Car Insurance in Virginia
- GEICO offers the cheapest liability coverage and Nationwide the cheapest full coverage in Virginia
- Compare the cheapest car insurance quotes in VA from Progressive, Allstate, Liberty Mutual and Nationwide (+ other top companies)
Car insurance quotes in Virginia
Car insurance in Virginia costs $948 for a six-month policy. That's 13% cheaper than the national average.[1] Virginians should first get quotes from USAA if they qualify or Allstate (for liability only) or Erie Insurance (for full coverage).* These companies provide the cheapest quotes on average in Virginia.
Interestingly, while 40% of Virginians feel they are overpaying for car insurance, many are willing to pay more for high-quality coverage options and customer service or additional policy features.[2]Â
For Virginians looking for the "best value" insurer that offers both quality and affordability, we recommend Erie insurance, especially if you opt for full coverage.
- Nationwide offers the cheapest full coverage insurance in Virginia at $122/month.*
- See the other cheapest full coverage insurance companies and best discounts in Virginia ↓
- GEICO offers the cheapest liablity insurance coverage in Virginia at $48/month.
- See the other cheapest liability coverage insurance companies in Virginia ↓
- Erie Insurance scored an 863 on J.D. Power's 2023 auto study.[3]Â For those who qualify, USAA is also top-rated in the Mid-Atlantic region by J.D. Power for customer service.Â
- Read about the rest of the top and best companies in Virginia ↓
- Customers and third parties alike rate Erie Insurance highly. Plus, they offer reasonable prices, several coverage options for more customized policies, and unique features like ERIE Rate Lock.
- Read more about why we've ranked Erie Insurance as a great fit for many Virginians ↓
*Note:Â USAAÂ offers the cheapest average rates in Virginia overall, but due to its strict eligibility requirements, it has been excluded from this list. The Zebra caters to a wide audience of insurance seekers, so we focus on listing insurance companies that are accessible to the majority of consumers, ensuring our recommendations are relevant to as many drivers as possible. If you or a family member qualify for USAA coverage, it is an excellent choice for your insurance provider.Â
Cheap liability insurance in Virginia
According to our data, USAA, State Farm, and GEICO have the cheapest liability insurance in Virginia. Liability-only insurance in Virginia will cost you $379 on average for a 6-month policy.[1]Â
Given coverage level plays a significant role in your overall rate, it's no surprise that liability-only car insurance is far cheaper than full coverage.
The following table shows monthly and 6-month liability insurance quotes from several popular insurers in Virginia.
Updating data...
| Company | Avg. 6 Mo. Premium | Avg. Monthly Premium |
|---|---|---|
| USAA | $246 | $41 |
| GEICO | $285 | $48 |
| Erie | $296 | $49 |
| State Farm | $351 | $58 |
| Progressive | $371 | $62 |
| Nationwide | $506 | $84 |
| Allstate | $515 | $86 |
Source: The Zebra
The Zebra's internal data shows that 43% of Virginian drivers insure their vehicle with liability-only policies. Current liability limits are 30/60/20 meaning $30,000 per person and $60,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $20,000 for property damage per accident.
For more details, check out our guide to Virginia car insurance limits and laws.
NOTICE: Updates to VA's insurance requirements
- Effective July 1, 2024: Removal of uninsured motor vehicle fee. The option to pay a $500 fee to remain uninsured has been removed. All drivers in Virginia are now required to carry the state-mandated minimum liability coverage.
- Effective January 1, 2025: Increasing liability limits. Policies effective on or after January 1, 2025, Virginia must meet the new minimum required liability coverage of 50/100/25.
Amber Vigil, licensed insurance professional at The Zebra
Virginia's state-mandated requirements for liability and uninsured motorist coverage are both sufficient. However, $20,000 is low for property damage considering prices of newer vehicles continue to rise. I also encourage Virginians to get UIMBI/UIMPD coverage to ensure they are fully protected in the event of an accident with an underinsured or uninsured driver.
Updating data...
| Company | Liability Coverage | Full Coverage |
|---|---|---|
| USAA | $246 | $655 |
| GEICO | $285 | $745 |
| Erie | $296 | $819 |
| State Farm | $351 | $1,038 |
| Progressive | $371 | $932 |
| Nationwide | $506 | $734 |
| Allstate | $515 | $1,240 |
Source: The Zebra
Cheapest full coverage insurance in Virginia
Virginians can expect to pay around $948 for a full coverage 6-month policy. Given it's many benefits, it's no surprise that 57% of The Zebra's Virginia customers receive quotes for full coverage insurance.[2]
If you live in Virginia, we recommend you first check out USAA and Erie insurance as our data shows they have the cheapest average rates for full coverage.
Reminder: USAA is only available to military members and their families.Â
Updating data...
| Company | Avg. 6 Mo. Premium | Avg. Monthly Premium |
|---|---|---|
| USAA | $534 | $89 |
| Erie | $578 | $96 |
| State Farm | $645 | $107 |
| Nationwide | $646 | $108 |
| GEICO | $710 | $118 |
| Progressive | $891 | $148 |
| Allstate | $1,165 | $194 |
Source: The Zebra
The Zebra’s auto insurance 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: Search out these car insurance discounts
- Payment method. Opting for advance purchase, electronic bill pay, and pay-in-full will often save you money.
- Driver discounts. Bundling, multi-car, good driver/student, homeowner, military).
- Vehicle discounts. New vehicle, safety devices, telematics, anti-theft devices.
Find the best coverage and price in Virginia with The Zebra.
What are the best car insurance companies in Virginia?
Erie Insurance is our top pick for Virginia drivers based on consumer reviews, reputable third-party ratings, average prices, available coverage options, and unique features like Erie Rate Lock.Â
While price is often top of mind when shopping, it's important to make sure you're insurance isn't cheap for a reason. After all, your vehicle is more than just a means of transportation—it's an integral part of your daily life. That's why it's vital to choose a provider, like Erie, that balances affordability with a history of dependable service.
It's no surprise Erie boasts a 90% annual customer retention rate given their reasonable average prices, diverse coverage and discount options, and high ratings in J.D. Power's and The Zebra's customer satisfaction and claims surveys.[3, 4, 5]
Erie also offers valuable features such as ERIE Rate Lock, accident forgiveness, and ERIE Auto Plus, which includes a diminishing deductible, locksmith assistance, and additional protections. For those who appreciate a personal touch, policies can be purchased and serviced through local agents, ensuring a tailored and supportive customer experience.
-
High customer ratings
-
Customizable coverage (+ telematics option)
-
3-Year rate lock
-
Accident forgiveness (customers 3+ years)
-
ERIE Auto Plus (Diminishing deductible, extra loss of use coverage, waived deductible for certain claims)
-
Option of local agent
-
Only available in 12 states (including VA)
-
Limited web-based services
Best car insurance in Virginia — honorable mentions
While we deemed Erie the best value, these companies also scored well. We looked at JD Power Auto ratings and consumer reviews we collected from thousands of drivers across Virginia and the US.
Updating data...
| Company | Avg. 6 Mo. Premium | Avg. Monthly Premium |
|---|---|---|
| USAA | $534 | $89 |
| Erie | $578 | $96 |
| State Farm | $645 | $107 |
| Nationwide | $646 | $108 |
| GEICO | $710 | $118 |
| Progressive | $891 | $148 |
| Allstate | $1,165 | $194 |
Source: The Zebra
How did we pick what company has the "Best Value" in Virginia?
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 Virginia
- 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.
Cheap auto insurance for young drivers in Virginia
It can be difficult to find affordable auto insurance as a young driver in Virginia. According to our data, teens pay over 100% more than drivers in their 20s and 200% more than those in their 30s due to their inexperience on the roads.[1]
If you are a teen in Virginia, expect to pay around $3,043 per 6-month period ($507/mo). This is $221 less than the national average but over three times as much as a 30-year-old Virginia driver.
Teens and their parents should consider USAA, Erie, and GEICO for the cheapest car insurance.
Updating data...
| Company | Avg. 6 Mo. Premium | Avg. Monthly Premium |
|---|---|---|
| USAA | $2,072 | $345 |
| Erie | $2,073 | $345 |
| GEICO | $2,135 | $356 |
| Nationwide | $2,631 | $439 |
| Allstate | $3,061 | $510 |
| State Farm | $3,848 | $641 |
| Progressive | $4,286 | $714 |
Source: The Zebra
Updating data...
| Company | Avg. 6 Mo. Premium | Avg. Monthly Premium |
|---|---|---|
| Progressive | $5,720 | $953 |
| State Farm | $5,189 | $865 |
| Allstate | $3,841 | $640 |
| USAA | $2,909 | $485 |
| Nationwide | $2,811 | $468 |
| GEICO | $2,621 | $437 |
| Erie | $2,581 | $430 |
Source: The Zebra
Zebra Tip: How young drivers can save on auto insurance
- Enroll in a certified defensive driving course to earn discounts and lower the likelihood of accidents.
- Skip the sports car and opt for an affordable vehicle with excellent safety ratings and low repair costs
- Stay on your parent's policy and benefit from their positive insurance record
Find your best value insurance match with The Zebra.
Virginia auto insurance quotes after an accident or ticket
It's no secret that a checkered driving record will make the cost of car insurance in Virginia go up. After all, companies use your driving record to calculate how risky you are to insure.
A recent at-fault accident can raise your rate by over $900 annually. This table shows how much popular insurers charge Virginians after one at-fault accident.
Updating data...
| Company | Avg. 6 Mo. Premium | Avg. Monthly Premium |
|---|---|---|
| USAA | $942 | $157 |
| GEICO | $1,068 | $178 |
| Erie | $1,079 | $180 |
| Nationwide | $1,147 | $191 |
| State Farm | $1,314 | $219 |
| Progressive | $1,521 | $253 |
| Allstate | $1,970 | $328 |
Source: The Zebra
Zebra Tip: Consider claims satisfaction when choosing an insurer
A wise man once said: hope for the best, prepare for the worst. When it comes to auto insurance, you hope that you will never need it, but when you do, it should be as seamless and stress-free as possible. In our 2024 Customer Satisfaction Survey, Erie topped the charts when it came to customer satisfaction, yet another reason to consider them if you live in Virginia.
A bad driving record can quickly cause your rates to skyrocket. The following table shows averages for how different violations and accidents can affect your insurance. Because each insurer's pricing standards differ, the exact rate increase you receive may differ from what's shown below.
Source: The Zebra
The Zebra's guide to Texas car insurance laws for high-risk drivers
Many of the previously discussed violations can have serious insurance-related consequences. Expand both tabs to learn more about Virginia laws and insurance implications for DUIs and SR22s.
Or, see our guide to Virginia's car insurance requirements for more information.
Virginia DUI laws
Getting a DUI in Virginia can increase your rate by 99% yearly. A DUI is considered a serious violation, so it can be a challenge finding affordable auto insurance with a recent conviction on your driving record.
Â
Low-cost car insurance after a DUI in Virginia
To ensure you're getting the fairest price after a DUI, it’s essential that you assess each of your insurance choices carefully. Car insurance premiums following a DUI can vary substantially by insurance company. For example, the least expensive car insurance company with a DUI in Virginia, State Farm, advertises annual rates 42% less than the statewide average insurance rate with a DUI. The second-cheapest insurer for auto insurance after a DUI in Virginia is Progressive, while the most expensive is Allstate.
Updating data...
| Company | Avg. 6 Mo. Premium | Avg. Monthly Premium |
|---|---|---|
| USAA | $1,238 | $206 |
| Progressive | $1,248 | $208 |
| Erie | $1,277 | $213 |
| GEICO | $1,371 | $229 |
| Nationwide | $1,402 | $234 |
| State Farm | $1,521 | $254 |
| Allstate | $1,650 | $275 |
Source: The Zebra
There is no insurer in particular that offers inexpensive rates for drivers with DUIs. Your best bet to save after a DUI citation is to shop around with as many companies as possible.
Virginia 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 Virginia to ensure that you remain insured.
Finding cheap auto insurance with an SR-22 in Virginia might require some research, but it shouldn't be too difficult.
How to acquire an SR-22 in Virginia
For currently insured drivers
If you already have an active auto insurance policy, requesting an SR-22 is fairly straightforward. Contact your insurance company and request that the company file an SR-22 certificate request on your behalf. If your current insurance company won't request a certificate, you should look for a new auto insurance company.
Â
For uninsured drivers
When filing for a new policy, you might be saddled with an up-front fee 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 might disqualify you from getting coverage from some companies, while others will sell you a policy.
Â
For drivers without a vehicle
Not owning a vehicle makes it more difficult to obtain an SR-22, as you will need to furnish proof of insurance to receive the certificate. If you don't own a vehicle, you should apply for a non-owners car insurance policy before filing for an SR-22. Non-owners auto coverage is typically cheaper than traditional coverage since it doesn't cover physical damage to your vehicle.
Learn more about SR-22 certificate requirements and how they impact insurance premiums
Find an affordable policy in Virginia in minutes!
Car insurance price trends in Virginia
In Virginia, average annual auto insurance costs increased by $242 in the past year. A typical Virginia driver pays an average of $1,896 per year, which is the highest it's ever been. It's worth noting that this is still cheaper than the national average rate of $1,759.
Since 2017, the cost of car insurance in Virginia has steadily increased incrementally with the exception of 2023. The steepest decrease occurred from 2015 to 2016, while the highest uptick took place from 2022 to 2023.
| Year | Avg. Annual Premium — Virginia | Yearly Change — Virginia |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | $1,593 | $242 |
| 2023 | $1,351 | -$164 |
| 2022 | $1,515 | $448 |
| 2021 | $1,067 | $41 |
| 2020 | $1,026 | $23 |
| 2019 | $1,003 | $40 |
| 2018 | $963 | $50 |
| 2017 | $913 | $84 |
| 2016 | $829 | -$127 |
| 2015 | $956 | $27 |
If your rates are rising faster than the average in your state, compare personalized quotes and find a better deal. The Zebra's car insurance comparison engine furnishes cheap quotes based on your specific profile — enter your ZIP below to get started.
Overpaying for car insurance? Compare quotes to discover how much you can save.
Car insurance in popular Virginia cities
Car insurance companies calculate your rate based on many factors, and an important one is the location of the vehicle. Arlington and Chesapeake residents average cheaper rates than residents of cities like Norfolk and Richmond.
This is likely related to Arlington and Chesapeake's lower population density and crime rates.
Have a look at the table below to see average car insurance costs in some of Virginia's biggest cities.
Updating data...
| City | Avg. 6 Mo. Premium | Avg. Monthly Premium |
|---|---|---|
| Arlington | $990 | $165 |
| Chesapeake | $1,005 | $167 |
| Virginia Beach | $1,019 | $170 |
| Richmond | $1,022 | $170 |
| Norfolk | $1,088 | $181 |
Source: The Zebra
Virginia car insurance FAQs
Below you'll find answers to some of the most commonly asked questions regarding Virginia 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
J.D. Power. Auto Insurance Customer Satisfaction Plummets as Rates Continue to Surge, J.D. Power Finds
2024 Customer Satisfaction Survey. The Zebra
Erie Insurance.Erie Insurance Reviews
RECENT QUESTIONS ABOUT CAR INSURANCE IN VIRGINIA
Other people are also asking...
Do I have to list my disabled spouse on my Virginia auto policy?
Does a vehicle need car insurance if its in storage in Virginia?
How many cars can I list under one insurance policy?
My insurance company has been insuring the wrong car for 3 years
Related content
- Virginia Car Insurance Laws
- Average Cost of Car Insurance in Virginia
- Alexandria, VA Car Insurance
- Hampton, VA Car Insurance
- Temporary Car Insurance in Virginia
- Car Insurance in Richmond, VA
- Car Insurance in Virginia Beach, VA
- Newport News, VA Car Insurance
- Car Insurance in Roanoke, VA
- Car Insurance in Norfolk, VA
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.