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Beth Swanson

SEO Content Strategist

Beth joined The Zebra in 2022 as an Associate Content Strategist. She is a licensed insurance agent whose goal is to make insurance content easy to r…

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  • Licensed Insurance Agent — Property and Casualty
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Nathan Foster

Agency Trainer

Nathan is an insurance professional with a focus on creating positive customer experiences with more than 10 years of industry experience.

Nathan tra…

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  • Licensed Insurance Agent - Property and Casualty
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Kristine Lee

Insurance Analyst

Kristine is a licensed insurance agent who joined The Zebra in 2019 as an in-house content researcher and writer. Before joining The Zebra, she was a…

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  • Licensed Insurance Agent — Property and Casualty
  • 5+ years of Experience in the Insurance Industry

How much does car insurance cost in Reno?

Reno offers a relatively low cost of living compared to other major cities in the United States. Auto insurance in Reno averages $935 for a six-month policy, which equates to around $156 per month. Based on our 2023 data, GEICO offers the most affordable car insurance in Reno, with rates starting at $527 for a six-month policy. Country Financial offers a comparable alternative, as well.


Reno residents pay less than the statewide average for auto insurance in Nevada, which is $1,130 per six-month policy. However, the city's average rates are higher than the national average of $880. Our data shows that 38% of Reno residents said they are paying too much for car insurance. If you want to know whether your rates are typical of Reno or want to learn more about the factors that determine your premiums, such as age, credit score, and weather, we can provide you with the information you need.

Car Insurance in Reno vs. Nevada

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Car Insurance in Reno vs. Nevada Avg. 6 Mo. Premium
Nevada Average $1,130
Reno Average $935

Source: The Zebra

The cheapest car insurance companies in Reno

1st place medal
1st place: GEICO

The cheapest car insurance options in Reno are from GEICO, offering auto insurance rates of just $88 per month ($527 for six months)

2nd place medal
2nd place: Country

Country Financial is another great option for cheap auto insurance, with a six-month policy at $587 ($98 per month).

3rd place medal
3rd place: Progressive

Finishing out as third-cheapest on our list is Progressive A policy from Progressive in Reno costs $704 per six-month policy or about $117 per month.

The Zebra's key takeaways about car insurance in Reno:

  • The average cost of a car insurance policy in Reno is $935 per six-month policy — $156 per month.
  • The cheapest company in Reno is GEICO ($527).
  • Reno ranks at #32 out of Nevada's most expensive cities for auto insurance.
  • 38% of Zebra customers in Reno are using our tools because they're paying too much for auto insurance.

Are you paying too much for auto insurance?

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Reno car insurance rates by company

In Reno for 2023, GEICO is the cheapest company for full coverage auto insurance with rates at $88 per month or $527 per six-month policy, followed by Country at $98 per month or $587 for a six-month policy. 

For more information about the top-rated car insurance companies based on The Zebra's Customer Satisfaction Survey, we are here to assist you.

 

Cheapest car insurance companies in Reno, NV
Cheapest Car Insurance Companies in Reno, NV

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Company Avg. 6 Mo. Premium
GEICO $527
Country $587
Progressive $704
USAA $706
State Farm $707
Travelers $768
Nationwide $855
Allstate $1,262

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.


Shop around to save on car insurance


Don't waste your valuable time and money searching for car insurance in Reno. Let us help you save both by using our comparison tool to shop around for the coverage you need at a price you can afford. By entering your ZIP code, you can compare rates from top companies such as Progressive, Allstate, GEICO, Travelers, and others, to find the best and most affordable car insurance in Reno.

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Average car insurance in Reno by rating factor

Your car insurance rates in Reno are influenced by a variety of rating factors, and different insurance companies may prioritize one factor over another. For instance, some insurers may give more weight to credit scores, while others may examine prior claims history more thoroughly. This means that the car insurance provider that suited you in your 20s may not be the best fit for you in your 40s.

It's crucial to obtain insurance quotes periodically in Reno to ensure that you're receiving the best possible rate. When personal circumstances change due to events such as marriage, landmark birthdays, or credit improvement, it's also wise to reassess your insurance needs and the cost of coverage.

Q: I didn't have an accident — Why is my insurance going up?

A: End-of-year earnings, which refer to the revenue of premiums versus the cost of paying insureds’ claims, are a major factor in auto insurance rates in Reno. Even if you're a great driver with zero claims, you may still pay more with one insurance company than another due to the costs they incur by doing business in Reno.

Auto insurance premiums by age in Reno

In Reno, age is a significant factor when it comes to determining car insurance premiums. Insurance companies assess risk when analyzing data to determine which drivers, or groups of drivers, are more likely to file a claim. Unfortunately, teen drivers have an accident rate that is significantly higher than any other group, resulting in the steepest increase in premiums. In Reno, it can cost up to $3,526 more per year for teens than for someone who is 20-24 years old.

The cost of insurance for teens in Reno can come as a surprise to both them and their parents, but it's important to remember that an insurer's business is risk management. Higher rates for teen drivers help offset the costs of paying claims. Since teenage drivers are more likely to have an accident than drivers of other ages, companies have to take this into consideration when it comes to rates.

Cheapest car insurance companies for teen drivers in Reno, NV
Cheapest Car Insurance Companies for Teen Drivers in Reno, NV

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Company Avg. 6 Mo. Premium
Country $1,062
GEICO $1,450
USAA $1,917
Travelers $2,510
State Farm $2,606
Nationwide $2,705
Progressive $3,345
Allstate $3,716

Source: The Zebra

Age Bracket Cheapest Companies Avg. 6 Mo. Premium
20s Country $653
30s GEICO $560
40s GEICO $559
50s GEICO $525
60s GEICO $521
70s GEICO $623

Zebra Tip: The cheapest companies for Reno drivers between 20-40 are GEICO, Country and Progressive.


Data shows that the majority of Reno drivers fall between the ages of 20 and 40. This age group pays an average of $1,070 every six months, but by choosing one of these three companies they could see savings of up to 33%.

Auto insurance premiums for minimum coverage in Reno

Your coverage level is a factor that you can adjust to impact the premium you'll pay for car insurance in Reno. Our research shows that 33% of Reno drivers have the state minimum coverage, which can save money on premiums but also leaves them at risk of being underinsured in the event of an accident. While states only require a certain amount of coverage, the bare minimum may not always be the best option in the long run.

Adding collision or comprehensive coverage (referred to as "full coverage") can significantly increase your rates, but it can also provide more peace of mind behind the wheel in Reno. These coverages usually come with a deductible, which can also impact your rates. Generally, the higher your deductible, the lower your rates will be. For example, coverage with a $2,500 deductible will typically cost less per month (or per policy period) than coverage with a $1,000 deductible.

In Reno, you may consider extras like roadside assistance or uninsured motorist coverage that can protect you against drivers who don't have their own auto insurance. These extras may increase your overall car insurance rates, but The Zebra's insurance experts recommend carrying them for both peace of mind and practicality in the event of an accident.

Q: Can I lower my car insurance coverage?

A: Possibly — if your vehicle is paid off.

Reno drivers who own their vehicles can consider lowering their coverage to save on car insurance premiums. If you're leasing or financing your vehicle, you probably have a required coverage amount. Our data shows that 59% of Reno drivers have owned. If you own your vehicle outright, and have an older vehicle that is worth less than $4,000, you may want to drop comprehensive or collision coverage, but remember that this could leave you without protection in the event of an accident. Be sure to consider your options carefully and get a quote for the coverage you need.

Cheapest car insurance companies for minimum coverage in Reno, NV
Cheapest Car Insurance Companies for Minimum Coverage in Reno, NV

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Company Avg. 6 Mo. Premium
GEICO $203
Country $210
Progressive $250
USAA $252
State Farm $263
Travelers $309
Nationwide $334
Allstate $490

Source: The Zebra

  • Minimum: State liability coverage only
  • Basic: State liability + collision and comprehensive (full) coverage
  • Better: Better liability limits at 50/100/50. Full coverage included with towing and rental car benefits. This may include additional personal medical benefits and uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage.
  • Best: Best liability limits at 100/300/50. Full coverage included with better towing and rental car benefits and better personal medical benefits and increased uninsured/underinsured coverage.

38% of The Zebra's customers in Reno carry basic coverage, but it's important to understand your options in case that isn't the best coverage for your individual needs. We also understand that carrying the state minimum required coverage is one way to cut costs, but it can leave you in a tough spot if you're involved in a multi-car accident or an incident involving bodily injuries. Nevada's 25/50/20 liability limits provide coverage for damage you cause up to $25,000 per person in bodily injury, $50,000 per accident in bodily injury and $20,000 for property damage — this may be fine for some incidents, but may not cover more complicated situations.

Learn more about insurance laws in Nevada.

Reno car insurance rates by credit score

While you may not think of your credit score as being related to your car insurance rates, the two are actually closely linked. Insurance companies have found that drivers with lower credit scores are more likely to file claims and engage in risky driving behavior, so they charge these drivers higher rates. If you have poor credit, it's worth working to improve it in order to save money on your car insurance.

Reno drivers with poor credit scores pay an average of $2,708 per year for car insurance, which is about 63% more than drivers with excellent credit scores. 33% of drivers in Reno have good (680-719) credit scores, and if you're one of these folks then GEICO is your best bet for affordable car insurance. If you have poor credit, it may be worth looking into credit repair services to help improve your score and potentially lower your car insurance rates.

car insurance in Reno by credit score
Cheapest car insurance companies for bad credit in Reno, NV
Cheapest Car Insurance Companies for Bad Credit in Reno, NV

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Company Avg. 6 Mo. Premium
GEICO $718
Country $830
Progressive $1,021
Nationwide $1,186
Travelers $1,247
State Farm $1,421
USAA $1,520
Allstate $1,735

Source: The Zebra

Zebra Tip: If you've improved your credit score, it's time to shop for car insurance!


If you're looking to save money on car insurance in Reno, improving your credit score can help. According to our data, moving from "Poor" to "Fair" credit can save you $600 per year on average. Sometimes this may only take a few points, depending on where you fall on the credit tier.

Auto insurance rates with an at-fault accident

In Reno, at-fault and collision and at-fault accidents are common insurance claims. If you're involved in an at-fault accident, it can increase your monthly insurance premium by anywhere from $51 to $68. However, this can vary depending on your insurance company and other factors such as the severity of the accident. We recommend shopping around for insurance quotes to find the best rates after an accident.

A good driving record can help you get better rates on your car insurance. By avoiding accidents and citations, you show insurance companies that you're a low-risk driver, which means lower premiums. However, if you have a history of at-fault accidents, speeding, reckless driving, or DUIs, you can expect to pay more for coverage.

Cheapest car insurance companies after an at-fault accident in Reno, NV
Rates after at-fault accident in Reno, NV

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Company Avg. 6 Mo. Premium
Country $736
GEICO $867
State Farm $905
USAA $948
Travelers $1,025
Progressive $1,166
Nationwide $1,304
Allstate $1,635

Source: The Zebra

Reno car insurance rates by violation

The table below outlines possible rate increases you could see based on specific violations in Reno.

Car insurance rate increases after violations and citations in Reno, NV
Increased rates by violation in Reno, NV

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Accident/Violation Avg. 6 Mo. Premium % Rate Increase $ Rate Increase
None $935 0% $0
One Med/PIP claim $935 0% $0
Two Med/PIP claims $947 1% $12
One comp claim $949 2% $15
Not-at-fault accident $968 4% $34
Two comp claims $987 6% $53
Failure to wear a seat belt $1,055 13% $120
Failure to show documents $1,063 14% $129
Child safety restraint $1,068 14% $133
Driving without lights $1,078 15% $144
Driving with expired registration $1,083 16% $148
Cell phone violation $1,127 21% $193
Texting while driving $1,131 21% $196
Speeding 6 - 10 MPH over limit $1,132 21% $198
Speeding in school zone $1,135 21% $200
Failure to yield $1,135 21% $200
Speeding 11 - 15 MPH over limit $1,135 21% $201
Failure to stop at a red light $1,136 22% $202
Speeding 16 - 20 MPH over limit $1,136 22% $202
Illegal turn $1,137 22% $202
Driving too slowly $1,138 22% $204
Following too closely $1,143 22% $208
Wrong way/wrong lane $1,143 22% $208
Improper passing $1,156 24% $222
In 65 MPH zone $1,179 26% $245
Speeding 21 - 25 MPH over limit $1,209 29% $275
Passing school bus $1,213 30% $278
At-fault accident - less than $1000 $1,241 33% $306
Operating a vehicle without permission $1,254 34% $319
At-fault accident - $1000-$2000 $1,342 44% $407
At-fault accident - greater than $2000 $1,342 44% $407
Open container $1,361 46% $426
Refusal to submit to a chemical test $1,543 65% $609
Driving with a suspended license $1,582 69% $648
Racing $1,586 70% $651
DUI $1,600 71% $666
Reckless driving $1,608 72% $673
Leaving scene of an accident/hit and run $1,675 79% $741

Source: The Zebra


Why is car insurance in Reno so expensive?

Reno is known for its location near Lake Tahoe and the Sierra Nevada mountains, which can lead to hazardous driving conditions in the winter months. This can increase the risk of accidents, which in turn can lead to higher insurance rates. Additionally, Reno has a high crime rate in certain neighborhoods, which can also impact insurance premiums. Take a look at some of the reasons why you might feel like car insurance is pricey in Reno. 

money
Business costs

Most cities have experienced an increased cost of living for residents, and usually, that also means an increased cost of doing business for auto insurance companies. These increased costs are passed along to drivers in the form of higher rates.

location
Location

Specific areas throughout the city can vary in price, as you can see from the zip code list shown here. Areas prone to crime, and theft, or having a high number of uninsured drivers are usually areas where it is more expensive to insure your vehicle. Certain zip codes can vary, as well: 

Expensive Reno ZIP codes: 89502, 89512, 89557, 89501, 89509

Cheap Reno ZIP codes: 89510, 89523, 89511, 89508, 89506

weather
Weather risk

Reno, Nevada, is no stranger to severe weather, including snowstorms, wildfires, and flash flooding. If you live in an area that is prone to these types of events, it may be a good idea to consider adding comprehensive coverage to your car insurance policy. This coverage can help protect you financially in the event of Weather-related damage.

drivers
Drivers

Like many cities, Reno's large population means that there are more cars on the road than in rural areas of the state, which naturally leads to more accidents. The costs of accident-related claims are passed on to other drivers in the area through increased premiums — even for drivers who don't use their cars often. Also, 27% of Reno drivers aren't insured — which puts other drivers at risk, including yourself. 

Zebra Tip: Uninsured property damage coverage


In Reno, where there are many uninsured drivers on the road (27%) it's worth considering adding uninsured motorist coverage to your auto insurance policy. This coverage can help you financially if you're in an accident with an uninsured or underinsured driver. And unlike a collision claim, it usually won't cause your rates to go up as much.


Bundling insurance policies in Reno

If you're looking to reduce your insurance costs, consider bundling your home and car insurance policies. By combining them, you may qualify for a discounted rate. Check with your insurance provider to learn more about bundle options.

Don't assume that bundling your home and car insurance is always the best option. Take some time to compare prices for separate policies versus bundled policies to see what makes the most sense for your needs and budget.

bundling home and auto insurance in Reno
Cheapest car insurance companies for bundling home and auto insurance in Reno, NV
Cheapest Car Insurance Companies for Bundling Home and Auto Insurance in Reno, NV

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Company Avg. 6 Mo. Premium
GEICO $502
Country $505
State Farm $585
Progressive $644
USAA $659
Travelers $691
Nationwide $855
Allstate $1,049

Source: The Zebra

There are many factors that can impact the cost of auto insurance, from your driving record to your age and even your credit score. To make sure that you're getting the best possible rate, it's important to shop around and compare quotes from multiple providers. This will help you identify any areas where you can save money on your coverage, while still getting the protection you need. Be sure to take advantage of any discounts or incentives that may be available to you, such as safe driver discounts or bundling your coverage with other policies.

Find the best rates for both auto and home insurance in minutes!

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Frequently asked questions

The average rate for a six-month auto insurance policy in Reno is $935, which breaks down to $156 per month. This is less than the Nevada state average but more than the national average.

GEICO is the carrier with the cheapest rates in Reno, with prices at about $527 per six-month policy.

Teenagers in Reno pay almost $3,000 for a six-month policy or about $494 per month. Because car insurance is so expensive for teen drivers, we suggest that parents or guardians add teens to their own policy to help keep costs lower.


Find affordable rates in minutes!

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How much is car insurance near me? — explore more cities near Reno, NV


Recently answered questions about car insurance in Reno from real Zebra customers

Car insurance near me in Reno

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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.