Best Car Insurance in North Carolina

The top-rated auto insurance companies in North Carolina for 2026 are Progressive, Farmers, State Farm, Erie and Nationwide.

Discover if you're overpaying for North Carolina car insurance below.

Written by Mark Fitzpatrick

Updated: December 29, 2025

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Top-Rated Car Insurance Companies in North Carolina

The top-rated car insurance companies in North Carolina are:

Best Overall: Progressive
Best Cheap: State Farm
Best for Young Adults: Farmers
Best Regional Insurer: Erie

Why You Can Trust MoneyGeek

MoneyGeek's proprietary methodology identified North Carolina's best car insurance by researching over 70 companies and analyzing actual quotes, verified customer reviews from trusted sources like J.D. Power, and coverage details. Our ratings prioritize what matters most: affordability (60%), customer experience (30%) and coverage options (10%).

Best Car Insurance Companies in North Carolina

Progressive is the best car insurance company in North Carolina, with a 4.4 out of 5 MoneyGeek score. It excels in affordability, customer service and coverage options.

State Farm leads in affordability with North Carolina's best car insurance rates. The company offers the lowest premiums for most driver profiles, with a $56 monthly premium that's 50% below state averages for adults with clean driving records.

Farmers earns top marks for coverage options with a 4.8 out of 5 score. It provides the state's most extensive coverage customization while maintaining competitive rates for young adults.

Our recommendations provide a starting point, but your age, driving record and coverage needs determine which provider offers the best value. Compare these top companies to find the insurer that best fits your profile.

Data filtered by:


Progressive	4.40	$61	4.80	3.90	4.50
Farmers	3.80	$100	3.10	3.40	4.80
State Farm	3.60	$56	5.00	3.80	1.90
Erie Insurance	3.60	$111	2.70	4.40	3.60
Nationwide	3.30	$104	3.00	3.60	3.30
Penn National Insurance	3.20	$106	2.90	3.40	3.30

*These rates are for a male driver insuring a 2012 Toyota Camry with good credit.

How much does car insurance in North Carolina cost?

How much car insurance do I need in North Carolina?

Best Overall Insurer in North Carolina: Progressive

Progressive

Best Overall in North Carolina

MoneyGeek Rating

4.4/ 5

4.8/5Affordability

3.9/5Customer Experience

4.5/5Coverage Points

Average Monthly Full Coverage Cost
$61
Average Monthly Minimum Coverage Cost
$35
Unique Coverage Add-on
Pet Injury Coverage

pros
- Earns MoneyGeek's highest score (4.4/5) for North Carolina insurers
- Includes add-ons like pet injury protection that most insurers don't offer
- Handles claims quickly with 12 in-state claims centers
cons
- Mobile app rates 4.6 stars (behind top competitors)
- Pet injury and custom parts coverage cost more than standard options
Progressive earns MoneyGeek's highest score (4.4 out of 5) among North Carolina insurers. The company ranks first in all three categories: affordability, customer experience and coverage options.

Progressive offers competitive rates for both clean-record drivers and high-risk drivers rebuilding after violations. North Carolina drivers get comprehensive coverage at rates 38% below the state average.
Progressive's monthly premiums range from $35 for minimum coverage to $2,065 for high-risk drivers with full coverage. Most drivers with clean records pay $45 to $75 monthly for full coverage. Young drivers pay $180 to $350.

These rates run 38% below North Carolina averages, saving drivers about $353 annually.

Progressive offers additional savings through its Snapshot program (up to 30% off based on driving habits) and bundling discounts (12% off when combining home and auto policies).
Progressive scores 3.9 out of 5 for customer satisfaction. The company operates 12 claims centers across North Carolina that process standard claims within five to seven business days. Customer service runs 24/7 at 1-800-776-4737 with average wait times under five minutes.

The mobile app rates 4.6 stars in North Carolina — behind competitors but functional. You can file claims, generate photo estimates, receive direct deposit payments and manage policy details through the app.
Progressive scores 4.5 out of 5 for coverage options — the highest among North Carolina insurers. Beyond standard liability, collision, uninsured/underinsured motorist and medical payments, Progressive offers coverages most insurers don't:
- Pet injury: $1,000 per incident for your furry passengers
- Custom parts and equipment: Up to $5,000 for aftermarket modifications
- Rideshare: Bridges the gap for Uber and Lyft drivers
- Gap insurance: Pays the difference between your car's value and what you owe
- Rental reimbursement: $30 to $50 daily when your car's in the shop
- Roadside assistance: Just $16 annually covers towing, battery jumps and lockout services
Liability limits range from state minimums (30/60/25) to 250/500/100.

Best Cheap Company in North Carolina: State Farm

State Farm

Best Cheap Overall in North Carolina

MoneyGeek Rating

3.6/ 5

5/5Affordability

3.8/5Customer Experience

1.9/5Coverage Points

Average Monthly Full Coverage Cost
$56
Average Monthly Minimum Coverage Cost
$24
Unique Coverage Add-on
Drive Safe & Save Program

pros
- Leads in affordability rankings with the lowest rates in North Carolina
- Over 850 local agents statewide provide face-to-face service
- Strong financial ratings demonstrate long-term stability
cons
- Coverage options rank below average compared to competitors
- Customer experience scores show room for service improvements
State Farm charges the lowest rates in North Carolina, with a 5 out of 5 affordability score and a 3.6 overall MoneyGeek rating. Average monthly rates of $40 across all coverage levels make it the cheapest option among top-rated providers.

Coverage options stay simpler than Progressive's or Farmers' offerings. Over 850 North Carolina offices provide local agent access for drivers who want in-person service.
State Farm leads in affordability for North Carolina car insurance. State minimum coverage starts at $24 monthly, and full coverage costs $56 (both below market averages).

Clean-record adults pay $30 to $50 monthly for full coverage. Young drivers pay $120 to $250 monthly, still below most competitors.

Drive Safe & Save cuts premiums up to 30% through driving habit monitoring. Multi-policy bundles save around 15%. Good student discounts and accident-free rewards provide additional savings.
Customer experience scores 3.8 out of 5, supported by State Farm's widespread local presence. Over 850 North Carolina agents provide face-to-face interactions for drivers who prefer in-person service over digital options. Claims processing runs seven to 10 business days on average.

The mobile app includes basic features: ID cards, bill payments and claim tracking. Round-the-clock claims reporting works through the app, phone (800-STATE-FARM) or your local agent's office. Local agents handle complex claims and policy questions directly.
Coverage options score 1.9 out of 5, showing State Farm's focus on core financial protections over extensive add-ons. Coverage includes collision, liability, uninsured/underinsured motorist and medical payments. Policy limits run from North Carolina's minimums (30/60/25) to 250/500/100.

Add-on options:
- Drive Safe & Save: Tracks mileage and driving through a mobile app or beacon, with discounts of up to 30%
- Rental car reimbursement: $25 to $100 daily
- Roadside assistance: Standard towing and emergency services
- Rideshare coverage: Financial protection for Uber and Lyft drivers

Best Insurer for Young Adults: Farmers

Farmers

Best for Young Adults

MoneyGeek Rating

3.8/ 5

3.1/5Affordability

3.4/5Customer Experience

4.8/5Coverage Points

Average Monthly Full Coverage Cost
$142
Average Monthly Minimum Coverage Cost
$50
Unique Coverage Add-on
Signal App with Smart Ride Discount

pros
- Young drivers pay 25% less than the state average—third-best affordability ranking for this age group
- Industry-leading 4.8 out of 5 coverage score with extensive customization
- Strong agent network with specialists dedicated to first-time policyholders
cons
- Overall, the affordability score lags behind the top competitors
- Digital tools and claims processing speed trail industry leaders
- Premium increases after the first policy term can sting
Rates 25% below North Carolina's young driver average put Farmers first for this age group. The 4.8 out of 5 coverage score (highest among reviewed North Carolina insurers) combines with below-average pricing. College students, recent grads and first-time buyers get both affordability and comprehensive coverage.

Coverage customization distinguishes Farmers for young drivers. Policy options pair with an agent network that guides first-time buyers through decisions.
Clean-record young drivers pay $142 monthly for Farmers full coverage, 25% below what most insurers charge this age group in North Carolina. Adult drivers pay $100 to $380 monthly, depending on credit and coverage choices. State minimum coverage costs $50 monthly.

Young driver rates span $142 to $538 monthly, driven mainly by credit history. The Signal app cuts premiums up to 15% for safe driving patterns. Good student discounts reward B averages or higher.

Defensive driving courses add reductions. Policy bundling saves another 10%. Three claim-free years unlock accident forgiveness, preventing rate increases after the first at-fault crash.
Customer experience scores 3.4 out of 5 (middle of the pack among North Carolina insurers). Over 600 statewide agents include specialists for new drivers who guide them through coverage decisions and claims.

Claims take 10 to 14 business days. The mobile app handles basics: ID cards, payments and claim filing. User feedback notes room for improvement compared to competitors. Round-the-clock claims reporting runs through 1-800-FARMERS, the app or local agents.

Young adults get specialized first-claim support: resources explaining the process, plus help managing communications with other accident parties.
Coverage breadth scores 4.8 out of 5 (highest in our North Carolina analysis). Comprehensive, collision, liability, uninsured/underinsured motorist and medical payments coverage form the foundation. Policy limits run from North Carolina's minimums (30/60/25) to 300/500/300. Deductibles flex from $250 to $2,000.

Coverage options for young drivers:
- Signal Smart Ride: App tracks driving, discounts up to 15% for safe habits
- Rideshare gap coverage: For Uber, Lyft and delivery drivers
- New car replacement: Full cost for vehicles under two years old totaled in crashes
- Accident forgiveness: First at-fault crash won't spike rates after three claim-free years
- Rental reimbursement: $35 to $75 daily
- Roadside assistance: 24/7 towing, battery, fuel and lockout help for $20 annually

Best Regional Insurer: Erie

Erie

Best Regional Insurer

MoneyGeek Rating

3.6/ 5

2.7/5Affordability

4.4/5Customer Experience

3.6/5Coverage Points

Average Monthly Full Coverage Cost
$75
Average Monthly Minimum Coverage Cost
$35
Unique Coverage Add-on
Rate Lock Coverage Guarantee

pros
- First place in North Carolina for customer satisfaction
- Regional focus means personalized service and faster claims resolution
- Rates average 24% below the state average across all driver profiles
cons
- Digital tools lag behind national carriers
- Fewer coverage add-ons than larger competitors
Erie earns a 3.6 out of 5 MoneyGeek score and ranks first among North Carolina insurers for customer satisfaction.

The regional approach enables quick claims processing and relationships with local agents. Local decision-making moves faster. Agents understand area-specific needs, and service interactions stay personal rather than automated.
Pricing runs from $35 monthly for state minimum coverage to $75 for clean-record full coverage. These rates sit 24% below North Carolina's average, saving typical policyholders roughly $285 annually.

Clean-record adults pay $55 to $85 monthly for full coverage. Young drivers pay $165 to $320 monthly.

Rate Lock guarantees no increase after your first at-fault accident. Traditional discounts include multi-policy bundles (typically 15% savings) and good student discounts (B averages or higher). Long-term customers get loyalty rewards for consistent renewals.
Customer experience scores 4.4 out of 5, first among North Carolina insurers. Twenty-eight local offices statewide provide face-to-face service. Standard claims close in five to seven business days. Complex claims get dedicated adjusters.

Round-the-clock service runs through 1-800-458-0811 with sub-three-minute average wait times. North Carolina users rate Erie's mobile app 4.4 stars for digital ID cards, policy management and claim reporting.

The app's features trail some competitors' digital options. Policyholders praise transparent claims communication. The regional focus enables quicker decisions than large carriers provide.
Coverage options score 3.6 out of 5 compared to other North Carolina insurers. Core options include comprehensive, collision, liability, uninsured/underinsured motorist and medical payments. Policy limits flex from state minimums (30/60/25) to 250/500/100.

Erie's features:
- Rate Lock: First accident forgiveness unique among North Carolina regional carriers
- Guaranteed repair program: Lifetime warranty at Erie-approved facilities
- Diminishing deductible: Drops $50 yearly per claim-free year, up to $500 total
- Emergency expense coverage: Up to $500 for hotels, meals and transportation after covered accidents
- Rental reimbursement: $30 to $50 daily
- Roadside assistance: $18 yearly per vehicle for towing, battery, flat tires and lockouts
- Custom equipment coverage: Up to $10,000 for aftermarket parts and modifications

How to Find the Best Car Insurance in North Carolina

Finding the best car insurance in North Carolina requires more than just clicking the first online quote you see. Your ideal coverage balances cost, protection and service quality, and that mix varies for every driver.

1
Understand North Carolina's insurance requirements
Before comparing car insurance quotes in North Carolina, know what the state requires: $30,000 bodily injury coverage per person, $60,000 per accident, $25,000 property damage coverage and uninsured motorist coverage at these same liability limits.

Most drivers need more than these minimums. If you own substantial assets or finance your vehicle, your lender will require comprehensive and collision coverage.

Think about what you're protecting. A 10-year-old sedan with 150,000 miles probably doesn't need collision coverage. Skipping comprehensive on a $25,000 newer vehicle could cost you thousands in one incident.
2
Research average costs
Full coverage car insurance in North Carolina costs $1,200 to $1,500 per year. Your actual rate depends on your age, driving history, credit score, location and vehicle.

Use this range as a baseline. Quotes over $2,000 annually for basic coverage with a clean record indicate you're probably overpaying.

Your ZIP code affects your rate; urban areas cost more. So do your vehicle's safety ratings, annual mileage and even your education level with some insurers.
3
Find discounts you qualify for
North Carolina drivers can tap into several car insurance discounts. Bundling multiple policies often saves 10% to 15%. Good student discounts reward young drivers who maintain B averages. Defensive driving courses approved by the state's Division of Motor Vehicles can lower your premium.

Usage-based insurance programs track your actual driving habits. Progressive's Snapshot and State Farm's Drive Safe & Save can save safe drivers 15% to 30%. Ask about vehicle safety discounts if your car has anti-theft systems, airbags or electronic stability control.
4
Compare insurance companies, not just prices
Affordable car insurance means more than finding the lowest premium. A $50 monthly policy with minimal coverage and poor claims handling isn't cheaper than a $65 policy from an insurer known for fast, fair settlements.

Read customer reviews about claims experiences. Check financial stability ratings from AM Best. Look at coverage options. Farmers leads North Carolina insurers with extensive add-ons. State Farm keeps options minimal but affordable.
5
Compare quotes through multiple means
Get car insurance quotes from at least three to five companies. Use direct insurer websites, independent agents and online comparison tools.

Independent agents often access regional insurers not available through comparison sites. Erie Insurance, for example, primarily sells through local agents and ranks first in North Carolina for customer experience.

Provide the same information to every insurer. Otherwise, you're comparing different products instead of finding the best price for identical coverage.
6
Review your policy every year
Car insurance prices change constantly. Companies update rates and underwriting standards throughout the year. Set a calendar reminder to review your coverage and get new quotes annually. Last year's best deal might not be competitive today.

Life changes impact your rates, too. Buying a home, paying off your car loan, adding a young driver or moving all affect what you pay. Many drivers overpay by keeping coverage they no longer need or by failing to switch car insurance companies.

Best Car Insurance Coverage in North Carolina

State minimums often don't provide enough financial protection for real accident costs. North Carolina ranks 32nd nationally for traffic safety, which means crashes happen more often than you'd hope.

An emergency room visit costs about $2,200 on average nationwide. A serious trauma case at a Charlotte, Raleigh or Greensboro hospital costs $35,000 to $50,000. Vehicle repairs after moderate collisions usually run over $15,000.

Minimum coverage won't cover you if you cause an accident that injures multiple people on I-40 or I-85. Lawsuits will drain your savings and garnish your wages.

North Carolina's 14.2 traffic deaths per 100,000 residents exceed the national average, while the state's 7.4% uninsured driver rate means roughly 530,000 drivers operate without required coverage. These factors make robust liability coverage and uninsured motorist protection valuable for North Carolina drivers.

MoneyGeek recommends these coverage levels for North Carolina drivers:

Liability: 100/300/100 ($100,000 per person, $300,000 per accident, $100,000 property damage) costs just $15 to $25 more monthly than state minimums and covers most North Carolina drivers adequately.

Drivers with substantial assets (homeowners, business owners or high earners) should choose 250/500/100 limits. This costs $25 to $40 more monthly than minimums but covers your assets if you cause a serious accident. North Carolina's above-average traffic fatality rate makes higher liability limits worth the cost.

Comprehensive and Collision: Add full coverage if your vehicle is worth more than $4,000 or carries a loan. Choose $500 or $1,000 deductibles based on your emergency savings—a $500 deductible costs $20 to $30 more monthly than $1,000 but lowers your out-of-pocket costs after incidents.

Comprehensive coverage matters in North Carolina, where weather-related incidents damage thousands of vehicles annually, and Charlotte's vehicle theft rates exceed national averages. Collision coverage protects you in heavy traffic areas where accident rates spike during tourist season in Asheville and the Outer Banks.

Medical Payments: $5,000 to $10,000 covers immediate medical expenses after accidents regardless of fault. In North Carolina, this coverage pays quickly without waiting for liability determinations. You avoid out-of-pocket costs while claims work through the state's at-fault system.

Medical payments coverage costs $5 to $15 monthly for $5,000 in coverage, which is worth it given North Carolina's traffic risks.

Additional Coverage to Consider: Rental reimbursement ($30 to $50 daily) covers transportation costs while your car is in the shop. Roadside assistance provides towing, battery service and lockout help for $15 to $25 annually.

Gap insurance matters if you owe more on your vehicle loan than the car's current value. It protects you from paying thousands out of pocket if your financed vehicle gets totaled

Finding the Best Car Insurance Rates in North Carolina

North Carolina's competitive insurance market and consumer-friendly regulations keep car insurance rates affordable for most drivers. State minimum coverage costs just $40 monthly, ranking North Carolina first nationally for affordable basic coverage.

Full coverage runs $50 to $60 more monthly than the state minimum. Average premiums hit $90 monthly for full coverage with a $1,000 deductible, 16% below the national average.

Compare your quotes with these averages using the table or our North Carolina car insurance calculator.

Data filtered by:


Clean	$40	$90	1
Not At Fault Accident ($1000-$1999 Prop Dmg)	$40	$90	2
Texting While Driving	$53	$113	4
At Fault Accident ($1000-$1999 Prop Dmg)	$54	$113	7
Speeding 11-15 MPH over limit	$57	$123	3
DUI - BAC >= .08	$146	$310	10

HOW VIOLATIONS AFFECT YOUR RATES IN NORTH CAROLINA

DUI convictions hit North Carolina car insurance rates hardest, spiking premiums 246% and triggering SR-22 certificate requirements for three years. Texting while driving and at-fault accidents raise rates similarly (26% to 28%), adding $23 monthly to full coverage.

Best North Carolina Auto Insurance: Bottom Line

Progressive ranks first for most North Carolina drivers with a 4.4 overall score, balancing competitive rates ($61 monthly full coverage), customer service and coverage options. Your priorities determine the best choice: State Farm charges the lowest rates ($56 monthly for clean-record adults), Farmers offers young drivers extensive coverage customization at rates 25% below average, and Erie scores highest for customer satisfaction.

Compare quotes from at least three insurers. Your age, driving record and coverage needs determine which company offers the best value, as rates vary widely by driver profile.

Best Car Insurance in North Carolina Chart

Best Auto Insurance in North Carolina: FAQ

Choosing the right car insurance hinges on your specific needs. These answers to common questions help you pick suitable coverage.

What do I need to get car insurance in North Carolina as a new resident?

New North Carolina residents need a valid driver's license, vehicle registration and VIN for each vehicle. Most insurers require your Social Security number to check your credit score, which affects your rate.

You must get coverage within 30 days of establishing residency. You'll also need to provide your five-year driving history, including any accidents and violations.

Transferring from another state? Update your existing policy to meet North Carolina's minimum requirements, which include mandatory uninsured motorist coverage.

Can I drive in North Carolina with out-of-state insurance?

You can drive temporarily with valid out-of-state insurance. If you establish residency (get a job, register to vote or stay more than six months), you must get North Carolina insurance within 30 days.

Your out-of-state policy must meet North Carolina's minimum requirements, including uninsured motorist coverage. Military members stationed in North Carolina can keep their home-state insurance but should verify that their policy meets state standards.

What happens if I get caught driving without insurance in North Carolina?

Driving without insurance results in immediate suspension, a $50 license restoration fee, and a $50 civil penalty for first offenses. Subsequent offenses within three years increase penalties to $100 each. You'll need SR-22 certification for three years, substantially increasing insurance costs. If you cause an accident while uninsured, you're personally liable for all damages and medical expenses with no insurance protection.

How do I switch car insurance companies in North Carolina?

Purchase your new policy before canceling coverage to avoid gaps that trigger license suspension. Start your new policy the same day or the day after your old policy ends. Request cancellation in writing from your current insurer with your policy number and cancellation date. Most North Carolina insurers don't charge cancellation fees for policies over six months old. You'll receive prorated refunds for any unused coverage paid in advance.

Does North Carolina offer car insurance discounts for military members?

Most North Carolina insurers offer military discounts ranging from 4% to 15% for active-duty members, veterans and military spouses. USAA, GEICO, Armed Forces Insurance and Navy Federal specialize in military coverage. Ask about storage discounts during deployment, emergency payment extensions, military defensive driving course discounts and waived deductibles for vehicles damaged during deployment.

How We Rated the Best Car Insurance in North Carolina

We researched more than 70 companies, from national to small local providers across all U.S. residential ZIP codes in North Carolina. We also checked the internet for customer reviews, discounts and coverage details to give you a complete picture of each provider's services. All companies had enough customer reviews and coverage information to make our list.

Here's how we score each company:

Affordability (60%): We looked at quotes for different driver profiles and compared rates within North Carolina. Our main rating is based on a 40-year-old male with good credit, no driving violations, no claims history and a valid license. We also checked other combinations to ensure you find the right fit.
Customer experience (30%): We used sources like Google reviews, J.D. Power, AM Best and Reddit to see what customers think about each company. We focused on North Carolina-specific feedback to get an accurate score.
Coverage options (10%): This score considers the number of coverage options a company offers, what makes it unique and what benefits it includes.

About Mark Fitzpatrick

Mark Fitzpatrick, a Licensed Property and Casualty Insurance Producer, is MoneyGeek's resident Personal Finance Expert. He has analyzed the insurance market for over five years, conducting original research for insurance shoppers. His insights have been featured in CNBC, NBC News and Mashable.

Fitzpatrick holds a master’s degree in economics and international relations from Johns Hopkins University and a bachelor’s degree from Boston College. He's also a five-time Jeopardy champion!

He writes about economics and insurance, breaking down complex topics so people know what they're buying.

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