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MoneyGeek Logo IconBestAuto InsuranceIllinois
2023

If you are planning on buying affordable car insurance, regardless of the quality of customer service, MoneyGeek also broke down the cheapest options in the state.

Best Full Coverage Car Insurance Companies in Illinois: Overall

Based on MoneyGeek’s ranking, the two leading companies with the best insurance in Illinois are the following:

  • Erie: MoneyGeek score of 88 out of 100 ($1,010 per year)
  • Country Financial: MoneyGeek score of 87 out of 100 ($867 per year)

MoneyGeek considered average cost, user satisfaction and claim ratings to determine Illinois's top car insurance companies. MoneyGeek also analyzed the cheapest full coverage auto insurance in Illinois for those on a budget.

USAA received an outstanding rating of 100 out of 100. However, it was excluded from this analysis since its policies are exclusively available to military members and their families.

THE TOP CAR INSURANCE COMPANIES IN ILLINOIS

1
ErieBest Overall
Score:88

3.7/5

Affordability

4.5/5

Claims

5/5

User Satisfaction

4.5/5

Financial Stability

Geek Quick Take
Geek Quick Take

Erie ranked first for claims and customer satisfaction, tied second for financial stability and fourth for affordability. The company also offers better car replacement add-on coverage.

Average Annual Cost: $1,010

More About Erie

Better car replacement insurance is part of Erie’s Auto Security. This perk makes it possible to receive a replacement car of the newest model year if your new covered vehicle is totaled within two years after purchase. Accident forgiveness is an optional coverage that ensures no premium increase after your first at-fault accident if you’ve been accident-free with Erie for three years. Subsequent accidents may affect your premium.

Like many other providers, Erie offers liability, comprehensive and collision coverage to their customers. Moreover, policyholders have the opportunity to select standard add-on coverages such as rental car reimbursement. On the other hand, it does not include coverages such as gap insurance or roadside assistance, which other insurance companies typically provide.

2
Country Financial
Score:87

4.6/5

Affordability

4/5

Claims

4.5/5

User Satisfaction

4.5/5

Financial Stability

Geek Quick Take
Geek Quick Take

Country Financial is the second-best car insurance provider for affordability. It ranked second for claims, customer satisfaction and financial stability. It also offers safety glass coverage.

Average Annual Cost: $867

More About Country Financial

Country Financial offers some unique coverages. Safety glass insurance is an optional coverage that waives the comprehensive coverage deductible if the windshield, windows or headlights need repair. Another add-on feature is the personal effects coverage, which covers your personal property like a phone or laptop if stolen from your car. This coverage has a limit of $800.

Country Financial offers auto insurance with standard liability or state minimum coverage in addition to comprehensive and collision protection. In addition, it provides coverage for roadside assistance, rental car and/or trip reimbursement and new car replacement. However, Country Financial does not offer accident forgiveness, gap insurance, deductible modification or better car replacement.

3
GEICO
Score:85

5/5

Affordability

3.5/5

Claims

4/5

User Satisfaction

5/5

Financial Stability

Geek Quick Take
Geek Quick Take

GEICO’s average annual rate is the cheapest in the state. The company ranked first for financial stability and tied third for claims and customer satisfaction. The company also offers mechanical breakdown insurance as an add-on.

Average yearly cost for full coverage: $789

More About GEICO

Mechanical breakdown insurance (MBI) is optional coverage at a lower price than the typical dealer's extended warranty. It includes all parts, including those of your sound system. This insurance is available if you have a new or leased car less than 15 months old and less than 15,000 miles.

4
State Farm
Score:84

4.1/5

Affordability

4/5

Claims

4.5/5

User Satisfaction

4/5

Financial Stability

Geek Quick Take
Geek Quick Take

State Farm ranked third for affordability, second for customer satisfaction and claims and tied third for financial stability. Policyholders can opt for rideshare insurance.

Average yearly cost for full coverage: $948

More About State Farm

State Farm’s rideshare insurance ensures that your personal auto policy remains in effect while you’re working for a rideshare company. It extends all coverages, except liability insurance when you match with or are transporting a rider. You can also buy rental car reimbursement insurance, which covers car rental and travel expenses up to $500 if you are responsible for an accident in your rental car.

5
American Family
Score:77

3.4/5

Affordability

4/5

Claims

4/5

User Satisfaction

4.5/5

Financial Stability

Geek Quick Take
Geek Quick Take

American Family ranked sixth for affordability, second for claims and financial stability and third for customer satisfaction. The company offers add-on features like the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) coverage.

Average yearly cost for full coverage: $1,077

More About American Family

You can buy OEM coverage to ensure no aftermarket parts are used to repair your insured vehicle. The company also offers rideshare insurance, guaranteeing protection for you and your passengers while on the job. Another perk is accident forgiveness coverage, which ensures your premium will not increase after an accident. It can be purchased or earned after five years of being accident-free as an American Family customer.

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HOW WE DETERMINED THE BEST INSURANCE IN ILLINOIS

MoneyGeek used full coverage policy quotes collected across various auto insurance providers in Illinois for a sample driver. Actual prices will depend on your background. Both J.D. Power customer satisfaction and NAIC claims scores were also used to determine the best full coverage car insurance in Illinois. For more details on the sample driver, policy and assumptions, check out MoneyGeek’s methodology.

MoneyGeek's Illinois Car Insurance Resources:

Best Car Insurance in Illinois for Customer Service

MoneyGeek’s study showed that the best car insurance in Illinois for customer service, regardless of cost, are:

  • Erie: MoneyGeek score of 95 out of 100
  • Hartford: MoneyGeek score of 90 out of 100

These rankings were based on a combination of claim ratings and user feedback.

THE TOP TWO CAR INSURANCE COMPANIES IN ILLINOIS FOR SERVICE QUALITY

1
ErieBest for Customer Service
Score:95

4.5/5

Claims

5/5

User Satisfaction

4.5/5

Financial Stability

Geek Quick Take
Geek Quick Take

Erie ranked first for customer satisfaction with a perfect score of 5 out of 5. It ranked second for claims with a score of 4.5. An Erie policy is also affordable, which means you get superior service at a reasonable price. Great customer service makes a huge difference, especially in times of crisis.

More About Erie

Erie policyholders can get additional protection by purchasing add-ons like rental car coverage. With this feature, you can be reimbursed for your rental car expenses should your car need repairs after an accident and be in the shop for an extended period of time.

Additionally, Erie provides better car replacement coverage, which is uncommon among other firms. If you've owned your vehicle for less than two years, Erie will replace your totaled vehicle with the most recent model. If you have owned your car for more than two years, you will receive a car that is two model years newer.

In addition, Erie’s competitive offerings allow you to tailor your coverage to your needs. Some of Erie's base policies offer coverages that are generally only available at an additional fee with other providers.

2
The Hartford
Score:90

4.5/5

Claims

4.5/5

User Satisfaction

4.5/5

Financial Stability

Geek Quick Take
Geek Quick Take

Hartford received a 4.5 out of 5 rating for both claims and customer satisfaction. It tied second in both categories.

More About The Hartford

Hartford customers can buy full glass coverage as an add-on feature. This insurance waives the deductible if the repair necessary after a covered accident is limited to your insured car’s headlights, mirrors and windows. The company also offers accident forgiveness, which prevents a surcharge in premiums after your first at-fault accident as long as you’ve remained accident-free for five consecutive years.

Like most auto insurers, Hartford provides liability, collision and comprehensive coverage. It allows for additions like roadside assistance, rental and travel reimbursement, gap insurance and deductible adjustment. Note, however, that Hartford does not offer new car replacement or better car replacement.

Best Car Insurance in Illinois for Minimum Coverage

The highest-rated companies offering state-minimum policies for drivers on a budget are:

  • Erie: MoneyGeek score of 90 out of 100 ($459 per year)
  • Country Financial: MoneyGeek score of 89 out of 100 ($385 per year)

Buying a state-minimum policy in Illinois is the best option for some drivers whose biggest concern is savings. If that’s you, MoneyGeek analyzed the companies that offer the cheapest car insurance in Illinois.

MoneyGeek’s Pick: Erie

Erie

pros

Affordable minimum coverage policy at $459 per year.

Discounts for bundling, anti-theft system and full payment.

MoneyGeek claims rating of 4.5 out of 5.

MoneyGeek customer satisfaction rating of 5 out of 5.

cons

No discounts for safe driving, paperless billing or defensive driving.

COMPANY HIGHLIGHTS

Even though MoneyGeek found Erie's auto insurance coverage affordable, you can lower your insurance rates even more by utilizing the company's discounts. Erie policyholders can get significant savings by bundling. Policyholders can bundle their auto insurance for multiple vehicles or with other types of insurance like a renters policy.

You can also take advantage of discounts by installing an anti-theft system and having airbags. You may also be eligible for significant discounts if you pay in full. The company values safety, so it pays to have anti-lock brakes.

Read MoneyGeek's Erie Auto Insurance Review

Best Car Insurance in Illinois for Young Drivers and Students

MoneyGeek's analysis for this category included rates for individuals in their late teens or early 20s, those enrolled in high school and attending college. The best car insurance companies in Illinois for young drivers and students are:

  • Progressive: MoneyGeek score of 84 out of 100 ($2,212 per year)
  • GEICO: MoneyGeek score of 84 out of 100 ($2,351 per year)

Finding affordable car insurance for first-time drivers, teen drivers and student drivers can be challenging. In analyzing the best insurers in Illinois, MoneyGeek looked at the average cost of car insurance for young drivers and each company’s customer service ratings. MoneyGeek also analyzed the cheapest auto insurance in Illinois for young drivers and college students.

MoneyGeek’s Pick: Progressive

Progressive

pros

Most affordable rate for a young driver at $2,212 per year.

Good student and distant student discounts.

MoneyGeek user satisfaction rating of 4 out of 5.

cons

No driver’s education discount.

MoneyGeek claims rating of 3.5 out of 5.

COMPANY HIGHLIGHTS

Generally, adding a young driver to a car insurance policy can be expensive. Progressive’s customer service is a huge perk, especially if you are a young driver. Less experienced drivers are more likely to file claims. At the very least, experiencing an accident and having to file a claim can be a stressful experience, so you should select an insurer who will offer you a streamlined experience.

Young drivers can save money if they qualify for Progressive’s student-related discounts. The good student discount rewards students under 23 who maintain a B average or better, usually up to 10%. Meanwhile, the distant student discount is for students 22 years old or younger who attend school at least 100 miles away from home and who do not have a car at their school.

Read MoneyGeek's Progressive Auto Insurance Review

Best Car Insurance in Illinois for Seniors

MoneyGeek ranked the best car insurance companies for senior drivers in Illinois based on price and reputation among elderly individuals for good customer service. Top picks include:

  • Erie: MoneyGeek score of 87 out of 100 ($1,117 per year)
  • GEICO: MoneyGeek score of 85 out of 100 ($782 per year)

Affordability and customer service were weighted the same when determining how well a company performs in this category.

For those whose primary concern is affordability, regardless of service quality, MoneyGeek determined the cheapest car insurance providers for seniors.

MoneyGeek’s Pick: Erie

Erie

pros

One of the most cost-effective companies for seniors at $1,117 annually

Offers more alternatives for coverage, including better car replacement, rental car reimbursement and accident forgiveness

Offers discounts if insurance premiums are paid in full at the beginning of the term

Excellent MoneyGeek ratings for financial stability, claims and customer satisfaction

cons

Does not offer gap insurance or roadside assistance

COMPANY HIGHLIGHTS

In general, beginning at age 65, auto insurance rates increase with age. However, Erie offers reasonable pricing, considering its high-quality service and reputation for customer satisfaction.

By bundling car insurance with other forms of insurance, Erie clients can save a considerable amount of money. The installation of an anti-theft system and the presence of safety features like airbags and anti-lock brakes might also win you discounts. If you pay for the term in full at the time of purchase, you may be eligible for substantial discounts.

Read MoneyGeek's Erie Auto Insurance Review

Best Car Insurance in Illinois for Bad Driving Records

The two top-rated companies for Illinois residents with poor driving records are:

  • Erie: MoneyGeek score of 92 out of 100 ($1,319 per year)
  • Country Financial: MoneyGeek score of 90 out of 100 ($1,130 per year)

An accident on your driving record will affect your auto insurance cost. MoneyGeek ranked the top car insurance companies in Illinois for drivers with an at-fault accident and found that Erie and Country Financial offer the best rates.

MoneyGeek calculated these scores based on affordability after an accident and customer service ratings.

If saving money is your only priority, MoneyGeek analyzed the cheapest auto insurance in Illinois for drivers with a DUI or a bad driving record.

MoneyGeek’s Pick: Erie

Erie

pros

Affordable full coverage policy for poor drivers at $1,319 per year.

Offers rental car reimbursement coverage, accident forgiveness, new car replacement and better car replacement.

MoneyGeek claims rating of 4.5 out of 5.

MoneyGeek customer satisfaction rating of 5 out of 5.

cons

Does not offer accident forgiveness.

COMPANY HIGHLIGHTS

Erie has one of the best car insurance policies for individuals with poor driving records. The average cost of an Erie full coverage car insurance policy after an accident is $1,319 per year. While this is not the cheapest option in the state, the company balances the cost with its high-quality customer service. It ranked first for user satisfaction and claims as well.

The company offers add-ons for better protection, including:

  • Rental Car Reimbursement: This pays for rental car expenses if your insured car is in the shop for repairs after a covered accident.
  • Accident Forgiveness: This prevents the premium from increasing after your first at-fault accident if you’ve been with the insurer for three claims-free years.
  • New Car Replacement: If you total your insured car (which you’ve had for less than two years), it will be replaced with a similar make and model.
  • Better Car Replacement: If you’ve had your insured car longer than two years when it’s totaled, you’ll get a replacement model that’s two years newer.
Read MoneyGeek's Erie Auto Insurance Review

Best Car Insurance in Illinois for a Military Background

For active-duty military personnel, veterans and their families, USAA offers the best car insurance in Illinois, scoring 97 out of 100. It is the highest-rated company in the state, with a perfect score for financial stability, user satisfaction and claims.

The insurer offers affordable policies to military members. The average cost of a state minimum policy from USAA is $411 per year, while a policy for drivers with accidents on their records averages $1,247 annually.

MoneyGeek’s Pick: USAA

USAA

pros

Affordable full coverage policy at $871 per year.

Offers rideshare insurance and loyalty discounts.

MoneyGeek claims rating of 5 out of 5.

MoneyGeek user satisfaction score of 5 out of 5.

cons

Only military families are eligible for a policy.

COMPANY HIGHLIGHTS

USAA is almost always among the top car insurance companies regarding affordability. It also offers quality service in Illinois. The company has one of the best reputations nationwide.

The insurer offers various coverages and discounts that will benefit Illinois drivers, such as:

  • Rideshare Gap Insurance: USAA’s rider gap coverage ensures you’re covered while waiting for a rideshare request, which a standard USAA auto insurance may not otherwise cover.
  • Accident Forgiveness: This prevents policy surcharges for the first at-fault accident. Generally, this coverage can be purchased or earned if the policyholder has remained accident-free for at least five years.
  • Loyalty Discounts: USAA gives discounts to long-term policyholders.
  • Military Discount: If you're deployed or storing your insured car for another reason, you could get up to 60% off. If you're garaging your vehicle on a military installation, you could save up to 15%.
Read MoneyGeek's USAA Auto Insurance Review

Best Car Insurance in Illinois for Those With New Cars

MoneyGeek found that Erie is the best car insurance company in Illinois for new car owners. It has a MoneyGeek score of 88 out of 100. This rating included companies that offer new car replacement and better car replacement.

New car replacement covers the cost of replacing your car if it is totaled with the newest model. Even for older vehicles, better car replacement can be highly beneficial, replacing your vehicle with a two-model newer vehicle.

MoneyGeek’s Pick: Erie

Erie

pros

Affordable full coverage premium at $1,010 per year on average.

New car replacement.

Better car replacement.

MoneyGeek claims rating of 4.5 out of 5.

MoneyGeek user satisfaction rating of 5 out of 5.

cons

Pricing may vary based on driving history

COMPANY HIGHLIGHTS

Erie is the best option for drivers looking for new and better car replacement features. The value of your car depreciates as soon as you drive it off the lot. These coverages will help you get a replacement if you get into an accident shortly after buying a car.

Erie offers both new car replacement and better car replacement.

  • New Car Replacement: This insurance covers the replacement cost of a brand new car with a similar make and model if your covered vehicle is totaled within two years of purchase.
  • Better Car Replacement: If you’ve had your insured car for more than two years, this policy add-on will replace it with a model that is two years newer.
Read MoneyGeek's Erie Auto Insurance Review

Best Car Insurance in Illinois for Low-Mileage Drivers

In Illinois, Metromile is the best option for low-mileage drivers.

Most insurance companies offer pay-per-mile auto insurance that charges drivers based on how many miles they drive.

MoneyGeek’s Pick: Metromile

Metromile Auto

pros

Affordable rates for low-mileage car owners.

cons

May be more expensive than standard insurance if you drive regularly.

COMPANY HIGHLIGHTS

Metromile allows low-mileage drivers to save money on insurance. With this type of insurance, you start by paying one month’s base rate. After that, you will be charged for the base rate plus miles driven the month before. Your base rate and pay-per-mile rate are calculated based on your age, credit history, type of vehicle and driving record.

When you first switch to Metromile, you will be charged the basic fee for the first month. Metromile, like other insurance providers, evaluates many factors when generating a base rate, including the driver's age, credit history, vehicle type and driving record, among others.

At the end of the month, you will be charged the following month's base cost plus your per-mile fee for any miles driven during the previous month. Your pay-per-mile rate is also unique, depending on the above-mentioned parameters.

Read MoneyGeek's Metromile Auto Auto Insurance Review

How to Find the Best Car Insurance in Illinois For You

There are many factors to consider when shopping for the best auto insurance in Illinois. Consider providers that balance cost, quality of service and financial stability, and you’ll get a good overview.

MoneyGeek determined the best companies in the state based on these factors. You can also do additional research and compare options yourself.

1

Research customer service reputations in Illinois

To help you find the best car insurance in Illinois, MoneyGeek collected quotes from various providers using a sample driver profile. The NAIC complaint ratios and J.D. Power customer satisfaction scores were also evaluated. To learn more about auto insurance in the state, visit the Illinois Department of Insurance.

2

Compare quotes for yourself

These insurance quotes are averages for MoneyGeek’s sample drivers. They are applicable in most of Illinois, but not everywhere. Comparing personalized quotes from at least three insurance companies in the state will help you get a better idea of how much your insurance policy might cost.

3

Make sure the company has coverages you want in Illinois

While insurers advertise the coverages and discounts they offer, some features are not extended to every state. Make sure you confirm with insurance providers whether they offer what you are looking for in Illinois.

4

Double-check financial stability ratings

When comparing car insurance companies, you should also check their financial strength ratings. Financial stability shows you whether a company is capable of paying out claims. Typically, larger insurance companies tend to be financially stronger than regional insurers.

FAQs About the Best Car Insurance in Illinois

The features you are looking for will determine the best car insurance in Illinois for you. Below are some of the most common questions about auto insurance in the state to help you get started.

  1. What is the best way to figure out which insurer is best for me in Illinois?
  2. What are the best coverages to add to your car insurance policy in Illinois?
  3. How important is it for drivers in Illinois to get car insurance from a provider with a great service reputation?
David Miller
David Miller

Vice President, Client Executive at Plexus Groupe

About Mark Fitzpatrick


Mark Fitzpatrick headshot

Mark Fitzpatrick is a senior content director at MoneyGeek with over five years of experience analyzing the insurance market, conducting original research and creating content that can be personalized for every buyer. He has been quoted on insurance topics in several publications, including CNBC, NBC News and Mashable.

Mark 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 economics and insurance knowledge to bring transparency around financial topics and help others feel confident in their money moves.


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