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Beth Swanson

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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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Nathan Foster

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

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Renata Balasco

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Renata joined The Zebra in 2020 as a Customer Experience Agent. Since 2021, she has worked as licensed insurance professional and content strategist.…

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How much does car insurance cost in Cincinnati?

The average rate for car insurance in Cincinnati is $667 for a six-month policy, which is about $111 per month. Our research shows that Hastings Mutual is the cheapest car insurance company in Cincinnati, with rates at just $451 for a six-month policy. USAA follows closely behind in affordability, but check your eligibility since USAA auto insurance is limited to members.

Residents of Cincinnati do pay more than the average for car insurance in Ohio as a whole, which is $588 per six-month policy. But the city's rates are less than the national average, which comes in at $880. Regarding cheap auto coverage for Cincinnati residents, our data shows that 38% of customers say they are paying too much for their insurance.  

If you're curious about your current rates compared with those typical of Cincinnati or want to understand the details about coverage in general, we've got the information you need about rates and what is factored into them (like age, credit score and even your neighborhood).  

Car Insurance in Cincinnati vs. Ohio

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Car Insurance in Cincinnati vs. Ohio Avg. 6 Mo. Premium
Cincinnati Average $667
Ohio Average $588

Source: The Zebra

The cheapest car insurance companies in Cincinnati

1st place medal
1st place: Hastings Mutual Insurance Company

Hastings Mutual Insurance Company is the cheapest of the car insurance companies we looked at in Cincinnati, with the average rate for a 6-month policy at $451, or about $75 per month. This regional carrier offers policies in six midwestern states, including Ohio.

2nd place medal
2nd place: USAA

In second place is USAA, which costs an average of $80 per month, or $481 per six-month policy. USAA is known for its affordable coverage options but is limited to military members and their families, so be sure to check your eligibility if you're interested.

3rd place medal
3rd place: State Farm

Finishing out our list of the most affordable auto insurers in Cincinnati is State Farm. On average, a State Farm policy in Cincinnati costs $542 per six-month policy, which breaks down to $90 per month.

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

  • The average cost of a car insurance policy in Cincinnati is $667 per six-month policy — about $111 per month.
  • The cheapest company in Cincinnati is Hastings Mutual (an average of $75 per month).
  • Cincinnati is the 19th most expensive city in Ohio for auto insurance rates.
  • 38% of Zebra customers in Cincinnati said they're comparing rates via our marketplace because they're currently paying too much for car insurance.

Are you paying too much for auto insurance?

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Cincinnati car insurance rates by company

Our 2024 data shows that the cheapest insurer for full coverage in Cincinnati is Hastings Mutual Insurance Company at $75 per month or $451 per six-month policy. The next most affordable option is USAA at $80 per month or $481 for a six-month policy. USAA generally has low rates for insurance products but is also limited to military members and their families.

Learn more about top-rated car insurance companies based on The Zebra's Customer Satisfaction Survey.

 

Cheapest car insurance companies in Cincinnati, OH
Cheapest Car Insurance Companies in Cincinnati, OH

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Company Avg. 6 Mo. Premium
Hastings Mutual Insurance Co $451
USAA $481
State Farm $542
GEICO $571
American Family $571
Progressive $642
Allstate $1,084

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 find the best rates


Your time is valuable, but so is your money, so let The Zebra take care of the hard work for you! Enter your ZIP code to see rates from Progressive, Allstate, GEICO and American Family (+ other top companies) to find the best and cheapest car insurance in Cincinnati.

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Average car insurance in Cincinnati by rating factor

Your car insurance rates are affected by multiple rating factors, and although most are consistent from company to company, each individual insurer may weigh these factors a bit differently. For example, Company A might place top priority on your claims history while Company B may focus on your credit score.  This can mean that the company that's best for you can change over time, just as your life and rating factors change over time.

It's important to get quotes every once in a while to make sure you're getting the best rate — we suggest every six months to a year, or at least when you experience a life milestone, such as turning 50, moving to a new zip code or getting married. 

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

A: End-of-year earnings (revenue of premiums versus the cost of paying insureds’ claims) play a large role in Cincinnati auto insurance rates. Even for drivers who've never filed a claim, the increased cost of doing business is passed on to the customer through higher rates.

Auto insurance premiums by age in Cincinnati

Age is key component in calculating your premium. Insurers analyze historical data and evaluate the risk certain demographics present, which then helps the companies decide on rates for individuals. Unfortunately, teen drivers have an accident rate that is significantly higher than any other age group, meaning they face the most expensive auto insurance premiums. Teen drivers in Cincinnati pay $2,382 more per year than 20-somethings, which can be shocking for young drivers and their parents alike. 

The higher rates for teens exist to help offset the increased risk that these drivers present. The bright side of this is that assuming they drive safely and avoid citations or violations, the price young drivers pay will go down dramatically after just a few years of experience behind the wheel.

Cheapest car insurance companies for teen drivers in Cincinnati, OH
Cheapest Car Insurance Companies for Teen Drivers in Cincinnati, OH

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Company Avg. 6 Mo. Premium
Hastings Mutual Insurance Co $1,132
USAA $1,328
American Family $1,658
GEICO $1,702
State Farm $2,159
Progressive $2,461
Allstate $2,649

Source: The Zebra

Age Bracket Cheapest Companies Avg. 6 Mo. Premium
20s USAA $647
30s Hastings Mutual $408
40s Hastings Mutual $375
50s Hastings Mutual $318
60s Hastings Mutual $356
70s Hastings Mutual $475

Zebra Tip: The cheapest companies for Cincinnati drivers between 20-40 are Hastings Mutual, USAA  and American Family.


Most Cincinnati drivers are between the ages of 20 and 40, according to our research and data. This group pays $797 every six months, on average, but by going with these specific insurance companies they can potentially save 29%. Keep in mind that USAA insurance isn't available to everyone, so be sure to check your eligibility. 

Auto insurance premiums for minimum coverage in Cincinnati

One factor that is within your ability to adjust is coverage level, which has a direct impact on the premium you'll pay. Our research shows that 28% of Cincinnati drivers have the state minimum coverage, which can save you money on premiums but also leaves you at risk of being underinsured in the event of an accident. States only require a certain amount of coverage, but the bare minimum isn't always the best option in the long run.

Adding collision coverage or comprehensive coverage (commonly known as "full coverage" when purchased together) can increase your rates dramatically, yet can provide much more peace of mind behind the wheel. These coverages typically require a deductible, which can also impact your rates. Basically, the higher your deductible, the cheaper 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.

You may also want to opt for extras like roadside assistance or uninsured motorist coverage that can protect you against drivers who do not carry auto insurance themselves. Yes, these additions can 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.

According to our data, 49% of drivers in Cincinnati have owned vehicles. If you're leasing or financing your car you will probably be required to keep a certain amount and type of coverage on the vehicle. But if not, you can think about whether dropping comprehensive or collision coverage is right for you. We recommend getting the actual cash value of your vehicle via Kelley Blue Book or another reputable source. Typically, if your vehicle is worth less than $4,000, you probably don't need collision coverage and could save a little on your rates. Be prepared, though, that in the event of a collision, you'd need to pay for repairs out-of-pocket.

Cheapest car insurance companies for minimum coverage in Cincinnati, OH
Average Rates for Minimum Coverage in Cincinnati, OH

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Company Avg. 6 Mo. Premium
USAA $168
Hastings Mutual Insurance Co $184
GEICO $196
State Farm $207
American Family $250
Progressive $258
Allstate $347

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. 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.

41% of our customers in Cincinnati opt for the basic level of coverage, but it may not be right for everyone. Carrying only the state minimum can be a money-saver, yet put you in a tough financial position if you're involved in an accident where damages exceed your limits. Ohio's 25/50/25 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 $10,000 for property damage. Minimum and basic levels will typically cover straightforward accidents, but when multiple cars or personal injury is involved it might not cut it. 

Learn more about insurance laws in Ohio.

Cincinnati car insurance rates by credit score

Another key factor in calculating insurance rates is the driver's credit score. This is the case in most states, including Ohio, and there are a few reasons for this. When data and trends over time are analyzed, they show that drivers with lower credit scores are more likely to file claims, have lapses in coverage and engage in risky driving behavior.

Since these risks are associated with bad credit, it tends to be that the worse your credit, the more you'll pay for car insurance coverage. 

The difference in price can be substantial regardless of the city, but in Cincinnati drivers with poor credit (300-579) pay 112% more than drivers with excellent credit (800-850). Our data tells us 33% drivers in Cincinnati have a credit score in the average (580-679) category. In 2024, Hastings Mutual Insurance Company is the cheapest option for Cincinnati drivers for this credit range.

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

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Company Avg. 6 Mo. Premium
Hastings Mutual Insurance Co $705
GEICO $777
USAA $863
American Family $992
Progressive $1,093
State Farm $1,213
Allstate $1,672

Source: The Zebra

Zebra Tip: If your credit score has changed, it's time to shop around for insurance!


To find affordable auto insurance, your credit doesn't have to be in the "Excellent" category. In Cincinnati, our data shows drivers with "Fair" credit pay $774 less for car insurance in a year than drivers with "Poor" credit.  If you've made positive changes that have improved your credit score recently (such as paying off a loan) then it's a good time to see if you can save on your insurance premium.

Auto insurance rates with an at-fault accident

Accidents aren't fun, and claims can take a variety of shapes and sizes, but at-fault and collision-type accidents are the most common type of insurance claims. In 2024, an at-fault accident increased car insurance rates in Cincinnati by anywhere from $176 to $323 per month. According to our research, the cheapest insurance company in Cincinnati after an at-fault accident is Hastings Mutual.

To keep your auto insurance affordable, your best bet is to avoid accidents and drive safely. A driving record that is incident-free shows insurance companies that you are safe on the road, therefore lowering your risk of a claim. This helps you get better rates! Speeding citations, reckless driving charges, DUIs and at-fault accidents all result in rate increases — some more significantly than others. Depending on the type of accident or ticket, your premium will be impacted for three to five years. Typically, at-fault accidents and speeding tickets will be on your record for three to five years whereas DUIs or DWIs can follow you even longer.

Cheapest car insurance companies after an at-fault accident in Cincinnati, OH
Average Rates After an At-Fault Accident in Cincinnati, OH

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Company Avg. 6 Mo. Premium
Hastings Mutual Insurance Co $460
USAA $702
State Farm $703
American Family $820
GEICO $879
Progressive $983
Allstate $1,779

Source: The Zebra

Cincinnati car insurance rates by violation

The table below shows an overview of violations and incidents that can affect your car insurance rates in Cincinnati. A speeding ticket may not seem like a big deal at first, but the extra cost every month can add up to hundreds per year.

Car insurance rate increases after violations and citations in Cincinnati, OH
Rates in Cincinnati After Violation

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Accident/Violation Avg. 6 Mo. Premium % Rate Increase $ Rate Increase
None $667 0% $0
One Med/PIP claim $684 3% $17
Not-at-fault accident $691 4% $24
One comp claim $707 6% $40
Two Med/PIP claims $709 6% $42
Two comp claims $726 9% $59
Driving without lights $745 12% $78
Failure to show documents $751 13% $84
Failure to wear a seat belt $754 13% $87
Child safety restraint $760 14% $93
Driving with expired registration $771 16% $105
Speeding 6 - 10 MPH over limit $799 20% $132
Speeding in school zone $799 20% $133
Driving too slowly $800 20% $133
Speeding 11 - 15 MPH over limit $800 20% $134
Wrong way/wrong lane $804 21% $138
Following too closely $805 21% $138
Failure to yield $805 21% $138
Illegal turn $805 21% $138
Cell phone violation $806 21% $139
Texting while driving $808 21% $141
Failure to stop at a red light $810 21% $143
Improper passing $811 22% $144
Speeding 16 - 20 MPH over limit $814 22% $147
Passing school bus $829 24% $162
At-fault accident - less than $1000 $842 26% $176
Speeding 21 - 25 MPH over limit $869 30% $203
In 65 MPH zone $918 38% $252
Operating a vehicle without permission $969 45% $302
At-fault accident - $1000-$2000 $981 47% $314
At-fault accident - greater than $2000 $989 48% $323
Open container $1,058 59% $391
Reckless driving $1,245 87% $579
Racing $1,264 89% $597
Refusal to submit to a chemical test $1,326 99% $659
Driving with a suspended license $1,337 101% $671
DUI $1,338 101% $672
Leaving scene of an accident/hit and run $1,375 106% $708

Source: The Zebra


Why is car insurance in Cincinnati so expensive?

Auto insurance in any city, including Cincinnati, can be expensive for a variety of reasons. As noted earlier, there are a lot of factors relating to insurance prices that are focused on the driver's personal history and level of risk. However, there are plenty of factors that are outside of our control.

Below are some of the reasons why car insurance may be more expensive in Cincinnati than in other parts of Ohio, even with a clean driving history.

money
Business costs

The cost of living is one important factor that insurance companies take into consideration, and this also means the cost of doing business for companies. In higher-priced cities, car insurance companies have to charge more to cover their costs. Insurance companies typically offset these higher costs by increasing premiums in the area.

location
Location

Why does a specific location matter? Crime, theft and uninsured motorists can vary greatly by ZIP code. Cities tend to have certain areas that are more prone to crime, which then makes them riskier for insurance companies. If you live in a high-crime area you will likely pay more for auto insurance than someone who lives in a safer part of town. Take a look at the Cincinnati ZIP codes listed to get an idea of where insurance may be cheaper or more expensive.

Expensive Cincinnati ZIP codes: 45214, 45225, 45219, 45205, 45221

Cheap Cincinnati ZIP codes: 45242, 45243, 45230, 45236, 45252

weather
Weather

Ohio isn't known for volatile weather compared to other states but it does experience some weather-related challenges from time to time. The biggest risks come from storms with hail and wind, as well as flooding, which can happen just about anywhere. These risks are covered by comprehensive insurance, which is a great policy to have for a little extra peace of mind when dealing with Mother Nature.

drivers
Drivers

Cincinnati, like most cities, has a lot of people. This seems obvious enough, but more people equals more cars, and the more vehicles there are on the road the more accidents will naturally happen. The increased costs of accidents that result in claims are passed along to other drivers through increased auto insurance premiums. This shared price increase happens even for those who are safe or rarely drive.

Zebra Tip: Uninsured property damage coverage


According to our data, about 31% of drivers in Cincinnati are uninsured. You may wonder if someone else's lack of insurance can really affect you — and the answer is yes. If you’re hit by an uninsured driver in Cincinnati, you could be left to foot the bill for damages.

Uninsured motorist coverage (also called UMPD) can be a worthwhile addition to your auto insurance coverage if you live in an area with a high rate of uninsured drivers.  If you're involved in an accident with an underinsured or uninsured driver and suffer damage, then this coverage will be there to help. It will also affect your rates much less than a collision claim would, and usually has a lower deductible. 


Bundling insurance policies in Cincinnati

One of the simplest ways to save on car insurance is to bundle your policies. By combining renters or homeowners with your auto coverage you can potentially save 10%, and these days most well-known companies offer some kind of discount for bundling. It's definitely worth asking your agent about, or if you're shopping for new insurance then make a point to ask about possible discounts. Learn more about bundling home and car insurance.

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

Updating data...

Company Avg. 6 Mo. Premium
Hastings Mutual Insurance Co $410
State Farm $442
USAA $454
American Family $463
GEICO $524
Progressive $546
Allstate $900

Source: The Zebra

The factors that go into determining your auto insurance cost are sometimes beyond your control. However, there are still things you can do on your end to keep costs down. The easiest option for saving money? Compare! Shop around with as many companies as possible, decide what is most important to you and find the right company that can save you money without sacrificing other features. If you're happy with your current company but still want to save, it's still important to get new quotes from time to time just to ensure that you're getting the best rate — at the very least, check in with your agent after celebrating a milestone birthday, moving to a new area or improving your credit score. 

Some insurance companies just have higher rates than others in general, so remember that it's okay to switch companies if you find one that better suits your needs. 

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

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Frequently asked questions

The average for a six-month auto insurance policy in Cincinnati is $667 for a six-month policy or $111 per month. This is slightly more expensive than the Ohio state average of $98 per month.

Hastings Mutual Insurance Company is the carrier with the cheapest rates in Cincinnati, coming in at an average of $451 per six-month policy. This comes out to $75 per month.

Teenagers in Cincinnati pay an average of $2,098 for a six-month policy or $350 per month. Teen drivers pay much more when they have their own auto policy. We recommend that younger drivers be added to a parent's insurance policies to make the cost more affordable.


Find affordable rates in minutes!

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How much is car insurance near me? — explore more cities near Cincinnati, OH


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Car insurance near me in Cincinnati

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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.