The average annual car insurance premium for an individual in a married couple is $758, while single drivers typically pay $1,185. While these rates show that married drivers may pay less for car insurance, premiums can vary based on factors like driving history, credit score and state regulations. Combining policies with a spouse can offer discounts and simplify finances, but it's not always the best option — especially if one spouse is a high-risk driver or members of the couple live in different states.
How Marital Status Affects Car Insurance Rates
Updated: May 20, 2024
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Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
A married driver’s average annual auto insurance premium is $758, while a single driver’s average rate is $1,185.
GEICO is the cheapest provider for married drivers, with an average $703 annual premium. State Farm is the most affordable option for single drivers, costing an average of $884 annually.
While married drivers often enjoy lower car insurance rates, factors like driving history, credit score and even your spouse's driving record can influence your premiums, along with other variables like age, location and vehicle make and model.
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Who Pays More for Car Insurance: Married or Single Drivers
On average, married drivers pay $427 less than single drivers, with rates for a married driver averaging $758 per year. Car insurance companies tend to view married drivers as less likely to have accidents or file claims. This often means lower insurance rates for married drivers.
| $758 | Single Driver Premium$1,185 | Cost Difference$427 |
Keep in mind that while being married might lower your car insurance rates, other factors like your driving history and credit score still play a significant role. For example, if your partner has a history of accidents or tickets, you could see higher rates.
Other factors that influence car insurance rates
- Driving record: A clean record can get you lower rates, but incidents like speeding or accidents can increase your costs.
- Insurance history: Continuous coverage and fewer claims can lead to better rates, while frequent claims can raise your premiums.
- Credit score: A higher score can positively impact your rates, as it's often seen as a sign of responsible behavior.
- Age: Younger drivers usually face higher rates due to lack of experience, but rates often decrease as you get older.
- ZIP code: Living in areas with higher crime or more traffic can result in higher premiums.
- Car make and model: Luxury and sports cars usually cost more to insure, while safer, lower-cost vehicles may offer more affordable rates.
- Coverage level: The type of coverage you choose, whether comprehensive, collision or liability, will affect your rates.
- Car insurance deductible: A higher auto insurance deductible can lower your premiums, but you'll pay more out-of-pocket if you file a claim.
- Policy limits: Higher limits offer more protection but come at a higher cost, while lower limits can be more budget-friendly but offer less coverage.
- Mileage: The more you drive, the higher your risk and rates. Some companies offer discounts for low-mileage drivers.
Cheapest Car Insurance for Married Drivers
Married drivers can find the cheapest car insurance policies from:
- GEICO: $703 per year
- Nationwide: $709 per year
Besides lower rates for married drivers, you can save even more with multi-car discounts. You can also bundle your car insurance with your home or renters insurance for extra savings. Combining policies with one insurer not only cuts costs but also makes managing your insurance simpler.
| GEICO | Annual Premium$703 |
| Nationwide | Annual Premium$709 |
| State Farm | Annual Premium$713 |
| Farmers | Annual Premium$730 |
| Progressive | Annual Premium$777 |
| Travelers | Annual Premium$828 |
| Allstate | Annual Premium$843 |
Cheapest Car Insurance for Married Drivers by State
State Farm and GEICO emerge as the top choices across multiple states for married drivers. State Farm stands out as the cheapest car insurance provider in 14 states, closely trailed by GEICO, which takes the lead in 13 states. These companies consistently offer competitive rates, making them smart options for married individuals looking to financially protect their vehicles without breaking the bank.
Comparing quotes and considering what each insurer brings to the table is essential to make the best choice for you.
| Alabama | CompanyNationwide | Married Driver Annual Premium$561 |
| Alaska | CompanyState Farm | Married Driver Annual Premium$550 |
| Arizona | CompanyGEICO | Married Driver Annual Premium$473 |
| Arkansas | CompanyGEICO | Married Driver Annual Premium$489 |
| California | CompanyProgressive | Married Driver Annual Premium$664 |
| Colorado | CompanyGEICO | Married Driver Annual Premium$470 |
| Connecticut | CompanyGEICO | Married Driver Annual Premium$491 |
| Delaware | CompanyState Farm | Married Driver Annual Premium$804 |
Cheapest Car Insurance for Single Drivers
Single drivers can get the lowest car insurance rates from:
- State Farm: $883 per year
- Nationwide: $930 per year
Whether or not being married changes your car insurance rates depends on your insurance company and the state you're in. Each insurer uses its own formula to figure out how likely you are to get into an accident and file a claim. In states like California, insurance companies need state approval for how they calculate their rates. In these states, providers are required to focus mainly on your driving habits — like your experience, record and how much you drive. Other factors, like being married, don't weigh as much in determining your premiums.
| State Farm | Single Driver Annual Premium$883 |
| Nationwide | Single Driver Annual Premium$930 |
| GEICO | Single Driver Annual Premium$936 |
| Travelers | Single Driver Annual Premium$1,037 |
| Progressive | Single Driver Annual Premium$1,120 |
| Allstate | Single Driver Annual Premium$1,124 |
| Farmers | Single Driver Annual Premium$1,192 |
Cheapest Car Insurance for Single Drivers by State
Nationwide and State Farm stand out as the leading car insurance providers offering the cheapest car insurance rates for single drivers across numerous states. These companies have established a reputation for delivering cost-effective solutions without compromising on coverage quality. Nationwide is renowned for its tailored policies and discounts, while State Farm is celebrated for its exceptional customer service and comprehensive coverage options. Both insurers are highly recommended for single drivers seeking reliable insurance at competitive rates, ensuring financial protection on the road.
| Alabama | CompanyNationwide | Single Driver Annual Premium$709 |
| Alaska | CompanyState Farm | Single Driver Annual Premium$699 |
| Arizona | CompanyRoot Insurance Company | Single Driver Annual Premium$682 |
| Arkansas | CompanyState Farm | Single Driver Annual Premium$629 |
| California | CompanyAAA California | Single Driver Annual Premium$1,001 |
| Colorado | CompanyAmerican National P&C | Single Driver Annual Premium$541 |
| Connecticut | CompanyGEICO | Single Driver Annual Premium$693 |
| Delaware | CompanyState Farm | Single Driver Annual Premium$881 |
When to Add a Spouse to an Auto Insurance Policy
Adding your spouse to your car insurance policy can offer several benefits, such as eligibility for multi-car discounts and simplified financial management with one payment and renewal date. Combining policies may be a good idea if any of the following apply to you.
Your insurer requires you to add all household members to your policy
Many insurance companies require you to add all licensed drivers in your household to your policy, including your spouse.
You want more discounts
Adding your spouse to your policy could make you eligible for multi-car discounts. This is especially true if both of you have good driving records. These discounts can significantly lower your overall insurance costs.
You're interested in streamlining your insurance policies
Combining your car insurance with your spouse can simplify your finances. You'll have one payment, one renewal date and one set of coverages to consider.
You want lower rates
If your spouse has a better driving record or credit score than you, adding them to your policy could result in lower rates. It's always a good idea to shop around and compare quotes to see if combining policies offers financial benefits.
When Not to Combine Policies
While getting car insurance with your spouse can offer benefits, it's not always best. If any of the following apply to you or your spouse, it might be better for you to keep separate policies.
Your spouse is a high-risk driver
If your spouse has a history of accidents, DUIs or multiple traffic violations, adding them to your policy could significantly increase your rates. In this case, it might be more cost-effective to maintain separate policies. In these instances, you can list your spouse as an excluded driver on your policy, meaning they won't be covered under your insurance. This can keep your rates from skyrocketing. However, remember that if they drive your car and get into an accident, the costs won't be covered.
You live in different states
If you and your spouse live at a different address and are located in different states, you generally can't combine policies. Insurance rules differ by state, and not all insurance companies operate everywhere. In this situation, keeping separate policies is usually simpler and more practical.
How to Add a Spouse to a Car Insurance Policy
Adding a spouse to your insurance policy is usually a fairly straightforward process. The following outlines the steps typically needed:
1
Contact your insurer
Reach out to your insurance provider to inform them you're getting married and want to add your spouse to your policy.
2
Shop around
If adding your spouse makes the policy too expensive, compare quotes from at least three insurers. Marriage doesn't guarantee lower rates, especially if your spouse is a high-risk driver.
3
Ask about discounts
Once you've picked your preferred insurer, don't forget to inquire about eligible discounts. Many couples bring their own cars into the marriage, and a multi-car policy could offer you some savings.
Consequences of Lying to a Provider About Being Married
Falsely claiming to be married on your car insurance can lead to serious issues, including:
Cancellation of your policy
Your insurance provider could cancel your policy, leaving you without coverage.
Denied claims
If you file a claim, the insurance company could deny it based on the false information, leaving you financially responsible for damages or medical bills.
Legal consequences
Insurance fraud is illegal and could result in fines or even criminal charges.
Higher future premiums
Being caught lying can make it more difficult and expensive to get insurance coverage in the future.
Frequently Asked Questions
When it comes to car insurance, your marital status can play a role in how much you pay. Our frequently asked questions section aims to clear up common questions about married vs. single car insurance and help you understand how tying the knot might affect your rates and what options you have.
Is car insurance cheaper if you’re married or single?
Generally, car insurance is cheaper for married drivers compared to single ones. Insurers often view married drivers as more financially responsible and less risky, which can result in lower premiums. However, other factors like driving history and credit score also play a role in determining your rates.
Does being married always affect car insurance?
Being married doesn't always guarantee lower car insurance rates. Factors like your driving record, age and location also influence your premiums. If your spouse is a high-risk driver, your rates could actually go up.
How does insurance work when you’re married?
When you're married, you can combine your car insurance policies into a joint policy or keep them separate. Combining policies can often lead to multi-car or multi-driver discounts. However, if one spouse is a high-risk driver, maintaining separate policies might be more cost-effective.
Do I need to combine car insurance policies with my spouse?
Combining car insurance policies with your spouse is not mandatory. You can choose to keep separate policies, especially if one of you is a high-risk driver or if you live in different states. However, a joint policy could offer discounts and simplify your finances. Also, most insurers will require you to add all household members as listed drivers anyway.
Is a joint policy with my spouse cheaper or more expensive than a solo policy?
A joint policy can be cheaper due to multi-car discounts, especially if both spouses have good driving records. However, if one spouse is a high-risk driver, a joint policy could be more expensive than maintaining separate policies. Always compare quotes to determine the most cost-effective option.
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.
sources
- California Department of Insurance. "Information Sheet: Proposition 103 Intervenor Process." Accessed October 31, 2023.