Car Insurance in New York

  • New York Central Mutual (NYCM) offers the cheapest liability and full coverage auto insurance in NY
  • Compare the cheapest car insurance quotes in NY from Progressive, Allstate, Liberty Mutual and Nationwide (+ other top companies)
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About The Zebra's recommendations

The Zebra’s product features real quotes from some of the companies we review. However, our content and reviews are unbiased and never commissioned-based.

Reference our editorial standards or learn more about how we make money.

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Ross Martin

Insurance Writer

Ross joined The Zebra as a writer and researcher in 2019. He specializes in writing insurance content to help shoppers make informed decisions.

Ross h…

Credentials
  • 5+ years in the Insurance Industry
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Jean Lucey, CPCU

Faculty, IIAA Virtual University

Jean Lucey has researched and written about insurance matters for well over 30 years. A current member of The Zebra's Insurance Expert Review Bo…

Credentials
  • CPCU, Chartered Property Casualty Underwriter
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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…

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

Car insurance quotes in New York

New York drivers pay $1,263 for a six month policy — 16% more expensive than than the U.S. average.[1] However, auto insurance cost is not just about where you live — factors like age and driving history play a big role. 37% feel they're overpaying, but for those who value top-notch service and coverage, New York Central Mutual (NYCM) or Progressive are solid starting points.[2] But don't stop there — explore all your options.

The Zebra's experts have crunched the numbers to help you find affordable coverage that fits your needs. Want to see how much you could save? Dive in or enter your ZIP code to get personalized quotes from top insurers or check out our guide below.

medal for most affordable
Best customer service in NY
The Zebra's Recommendation for best car insurer - New York Central Mutual Insurance
Best car insurance in NY — overall
Cheapest full coverage in NY
Cheapest full coverage in NY

The cheapest rates are from NYCM at $740 for a six-month policy.

Cheapest liability coverage in NY
Cheapest liability coverage in NY

What are the best car insurance companies in New York?

We've crowned New York Central Mutual (NYCM) as the top car insurance provider in New York, based on stellar consumer reviews, high rankings from trusted third-party sources like J.D. Power and AM Best, and a range of coverage options and discounts that cater to New Yorkers' diverse needs.

Below, we break down the pros and cons of New York Central Mutual, along with other top-rated car insurance companies in the state.

New York Central Mutual Logo
Overall best car insurance company in New York — New York Central Mutual

New York Central Mutual (NYCM) is our top pick for New York drivers thanks to its unbeatable mix of reliable coverage, stellar customer service, and tailored discounts. The company performed well on the 2024 J.D. Power customer satisfaction survey. With a deep understanding of what New Yorkers need on the road, NYCM goes the extra mile to keep you protected, making it the clear choice for peace of mind behind the wheel.

Pros
  • Affordable rates

  • Great third-part customer satisfaction ratings

  • Robust coverage options

  • Many available discounts

Cons
  • Limited availability

  • The company receives mixed customer reviews from the Better Business Bureau

Best car insurance in New York — honorable mentions

To find the best car insurance companies in New York, we dove deep into J.D. Power Auto ratings and scoured consumer reviews from nearly 3,000 drivers across New York and the entire U.S. Our goal? To pinpoint the top providers that New Yorkers can truly count on.

Best car insurance companies in New York

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Company Avg. 6 Mo. Premium Avg. Monthly Premium
GEICO $1,127 $188
Travelers $1,134 $189
USAA $1,209 $201
State Farm $1,511 $252

Source: The Zebra

How did we pick what company has the "Best Value" in New York?

The author's recommendation for "best value" is based on:

  • The Zebra's 2024 Customer Satisfaction Survey
  • J.D. Power's 2024 Regional Customer Satisfaction Study
  • Each company's average cost of car insurance in New York
  • Available coverage options
  • The author's 5+ years of insurance industry experience

Our reviews are based on The Zebra's unbiased and impartial editorial standards. Our ratings of insurance companies are never commissioned-based nor is our content impacted by any partnerships.

For more information, see our editorial standards page.

Find the best coverage and price in New York with The Zebra

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Cheap full coverage insurance in New York

In 2024, New Yorkers face an average of $1,263 for a 6-month full coverage policy. It's pricier than liability-only, but still the go-to for 56% of The Zebra's New York customers. For budget-friendly full coverage, start with New York Central Mutual (NYCM) and Progressive.

Cheapest auto insurance companies in New York

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Company Avg. 6 Mo. Premium Avg. Monthly Premium
New York Central Mutual Fire $740 $123
Progressive $886 $148
GEICO $1,127 $188
Travelers $1,134 $189
USAA $1,209 $201
Allstate $1,450 $242
State Farm $1,511 $252

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.

Zebra tip: Save on full coverage insurance with these discounts:

  • Payment methods: Advance purchase, electronic billing, and paying in full can help trim costs.
  • Driver discounts: Look into bundling multiple policies, multi-car discounts, good driver perks, student discounts, homeowner savings, and military benefits.
  • Vehicle discounts: Savings can also come from insuring new vehicles, using safety devices, or adding anti-theft features — telemetrics are worth considering too.
  • Bonus tip: Regularly review your policy to ensure you're getting every discount you're eligible for, and ask your insurer about any New York-specific discounts.

Cheap liability insurance in New York

The average cost for liability insurance in New York is $564 for a 6-month policy. For our user profile, GEICO, Progressive, and New York Central Mutual (NYCM) offer the most affordable options.

If you opt for better coverage, you can choose a policy with comprehensive and collision, which will protect against the costs related to physical damage or loss of an insured auto due to accidents, theft, vandalism, or weather incidents. But better coverage comes with a cost: in New York, a comprehensive insurance policy with a $500 deductible costs $1,263.

Cheapest auto insurance companies in New York for minimum coverage

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Company Avg. 6 Mo. Premium Avg. Monthly Premium
New York Central Mutual Fire $263 $44
Progressive $454 $76
GEICO $500 $83
USAA $544 $91
Travelers $686 $114
Allstate $763 $127
State Farm $804 $134

Source: The Zebra

According to The Zebra's data, 44% of drivers in New York insure their vehicles with liability coverage only.

New York's minimum car insurance requirements include liability coverage of $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident for bodily injury, along with $10,000 per accident for property damage. You'll also need uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage with the same limits for bodily injury, plus $50,000 in Personal Injury Protection (PIP) per person, since New York is a no-fault state.

Ross Martin Insurance Expert at The Zebra
Zebra tip: Is the required liability insurance in New York enough?

A full 44% of The Zebra's shoppers in New York opt for minimum coverage. However, while the required liability insurance in New York is a good starting point, it won't likely be enough. Consider boosting your coverage to protect yourself from higher medical bills and property damage costs in an accident. We at The Zebra recommend at liability limits of at least 50/100/50 and more if you can afford it.

Ross Martin, insurance writer at The Zebra with 5+ years experience

Cheapest liability & full coverage quotes in New York

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Company Liability Coverage Full Coverage $ Difference
New York Central Mutual Fire $263 $740 $477
Progressive $454 $886 $432
GEICO $500 $1,127 $628
USAA $544 $1,209 $665
Travelers $686 $1,134 $447
Allstate $763 $1,450 $688
State Farm $804 $1,511 $707

Source: The Zebra

Compare car insurance rates from New York's best companies.

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Cheap auto insurance for teens and young drivers in New York

Young drivers in New York get hit with sky-high insurance rates, especially teens aged 16 to 19. These inexperienced drivers pay around $5,003 annually — 4% more than the national average and over double what the typical New Yorker pays. The high cost reflects the increased risk insurers see in this age group.
Cheapest auto insurance companies in New York for young drivers

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Company Avg. 6 Mo. Premium Avg. Monthly Premium
New York Central Mutual Fire $1,316 $219
Progressive $2,252 $375
Travelers $3,367 $561
GEICO $3,663 $611
USAA $4,109 $685
State Farm $5,468 $911
Allstate $7,380 $1,230

Source: The Zebra

Top companies in New York for teens
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Company Avg. 6 Mo. Premium Avg. Monthly Premium
Allstate $10,025 $1,671
GEICO $4,149 $692
New York Central Mutual Fire $1,546 $258
Progressive $2,520 $420
State Farm $7,607 $1,268
Travelers $4,971 $829
USAA $5,454 $909

Source: The Zebra

Zebra tip: 3 smart ways young drivers can cut down on car insurance costs:

  1. Take a defensive driving course for discounts.
  2. Pick a safe, affordable car.
  3. Stay on your parent's policy to benefit from their insurance history.

New York auto insurance quotes after an accident or ticket

Your car insurance rate hinges heavily on your driving history. In New York, having an at-fault accident can be a costly mistake — expect your premiums to jump by as much as $826 per year. Insurers use your past accidents to gauge your risk, so even one mishap can significantly hike your rates. Have a look at the average cost of coverage from these top carriers after an at-fault accident.

Best insurance companies in NY after an accident

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Company Avg. 6 Mo. Premium Avg. Monthly Premium
New York Central Mutual Fire $887 $148
Progressive $1,169 $195
Travelers $1,350 $225
USAA $1,529 $255
GEICO $1,581 $264
Allstate $1,963 $327
State Farm $2,017 $336

Source: The Zebra

Zebra tip: Don't forget about claims satisfaction

Insurance is something you hope you never need, but if you do, a smooth claims process is a must. Our 2024 Customer Satisfaction Survey revealed that Amica excels in this area, making it a top pick for New Yorkers. Give it a closer look!

In New York, a bad driving record can send your insurance rates soaring. Get a ticket, and you’ll likely see a spike in your premiums. The amount depends on the violation, your insurer’s rules, and New York’s specific regulations. That’s why a ticket here might hit your wallet harder than it would elsewhere.

Below is a snapshot of typical auto insurance rates in New York after a few common citations.

New York auto insurance quotes by violation

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Accident/Violation Avg. Annual Premium $ Rate Increase
None $2,526 $0
One Med/PIP claim $2,526 $0
One comp claim $2,556 $30
Two Med/PIP claims $2,574 $49
Two comp claims $2,583 $58
Not-at-fault accident $2,595 $70
Failure to show documents $2,632 $106
Failure to wear a seat belt $2,642 $117
Driving with expired registration $2,661 $135
Driving without lights $2,671 $146
Child safety restraint $2,671 $146
Wrong way/wrong lane $2,672 $147
Following too closely $2,672 $147
Illegal turn $2,672 $147
Failure to stop at a red light $2,672 $147
Texting while driving $2,672 $147
Failure to yield $2,672 $147
Improper passing $2,672 $147
Cell phone violation $2,672 $147
At-fault accident - less than $1000 $2,675 $149
Passing school bus $2,681 $156
Speeding in school zone $2,704 $179
Driving too slowly $2,704 $179
At-fault accident - $1000-$2000 $2,714 $188
Speeding 6 - 10 MPH over limit $2,755 $229
Speeding 11 - 15 MPH over limit $2,755 $229
Operating a vehicle without permission $2,807 $281
Open container $2,840 $315
In 65 MPH zone $2,969 $443
Speeding 16 - 20 MPH over limit $3,000 $475
Speeding 21 - 25 MPH over limit $3,113 $588
At-fault accident - greater than $2000 $3,351 $826
Reckless driving $3,570 $1,044
Racing $3,721 $1,195
Driving with a suspended license $3,846 $1,320
Refusal to submit to a chemical test $3,941 $1,416
DUI $3,970 $1,444
Leaving scene of an accident/hit and run $4,037 $1,511

Source: The Zebra

The Zebra's guide to New York car insurance laws for high-risk drivers

Major violations like a DUI or driving without insurance can create big insurance challenges in New York. For a clear look at what’s required and how to navigate the rules, check out our car insurance requirements in the state of New York or our guide to New York car insurance laws below.

New York DUI laws

In New York, a DUI offense can increase your annual car insurance premium by an average of $1,093. That’s 8% more than the national average rate hike after a DUI. Finding affordable auto insurance in the wake of a DUI violation isn’t simple. In fact, a DUI often brings about a bigger premium increase than any single road violation — more than an at-fault accident, racing, or reckless driving.

 
Low-cost car insurance after a DUI in New York

If you're convicted of a DUI or DWI violation in New York, it’s key to mull over each of your insurance choices carefully. Auto insurance premiums following a DUI can vary substantially by insurer. For example, the least expensive car insurance company with a DUI in New York, Progressive, advertises annual rates 44% less than the statewide average insurance rate with a DUI. The second-cheapest insurer for auto insurance after a DUI in New York is Travelers, while the priciest firm is State Farm, with prices 59% above average.

New York car insurance quotes with a DUI

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Company Avg. 6 Mo. Premium Avg. Monthly Premium
Progressive $912 $152
New York Central Mutual Fire $1,077 $179
Travelers $1,354 $226
USAA $1,728 $288
Allstate $1,887 $314
GEICO $2,489 $415
State Farm $2,589 $431

Source: The Zebra

There is no car insurer in particular that offers cheap DUI car insurance. The recommended way to save in the wake of a DUI citation is to shop around.

New York SR-22 insurance

An SR-22 is a routine legal requirement triggered by a violation such as a DUI conviction, a ticket for driving without insurance, an at-fault collision, driving with a suspended license, or accumulating too many points on your license. It is not a type of insurance policy, but a form issued by your insurance company to ensure that you remain insured. Most states require an SR-22, but New York is one exception. The state of New York does not require you to file an SR-22 in order to apply for insurance. 

If you move from a state that requires an SR-22 to a state that does not, you will typically still need to follow the requirements of the state that first required you to file an SR-22.

Find an affordable policy in New York in minutes!

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Car insurance in popular New York cities

Car insurance companies calculate your rate based on many factors, the location of the vehicle being an important one. The cheapest car insurance is found in Horseheads North, New York, and the most expensive in Brooklyn, New York.

Have a look at the table below to see average car insurance costs in some of New York biggest cities.

Auto insurance quotes in New York's biggest cities

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City Avg. 6 Mo. Premium Avg. Monthly Premium
Rochester $897 $150
Syracuse $956 $159
Buffalo $1,284 $214
Yonkers $1,757 $293
New York City $2,727 $455

Source: The Zebra


How have car insurance costs in New York changed?

New York car insurance premiums have seen significant fluctuations over the past decade. After a sharp drop in 2023, rates surged again in 2024, with the average annual premium reaching $2,197 — an increase of $517 from the previous year. This follows a pattern of alternating years of sharp increases and decreases, highlighting the volatility in New York's car insurance costs. This unpredictability underscores the importance of regularly shopping around for the best rates.

Car insurance costs in New York since 2015
Year Avg, Annual Premium — New York Yearly change — New York
2024 $2,197 $517
2023 $1,680 -$491
2022 $2,171 $571
2021 $1,600 -$93
2020 $1,693 -$55
2019 $1,748 -$1
2018 $1,749 $31
2017 $1,796 $234
2016 $1,562 -$323
2015 $1,885 $216

If your rates are rising faster than the average in your state, compare quotes and find a better deal. The Zebra's car insurance comparison engine furnishes quotes based on your specific profile — enter your ZIP below to get started.

Save money on your next car insurance policy!

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New York car insurance FAQs

Below you'll find answers to some of the most commonly asked questions regarding New York auto insurance.

New York Central Mutual has the cheapest average rates in New York at $740 for a full coverage policy (6-months). Progressive and GEICO also have affordable rates.

Our data showed the average for a full coverage car insurance in NY was $1,263 per policy period, or about $123 per month.

According to The Zebra's research, most New York drivers would find New York Central Mutual to be a good company. Rates are reasonable ($740 for a six-month full coverage policy on average) and the company gets high ratings from third-party reviewers.

Sources
  1. Data Methodology. The Zebra’s Dynamic Insurance Rating Tool

  2. Anonymized User Surveys. The Zebra

  3. J.D. Power. 2024 U.S. Auto Insurance Study

  4. 2024 Customer Satisfaction Survey. The Zebra

RECENT QUESTIONS ABOUT CAR INSURANCE IN NY

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My address on my license doesn't match my insurance card. Is that ok?

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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.