Updated: May 20, 2024
Advertising & Editorial Disclosure
In Arkansas, Auto-Owners emerges as the favorite with the highest MoneyGeek score for overall satisfaction, suits with minimal coverage, and for families with teen drivers, offering a balance of cost, customer service, and coverage options.
MoneyGeek also analyzed the cheapest car insurance in Arkansas if cost is your primary consideration, regardless of service quality.
Best Car InsuranceArkansasBest Car Insurance in Arkansas
Why Trust MoneyGeek? We created an insurance scoring system for providers in Arkansas based on customer satisfaction, claims experience, essential coverages, affordability and financial stability using six independent sources.
These recommendations were updated in March 2024 to reflect the current best car insurance options in Arkansas.
Auto-Owners stands out as the best car insurance company in Arkansas, with a top MoneyGeek score of 92. The scores among insurers with MoneyGeek ratings ranged from 76 to 92. This demonstrates the diversity in the baseline scoring system, emphasizing that scores can vary for different driver profiles.
How does MoneyGeek score companies?
MoneyGeek evaluates insurers using a multifaceted approach, valuing customer satisfaction and affordability but also placing significant emphasis on claims experience and offered coverages in their overall scoring system. Understanding these factors is crucial for consumers seeking insurance that meets their needs while also fitting their budget and providing peace of mind in the event of a claim.
Certain insurers, such as Home State Insurance Group, Dairyland and Southern Farm Bureau, didn't qualify for a MoneyGeek score due to incomplete data across the five scoring components. However, Southern Farm Bureau excels in customer satisfaction, while Dairyland stands out in offered coverages. These findings indicate that some insurers perform well in specific areas despite not having a complete MoneyGeek score.
| Auto-Owners Insurance Co | MoneyGeek Score (/100)92 | Annual Premium$761 |
| Shelter | MoneyGeek Score (/100)88 | Annual Premium$1,034 |
| State Farm | MoneyGeek Score (/100)83 | Annual Premium$932 |
| Nationwide | MoneyGeek Score (/100)83 | Annual Premium$847 |
| Travelers | MoneyGeek Score (/100)83 | Annual Premium$952 |
| Alfa | MoneyGeek Score (/100)82 | Annual Premium$1,379 |
| Farmers | MoneyGeek Score (/100)81 | Annual Premium$1,061 |
| Hanover | MoneyGeek Score (/100)78 | Annual Premium$1,391 |
| GEICO | MoneyGeek Score (/100)78 | Annual Premium$1,130 |
| Progressive | MoneyGeek Score (/100)77 | Annual Premium$1,292 |
| Allstate | MoneyGeek Score (/100)76 | Annual Premium$1,160 |
| AAA | MoneyGeek Score (/100)76 | Annual Premium$1,203 |
| Dairyland | MoneyGeek Score (/100)No Data | Annual Premium$2,238 |
| Home State Ins Group | MoneyGeek Score (/100)No Data | Annual Premium$1,652 |
| Southern Farm Bureau | MoneyGeek Score (/100)No Data | Annual Premium$771 |
MoneyGeek found that Auto-Owners is the best option in Arkansas for best full coverage car insurance, boasting the highest MoneyGeek score.
Auto-Owners distinguishes itself with outstanding marks in satisfaction, affordability and claims handling, making it a top performer in the insurance marketplace. It balances cost-efficiency and superior service that resonates with Arkansas drivers.
In Arkansas, companies offer a diverse range of cost and service experiences. To assist consumers who prioritize saving, MoneyGeek also evaluated the companies that offer the cheapest full coverage car insurance in Arkansas, presenting options for varying needs and budgets.
Ranks well in state for general customer satisfaction.
Ranks well in state for claims satisfaction
Top affordability ranking in state, with average annual premium of $761
Offers rare coverages like diminished value and deductible modification
Does not excel in customer service
Does not offer OEM coverage
Auto-Owners has exceptional claims handling and affordability, both contributing heavily to its high MoneyGeek score of 92. Notably, this company offers both common coverages: Roadside assistance and rental car and/or travel reimbursement. While it has a comprehensive range of reasonably common coverages including gap insurance, deductible modification and accident forgiveness.
Customers will find diminished value coverage valuable as it ensures they are compensated for the loss in value of a car after an accident. Auto-Owner's coverage, specifically the personal automobile plus package, protects various aspects of the vehicle and driving experience. Additionally, accident forgiveness means your rates won't increase after your first at-fault accident. These offerings are on top of the insurer's excellent core scores: Satisfaction at 31 (out of 35), affordability at 30 (out of 30) and claims handling at 16 (out of 20).
MoneyGeek found that Shelter is the best option in Arkansas for car insurance with superior customer service.
Shelter stands out in Arkansas for its excellent balance of customer satisfaction, claims handling and coverage options. With its high MoneyGeek score, Shelter demonstrates a strong commitment to serving its customers' needs effectively. Although its annual premium is higher compared to Auto-Owners, opting for Shelter means investing in a more consistent and reliable service experience.
In Arkansas, where a wide array of car insurance companies operates, focusing on those with high customer satisfaction and efficient claims processing is crucial. It ensures prompt and fair handling of claims, allows for clear communication, and fosters trust between the insurer and the insured.
Ranks well in state for claims satisfaction, citing rank 3
Offers roadside assistance and rental car/travel reimbursement
Leads in state for key coverages, citing rank 1
Does not excel in customer service
Does not offer OEM coverage or gap insurance
Shelter Insurance has high satisfaction (41 out of 45) and coverage scores (20 out of 20), While it offers common coverages such as roadside assistance and rental Car and/or travel reimbursement, it falls short by not providing gap insurance. Shelter is still a worthwhile option considering its significant MoneyGeek scores.
Shelter Insurance goes beyond the basics. Roadside assistance is a lifeline when the unexpected occurs—whether it's a flat tire or a dead battery. Rental car and/or travel reimbursement is another valuable offering, covering transportation expenses while your car is in the shop. New car replacement benefits recent car buyers, as it protects their investment by covering the cost of a new vehicle in case of total loss within the first year. With Shelter, customers can expect exceptional service and a comprehensive insurance experience.
MoneyGeek found that Auto-Owners is the best option in Arkansas when seeking the best car insurance for minimum coverage.
Auto-Owners distinguishes itself with an exceptional balance of customer satisfaction, affordability and claims handling, which are significant contributors to its MoneyGeek score. The annual cost of $323 for a minimum coverage policy is notably modest, ensuring policyholders receive the minimum insurance required by law in Arkansas.
In Arkansas, it's common to find insurers offering inexpensive minimum coverage car insurance. However, drivers should consider that opting for the bare minimum may mean insufficient protection in the event of a significant accident or loss, potentially leading to high out-of-pocket expenses.
Offers reasonably common and rare discounts
Ranks 2nd in state for claims satisfaction
Ranks 3rd in state for cost, with an average annual premium of $323
Doesn't excel in customer service, ranking 7th
Auto-Owners offers affordable coverage and stability, accounting most for its impressive MoneyGeek score of 85 (out of 100). The company boasts an enviable average annual premium, with the average driver paying just $323 yearly for comprehensive insurance. While the specifics on discount offerings are not provided, the competitive rates underscore the insurer's commitment to affordability.
Unfortunately, there are no details on the discount strategies employed by Auto-Owners. It remains unclear whether they provide discounts such as bundling, multiple car or safe driving.
Auto-Owner's high MoneyGeek score is underpinned by a substantial affordability score of 38 (out of 40), and top marks in coverage (10 out of 10) and stability (5 out of 5). These scores, along with a significant satisfaction score of 15 (out of 25), and a claims handling score of 16 (out of 20), confirm Auto-Owners as a frontrunner in the car insurance industry.
MoneyGeek found that Auto-Owners is the best option in Arkansas for different age groups due to its high overall scores on a range of factors. For teens, the company's MoneyGeek score is 85, with an annual premium of $1,779, while for young adults, the score increases to 90 with a premium of $1,081. Seniors benefit the most with a top score of 91 and the lowest annual premium at $714, making Auto-Owners the leading choice for car insurance across these demographics.
Best for teens: Auto-Owners
Best for seniors: Auto-Owners
Best for young adults: Auto-Owners
MoneyGeek found that Auto-Owners is the best option in Arkansas for providing car insurance to teens.
Auto-Owners has high ratings in claims handling and a decent affordability score. Its performance in customer satisfaction also contributes significantly to its top MoneyGeek score. At $1,779 annually, Auto-Owners offers the best value when considering adding a teen to a family policy, which proves to be a cheap car insurance for a teen in Arkansas compared to purchasing an individual policy for them.
Car insurance for teens is costly due to their lack of driving experience and higher risk of accidents. Insurers across Arkansas and other states implement higher rates for teens to offset the potential risk they pose. As a result, families see a noticeable increase in premiums when they add a teenage driver to their policy.
Offers good student and distant student discounts
Ranks 1st in the state for claims satisfaction
Ranks 1st in the state for key coverages
Ranks 3rd in the state for customer satisfaction
Ranks 5th in the state for affordability, with an average annual premium of $1,779
Missing driver's education discount
Auto-Owners excels with robust coverage and claims handling, achieving perfect scores of 10 (out of 10) and 20 (out of 20) respectively in these areas. Without young driver discounts such as good student, distant student or driver's education, the company still impresses with its high satisfaction (32 out of 35) and stability (5 out of 5) scores, showcasing its overall value and reliability.
Auto-Owners offers valuable coverages tailored to meet diverse needs. Their diminished value coverage is an example of a valuable option; if your vehicle's value is reduced after an accident, this option can compensate for the depreciation, ensuring you're not left out of pocket. Accident forgiveness coverage is also useful; it ensures your rates don't increase after your first at-fault accident. Both demonstrate Auto-Owner's commitment to provide customers with quality options that protect their investments and offer peace of mind on the road.
MoneyGeek found that Auto-Owners is the best option in Arkansas for senior drivers seeking a robust car insurance policy.
Auto-Owners has high customer satisfaction and excellent claims handling processes, which are significant components of the MoneyGeek score. For senior drivers, obtaining a policy from Auto-Owners would mean an annual cost of $714—representing a value that, while competitive, might be moderately higher than what individuals in younger age brackets might pay. Once can find cheap car insurance for a senior in Arkansas; seniors can expect quality coverage tailored to their needs.
Car insurance costs for seniors are not always higher than for middle-aged adults in Arkansas, despite some variance based on age group. MoneyGeek's data reflects rates for individuals in their 60s. However, as drivers enter their 70s and 80s, premiums tend to increase, although these adjustments are a factor of risk assessment rather than age discrimination. MoneyGeek ensures a balanced approach, recognizing the need for both affordability and comprehensive protection for senior drivers.
Offers roadside assistance and rental car/travel reimbursement
Ranks 2nd in state for claims satisfaction
Ranks 7th in state for customer satisfaction
Ranks 3rd in state for affordability, average annual premium $714
Auto-Owners Insurance Co stands out with an impressive MoneyGeek Score of 91. Despite a lack of reasonably common coverages like roadside assistance and rental car/travel reimbursement, its stellar performance in claims handling and coverage showcases it as a top insurer. Even without every widely applicable coverage option, its leading scores in affordability (29 out of 30) and service (31 out of 35) compensate, illustrating that it excels where it matters most.
With an average annual premium of $714, Auto-Owners does not offer senior discounts, which are reasonably rare in the market; however, its competitive rates are already tuned to maximize savings for customers across the board.
Offering a perfect coverage score (10 out of 10), Auto-Owners provides robust protection. Even without specific senior-targeted features, the stability score of 5 and the high satisfaction score (31 out of 35) help ensure that seniors and all customers experience responsive service and reliable coverage.
MoneyGeek found that Auto-Owners is the best option for young adults in Arkansas looking for car insurance.
Auto-Owners has good customer satisfaction, affordability and claims handling, making it an especially favorable choice for drivers in their 20s. With an impressive MoneyGeek score, the company not only assures a high-quality insurance experience but also offers the policy at an annual cost of $1,081 for young adults. You can find cheap car insurance for a young adult in Arkansas.
Young adults in Arkansas and many other states generally pay more for car insurance due to the increased risk associated with their age group. Insurance providers consider young drivers to be more prone to accidents and traffic violations, necessitating higher premiums to cover the potential cost of claims.
Ranks well in state for claims satisfaction, 2nd place
Offers good student and distant student discounts
Ranks 4th in state for cost, less competitive pricing
Does not offer driver's education discount
Auto-Owner's impressive MoneyGeek score is bolstered significantly by high satisfaction (30 out of 35) and coverage scores (10 out of 10. Despite the absence of common discounts for young drivers, such as good student and driver's education, the company's robust scores in affordability, service, and other key areas adequately make up for this. While common coverages, including rental car and roadside assistance, aren't specified, the perfect coverage score may suggest a strong overall policy offering.
Auto-Owners may include protection against uninsured motorists, which can shield you from the financial fallout of an accident with an uninsured driver, and comprehensive coverage for non-collision-related damage. They may also offer collision coverage, safeguarding against costs incurred by accidents with other vehicles or objects. The lack of specific tier 3—or rare coverages—is balanced by the company's top-tier satisfaction score.
MoneyGeek discovered that Auto-Owners is the best option in Arkansas for drivers with offenses, offering the most compelling blend of satisfaction, affordability, claims handling and coverage.
Auto-Owners has high satisfaction and claims handling scores, showing a commitment to customer service and efficient claims resolutions. This, coupled with an impressive MoneyGeek affordability score, demonstrates the value the company provides. Drivers with offenses looking for cheap car insurance as a high risk driver in Arkansas can expect to pay around $1,391 annually at Auto-Owners, a premium that is slightly higher than that for individuals without infractions.
Traffic violations, accidents or DUIs can lead to higher insurance premiums as insurers adjust rates to account for the increased risk that such drivers pose. Variables like age, driving history and vehicle type all determine costs. Records with infractions can lead insurance companies to view a driver as higher risk, hence commanding higher premiums.
Ranks well in state for claims satisfaction, at 2nd place
Offers common coverages like roadside assistance and rental reimbursement
Includes reasonably common coverages like accident forgiveness
Doesn't excel in customer service, with a score of 31
Ranks 4th in state for cost, less competitive affordability
Lacks rare coverages such as new car or better car replacement
With exceptional scores in satisfaction (31 out of 35) and coverage (10 out of 10), Auto-Owners is a leading choice reflected in its high MoneyGeek score. The company offers standard coverage options tailored to the needs of various consumers, but for those with a poor driving record, specific coverages such as roadside assistance, rental car/travel reimbursement, accident forgiveness and new car or better car replacement are not listed. The quality of the company's offering is still substantial. With an affordability score of 26 (out of 30) and an average annual premium of $1,391 for drivers with offenses like tickets, at-fault accidents and DUIs, Auto-Owners presents an affordable option for those typically facing higher insurance costs.
While Auto-Owners may not have specific data listed for common coverages and discounts in this dataset, its robust satisfaction and coverage scores demonstrate its commitment to customer service and reliable insurance offerings.
MoneyGeek found that Travelers is the best option in Arkansas for drivers of new cars looking for insurance coverage.
Travelers stands out from the competition, not only for its high MoneyGeek score but also for its commitment to including coverages that are essential for new vehicle owners. Specifically, MoneyGeek filtered out insurers that do not provide new car replacement and/or better car replacement coverages. The significant factors contributing to the MoneyGeek score are customer satisfaction, affordability, claims handling, coverage options and financial stability, which demonstrate an insurance provider's offerings and service quality. With Travelers, an annual cost of $1,062 might be on the higher side, but selecting an insurer that includes new or better car replacement could be more economical. If an accident occurs, instead of receiving only the depreciated value of your car, such coverage ensures you're provided the means to replace your vehicle.
Ranks well for claims satisfaction, holding 1st place in the state for new car owners
Offers new car replacement, enhancing coverage for new vehicles
Ranks 1st in affordability for new car owners; average annual premium is $1,062 for full coverage
Doesn't excel in customer service with a score of 2
Does not offer OEM coverage
Travelers' high MoneyGeek score is mainly driven by perfect marks in affordability and claims handling, and full scores in coverage and stability. The average annual premium for Travelers is $1,062.
Travelers provides new car replacement, an added benefit for drivers with new vehicles, though it is optional and may require an additional premium. This means that if your brand new vehicle is totaled, Travelers doesn't just compensate for the depreciated value but provides you with the money for a brand new car. This coverage is especially valuable considering the rapid depreciation of new vehicles. Travelers also has other reasonably common coverages such as accident forgiveness and gap insurance, ensuring comprehensive protection beyond the common coverages.
MoneyGeek found that Auto-Owners is the best option for car insurance for military members in Arkansas, with an impressive MoneyGeek score.
Although USAA has a strong showing, based on the MoneyGeek score, which values a balance of service quality and affordability, it did not win in Arkansas.
Auto-Owner's high satisfaction, affordability and stable coverage options contribute to its leading 90 MoneyGeek score. With an annual premium of $761, it provides an excellent choice for those looking for dependable car insurance. For individuals prioritizing cost, exploring the cheapest car insurance in Arkansas for military drivers is also a viable option.
Ranks well in state for general customer satisfaction
Ranks well in state for claims satisfaction
Ranks 2nd for cost; average annual premium is $761 for full coverage
Offers rare coverages like Diminished Value and Accident Forgiveness; ranks 1st for key coverages
Does not excel in customer service
Auto-Owners has a high MoneyGeek Score of 90. It emphasizes customer happiness and a robust selection of coverage, making it an attractive choice. Although USAA isn't the focus here, Auto-Owners competes strongly with an average annual premium of $761.
Auto-Owners offers valuable coverages to meet different needs. Even though specific rare (tier 3) or reasonably common (tier 2) coverages aren't listed, the company excels in providing comprehensive common (tier 1) coverages. Clients can benefit from essentials like collision coverage, which helps pay for repairs if your car is damaged in an accident, and comprehensive coverage, which offers financial protection against a range of non-collision incidents such as theft or weather damage. Liability insurance is another offering ensuring drivers can cover expenses if they are at fault in an accident impacting another's property or health. These fundamental protections form the backbone of Auto-Owners, reflected in a perfect coverage score of 10. With a satisfaction score of 31 (out of 35), it's clear that customers are finding value with their chosen policies.
Arkansas's top car insurance providers skillfully blend affordability with reliable financial strength and exceptional service. MoneyGeek has streamlined this selection process for you, yet if you opt to independently verify your choices, be prepared to diligently follow at least four investigative steps.
Exceptional customer service is essential for a car insurer in Arkansas, as it ensures prompt and supportive responses to claims and inquiries. Drivers should utilize independent data providers like JD Power and the NAIC to evaluate an insurer's track record. Shelter Insurance stands out with a MoneyGeek score of 88, boasting a customer satisfaction score of 41/45 and claims handling score of 23/30.
Comparing quotes in Arkansas can lead to significant savings without compromising on service quality. Drivers are encouraged to conduct their own research to identify the most cost-effective options suited to their individual profiles. According to MoneyGeek, Auto-Owners offers the best value for minimum coverage with an annual premium of $323.
Choosing the right coverages is essential when selecting a car insurance policy. Drivers should investigate which insurers provide the coverages that align with their needs. Companies like Auto-Owners, Travelers, Nationwide, Farmers, Shelter, Hanover, Progressive, and Allstate received a perfect coverage score of 10/10 from MoneyGeek, indicating they offer all four key coverages.
Opting for an insurer with a strong financial stability rating is vital to minimize the risk of claim denial due to financial incapacity. Research insurers with top ratings. MoneyGeek awarded a perfect stability score of 5/5 to Auto-Owners, Travelers, Nationwide and State Farm, signifying the highest financial strength rating of A++ from A.M. Best.
The best car insurance options for you largely depend on your specific needs and preferences. We’ve answered some of the most common questions to help you make the right choice.
About Mark Fitzpatrick
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.
