the cheapest overall, The Hartford's long-standing relationship with AARP and a variety of discounts make it a good option for senior drivers specifically.
Best for availability
State Farm consistently ranks well for customer service and claims satisfaction. They're also available nationwide, which makes them accessible for most drivers.
Best regional carrier
While policies are available in a limited number of states, Erie has a stellar reputation which makes it a great candidate for drivers of any age who resides in the easter part of the U.S.
Methodology — how The Zebra reviews insurance companies
The team of insurance experts at The Zebra considers the company's standing in five main categories to come up with an overall rating. These metrics are weighted according to importance and are detailed below:
- Price (20%): Using the base profile detailed below, we compared the company's average rate with the national average. If it surpassed this average, we gave a lower rating; if it fell below, we awarded a higher rating.
- Coverage (20%): The highest-scoring companies offer a variety of coverage options, including bundling options, roadside assistance, telematics, beyond-basic coverage levels, and a variety of other coverage types.
- Customer service (30%): We averaged ratings from JD Power, the NAIC complaint index to come up with a rating for the company's customer service. In instances when a company is not rated, we may use alternative rating agencies such as the Better Business Bureau and Trust Pilot.
- Financial strength (10%): We use AM Best to determine a company's financial standing. In some cases when a company is not rated by AM Best, we may use an alternative measure such as Demotech.
- The Zebra's Customer Satisfaction Survey (20%): The Zebra conducts an annual survey measuring customer satisfaction for many of the top insurance companies with the goal of ranking both the best auto insurance companies and best home insurance companies. Read more below.
For our auto insurance review, we analyzed more than 83 million insurance rates spanning every U.S. ZIP code using a sample user profile: a 30-year-old single male driver with a Honda Accord, good credit and full coverage at these levels:
- $50,000 per person/$100,000 per incident for bodily injury liability
- $50,000 per incident for property damage liability
- $500 deductibles for collision and comprehensive coverage
For our home insurance review, rates are based on a sample user profile: a 45-year-old married homeowner living in a 2,500-square-foot single-story home built in 2011 with these coverage levels:
- $200,000 for the dwelling
- $20,000 for other structures
- $100,000 for personal property
- $100,000 for personal liability
- $1,000 deductible
These sample premiums are dynamic and automatically refresh whenever the newest data is made available.
To generate pricing for particular rating factors, we adjusted this profile based on common pricing factors used by major car insurance companies. These factors include credit score, coverage level and others.
For The Zebra's Customer Satisfaction Survey, findings are based on an online quantitative survey of 4,134 current U.S. auto and home insurance customers, with Census-balanced sampling by age, gender and region. Categories with n=<20 responses are considered insufficient sample size and are not reported. This survey was developed by The Zebra and executed by independent research firm Maru/Blue in 2023.
Car insurance companies with the highest customer satisfaction
As part of our commitment to helping you find the best car insurance, The Zebra surveyed real customers to rank America's top car insurance companies. We evaluated insurers based on key factors, including overall customer satisfaction. In 2025, USAA, Erie, American Family, and Auto Club (AAA) are top choices.[3]
GEICO
GEICO offers below-average car insurance rates for older drivers on average across all ZIP codes, along with a good number of coverage options beyond the standard suite of collision, comprehensive and liability. These coverage types include:
- Emergency road service
- Rental reimbursement
- Mechanical breakdown coverage
- Accident forgiveness
- Rideshare coverage
However, GEICO may not be the cheapest insurance company for higher-risk drivers with at-fault accidents or tickets on their record, according to our analysis of the best cheap companies. However, if you're a good driver with a clean driving record, consider getting an auto insurance quote with GEICO.
The Hartford
The Hartford has a longstanding partnership with AARP and is known for strong customer service and claims satisfaction. However, our data shows it’s the third most expensive insurer for seniors. While J.D. Power ratings vary by region, The Hartford maintains financial stability and a low complaint ratio, according to the NAIC.
Despite higher costs, it offers tailored coverage options, including:
- Car towing coverage
- Rental reimbursement
- Gap insurance
- Full glass coverage
The company's many discounts can add up quickly, so it is likely worth getting a quote.
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Nationwide
At $111 a month, Nationwide is the cheapest car insurance company for drivers in their 60s and can cover all of your bases when it comes to coverage. The company offers some coverage add-ons that can provide more protection beyond a basic policy:
- Roadside assistance
- Rental reimbursement
- Accident forgiveness
- Vanishing deductible
- Gap coverage
- Deductible waiver for total loss
- Towing and labor coverage
Some companies offer online driving courses specifically designed for seniors, which may help lower your insurance costs. For example, AAA’s RoadWise Driver program helps older drivers stay up to date on safe driving techniques. Other options include courses from the National Safety Council, AARP, and Senior Driving Discount of America. Be sure to research available programs and check with your state to ensure they are recognized.[4]
Progressive
Looking at Progressive's rates, it’s not hard to see why the company is so popular. While not as cheap as Nationwide or GEICO, Progressive is a generally affordable (and widely available) option of the companies we've researched. Progressive auto insurance policies can be bolstered with some additional coverages:
- Rental car reimbursement
- Roadside assistance
- Gap coverage
- Accident forgiveness
- Vanishing deductible
- Custom parts and equipment coverage
- Rideshare coverage
While Progressive isn't necessarily a cheap car insurance company for all seniors, it could be a good choice if you have citations or accidents on your driving record.
State Farm
State Farm is the most popular insurance company in the U.S., with local agents all over the nation. It might be one of the most affordable options, depending on yourdr location. Average rates for seniors with State Farm are situated in a comfortable middle ground. The company has many offices in every state for folks who prefer an in-person agent to visit. Some of the highlights of State Farm include the following options:
- Drive Safe and Save telematics programÂ
- Emergency services coverage
- Classic car coverage
- Renters, condo owners, and homeowners options
- Identity restoration program
- Farm and ranch coverage
Smart savings for senior drivers begin here.
USAA
USAA consistently ranks at the top of most surveys for both customer service and price. However, only military members, veterans and qualifying family members can acquire insurance through USAA. Their rates for drivers in their 60s average $100 per month. However, the company doesn't offer many coverage add-ons compared to other top insurers:
- Roadside assistance
- Rental reimbursement
- Accident forgiveness
- Car replacement assistance
If you're a veteran (or still on active duty), ask about military discounts you may qualify for. Many insurers offer special car insurance rates for military members and their families. USAA exclusively serves military personnel, while GEICO offers up to 15% off for active duty and retired members. Armed Forces Insurance specializes in coverage for military personnel (and has additional affinity programs). Other providers may also offer discounts, so it’s always worth asking when shopping for coverage.[5]
Best regional car insurance companies
While national insurers dominate the market, several regional carriers offer outstanding coverage and service. Here are the top choices by region:
- Northeast:Â Erie Insurance, New Jersey Manufacturers, Amica
- Southeast:Â Farm Bureau (Tennessee), Erie Insurance, Auto-Owners Insurance
- Midwest:Â Auto-Owners Insurance, Shelter Insurance, Erie Insurance
- West:Â Wawanesa, PEMCO, CSAA Insurance Group
- Southwest:Â Texas Farm Bureau, Auto Club of Southern California, CSAA Insurance Group
For additional details about top regional insurance carriers, look at our thorough analysis of the best regional car insurance companies this year.[2]
To get a general idea of how much car insurance costs in your ara of the country, take a look at the table below.
Source: The Zebra
What makes Florida unique?
One of the states with the highest percentage of retirees in the United States is Florida, which may not come as a surprise.[6] Car insurance for Florida drivers is 68% higher than the national average at $1,841 for a 6-month policy.[7]
Florida’s no-fault system requires personal injury protection (PIP) and property damage liability (PDL) with just $10,000 in coverage each—far less than most states. While some drivers in FL choose liability-only insurance, experts warn it offers minimal protection. Florida also leads in insurer-initiated rate hikes, contributing to the nation’s lowest insurance company trust scores, with 55% of customers reporting low trust in their insurers.[8]
Finding the best insurer for senior drivers
USAA and Nationwide offer the cheapest auto insurance for seniors, but the best provider for you depends on your needs. To lower your rate, consider these tips:
- Bundle your policies: Combine car insurance with home, renters, or umbrella coverage for potential savings.
- Check for discounts: Look for savings on paid-in-full policies, bank payments, anti-theft devices, safe driving, or green vehicles.
- Review your coverage: If your car’s value is low, dropping full coverage may save you money. Low-mileage drivers might also benefit from pay-per-mile insurers like Root or Metromile.
- Shop around: Compare multiple insurers to find the best fit. Start today by entering your ZIP code below!
The cheapest policy isn’t always the best. Some insurers cater specifically to older drivers—AARP members, for example, may find The Hartford a better fit. Compare the quotes below to find the right coverage for you.
Smart savings for senior drivers begin here.
FAQs:
Older drivers. IIHS
9 ways to lower your auto insurance costs. Insurance Information Institute
Customer Satisfaction Survey.The Zebra
Which States Allow Online Defensive Driving? I Drive Safely
The Ultimate Guide to Military Car Insurance. Go VA
The oldest (and youngest) states, etc. The Washington Post
Data Methodology. The Zebra’s Dynamic Insurance Rating Tool
2024 U.S. Auto Insurance Study. J.D. Power
Related Content
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- Military Discounts for Car Insurance
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- Affinity Membership Discount for Car Insurance
- Student Discount for Car Insurance
- Customer Loyalty Discount for Car Insurance
About The Zebra
The Zebra is not an insurance company. We publish data-backed, expert-reviewed resources to help consumers make more informed insurance decisions.
- The Zebra’s insurance content is written and reviewed for accuracy by licensed insurance agents.
- The Zebra’s insurance editorial content is not subject to review or alteration by insurance companies or partners.
- The Zebra’s editorial team operates independently of the company’s partnerships and commercialization interests, publishing unbiased information for consumer benefit.
- The auto insurance rates published on The Zebra’s pages are based on a comprehensive analysis of car insurance pricing data, evaluating more than 83 million insurance rates from across the United States.