Weigh the pros, cons, and details of short-term car insurance in Illinois.
If you’re seeking flexible car insurance, you could consider a short-term auto insurance policy. Truth is, short-term auto insurance contracts are uncommon for several reasons.
Most large insurance companies will not offer policies for periods shorter than six months. Since car insurance is a legal requirement in most US states, there's some risk associated with swapping policies every month. You also risk having gaps in your insurance record if you swap policies often, resulting in more expensive prices in the long run.
Thankfully, auto insurance policies typically last for just a half-year. This hasty turnaround allows insurers to re-rate — or re-price — your policy with your recent driving profile and personal info.
The end of a policy period also provides a perfect chance for you to evaluate your insurance by checking out a new insurer. Comparing quotes online is painless, and there isn't a penalty for switching auto insurance companies at the completion of your policy period — or even mid-term, as long as you don't let your coverage lapse.
The flexible nature of car insurance makes it relatively easy to acquire on short notice. If you need an insurance policy before you can drive your new car off of the lot, looking for insurance for a longer-term car rental or seeking insurance on a vehicle you don't own but drive regularly, consider purchasing a standard policy and removing coverage as needed.
See below average car insurance prices in Illinois, organized by top companies and major cities. If your costs exceed the rates below, consider shopping around.
| Insurance Company | Average 6-Month Rate | Average Monthly Rate |
| Illinois State Average — All Companies | $651 | $109 |
| Pekin Insurance | $434 | $72 |
| SECURA Insurance | $589 | $98 |
| State Farm | $600 | $100 |
| Rockford Mutual | $612 | $102 |
| National Grange Mutual | $633 | $106 |
The cheapest option for single-month auto insurance in Illinois is Pekin Insurance, which can save you $26 per month, compared to the next-cheapest company, SECURA Insurance. In Illinois, the average monthly price of car insurance is $109, or $651 over a six-month period.
The place in which you store your car can have just as large an influence on your insurance rates as the insurance company you choose. Auto insurance companies consider the frequency of claims in a given area when assigning rates by ZIP code. View insurance prices in the biggest cities in Illinois and compare against what you’re paying.
| Location | Average 6-Month Rate | Average Monthly Rate |
| Chicago | $856 | $143 |
| Aurora | $650 | $108 |
| Rockford | $670 | $112 |
| Joliet | $689 | $102 |
| Naperville | $637 | $106 |
Because of the myriad factors involved in setting insurance rates, your quotes may not match the totals displayed above. If your current rates don't match those listed above, take a moment to shop around. The temporary nature of a car insurance agreement increases the importance of staying informed and ready to shop.
Learn more about temporary auto insurance or use The Zebra to compare policies for free online.
