Car Insurance in Tennessee
- Travelers offers the cheapest full coverage insurance in TN
- Compare the cheapest car insurance quotes in TN from Progressive, Allstate, Liberty Mutual and Nationwide (+other top companies)
Car insurance quotes in Tennessee
Tennessee drivers pay an average of $1,000 for a six-month auto insurance policy. That's 8% cheaper than than the U.S. national average.[1]
Still, 37% of drivers in The Volunteer State looked for quotes with The Zebra because they were paying too much for car insurance.[2] Auto insurance rates comprise many factors, including a driver's age and driving history. The Zebra's experts analyzed average Tennessee car insurance rates for these rating factors in an effort to help you find an affordable policy.
Read on to learn how much auto insurance costs in Tennessee based on these variables, or submit your ZIP code above to receive personalized quotes from top insurers.
- Tennessee Farm Bureau (or Tennessee Farmers) offered the cheapest liability insurance coverage in Tennessee at $29/mo.
- See the other cheapest liability coverage insurance companies in Tennesee ↓
- The cheapest rates for full coverage in Tennessee are from Travelers at $622 for 6 months, or $104 per month.
- See the other cheapest full coverage insurance companies and best discounts in Tennessee ↓
- For the 12th consecutive year, Tennessee Farm Bureau took first place with a score of 688 on J.D. Power's 2024 auto study.[3] Erie Insurance also scored very well in this region.
- Read about the rest of the top and best companies in Tennessee ↓
- Between its stellar customer service record from J.D. Power, its A+ rating from AM Best and affordable premiums, The Zebra names Tennessee Farm Bureau as the best overall company for Tennessee drivers.
- Read more about why we consider Tennessee Farm Bureau a good choice for most Tennesseans ↓
Cheap liability insurance in Tennessee
Liability insurance is sometimes referred to as state minimum coverage— it describes the lowest amount of coverage you can carry while still complying with state laws. Becacuse of this, it is the cheapest car insurance you will find.Â
The average 6-month premium for liability insurance in Tennessee is $298. 49% of Tennessee drivers carry liability-only coverage. The following table displays car insurance quotes in Tennessee for liability insurance.
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| Company | Avg. 6 Mo. Premium | Avg. Monthly Premium |
|---|---|---|
| Tennessee Farmers | $177 | $29 |
| USAA | $211 | $35 |
| Travelers | $212 | $35 |
| GEICO | $247 | $41 |
| Progressive | $325 | $54 |
| State Farm | $329 | $55 |
| Allstate | $408 | $68 |
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.
In Tennessee, the state requires that you carry the minimum limits of 25/50/25. This translates to $25,000 limit for bodily injury per person, $50,000 bodily injury per accident, and $25,000 property damage per accident. Minimum coverage is often not suffiencient in protecting you or your vehicle in the event of an accident, so we caution you on only carrying liability coverage. Carrying at least 50/100/50 coverage is recommended.Â
Renata Balasco — licensed insurance writer and senior content specialist at The Zebra
Cost comparison: liability only vs full coverage in Tennessee
In any state, liability-only insurance is going to be cheaper than full coverage as it offers less protection. While you're saving money, you will find yourself underinsured in the event of an accident. The golden rule is this: if your car is worth less than $4,000 (and is paid off in full) you can safely choose liability-only insurance. Otherwise, it is best practice to carry full coverage.Â
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| Company | Liability coverage | Full coverage |
|---|---|---|
| Tennessee Farmers | $177 | $729 |
| USAA | $211 | $726 |
| Travelers | $212 | $622 |
| GEICO | $247 | $877 |
| Progressive | $325 | $1,343 |
| State Farm | $329 | $1,205 |
| Allstate | $408 | $1,358 |
Source: The Zebra
Find the best coverage and price in Tennessee with The Zebra
Cheap full coverage insurance in Tennessee
If you opt for better coverage, you can choose a policy with comprehensive and collision, which will protect against the costs of car accidents, theft, vandalism, or weather incidents. But better coverage comes with a cost: the average premium for full coverage insurance in Tennessee is $1,000 for a 6-month policy. According to our data, 51% of Zebra customers in Tennessee choose full coverage insurance.Â
The following displays monthly and 6-month rates from the top insurance providers in Tennessee with full coverage.
Updating data...
| Company | Avg. 6 Mo. Premium | Avg. Monthly Premium |
|---|---|---|
| Travelers | $622 | $104 |
| USAA | $726 | $121 |
| Tennessee Farmers | $729 | $121 |
| GEICO | $877 | $146 |
| Nationwide | $1,157 | $193 |
| State Farm | $1,205 | $201 |
| Progressive | $1,343 | $224 |
Source: The Zebra
Zebra Tip: Search out these car insurance discounts
- Payment options: Paid-in-full, advance purchase, automatic payments
- Driver discounts: Good driver, good student, homeowner, bundling, military
- Vehicle discounts: Anti-theft devices, telematics, new vehicle
What are the best car insurance companies in Tennessee?
Based on consumer reviews, third-party ratings from J.D. Power, Trustpilot, and AM Best, along with details like quotes and coverage options, we named Tennessee Farm Bureau the best car insurance provider in Tennessee. Below, you'll find the pros and cons of Farm Bureau Insurance of Tennessee and a list of other top-rated companies in the state.Â
Tennessee Farm Bureau earned our choice for best overall Tennessee company due to its consistently high customer service ratings, affordable premiums and recently-awarded A+ score from A.M. Best.[4]
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Affordable premiums
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Proven track record of excellent customer service
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First Mile Program helps first time drivers learn and earn a discount
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Discounts on attractions throughout Tennessee
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Only available in Tennessee
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Limited car insurance endorsements available
Best car insurance companies in Tennessee— honorable mentions
Farm Bureau Insurance of Tennessee is our top pick, but there are many other reputable insurance companies we would recommend for Tennessee drivers. The following companies were chosen based on J.D. Power scores in the region, cost, and The Zebra's Customer Satisfaction Survey.
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| Company | Avg. 6 Mo. Premium | Avg. Monthly Premium |
|---|---|---|
| Auto-Owners | $745 | $124 |
| Erie | $846 | $141 |
| Westfield | $876 | $146 |
Source: The Zebra
How did we pick what company has the "Best Value" in Tennessee?
The author's recommendation for "best value" is based on:
- The Zebra's 2024 Customer Satisfaction Survey
- J.D. Power's 2023 Regional Customer Satisfaction Study
- Each company's average cost of car insurance in Tennessee
- 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 an affordable policy in Tennessee in minutes!
Car insurance in popular Tennessee cities
Car insurance is priced by ZIP code, so where you live in Tennessee has a significant impact on rates. Typically, cities with higher population densities see more expensive average rates.Â
Updating data...
| City | Avg. 6 Mo. Premium | Avg. Monthly Premium |
|---|---|---|
| Memphis | $1,300 | $217 |
| Nashville | $1,033 | $172 |
| Clarksville | $992 | $165 |
| Chattanooga | $978 | $163 |
| Knoxville | $970 | $162 |
Source: The Zebra
Car insurance price trends in Tennessee
The average cost of car insurance in Tennessee has experienced a steady rise since 2020. Following the initial impacts of the pandemic, premiums hovered around $1,300 per year in 2020 and 2021. However, 2022 brought a notable surge in rates, reflecting broader national trends. Costs across companies have stayed at elevated levels since, which is consistent with the U.S. national averages over the last three years.
Rising costs are due to inflation, increases in medical and repair costs, and more frequent car accidents due to a high concentration of motorists on the road.Â
| Year | Avg. Annual Premium — Tennessee | Yearly Change — Tennessee |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | $1,668 | $175 |
| 2023 | $1,493 | -$25 |
| 2022 | $1,518 | $256 |
| 2021 | $1,262 | $4 |
| 2020 | $1,258 | -$76 |
| 2019 | $1,334 | -$172 |
| 2018 | $1,506 | $190 |
| 2017 | $1,316 | $144 |
| 2016 | $1,172 | $76 |
| 2015 | $1,096 | $137 |
Tennessee auto insurance quotes after an accident or ticket
Your driving history plays a big part in how much you pay. Insurance companies look for previous accidents for which you have been at fault to gauge the level of risk you pose as a customer. An at-fault accident in recent years could see your car insurance rates increase by as much as 41% per year.
Updating data...
| Company | Avg. 6 Mo. Premium | Avg. Monthly Premium |
|---|---|---|
| Tennessee Farmers | $729 | $121 |
| Travelers | $853 | $142 |
| USAA | $1,039 | $173 |
| GEICO | $1,414 | $236 |
| State Farm | $1,455 | $243 |
| Allstate | $2,056 | $343 |
| Progressive | $2,086 | $348 |
Source: The Zebra
Zebra Tip: Don't forget about claims satisfaction
While we all hope to never use our insurance, having a smooth experience when needed is essential. In our 2024 Customer Satisfaction Survey, we measured the satisfaction of those who filed claims. Erie and USAA stood out, making each a strong contender for residents of Tennessee.
Any number of violations on your driving record will cause your insurance premiums to skyrocket. This is because your insurance company now sees you as more of a liability, even if the accident wasn't your fault. The more serious the infraction, the higher the rate hike you will see.Â
Check out the table below for average rate increases by violation type.
Source: The Zebra
The Zebra's guide to Tennessee car insurance laws for high-risk drivers
Violations like reckless driving or a DUI will require you to make changes to your insurance policy.
Learn more about car insurance requirements in the state of Tennessee with our helpful guide. Or, see our brief explanations of how DUIs and SR22s affect your insurance below.
Tennessee DUI laws
In Tennessee, a DUI offense can increase your annual car insurance premium by an average of $1,565. That’s 7% 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 Tennessee
If you're convicted of a DUI or DWI violation in Tennessee, 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 Tennessee, State Farm, averages around 57% less than the statewide average insurance rate with a DUI. The second-cheapest insurer for auto insurance after a DUI in Tennessee is Farmers, while the priciest firm is GEICO, with prices just above average.
Updating data...
| Company | Avg. 6 Mo. Premium | Avg. Monthly Premium |
|---|---|---|
| Travelers | $910 | $152 |
| Tennessee Farmers | $1,162 | $194 |
| USAA | $1,398 | $233 |
| Progressive | $1,601 | $267 |
| State Farm | $1,648 | $275 |
| Allstate | $1,658 | $276 |
| GEICO | $1,998 | $333 |
Source: The Zebra
There is no car insurer in particular that offers inexpensive DUI car insurance. The recommended way to save in the wake of a DUI citation is to shop around.
Tennessee 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 with the state of Tennessee to ensure that you remain insured.
Car insurance with an SR-22 in Tennessee is often expensive. This isn't a direct result of the SR-22 — filing fees usually total $15 to $35 — but thanks to the insurance rate increases caused by the violation that prompted the SR-22 requirement.
Â
How to get an SR-22 in Tennessee
Currently insured?
If you currently have auto insurance, obtaining an SR-22 certificate is relatively simple. Contact your auto insurance company and request that the company file a SR-22 request for you. If your insurance company isn’t willing to request a certificate, you should shop around for a new insurance company.
For uninsured drivers
When filing for car insurance, you'll be billed extra to have your prospective insurer file an SR-22 request for you and to cover your high-risk driving profile. Needing an SR-22 certification may disqualify you from buying insurance from some companies, while others may happily sell you a policy.
For non-vehicle owners
Needing an SR-22 might disqualify you from purchasing insurance from some companies, while others would be happy to sell you a policy.
For drivers without a vehicle
If you don't own your car, it's more difficult to obtain an SR-22, as you'll need to furnish proof of insurance to receive the certificate. If you don't own a car, you should get a non-owners auto insurance policy before filing for an SR-22. Non-owners auto coverage is typically cheaper than traditional coverage since it won’t provide protection for material damages sustained by your automobile.
Unlock better car insurance rates with The Zebra
Cheap auto insurance for teens and young drivers in Tennessee
Young drivers — aged between 16 and 25 — pay very high car insurance rates, with those aged 16 to 19 paying the most expensive premiums of all. Because of the risk presented by inexperienced drivers, teen drivers pay more than three times the national average for car insurance. In Tennessee, teen drivers pay especially high rates: $6,652 per year — 233% more than a typical Tennessee driver.
Updating data...
| Company | Avg. 6 Mo. Premium | Avg. Monthly Premium |
|---|---|---|
| Travelers | $1,759 | $293 |
| Tennessee Farmers | $2,215 | $369 |
| USAA | $2,350 | $392 |
| GEICO | $2,715 | $452 |
| State Farm | $4,144 | $691 |
| Allstate | $4,283 | $714 |
| Progressive | $6,093 | $1,015 |
Source: The Zebra
Updating data...
| Company | Avg. 6 Mo. Premium | Avg. Monthly Premium |
|---|---|---|
| Travelers | $2,419 | $403 |
| Tennessee Farmers | $2,481 | $414 |
| USAA | $3,575 | $596 |
| GEICO | $3,874 | $646 |
| Allstate | $5,365 | $894 |
| State Farm | $5,556 | $926 |
| Progressive | $8,632 | $1,439 |
Source: The Zebra
Zebra Tip: 3 ways young drivers can save on car insurance
- Complete an approved defensive driving course to qualify for discounts and reduce accident risk.
- Choose a less expensive car with good safety ratings and low repair costs over high-performance models.
- Stay on a parent's policy to save money and benefit from their good insurance history.
Tennessee car insurance FAQs
Below you'll find answers to some of the most commonly asked questions regarding Tennessee auto insurance.
Overpaying for car insurance? Compare quotes to discover how much you can save.
Data Methodology. The Zebra’s Dynamic Insurance Rating Tool
Anonymized User Surveys. The Zebra
2024 Auto Insurance Study. J.D. Power.
Tennessee Farmers Mutual Insurance Company. A.M. Best
2024 Customer Satisfaction Survey. The Zebra
Car Insurance Discounts and Savings. Farm Bureau Insurance of Tennessee
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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.