How Much Is Car Insurance in Washington? (November 2024)


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Car insurance in Washington comes with an average annual cost of $1,347 for full coverage policies, while minimum coverage policies average around $688 annually.

Affordable plans are within reach, but what you pay depends on several factors, such as your age, the kind of coverage you choose, where you live, your driving record, and your credit history. Understanding these factors can help you find an affordable plan that fits your needs.

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

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These rates reflect the average cost of car insurance in Washington as of November 2024.

81,780Quotes Analyzed
 
15Companies Compared
 
88ZIP Codes

Average Car Insurance Costs in Washington

Washington's average full coverage car insurance cost is around $1,347 yearly. You can compare car insurance quotes to find the best deal that suits your needs and budget.

Here's what you might pay for car insurance in Washington. These averages show possible costs for minimum and full coverage plans each month and year.

100/300/100 Full Cov. w/$1,000 Ded.$1,347$112
100/300/100 Liability Only$823$69
State Minimum Liability Only$688$57

Why Are Car Insurance Rates Moderate in Washington?

Car insurance in Washington is moderate compared to other states. The average annual premium for state minimum coverage is about $$628, which translates to a monthly cost of roughly $52. Washington's average rates are slightly higher at $688 yearly or $57 monthly for the same coverage. For full coverage, Washington's is lower at around $1,347 annually, compared to the national average of $1,358.

Factors influencing the cost of insurance in Washington include the state’s weather patterns, which can affect driving safety, the rate of car thefts and the risk of natural disasters such as floods and earthquakes, which can lead to more claims. Additionally, urbanization, traffic density and specific insurance laws and requirements can lead to more accidents and higher premiums.

Average Car Insurance Costs in Washington by Company

Car insurance premiums can differ greatly, even within the same state. For example, in Washington, PEMCO offers the cheapest full coverage at an annual premium of $605, while Dairyland has the most expensive average premium at $4,290.

Understanding these differences and comparing car insurance quotes from various providers can lead you to the cheapest car insurance in Washington.

Data filtered by:Results filtered by:
Coverage:
Coverage:Full Coverage
Age Group:
Age Group:30-59
PEMCO$605$50
Kemper$827$69
Progressive$852$71
State Farm$921$77
American Family$995$83
Nationwide$1,117$93
Auto-Owners Insurance Co$1,146$96
Farmers$1,152$96
Travelers$1,163$97
GEICO$1,210$101
Allstate$1,272$106
Chubb$1,311$109
National General$1,997$166
Dairyland$4,290$357
Compare Auto Insurance Rates

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

Average Car Insurance Costs in Washington by Coverage Level

The cost of car insurance in Washington is also impacted by the level of coverage selected. For instance, monthly minimum coverage averages at $57, while opting for full coverage with a $1,000 deductible can cost about $112 monthly. It's wiser to invest in a full coverage policy, even at a higher price, because it provides more comprehensive protection.

Adding comprehensive and collision coverage to your policy typically raises your premium; however, you can mitigate this increase by choosing higher deductibles. Remember, your deductible is the amount you pay out-of-pocket for each comprehensive and collision claim.

State Minimum Liability Only$688$57
100/300/100 Liability Only$823$69
300/500/300 Liability Only$912$76
State Minimum Liability w/ Full Cov. w/$1,500 Ded.$1,172$98
State Minimum Liability w/ Full Cov. w/$1,000 Ded.$1,211$101
100/300/100 Full Cov. w/$1,500 Ded.$1,307$109
100/300/100 Full Cov. w/$1,000 Ded.$1,347$112
State Minimum Liability w/ Full Cov. w/$500 Ded.$1,379$115
300/500/300 Full Cov. w/$1,500 Ded.$1,396$116
300/500/300 Full Cov. w/$1,000 Ded$1,436$120
100/300/1000,000 - 500 comp_coll$1,515$126
300/500/300 Full Cov. w/$500 Ded.$1,604$134

Minimum Car Insurance Requirements in Washington

Washington's minimum car insurance requirements include $25,000 for bodily injury liability per person, $50,000 per accident and $10,000 for property damage liability per accident. Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage and personal injury protection are not mandated.

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    $25,000 for bodily injury liability per person

    This is the minimum amount required in Washington to cover expenses for injuries you cause to one person in an accident.

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    $50,000 for bodily injury liability per accident

    Washington requires this amount to cover expenses for injuries to multiple people in a single accident.

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    $10,000 for property damage liability per accident

    This coverage is the minimum in Washington to pay for damage you cause to another person's property in an accident.

Average Car Insurance Costs in Washington by City

Your location impacts your car insurance rates significantly. Seattle's full coverage at $1,271 contrasts dramatically with Spokane's much lower $975 rate. Other factors in Washington that influence your car insurance premiums include your driving record, car type and credit history. Traffic density and local theft rates also play a role.

Bellevue$1,211$676
Everett$1,161$659
Kent$1,282$721
Renton$1,283$717
Seattle$1,271$707
Spokane$975$519
Tacoma$1,244$696
Vancouver$1,094$605

Average Car Insurance Costs in Washington by Age

Age influences the cost of car insurance in Washington. Drivers aged 22 to 29 face the highest rates, averaging $1,780 annually. Premiums generally decrease as they grow older, with those aged 30 to 59 paying about $1,347. After age 60, the average cost becomes $1,348. The curve of car insurance premiums shows younger drivers pay the most, and rates drop around age 30, stabilizing as drivers mature.

Data filtered by:Results filtered by:
Coverage:
Coverage:100/300/100 Full Cov. w/$1,000 Ded.
22-29$1,780$148
30-59$1,347$112
60 +$1,348$112

Average Car Insurance Costs in Washington for Teens

Age and gender affect car insurance rates in Washington. For instance, the average annual premium for a 16-year-old male added to a family policy is $2,821. With this age group, premiums are generally the highest.

In Washington, individuals under 18 cannot legally purchase car insurance independently; they must have a parent or guardian co-sign the policy. Should a 16-year-old boy opt for an individual policy, the premium would increase to around $5,331.

Data filtered by:Results filtered by:
Gender:
Gender:Male
16$2,821$5,331
17$2,826$4,719
18$2,412$4,012
19$2,095$3,109
20$2,179$2,746
21$1,658$2,069
22$1,780$1,918
23$1,867$1,775
24$1,738$1,657
25$1,485$1,384

Average Car Insurance Costs in Washington for New Cars

The average annual cost for full coverage car insurance on a 2012 car model is $1,100, whereas a 2022 model is $1,256 for the same coverage. Newer cars typically have higher actual cash values, may cost more to repair or replace and have elevated risk of theft, leading to increased insurance premiums. Drivers with newer vehicle models should consider investing in comprehensive and collision coverage.

Data filtered by:Results filtered by:
Coverage:
Coverage:Full Coverage
Age Group:
Age Group:30-59
2012 Vehicle$1,100$92
2022 Vehicle$1,256$105
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ACTUAL CASH VALUE

Insurance companies use your vehicle's actual cash value (ACV) to determine the payout amount for your comprehensive or collision claim. ACV considers depreciation, which affects the claim reimbursement you receive after an incident.

Average Car Insurance Costs in Washington by Driving Record

The average cost of car insurance in Washington varies by driving record.

  • With a ticket: $1,711 per year; $143 per month
  • With an at-fault accident: $1,929 per year; $161 per month
  • With a DUI: $2,075 per year; $173 per month

The type and severity of a driving violation can significantly raise your car insurance premiums in Washington. These higher rates stick with you as long as the violation is on your record, though the specific duration varies by state. For instance, in Washington, a DUI can affect your insurance rates for up to five years, while other traffic violations may not impact as long.

The table shows the average cost for each type of driving record in Washington, sorted by coverage and age group.

Data filtered by:Results filtered by:
Coverage:
Coverage:100/300/100 Full Cov. w/$1,000 Ded.
Age Group:
Age Group:30-59
Clean$1,347$112
Ticket$1,711$143
At-fault Accident$1,929$161
DUI$2,075$173

Average Car Insurance Costs in Washington by Credit Score

Washington residents with poor credit scores pay an average of $73 monthly for car insurance, while an excellent credit score might lower the rate to about $68. A good credit score, ranging from 670 to 739, can help secure more affordable car insurance premiums, as insurers view higher credit scores as an indicator of responsible financial behavior and lower risk of filing claims.

Data filtered by:Results filtered by:
Coverage:
Coverage:100/300/100 w/ $1000 Deductible
Age Group:
Age Group:30-59
Excellent$812$68
Good$829$69
Fair$843$70
Below Fair$858$71
Poor$878$73
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 Washington

Explore the key elements influencing the average cost of car insurance in Washington.

  • Location Within Washington: Premiums can fluctuate based on your residency; urban areas with more traffic often result in higher rates than rural locations.
  • Driving History: A clean record can lead to more affordable plans, while accidents or violations might significantly increase costs.
  • Age and Experience: Younger, less experienced drivers often face higher rates, while older drivers enjoy more competitive pricing.
  • Vehicle Make and Model: Insuring a luxury car or a model prone to theft can be costlier, impacting the overall affordability of your policy.
  • Credit Score: In Washington, a higher credit score can translate to reduced insurance rates, emphasizing the importance of financial health.
  • Coverage Type: Opting for comprehensive insurance or collision insurance will affect your premium, unlike choosing state minimum coverage.
  • Annual Mileage: Driving fewer miles can lead to lower insurance costs, as there is less risk of accidents and claims.
  • Gender and Marital Status: Statistically, married and female drivers might enjoy lower rates due to perceived risk factors.
  • Discounts: Taking advantage of discounts for things like multi-car policies, safety features and defensive driving courses can lead to more affordable coverage.

By understanding these factors, you can explore car insurance rates and find a deal that suits you.

How to Save Money on Car Insurance in Washington

To secure affordable car insurance in Washington, you can compare prices across insurers, opt for a higher deductible and capitalize on all applicable insurance discounts.

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    Shop Around for Car Insurance Rates

    Comparing rates from multiple insurers can help you find the cheapest car insurance in Washington. Each company weighs factors differently, potentially offering better rates.

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    Maintain a Clean Driving Record

    A clean driving record without accidents or violations can significantly reduce your rates, as insurers see you as a lower risk.

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    Increase Your Deductibles

    Opting for higher deductibles can lower your premiums. Ensure you can afford the out-of-pocket expense in case of a claim.

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    Bundle Policies

    Bundling car insurance with other policies like homeowners or renters insurance can unlock discounts and lead to more affordable rates.

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    Take Advantage of Discounts

    Many insurers offer discounts for things like safe driving, anti-theft devices or being a good student. Ask providers about available discounts to lower your costs.

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    Consider the Vehicle You Drive

    Driving a car that's less expensive to insure can lead to savings. Research which makes and models come with lower insurance costs in Washington.

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    Consider Usage-Based Insurance

    Usage-based insurance programs can offer significant savings if you're a safe driver with low annual mileage, as they tailor rates to your actual driving habits.

FAQ: Car Insurance Costs in Washington

Find out what impacts the average cost of your car insurance in Washington and how you can find affordable rates.

What are the minimum car insurance requirements in Washington?

What is the average cost of full coverage and minimum coverage auto insurance in Washington?

What is the average cost of car insurance for a 22-year-old in Washington?

What are the cheapest car insurance companies in Washington?

About Mark Fitzpatrick


Mark Fitzpatrick headshot

Mark Fitzpatrick is a Licensed Property and Casualty Insurance Producer and MoneyGeek's Head of Insurance. He has analyzed the insurance market for over five years, conducting original research and creating personalized content for every kind of buyer. He 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.