Updated: May 20, 2024
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The best car insurance in Minnesota hinges on individual needs. MoneyGeek ranks Auto-Owners as the top choice overall and the preferred option for families with a teen driver. For minimum coverage policies, Westfield earns the highest marks.
MoneyGeek also analyzed the cheapest car insurance in Minnesota if cost, rather than service quality, is your primary consideration.
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Why Trust MoneyGeek? We created an insurance scoring system for providers in Texas 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 Minnesota.
Auto-Owners stands out as the top car insurance provider in Minnesota, with a high MoneyGeek score of 89 out of 100. The scores for car insurance companies evaluated range from 89 to 63, providing a perspective on the competitive landscape. These scores are based on MoneyGeek's baseline scoring system; insurer scores can vary for different driver profiles.
How does MoneyGeek score companies?
MoneyGeek scores highlight the importance of customer satisfaction and affordability while also giving considerable weight to claims experience and offered coverages. These metrics indicate an insurer's overall performance, guiding consumers to make informed decisions about their insurance needs.
Iowa Farm Bureau and Farmers Union Insurance did not receive MoneyGeek scores due to incomplete data across the five scoring components. Notably, Iowa Farm Bureau exhibited strength in customer satisfaction and affordability, situating itself as a strong performer in those areas.
| Auto-Owners Insurance Co | MoneyGeek Score (/100)89 | Annual Premium$1,058 |
| Westfield | MoneyGeek Score (/100)89 | Annual Premium$1,004 |
| American Family | MoneyGeek Score (/100)88 | Annual Premium$882 |
| West Bend Mutual | MoneyGeek Score (/100)86 | Annual Premium$1,206 |
| AAA | MoneyGeek Score (/100)81 | Annual Premium$813 |
| Travelers | MoneyGeek Score (/100)80 | Annual Premium$1,086 |
| State Farm | MoneyGeek Score (/100)77 | Annual Premium$1,267 |
| Western National | MoneyGeek Score (/100)77 | Annual Premium$1,488 |
| Nationwide | MoneyGeek Score (/100)75 | Annual Premium$1,294 |
| Country Financial | MoneyGeek Score (/100)73 | Annual Premium$1,400 |
| Allstate | MoneyGeek Score (/100)71 | Annual Premium$1,259 |
| GEICO | MoneyGeek Score (/100)63 | Annual Premium$1,813 |
| Iowa Farm Bureau | MoneyGeek Score (/100)No Data | Annual Premium$857 |
| Farmers Union Insurance | MoneyGeek Score (/100)No Data | Annual Premium$1,473 |
MoneyGeek found that Auto-Owners is the best full coverage car insurance provider in Minnesota, with a close-to-perfect MoneyGeek score of 89 out of 100. Here are the top two contenders:
Auto-Owners distinguishes itself with its outstanding affordability and claims handling scores, indicating a balance of value and customer service excellence. These qualities significantly influence its overall MoneyGeek rating.
For motorists looking for affordable options without sacrificing quality, MoneyGeek also studied the cheapest full coverage car insurance in Minnesota.
Ranks No. 1 for claims handling.
Offers rare coverages like diminished value and deductible modification.
Has a lower customer satisfaction rating, ranking No. 9 out of 14 providers.
Ranks No. 5 for cost, with an average annual premium of $1,058.
Does not offer original equipment manufacturer (OEM) coverage.
Auto-Owners achieves a high MoneyGeek score primarily due to excellent customer satisfaction and claims handling scores. The provider includes common coverages such as roadside assistance and rental car/travel reimbursement, ensuring it meets core customer needs. Additionally, Auto-Owners provides common coverages like gap insurance and accident forgiveness, enhancing protection for customers. Though it lacks some rare coverages, Auto-Owners remains a compelling choice, scoring 89 out of 100.
Auto-Owners' diminished value coverage addresses the potential decrease in vehicle value after an accident, safeguarding a car's worth. The company also offers a comprehensive coverage package that simplifies protection enhancements for vehicle owners. Roadside assistance can be indispensable for those prone to on-the-road incidents, providing immediate help for issues like flat tires or dead batteries. With a satisfaction score of 31 (out of 35) and an affordability score of 25 (out of 30), the company demonstrates a strong balance of customer contentment and cost efficiency.
MoneyGeek found that Auto-Owners is the best option in Minnesota for exceptional car insurance service, boasting an impressive overall MoneyGeek score.
Auto-Owners stands out due to its outstanding customer satisfaction and robust claims handling scores, significantly driving the overall MoneyGeek score. Despite having a slightly higher annual premium, the company delivers excellent customer service that justifies the additional expense.
In a state like Minnesota, where weather conditions can vary greatly and road incidents are not uncommon, it is important that an insurance company offers good customer service and efficient claims processing. These factors ensure that in the event of an accident, customers receive the support they need without undue stress, further enhancing overall satisfaction with their insurance experience.
Ranks No. 1 for claims handling.
Offers rare coverages like diminished value coverage.
Offers common coverages like accident forgiveness and deductible modification.
Ranks No. 9 in customer satisfaction, scoring 39 out of 45.
Auto-Owners' high MoneyGeek score can be attributed to excellent satisfaction and claims handling. Although it provides common coverages such as rental car/travel reimbursement and roadside assistance, it's noteworthy that the insurer lacks common coverages like gap insurance and accident forgiveness. Despite this, Auto-Owners remains a highly recommended option.
Auto-Owners stands out with its personal automobile plus package, encompassing multiple rare coverages to enhance your insurance protection significantly. The diminished value coverage is especially valuable, as it addresses the potential loss in car value following an accident, ensuring customers don't bear the full financial brunt. Deductible modification is another unique offering, with the company waiving the collision deductible under certain conditions, adding further financial cushioning for customers. These features, along with a satisfaction score of 39 (out of 45), claims handling score of 30 (out of 30) and coverage score of 17 (out of 20), make Auto-Owners a top-tier choice for car insurance customers seeking comprehensive and customer-oriented service.
MoneyGeek found that Westfield is the best option in Minnesota for drivers seeking minimum coverage car insurance. This provider delivers quality service at competitive prices, standing as a front-runner in the car insurance landscape.
Westfield distinguishes itself with the highest MoneyGeek score in Minnesota, excelling in customer satisfaction and affordability, which are significant aspects of the overall assessment. Its annual cost for the minimum insurance required by law in Minnesota is stellar at $359.
Although many companies in Minnesota offer cheap minimum coverage car insurance, it’s important to recognize the potential risks. Opting for only the state-required minimums can expose you to considerable financial vulnerabilities in the event of accidents with significant damages or injuries that exceed coverage limits. Customers seeking robust protection should consider policies with more comprehensive coverage even though they may come at a higher cost.
Offers roadside assistance and gap insurance.
Ranks No. 1 for cost, with an average annual premium of $359.
Ranks No. 4 for general customer satisfaction.
Ranks No. 3 for claims satisfaction.
With top-tier affordability (40/40) and high satisfaction (21/25) scores, Westfield rises to the top of MoneyGeek rankings. It offers car insurance with minimum coverage at an average annual cost of $359. Westfield extends valuable discounts such as homeowner discounts and bundled policies that appeal to diverse insurance needs.
Westfield's breadth of discounts includes bundling, multiple cars and safe driving. Although specific details on discounts are not available, accessibility to such offerings can lead to significant reductions in premiums, demonstrating Westfield's dedication to affordability and customer satisfaction.
Driver age significantly determines car insurance rates in Minnesota, impacting the cost and specific coverages and discounts. MoneyGeek found that Auto-Owners is the best option for teens (scoring 91 out of 100), offering policies at an average annual premium of $1,581. It is also a top choice for seniors, scoring 88 out of 100. For young adults, American Family takes the lead, scoring 89 out of 100, with a yearly premium of about $895. Each company excels in its category, providing tailored insurance solutions for the respective age groups.
Best for Teens: Auto-Owners
Best for Seniors: Auto-Owners
Best for Young Adults: American Family
MoneyGeek found that Auto-Owners is the best option in Minnesota for car insurance for teens, providing top-notch coverage at competitive rates. Delving into the specifics:
Auto-Owners stands out due to its exceptional customer satisfaction and claims handling scores, which significantly contribute to its near-perfect MoneyGeek score. For families seeking affordable policies for teens, Auto-Owners offers a teen policy at $1,581 annually. To secure cheap car insurance for teens in Minnesota, adding them to a family policy is generally more cost-effective than setting up an independent one.
Adding a teen to a car insurance policy in Minnesota, as in other states, is expensive due to the higher risk teens pose as inexperienced drivers. Insurance companies view them as more likely to file claims, thus justifying the higher premiums for this demographic.
Offers good student and distant student discounts.
Ranks No. 1 for claims handling.
Ranks No. 1 for key coverages.
Ranks No. 3 in customer satisfaction.
Ranks No. 3 for affordability, with an average annual premium of $1,581.
Doesn't offer driver's education discount.
Auto-Owners stands out with outstanding coverage (10/10) and claims handling (20/20) scores, contributing to its overall MoneyGeek Score of 91 out of 100. Although it doesn't offer a driver's education discount, the company does offer good student and distant student discounts, allowing for more savings for young drivers and their families. It also scores well in other areas, more than compensating for any missing discounts.
Auto-Owners' insurance package features the “Personal Automobile Plus Package,” which offers a suite of valuable add-ons in a convenient bundle for enhanced protection — perfect for drivers seeking layered coverages. Additionally, clients benefit from diminished value coverage, which helps if a vehicle's market worth is negatively impacted by an accident. These rare coverages can be crucial, offering peace of mind and financial safeguards in various scenarios, making Auto-Owners a top choice for comprehensive car insurance needs.
MoneyGeek found that Auto-Owners is the best option in Minnesota for car insurance for seniors, boasting the highest MoneyGeek score among competitors.
Auto-Owners stands out due to its top-notch claims handling and high customer satisfaction scores, which significantly contribute to its overall MoneyGeek score. Cheap car insurance for seniors in Minnesota costs around $956 per year with Auto-Owners, which is higher than the rates for individuals in younger age brackets, such as those in their 30s to 50s.
Car insurance for seniors in Minnesota has competitive rates for older adults. MoneyGeek's analysis uses rates for those in their 60s as a benchmark. However, as drivers enter their 70s and beyond, premiums traditionally increase due to the higher risk associated with driving in older age.
Offers roadside assistance and rental car/travel reimbursement.
Ranks No. 1 for claims handling.
Doesn't excel in customer satisfaction, ranking No. 9.
Ranks No. 4 for cost, with an average annual premium of $956.
With exceptional scores in claims handling (20 out of 20) and satisfaction (31 out of 35), Auto-Owners leads with its high MoneyGeek score of 89 out of 100. Its remarkable performance in affordability and service ensures that customers experience efficient and effective service when it matters most. Notably, the company's average annual premium stands at $956. Although Auto-Owners doesn't offer a senior discount at the moment, its competitive pricing model provides value across the board for consumers. These features, combined with the highest stability score of 5, assure customers of a secure and dependable insurance experience.
MoneyGeek found that American Family is the best option in Minnesota for car insurance for young adults.
American Family stands out for its high satisfaction and affordability scores, which are crucial for drivers in their 20s. If you are looking for cheap car insurance for a young adult in Minnesota, the annual cost of American Family's policy for young adults is significantly lower than that of its nearest competitor, costing around $892 per year.
Car insurance for young adults is generally more expensive across Minnesota and other states because insurers view younger drivers as higher risk due to their lack of experience behind the wheel and higher likelihood of filing claims. This risk is translated into higher premiums to offset the potential cost that insurers may incur.
Ranks No. 1 for cost, with an average annual premium of $892 for full coverage.
Offers good student and distant student discounts.
Ranks No. 5 in customer satisfaction, with a score of 31 out of 35.
American Family's exceptional affordability (30 out of 30) and satisfaction (31 out of 35) scores significantly contribute to its high MoneyGeek score. It also excels in claims handling (15 out of 20) and provides solid stability (3 out of 5), further reinforcing trust and reliability in its services. The company offers good student and distant student discounts. Note that the absence of a driver's education discount for young adults in school is offset by strong performance in other areas. Moreover, with the inclusion of roadside assistance, rental car/travel reimbursement and auto death indemnity coverage, the company stands out in offering essential protection.
American Family extends coverage options that cater to a wide range of needs. Original equipment manufacturer (OEM) coverage is particularly beneficial, offering peace of mind that only original factory parts will be used for repairs. Accident forgiveness can save drivers from increased rates after their first at-fault accident, emphasizing American Family's commitment to long-term customer satisfaction. Additionally, gap insurance might be a sound investment for those who owe more on their car loan than the vehicle's worth, safeguarding against financial loss due to car depreciation. These offerings underscore American Family's dedication to comprehensive and tailored insurance solutions.
MoneyGeek found that Auto-Owners is the best option in Minnesota for car insurance for drivers with driving offenses. Its exceptional MoneyGeek score reflects a strong balance between affordability and customer satisfaction.
Auto-Owners distinguishes itself with the highest claims handling and customer satisfaction scores, making it a top-tier option for drivers with records of speeding, at-fault accidents or DUIs. Its annual premium of $1,480 highlights the value it offers to drivers seeking cheap car insurance as a high-risk driver in Minnesota.
Insurance premiums typically increase after traffic violations because insurers view these drivers as more likely to file a claim, thus representing a higher risk. As a comparison, prices for high-risk drivers in their 30s, 40s or 50s may often be less as these age groups are generally perceived to be more stable and less risky.
Ranks No. 1 for claims handling.
Offers roadside assistance, rental car/travel reimbursement, accident forgiveness, gap insurance and deductible modification, which benefit accident-prone drivers.
Ranks No. 5 for cost, with an annual premium of $1,480.
Auto-Owners' MoneyGeek score of 91 out of 100 is due to its high scores in satisfaction (31 out of 35) and claims handling (20 out of 20), highlighting the company's commitment to customer service and efficient claims resolution. The company's average annual premium is $1,480, reflecting a competitive rate for drivers with infractions such as tickets, at-fault accidents and DUIs. With an affordability score of 26 out of 30, Auto-Owners is a cost-effective option for those who face higher premiums due to driving offenses.
Auto-Owners creates a strong foundation for those with a checkered driving history with coverages like roadside assistance and rental car/travel reimbursement. The firm's robust offerings, including accident forgiveness, gap insurance and deductible modification, show that it prioritizes providing high-quality services that bolster the driver experience, emphasizing the protection and peace of mind customers value after a mishap.
MoneyGeek found that Travelers is the best car insurance option in Minnesota for drivers with new cars. With competitive rates and robust coverage options, it's an excellent choice for those looking for financial security for their new vehicle.
Travelers distinguishes itself from other companies in the state through its high MoneyGeek score and by offering essential coverages for new vehicles. With an annual cost of $1,216, Travelers provides excellent value. Insurers offering new car replacement and/or better car replacement coverages can save clients significant money in the event of an accident, even if the premiums are slightly higher. Without these coverages, the payout in case of a total loss would only reflect the car's current value, factoring in depreciation.
Ranks No. 2 for customer satisfaction.
Ranks No. 1 for claims handling.
Ranks No. 1 in affordability, with an average premium of $1,216.
Offers new car replacement, enhancing protection for new vehicles.
Has a lower customer satisfaction score than the competition.
Travelers excels in affordability and claims handling, both contributing significantly to its outstanding MoneyGeek Score of 93 out of 100. At an average annual premium of $1,216, Travelers offers competitive pricing for robust policy benefits.
Travelers' new car replacement coverage benefits new car owners, ensuring their investment is safeguarded. This optional coverage ensures that if your new car is totaled, you can replace it without suffering a significant financial loss due to depreciation. With high satisfaction (28 out of 35) and top marks in claims handling (20 out of 20), Travelers is a standout choice for drivers prioritizing extensive coverage and dependable service.
MoneyGeek found that Auto-Owners, with a high MoneyGeek score of 89 out of 100, is the best option in Minnesota for car insurance tailored to military personnel.
In addition to the top two providers, USAA is a solid choice for individuals with a military background. The company offers a balance between service quality and affordability.
Auto-Owners stands out primarily due to its exceptional claims handling and customer satisfaction scores, which are significant factors in the overall MoneyGeek score. Its affordability score also plays an important role, making it a preferred provider with an annual premium of $1,058. Those looking for cost-effectiveness without compromising service quality could benefit from exploring the cheapest car insurance in Minnesota for military drivers.
Ranks No. 1 for claims handling.
Excels in key coverages, ranking No. 2.
Offers diminished value and deductible modification coverages.
Ranks No. 9 (among 14 providers) for customer satisfaction.
Ranks No. 6 for cost, with an annual premium of $1,058.
Auto-Owners outshines its competitors with outstanding claims handling (20/20) and high satisfaction (31/35) ratings, pivotal in achieving its impressive MoneyGeek score of 89 out of 100. In keeping with its affordability score of 25 out of 30, the company offers a competitive annual premium of $1,058.
Although Auto-Owners doesn't offer rare coverages, its core offerings strengthen its coverage score (9 out of 10). These elements, combined with its reputed financial stability (5 out of 5), highlight why Auto-Owners is a top choice for insurance needs, ensuring policyholders receive an optimal balance between cost and quality service.
In Minnesota, the best car insurance providers blend affordability, financial stability and exceptional customer service. MoneyGeek has evaluated these factors to simplify your search. If you would like to conduct your own research, use the following steps to identify a provider that best aligns with your unique needs.
In Minnesota, exceptional customer service is a cornerstone for car insurers, ensuring prompt and fair handling of claims. Consult independent data providers like JD Power and the NAIC for insights into an insurer's performance. According to MoneyGeek's analysis, Auto-Owners leads with a customer satisfaction score of 39 (out of 45) and a claims score of 30 (out of 30), reflecting a strong commitment to serving policyholders.
Comparing car insurance quotes allows you to find options that balance cost with quality service. MoneyGeek's findings point to Westfield as the top choice for minimum coverage car insurance. It offers an annual premium of $359, making it an attractive option for cost-conscious drivers seeking reliable coverage.
Car insurance coverages influence the protection each policy provides. You should ensure that your policy includes essential coverages that align with their needs. MoneyGeek's evaluation identifies American Family as the only insurer with a perfect coverage score of 10, indicating the availability of all four crucial coverages: rental car/travel reimbursement, roadside assistance, gap insurance and OEM coverage.
Selecting an insurer with a solid financial stability rating is critical, as it reflects the company's ability to pay out claims. MoneyGeek's review awards perfect stability scores of 5 (the highest score) to Travelers, Auto-Owners and State Farm. These three providers earned an A++ rating from AM Best, signifying exceptional financial strength and reliability.
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 purchase.
Auto-Owners is recognized as the best car insurance in Minnesota overall, with an overall MoneyGeek score of 89 out of 100. It has a high satisfaction score of 31 out of 35 and a claims handling score of 20 out of 20, contributing significantly to its ranking. Customers can expect an annual premium of approximately $1,058 from Auto-Owners.
Westfield stands out as the best for cheap car insurance in Minnesota, with an overall MoneyGeek score of 90 out of 100 and an annual premium for a minimum coverage policy at $359. Although minimum coverage policies are the most affordable, they do not provide comprehensive protection. Shop around for affordable full coverage policies for better financial security.
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.
