How Much Is Car Insurance in North Carolina? (July 2024)


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Updated: July 18, 2024

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In North Carolina, drivers pay about $1,077 per year for full coverage car insurance. For minimum coverage, the average annual cost is $520.

Many factors influence your car insurance premium, including your credit history, age and the level of coverage you choose. Where you live also affects the price, as some areas have higher rates of accidents or theft.

Why Trust MoneyGeek? We analyzed North Carolina auto insurance rates using data and information from the North Carolina Department of Insurance and Quadrant Information Services.

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These rates reflect the average cost of car insurance in North Carolina as of July 2024.

47,430 Quotes Analyzed
 
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Average Car Insurance Costs in North Carolina

North Carolina's full coverage car insurance costs an average of $1,077 per year. Knowing your state's average car insurance cost helps you assess the quotes you receive. Consider comparing car insurance quotes to find an affordable plan that suits your needs.

Here's what you might pay for auto insurance in North Carolina, from minimum coverage to full coverage.

100/300/100 Full Cov. w/$1,000 Ded.Average Annual Premium$1,077Average Monthly Premium$90
100/300/100 Liability OnlyAverage Annual Premium$655Average Monthly Premium$55
State Minimum Liability OnlyAverage Annual Premium$520Average Monthly Premium$43

Why Are Car Insurance Rates Moderate in North Carolina?

Car insurance in North Carolina is relatively affordable when compared to the national average cost of car insurance. North Carolina's average annual premium for state minimum coverage is $520 ($43 per month), cheaper than the national figures of approximately $595 per year or $50 per month. For full coverage, the average cost in North Carolina is $1,296 per year or $108 per month. North Carolina's rates are more moderate due to the state's lower-than-average number of uninsured drivers, competitive insurance market and the efficient state insurance regulatory framework that keeps premiums in check.

Average Car Insurance Costs in North Carolina by Company

Car insurance premiums can differ significantly by company, even within the same state. In North Carolina, State Farm offers the most affordable full coverage at an annual cost of $517, while Allstate is the most expensive provider at $1,933 per year.

Searching for the cheapest car insurance in North Carolina could mean significant savings, so it's wise to review and compare different providers' offers for state minimum or full coverage policies.

Data filtered by:Results filtered by:
Coverage:
Coverage:Full Coverage
Age Group:
Age Group:30-59
State FarmAnnual Premium$517Monthly Premium$43
North Carolina Farm BureauAnnual Premium$531Monthly Premium$44
ProgressiveAnnual Premium$612Monthly Premium$51
ErieAnnual Premium$631Monthly Premium$53
NationwideAnnual Premium$1,140Monthly Premium$95
National GeneralAnnual Premium$1,345Monthly Premium$112
GEICOAnnual Premium$1,442Monthly Premium$120
KemperAnnual Premium$1,538Monthly Premium$128
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Average Car Insurance Costs in North Carolina by Coverage Level

The cost of car insurance in North Carolina is also influenced by the coverage level you choose. Typically, a minimum coverage policy costs around $43 per month, whereas full coverage with a $1,000 deductible costs approximately $90. Despite being more expensive, full coverage car insurance provides comprehensive protection against a wide range of incidents, making it a recommended option for drivers.

Adding comprehensive and collision coverages to a policy will increase your premium. However, selecting higher deductibles, such as a $1,000 deductible for full coverage, can help make these additions more affordable by lowering the cost. It's important to remember that the selected deductible amount applies individually to each comprehensive and collision coverage event.

State Minimum Liability OnlyAverage Annual Premium$520Average Monthly Premium$43
100/300/100 Liability OnlyAverage Annual Premium$655Average Monthly Premium$55
300/500/300 Liability OnlyAverage Annual Premium$835Average Monthly Premium$70
State Minimum Liability w/ Full Cov. w/$1,000 Ded.Average Annual Premium$987Average Monthly Premium$82
State Minimum Liability w/ Full Cov. w/$500 Ded.Average Annual Premium$1,025Average Monthly Premium$85
State Minimum Liability w/ Full Cov. w/$1,500 Ded.Average Annual Premium$1,069Average Monthly Premium$89
100/300/100 Full Cov. w/$1,000 Ded.Average Annual Premium$1,077Average Monthly Premium$90
100/300/1000,000 - 500 comp_collAverage Annual Premium$1,114Average Monthly Premium$93

Minimum Car Insurance Requirements in North Carolina

In North Carolina, the minimum car insurance requirements include $30,000 for bodily injury per person, $60,000 per accident and $25,000 for property damage per accident, along with uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage matching these limits.

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    $30,000 for bodily injury liability per person

    This is the minimum coverage amount required in North Carolina for bodily injury liability for one person injured in an accident.

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    $60,000 for bodily injury liability per accident

    North Carolina requires this minimum coverage for all persons injured in a single accident.

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    $25,000 for property damage liability per accident

    This is the state minimum in North Carolina for the cost of property damage in an accident.

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    $30,000 uninsured motorist bodily injury per person

    In North Carolina, this coverage protects against injuries caused by uninsured drivers per person.

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    $60,000 uninsured motorist bodily injury per accident

    This state minimum coverage applies to all injuries in an accident caused by an uninsured driver.

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    $25,000 uninsured/underinsured property damage coverage

    This is the minimum amount required in North Carolina to cover property damage caused by uninsured or underinsured drivers.

Average Car Insurance Costs in North Carolina by City

Your car insurance rates can vary significantly depending on your location in North Carolina. The most affordable city for full coverage is High Point at $807 per year, while the priciest city is Fayetteville at $1,103.

North Carolina car insurance rates are influenced by factors such as your driving history, credit rating and the type and amount of coverage you select. Other local conditions, like crime rates and traffic density, also impact premiums.

CaryFull Coverage Annual Premium$821Minimum Coverage Annual Premium$431
CharlotteFull Coverage Annual Premium$1,088Minimum Coverage Annual Premium$583
DurhamFull Coverage Annual Premium$816Minimum Coverage Annual Premium$426
FayettevilleFull Coverage Annual Premium$1,103Minimum Coverage Annual Premium$557
GreensboroFull Coverage Annual Premium$895Minimum Coverage Annual Premium$456
High PointFull Coverage Annual Premium$807Minimum Coverage Annual Premium$413
RaleighFull Coverage Annual Premium$928Minimum Coverage Annual Premium$491
WilmingtonFull Coverage Annual Premium$902Minimum Coverage Annual Premium$489

Average Car Insurance Costs in North Carolina by Age

Age affects car insurance costs in North Carolina. Younger drivers, aged 22 to 29, typically pay the most, with annual premiums averaging $1,144. Costs decrease as drivers mature, with an average of $1,077 for drivers aged 30 to 59; costs slightly increase to $1,065 for those 60 and over.

Data filtered by:Results filtered by:
Coverage:
Coverage:100/300/100 Full Cov. w/$1,000 Ded.
22-29Average Annual Premium$1,144Average Monthly Premium$95
30-59Average Annual Premium$1,077Average Monthly Premium$90
60 +Average Annual Premium$1,065Average Monthly Premium$89

Average Car Insurance Costs in North Carolina for Teens

In North Carolina, age and gender impact car insurance rates. Adding a 16-year-old male to a family policy costs an average of $2,598 per year. For 16-year-olds looking to secure their own policy, the price is higher at $3,244 per year. A parent's or guardian's signature is often required to purchase car insurance for teens under 18.

Data filtered by:Results filtered by:
Gender:
Gender:Male
16Added to Family Policy Premium$2,598Individual Premium$3,244
17Added to Family Policy Premium$2,601Individual Premium$2,648
18Added to Family Policy Premium$2,060Individual Premium$2,189
19Added to Family Policy Premium$1,327Individual Premium$1,350
20Added to Family Policy Premium$1,374Individual Premium$1,323
21Added to Family Policy Premium$1,206Individual Premium$1,174
22Added to Family Policy Premium$1,166Individual Premium$1,158
23Added to Family Policy Premium$1,193Individual Premium$1,137

Average Car Insurance Costs in North Carolina for New Cars

The average annual cost of full coverage car insurance for a 2012 car model is $925, while the same coverage for a 2022 model jumps to $1,304. This increase is due to newer models having higher actual cash values, more expensive repair costs and an increased likelihood of theft, all of which contribute to a rise in premiums. If you're driving a newer model, securing comprehensive and collision coverage is a prudent choice since it protects against various incidents, including theft, natural disasters and accidents.

Data filtered by:Results filtered by:
Coverage:
Coverage:Full Coverage
Age Group:
Age Group:30-59
2012 VehicleAnnual Premium$925Monthly Premium$77
2022 VehicleAnnual Premium$1,304Monthly Premium$109
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ACTUAL CASH VALUE

The actual cash value (ACV) is a car's worth after subtracting depreciation, not the replacement cost. Insurance uses the ACV to determine your payment up to the policy's limit if your car is damaged or stolen. The ACV is key to how much you get from insurance for a claim.

Average Car Insurance Costs in North Carolina by Driving Record

The average cost of car insurance in North Carolina varies significantly based on the driver's record.

  • With a ticket: $1,667 per year; $139 per month
  • With an at-fault accident: $1,584 per year; $132 per month
  • With a DWI: $4,215 per year; $351 per month

The type of violation directly impacts the increase in car insurance premiums. The more severe the violation, the higher the cost. These extra costs will continue as long as the violation remains on your driving record, which can vary by state. For example, in North Carolina, a DWI can affect your car insurance rates for several years.

The table below shows the average cost of car insurance in North Carolina for different driving records.

Data filtered by:Results filtered by:
Coverage:
Coverage:100/300/100 Full Cov. w/$1,000 Ded.
Age Group:
Age Group:30-59
CleanAverage Annual Premium$1,077Average Monthly Premium$90
At-fault AccidentAverage Annual Premium$1,584Average Monthly Premium$132
TicketAverage Annual Premium$1,667Average Monthly Premium$139
DUIAverage Annual Premium$4,215Average Monthly Premium$351

Average Car Insurance Costs in North Carolina by Credit Score

The average car insurance cost in North Carolina can vary significantly based on your credit score, with premiums ranging from $834 for excellent credit to $1,437 for poor credit. Your credit score is a key factor insurers use to determine your rate, where a good score could mean more affordable coverage. A good credit score ranges from 670 to 739, while excellent credit is 740 and above.

Data filtered by:Results filtered by:
Coverage:
Coverage:100/300/100 w/ $1000 Deductible
Age Group:
Age Group:30-59
ExcellentAnnual Premium$834Monthly Premium$69
GoodAnnual Premium$931Monthly Premium$78
FairAnnual Premium$1,062Monthly Premium$89
Below FairAnnual Premium$1,215Monthly Premium$101
PoorAnnual Premium$1,437Monthly Premium$120
Compare Auto Insurance Rates

Ensure you're getting the best rate for your auto insurance. Compare quotes from the top insurance companies.

Factors Affecting Car Insurance Rates in North Carolina

Discover the key elements that impact the average cost of car insurance in North Carolina and how these factors could affect your rates.

  • Age and Driving Experience: Younger drivers often face higher insurance premiums due to inexperience, while mature drivers benefit from lower rates as they gain years of driving without major incidents.
  • Driving Record: A clean driving record with no accidents or violations can lead to more affordable insurance rates, indicating responsible driving behavior to insurers.
  • Credit Score: In North Carolina, your credit score can significantly influence your car insurance rates, with higher scores generally leading to more favorable premiums.
  • Location Within North Carolina: Urban areas with denser traffic can result in higher insurance costs due to the increased risk of accidents, theft and vandalism.
  • Vehicle Type: Your vehicle's make, model and year can affect insurance rates. Luxury and sports cars generally incur higher premiums due to costlier repairs and replacements.
  • Coverage Type: The level of coverage you choose, including collision insurance and comprehensive insurance, impacts your premium. Higher coverage limits lead to higher costs.
  • Insurance Claims History: Drivers with a history of filing numerous claims may be considered a higher risk, which can result in increased insurance rates.
  • Marital Status: Married drivers may receive lower car insurance rates as they are statistically found to be involved in fewer accidents compared to single drivers.
  • Annual Mileage: The less you drive, the lower your risk of accidents, which can lead to reduced insurance rates. Higher annual mileage can mean higher premiums.
  • State Minimum Coverage: Opting for state minimum coverage can make for the most affordable option, but it may not provide comprehensive protection in all instances of accidents or damage.

How to Save Money on Car Insurance in North Carolina

To secure affordable car insurance in North Carolina, compare rates, opt for a higher deductible and utilize all possible discounts to lower premiums effectively.

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    Shop Around for Insurance Rates

    Comparing rates from multiple insurers can help you find the cheapest car insurance in North Carolina. Research and evaluate different providers to secure the most affordable rates.

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    Maintain a Clean Driving Record

    A clean driving record is essential for lower premiums. Avoiding accidents and traffic violations can significantly decrease insurance costs, making policies more affordable for North Carolina drivers.

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    Consider Your Coverage

    Carefully assess your coverage needs. Over-insuring can lead to unnecessary costs, while under-insuring may leave you vulnerable. Tailor your policy for a balance between protection and affordability.

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    Bundle Insurance Policies

    Bundling car insurance with other policies, such as home or renters insurance, can unlock discounts. Insurers often reward multi-policy holders with lower rates, reducing overall insurance expenses.

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    Ask for Discounts

    Take advantage of available discounts. Many insurers offer reduced rates for safe drivers, students with good grades and for installing anti-theft devices, contributing to a more affordable premium.

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    Choose a Higher Deductible

    Opting for a higher deductible can lower your premium. However, ensure you can afford the deductible in case of a claim. This strategy can lead to significant savings on your policy cost.

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    Improve Your Credit Score

    In North Carolina, a good credit score can influence your insurance rates. Work on improving your credit score to gain access to better insurance rate offers.

FAQ: Car Insurance Costs in North Carolina

Find answers to your questions and read insights on how you can better estimate your expected insurance costs.

What are the minimum car insurance requirements in North Carolina?
What is the average cost of full coverage and minimum coverage auto insurance in North Carolina?
What is the average cost of car insurance for a 22-year-old in North Carolina?
What are the cheapest car insurance companies in North Carolina?

About Mark Fitzpatrick


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Mark Fitzpatrick has analyzed the property and casualty insurance market for over five years, conducting original research and creating personalized content for every kind of buyer. Currently, he leads P&C insurance content production at MoneyGeek. Fitzpatrick has been quoted in several insurance-related publications, including CNBC, NBC News and Mashable.

Fitzpatrick earned a master’s degree in economics and international relations from Johns Hopkins University and a bachelor’s degree from Boston College. He is passionate about using his knowledge of economics and insurance to bring transparency around financial topics and help others feel confident in their money moves.