Best Renters Insurance Companies for 2025


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Key Takeaways

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State Farm is the best renters insurance provider with. score of 96 out of 100 and is the best renters insurance in 22 states.  Chubb is our second best renters insurance company and winner in 6 states.

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Renters insurance costs vary significantly by location, with the national average at approximately $15 monthly, affected by factors like local crime rates, natural disaster risks, and regional insurance regulations.

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To find the best renters insurance company for your needs, request quotes from multiple providers, review discounts for bundling policies or installing safety devices, and consider coverage options specific to your situation.

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The best renters insurance companies balance affordability with strong customer service, comprehensive coverage options, and financial stability—demonstrated by high ratings from organizations like J.D. Power for customer satisfaction and AM Best for financial strength—ensuring they can reliably process claims quickly and fairly when needed.

Why Trust MoneyGeek? We obtained information from Quadrant Information Services and examined rates of customer and claim satisfaction from the top industry assessments, J.D. The National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC), AM Best, and Power. In order to provide the best renters insurance solutions for different renter profiles and demands, as well as at the national and state levels, MoneyGeek developed a ranking methodology to compare the data.

Best Renters Insurance By Category in 2025

Here are out winners for best renters insurance.  

  • Best Renters Insurance Overall: State Farm tops the list with a MoneyGeek score of 92 out of 100. They offer affordable coverage at just $8 monthly ($101 annually) while maintaining strong customer satisfaction ratings and comprehensive protection options that effectively balance cost and quality.
  • Best Value For Money: State Farm excels with a 96 out of 100 MoneyGeek score specifically for value. At $8 monthly ($101 annually), State Farm provides exceptional cost-to-coverage benefits, making it ideal for budget-conscious renters unwilling to compromise on protection quality.
  • Best For Customer Satisfaction: Chubb earned an 87 out of 100 for customer satisfaction. They distinguish themselves through premium service experience while remaining reasonably priced at $14 monthly ($165 annually). Chubb features high claims handling scores and responsive customer support.
  • Best For Military Members: USAA gets a perfect 100 out of 100 MoneyGeek score, with coverage starting at $10 per month. They specialize in protection for military personnel, offering tailored coverage options that address the unique needs of service members.
  • Best For Poor Credit: Chubb scores 94 out of 100 by effectively serving renters with credit challenges at $18 monthly ($222 annually). They offer fair rates and accessible coverage options when many competitors might charge significantly more.

See below for detailed reviews for each renters insurance company.

Data filtered by:Results filtered by:
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Coverage:$20K Personal Property
Best OverallState Farm92$8$101
Best Value For MoneyState Farm96$8$101
Best For Customer SatisfactionChubb87$14$165
Best For Military MembersChubb94$18$221
Best For Poor CreditChubb94$18$221

Best Renters Insurance: Overall Winner

State Farm offers the best balance between affordability and customer satisfaction, earning it a high MoneyGeek score across different coverage levels. Auto-Owners Insurance is the next best provider, earning a MoneyGeek score of 88 out of 100.

Company logo for State Farm
Best Overall Renters Insurance ProviderState Farm
MoneyGeek Score:
92/ of 100

Overview

State Farm ranks as the top renters insurance provider in MoneyGeek's analysis with an impressive score of 92 out of 100. The company excels particularly in affordability and financial stability while also earning high marks for customer satisfaction. State Farm offers nationwide coverage, making it accessible to renters across most of the country with varying rates based on location.

Affordability & Coverage Options

State Farm offers flexible coverage tiers to accommodate different renter needs:

  • $20,000 Coverage: Approximately $8 per month ($101 annually)
  • $50,000 Coverage: Approximately $12 per month ($150 annually)
  • $100,000 Coverage: Approximately $19 per month ($222 annually)

Each tier includes standard protections such as personal property coverage, liability coverage, medical payments to others, and additional living expenses. The company also offers optional add-ons including cyber event/identity theft protection and coverage for valuable items. Their policies typically cover fire damage, theft, and water damage from burst pipes, though they exclude flood damage from natural water sources.

Premiums can vary significantly by state, influenced by factors like local crime rates, natural disaster risks, and regional regulations. Even at higher coverage levels, State Farm maintains its competitive edge with a 96 out of 100 value score across all coverage tiers.

Discounts Available

State Farm offers several ways to save on renters insurance premiums:

  • Multi-policy discount when bundling with auto insurance (potentially saving up to $834 annually)
  • Home safety device discounts for installing smoke detectors, fire alarms, or burglar alarms
  • Claims-free discount for renters who haven't filed claims in recent years
  • Option to choose higher deductibles to lower monthly premiums

Customer Service Experience

State Farm earned a customer satisfaction score of 27 out of 30 in MoneyGeek's evaluation, placing it among the top performers in the industry. With fewer customer complaints than expected for a company its size according to the National Association of Insurance Commissioners, State Farm demonstrates strong service reliability. The company offers multiple convenient options for filing claims, including online, through their mobile app, or by calling their dedicated claims line.

Why Choose State Farm

State Farm stands out for offering an excellent balance of affordability, reliability, and accessibility. As the largest home insurer in the United States, the company brings financial strength and stability that provides peace of mind for renters. Their user-friendly digital tools make policy management and claims filing straightforward, while their extensive network of local agents allows for personalized service when needed.

Read MoneyGeek’s State Farm review.

Company logo for Auto-Owners Insurance
Best Overall Runner UpAuto-Owners Insurance
MoneyGeek Score:
88/ of 100

Overview

Auto-Owners Insurance earns an impressive MoneyGeek score of 88 out of 100, ranking as the second-best renters insurance provider nationwide. The company stands out for its strong performance in both affordability and coverage options, offering excellent value while providing a broader range of endorsements than many competitors.

Affordability & Coverage Options 
Auto-Owners offers flexible coverage tiers at competitive rates:

  • $20,000 Coverage: Approximately $9 per month ($107 annually)
  • $50,000 Coverage: Pricing varies by location (specific data limited)
  • $100,000 Coverage: Approximately $48 per month in select markets like Michigan

Each tier includes standard protections such as personal property coverage, liability coverage, medical payments to others, and additional living expenses. Auto-Owners distinguishes itself with specialized optional coverages through its "Renters Plus" package, which includes protection for refrigerated food spoilage during power outages, water damage from backed-up drains or sewer lines, and waterbed liability.

A standout feature is Auto-Owners' Contents Replacement coverage, which pays to repair or replace belongings without consideration for depreciation—ensuring customers receive the full value needed to purchase new items rather than just their depreciated worth. Though the company doesn't offer Cyber Event/ID Theft coverage (which is available through some competitors), it provides robust protection for physical belongings.

Discounts Available 
Auto-Owners offers numerous ways to save on renters insurance premiums:

  • Multi-policy discount when bundling with auto, home, or life insurance
  • Paperless/green discount for enrolling in online billing and payments
  • Paid-in-full discount for paying your premium upfront
  • Claims-free discount for renters without recent claims history
  • Payment history discount for customers who consistently pay on time
  • Special discounts for retirees over age 55

Customer Service Experience 
Auto-Owners draws significantly fewer complaints than expected for a company its size according to the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC), suggesting high customer satisfaction with its service and claims handling. The company earned a strong customer service score of 84 out of 100 from MoneyGeek, indicating reliable support when policyholders need assistance.

One potential drawback is Auto-Owners' limited digital capabilities—the company lacks online quote tools and claims filing options available through many competitors. Customers must work directly with local independent agents for most service needs, which may be inconvenient for those who prefer self-service digital options but beneficial for those who value personalized assistance.

Why Choose Auto-Owners 
Auto-Owners stands out for delivering exceptional value through a combination of affordable rates and comprehensive coverage options. As a regional insurer operating in 26 states, the company provides personalized service through its network of independent agents while maintaining strong financial stability. Auto-Owners is particularly well-suited for renters who appreciate hands-on customer service, want robust coverage for their belongings, and can take advantage of the company's numerous discount opportunities.

While State Farm ranks first across different personal property coverages, the runner ups can vary. Explore MoneyGeek’s ranking for the best renters insurance providers by personal property coverage below. After all, it's always important to shop around and compare renters insurance quotes from at least three insurance companies.

Data filtered by:Results filtered by:
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Coverage:$20K Personal Property
State Farm92$8$101
Auto-Owners Insurance88$9$102
Nationwide85$11$133
American Family83$11$136
Chubb80$14$165
Allstate79$10$121
Farmers69$14$167
Travelers57$21$255
Compare Renters Insurance Rates

Ensure you're getting the best rate for your renters insurance. Compare quotes from the top insurance companies.

Why do we need ZIP code?

Best Renters Insurance: By State & City

The best renters insurance varies by state and city. State Farm is the best provider in 22 states and is followed by Nationwide ranking first in seven states and Chubb in six states. Seven other providers also rank first in various states.

Find your state below and follow the link to learn more about the best and cheapest renters insurance companies where you live and based on your desired dwelling coverage.

Best Renters Insurance By State
Data filtered by:Results filtered by:
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State:Alabama
Select
Coverage:$100K Personal Property
State Farm96$27
Auto-Owners Insurance91$31
Nationwide82$54
COUNTRY Financial82$35
Allstate69$63
Travelers61$92
Foremost Insurance45$90
Best Renters Insurance By City
Data filtered by:Results filtered by:
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State:Alabama
Select
Coverage:$100K Personal Property
BirminghamState Farm96$31
BirminghamAuto-Owners Insurance90$36
BirminghamNationwide84$49
BirminghamCOUNTRY Financial82$38
BirminghamForemost Insurance65$52
BirminghamTravelers61$84
BirminghamAllstate59$74
HuntsvilleState Farm95$23
HuntsvilleAuto-Owners Insurance93$23
HuntsvilleNationwide80$50
HuntsvilleCOUNTRY Financial80$34
HuntsvilleAllstate76$44
HuntsvilleForemost Insurance62$52
HuntsvilleTravelers61$82
MobileState Farm96$31
MobileAuto-Owners Insurance93$34
MobileNationwide89$64
MobileCOUNTRY Financial85$40
MobileAllstate78$81
MobileTravelers76$125
MobileForemost Insurance43$189
MontgomeryState Farm96$26
MontgomeryAuto-Owners Insurance93$28
MontgomeryNationwide83$50
MontgomeryCOUNTRY Financial81$37
MontgomeryForemost Insurance69$44
MontgomeryTravelers61$87
MontgomeryAllstate58$78
Compare Renters Insurance Rates

Ensure you're getting the best rate for your renters insurance. Compare quotes from the top insurance companies.

Why do we need ZIP code?

Best Renters Insurance: Value For Money

If you're looking for affordability paired with excellent customer service, State Farm stands as the top budget-friendly choice for $20K in personal property coverage. In MoneyGeek's study to find the best cheap option, we emphasized cost over coverage and found that State Farm continued to rank first.

Company logo for State Farm
Best Value For MoneyState Farm
MoneyGeek Score:
96/ of 100

Overview

State Farm consistently ranks as the top value provider for renters insurance nationwide with an exceptional MoneyGeek value score of 96 out of 100. This impressive rating reflects the company's ability to deliver premium protection at budget-friendly rates while maintaining high standards for customer service and financial stability.

Affordability & Coverage Options 
State Farm offers excellent value across all coverage tiers:

  • $20,000 Coverage: Approximately $8 per month ($101 annually)
  • $50,000 Coverage: Approximately $12 per month ($150 annually)
  • $100,000 Coverage: Approximately $19 per month ($222 annually)

These rates significantly undercut industry averages while providing comprehensive protection. State Farm's standard coverage includes personal property protection, liability coverage, medical payments to others, and additional living expenses for temporary housing. While the company offers fewer endorsement options than some competitors, it does provide valuable add-ons like cyber event/ID theft protection to help restore your identity and finances after fraud incidents.

The value proposition extends beyond price alone – State Farm maintains consistent pricing across different property values, offering proportionally better value as coverage limits increase. This scalability makes State Farm particularly advantageous for renters with substantial personal belongings or those living in premium apartments.

Discounts Available 
State Farm enhances its value through several money-saving opportunities:

  • Multi-policy discount when bundling with auto insurance (potentially saving up to $834 annually)
  • Home safety device discounts for installing smoke detectors, fire alarms, or burglar alarms
  • Claims-free discount for renters who haven't filed claims in recent years
  • Option to choose higher deductibles to lower monthly premiums

These discounts can significantly reduce already competitive premiums, though availability varies by state. The multi-policy discount delivers particularly strong value, making State Farm an ideal choice for customers who also need auto coverage.

Value Comparison 
State Farm consistently outperforms competitors in value metrics, offering rates that average 30-40% below industry standards while maintaining superior customer satisfaction ratings. The company ranks first in value across 22 states for $20K coverage and in 31 states for $50K and $100K coverage levels, demonstrating consistent value regardless of location or coverage needs.

When comparing premiums to benefits received, State Farm delivers exceptional dollar-for-dollar value. While companies like Travelers may offer more endorsement options and Chubb provides more premium service features, State Farm strikes the optimal balance between affordability and quality – the essence of true value.

Why State Farm Delivers Best Value 
State Farm achieves this value leadership through operational efficiency, massive scale as America's largest insurer, and a direct agent model that minimizes overhead compared to some competitors. The company focuses on core coverages rather than specialized add-ons, allowing it to deliver essential protection at lower rates. For renters seeking maximum protection per premium dollar paid, State Farm consistently delivers the industry's best value proposition.

State Farm consistently ranks as the most affordable renters insurance provider for various levels of personal property coverage, but the second-place providers can differ. Use the table below to see MoneyGeek’s ranking of the best and most affordable providers based on your desired coverage limits.

Data filtered by:Results filtered by:
Select
Coverage:$20K Personal Property
State Farm96$8$101
Auto-Owners Insurance94$9$102
Nationwide85$11$133
Allstate84$10$121
American Family83$11$136
Chubb77$14$165
Farmers69$14$167
Travelers47$21$255

Best Renters Insurance: Customer Satisfaction

Chubb is the best renters insurance provider if you place a higher priority on customer service than cost. MoneyGeek prioritized client claims satisfaction without regard for affordability when determining the top renters insurance provider for customer service options.

Company logo for Chubb
Best For Customer SatisfactionChubb
MoneyGeek Score:
87/ of 100

Overview

Chubb stands out as an elite provider in the renters insurance market with exceptional customer satisfaction ratings. The company earned a remarkable MoneyGeek score of 87 out of 100 specifically for customer satisfaction, placing it at the top of national rankings for service quality. This superior rating is further validated by its first-place finish in J.D. Power's 2025 home insurance claims satisfaction study with a score of 773 out of 1,000.

Affordability & Coverage Options 
Chubb offers competitive pricing across coverage tiers, though rates vary significantly by location:

  • $20,000 Coverage: Approximately $14 per month ($165 annually)
  • $50,000 Coverage: Approximately $28 per month ($339 annually)
  • $100,000 Coverage: Approximately $56 per month ($671 annually)

While not always the cheapest option nationally, Chubb provides exceptional value in several states. In Virginia, for example, it offers coverage starting at just $83 annually, while in Minnesota, premiums begin at $64. Each policy includes comprehensive protection with premium features that exceed industry standards, such as contents replacement cost coverage—which pays the full cost to replace damaged or stolen items rather than just their depreciated value.

Chubb specializes in high-quality coverage options that complement its superior customer service. The company offers several distinctive protections including rental car coverage that provides primary insurance for rental vehicles and valuable articles coverage for high-value possessions. Its cyber coverage is particularly noteworthy in today's digital environment, offering protection against online threats and identity theft that many competitors don't include.

Discounts Available 
Chubb enhances its value proposition through several discount opportunities:

  • Protective device discount for renters whose buildings have security and fire prevention systems
  • Bundle discount when combining renters and auto insurance policies
  • Claims-free discount for customers who maintain a clean record over three years
  • Home renovation discounts for properties with recent upgrades
  • New home discounts for recently constructed properties

Customer Service Experience 
Chubb's customer service excellence is reflected in its remarkably low complaint ratio. According to the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC), Chubb received a complaint index of just 0.21 compared to the industry median of 1.00, indicating it receives significantly fewer complaints than the average insurer. This exceptional performance stems from Chubb's white-glove service approach that prioritizes seamless claims processing, responsive communication, and personalized attention throughout the customer journey.

The company offers multiple convenient channels for customer service access, including an intuitive mobile app, online portal, dedicated email address (customercare@chubb.com), and 24/7 phone support (1-866-324-8222). Claims can be filed through any of these channels, with specialized representatives guiding customers through every step of the process with remarkable efficiency and empathy, making potentially stressful situations much more manageable.

Why Choose Chubb 
Chubb is the ideal choice for renters who prioritize exceptional customer service and premium coverage over finding the absolute lowest price. The company's perfect A++ rating from AM Best demonstrates superior financial stability, ensuring it can fulfill obligations even during widespread disaster scenarios. Chubb particularly excels in serving customers with valuable possessions, offering specialized protections and replacement cost coverage that ensures possessions are replaced with new items rather than compensated at depreciated values. For renters seeking peace of mind through superior service, Chubb consistently delivers an unmatched experience.

For those seeking exceptional customer service at any level of personal property coverage, Chubb remains the leading choice. However, other providers may come close depending on the coverage amount you need. To find the best option for customer satisfaction, explore MoneyGeek’s rankings in the table below, tailored to your desired coverage limits.

Data filtered by:Results filtered by:
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Coverage:$20K Personal Property
Farmers66$14$167
State Farm80$8$101
American Family82$11$136
Nationwide86$11$133
Travelers86$21$255
Auto-Owners Insurance72$9$102
Chubb87$14$165
Allstate63$10$121

Best Renters Insurance: For Military Members

USAA, exclusively serving military members, veterans and their families, is the top choice for renters insurance for those in the military community. With a MoneyGeek score of 100 out of 100, USAA has high customer satisfaction scores and some of the most competitive rates in the industry.

Company logo for USAA
Best For Military MembersUSAA
MoneyGeek Score:
100/ of 100

Overview

USAA stands as the best renters insurance provider exclusively serving military personnel, veterans, and their families. With industry-leading customer satisfaction scores and specialized military-focused coverage options, USAA has established itself as the best for military community insurance needs, maintaining an extraordinary 96% member retention rate.

Affordability & Coverage Options
 USAA offers competitively priced renters insurance with rates typically below national averages:

  • $20,000 Coverage: Approximately $9 per month ($107 annually)
  • $50,000 Coverage: Approximately $16 per month ($187 annually)
  • $100,000 Coverage: Approximately $29 per month ($347 annually)

Each policy includes not just standard protections but also military-specific benefits at no additional cost. Notably, USAA is one of the few insurers to include flood and earthquake coverage as standard rather than expensive add-ons. Military uniforms and equipment are covered with zero deductible while on active or reserve duty, and coverage extends worldwide, including during deployments and overseas assignments.

Optional coverages include enhanced electronics protection with a $250 deductible, valuable personal property coverage for high-value items with no deductible, and additional replacement cost options for newer items.

Military Eligibility Requirements
 USAA membership is required for renters insurance and is exclusively available to:

  • Active-duty military members, including National Guard and Reserves
  • Military veterans with honorable discharges
  • Pre-commissioned officers and officer candidates
  • Spouses of USAA members, including widowed or unremarried divorced spouses
  • Children and stepchildren of USAA members

Once established, membership is lifelong and can be passed down to eligible family members, creating a multi-generational insurance relationship.

Discounts Available 
USAA helps military members save through several discount opportunities:

  • Bundle discount when combining auto and renters insurance policies
  • Protective device discounts for homes with security systems
  • Special deployment discounts of up to 60% on stored vehicles
  • On-base housing discounts in many locations
  • Payment history discounts for consistent on-time payments
  • Military installation discounts at select locations

Customer Service Experience 
USAA's customer service is tailored specifically to military needs, with representatives who understand service-related terminology, deployment challenges, and PCS (Permanent Change of Station) moves. The company maintains remarkably low complaint ratios compared to industry standards and offers 24/7 worldwide access through a comprehensive mobile app and digital tools.

Claims handling is particularly praised, with specialized processes designed for military members that accommodate deployment schedules and overseas service. The company provides flexible payment options that align with military pay schedules and offers coverage adjustments during deployments without penalties.

Why Choose USAA
 For eligible military members and their families, USAA delivers unmatched value through its understanding of military lifestyle challenges. The member-owner structure ensures the company focuses on member benefits rather than shareholder profits. Though availability is restricted to those with military connections, qualified members gain access to an insurer specifically designed for their unique needs throughout all phases of military life, from active duty through retirement.

To explore how USAA performs and how much it costs with different premiums, check our MoneyGeek’s table below.

USAA$20K Personal Property100$10$125
USAA$50K Personal Property100$16$188
USAA$100K Personal Property100$23$280
USAA$250K Personal Property100$53$634

Best Renters Insurance: For Poor Credit

If you have a poor credit score, Chubb is the best provider for $20K in personal property coverage. With an average cost of $18 per month, Chubb balances affordability with great customer service — even if you have poor credit.

Your credit score impacts renters insurance premiums because insurers use it to assess the likelihood of filing a claim. A higher score suggests responsible financial behavior, which can lower your risk profile and lead to lower premiums. Conversely, a lower credit score may result in higher premiums, as it's seen as a potential indicator of greater risk.

Company logo for Chubb
Best For Poor CreditChubb
MoneyGeek Score:
94/ of 100

Overview

Chubb renters insurance is the best renters insurance for poor credit with a MoneyGeek score of 94 out of 100. Unlike many competitors who drastically raise premiums for credit-challenged renters, Chubb maintains competitive rates while still delivering premium service, making it the standout choice for this demographic.

Affordability & Coverage Options
Despite serving an upscale clientele, Chubb remains surprisingly competitive for credit-challenged customers:

  • $20,000 Coverage: Approximately $18 per month ($222 annually)
  • $50,000 Coverage: Approximately $39 per month ($465 annually)
  • $100,000 Coverage: Premium data varies by location

Chubb's standard policies include premium features that other insurers charge extra for, such as contents replacement cost coverage that pays full replacement value rather than depreciated value. The company also offers distinctive protections including rental car coverage and valuable articles coverage specifically designed for high-value possessions.

Discounts Available
Chubb helps credit-challenged customers maximize savings through:

  • Protective device discount for buildings with security systems
  • Bundle discount when combining renters and auto policies
  • Claims-free discount for maintaining a clean record over three years
  • Multi-policy discounts across their insurance portfolio

Why Choose Chubb for Poor Credit
Chubb's underwriting approach places less emphasis on credit scores than most competitors, instead evaluating customers more holistically. This creates a significant advantage for those with credit challenges who still want premium coverage. Combined with their remarkably low complaint ratio (0.21 compared to industry median of 1.00) and white-glove claims handling, Chubb delivers exceptional value for credit-challenged customers seeking quality protection without compromise.

While Chubb ranks as the best option for $20K in personal property coverage, the ideal renters insurance provider for those with poor credit may differ based on the coverage amount. To explore the best options for your specific coverage needs, check out MoneyGeek’s rankings in the table below.

Data filtered by:Results filtered by:
Select
Coverage:$20K Personal Property
Chubb94$18$221
Nationwide92$17$209
State Farm92$16$195
American Family91$21$249
Allstate84$15$180
Travelers83$67$800
Farmers81$31$368
Auto-Owners Insurance51$191$2,289

Steps To Find The Best Renters Insurance Company For You

Choosing the right renters insurance depends on what matters most to you. If keeping costs low is a priority, you might go with the provider offering the most affordable rates. If excellent customer service and timely claims handling are more important, you may prefer a company with a strong reputation for service in your area.

At MoneyGeek, we believe renters can enjoy both affordability and quality service, along with the coverage they need. By following a few simple steps, you can find the best insurance provider for your situation.

  1. 1

    Assess Your Coverage Needs

    Before choosing a renters insurance policy, it’s important to evaluate how much personal property coverage you require. Take inventory of your belongings and estimate their total value, including electronics, furniture, and other valuables. This step helps ensure you select a policy with adequate protection in case of loss or damage.

  2. 2

    Research Providers

    Once you know your coverage needs, compare multiple insurance providers to find one that offers the right balance of affordability and customer service. Look at customer reviews, J.D. Power ratings, and financial stability ratings to gauge each provider’s reputation. This research will help you identify companies that align with your priorities.

  3. 3

    Get Quotes

    Request quotes from several renters insurance companies based on your coverage requirements. Be sure to provide accurate information about your living situation and property value to get the most reliable estimates. Comparing quotes will allow you to see which provider offers the best rates for the coverage you need.

  4. 4

    Look for Discounts

    Check for any discounts you might qualify for, such as bundling with auto or home insurance, having protective devices in your apartment, or being a loyal customer. Many providers offer significant savings through these discounts, which can lower your premium. Taking advantage of discounts helps maximize your savings without compromising coverage.

  5. 5

    Read the Fine Print

    Before finalizing your policy, carefully review the terms and conditions, including coverage exclusions and limits. Pay special attention to details like liability limits and endorsements for additional protection, such as identity theft or pet damage coverage. Understanding the fine print ensures there are no surprises when you need to file a claim.

  6. 6

    Purchase and Keep Records

    Once you’ve chosen the right policy, proceed with the purchase and keep copies of all relevant documents for your records. Store a digital or physical copy of your policy for easy access in case you need to file a claim. This final step ensures you're fully prepared and protected moving forward.

What is the Best Coverage Amount for You?

  1. 1

    Take Inventory of Your Belongings

    • Walk through your rental with your smartphone, filming all possessions
    • Create a basic list of major categories (furniture, electronics, clothing, kitchenware)
    • Use replacement cost (what you'd pay for new items today), not what you originally paid
    • Don't forget easily overlooked items like kitchen appliances and seasonal decorationsTake
  2. 2

    Identify High-Value Items

    • Standard policies limit coverage for categories like jewelry ($1,500-2,500), electronics ($1,500-3,000), and collectibles
    • Document valuable items with photos and receipts
    • Consider scheduled personal property endorsements for items exceeding standard limits
  3. 3

    Calculate Total Needed Coverage

    • Add up replacement costs from your inventory
    • Quick estimate: $25,000-30,000 for a one-bedroom apartment, $50,000-60,000 for a two-bedroom
    • Adjust based on your lifestyle—minimalists might need just $15,000 while those with high-end possessions could require $100,000+
  4. 4

    Assess Liability Needs

    • Standard recommendation: $300,000 minimum
    • Consider higher limits ($500,000+) if you frequently entertain, have pets, or maintain significant assets

The 4 Types of Coverage in Your Renters Insurance Policy

Personal Property Coverage: Protects your belongings against covered perils

  • Range: $15,000-$100,000+
  • Note: Sub-limits apply for valuables (jewelry: $1,000-$2,500; electronics: $1,500-$3,000)

Personal Liability Coverage: Covers legal/medical expenses if someone is injured in your rental

  • Range: $100,000-$1,000,000
  • Note: Excludes certain dog breeds and high-risk activities

Medical Payments Coverage: Pays for minor guest injuries regardless of fault

  • Range: $1,000-$10,000
  • Note: Doesn't cover residents on the policy

Loss of Use/Additional Living Expenses: Covers temporary housing if your rental becomes uninhabitable

  • Range: Typically 3-6 months of rent expense
  • Note: Covers difference between normal and temporary costs

Common Renters Policy Exclusions

Standard Policy Exclusions

  • Floods: Requires separate flood insurance through NFIP (except USAA includes this)
  • Earthquakes: Separate policy or endorsement needed (except USAA includes this)
  • Pest damage: Infestations of rodents, insects, or other pests
  • Wear and tear: Normal deterioration and maintenance issues
  • High-value items beyond sub-limits: Jewelry, electronics, art (without scheduled endorsements)

Property Type Exclusions

  • Roommates' belongings: Each roommate needs their own policy
  • Business equipment: Home business items typically limited to $2,500 or excluded
  • Vehicles: Cars, motorcycles need auto insurance (even if stored in garage)
  • Building structure: Landlord's responsibility, not covered by renters insurance

Activity Exclusions

  • Intentional damage: Self-inflicted property damage
  • Illegal activities: Losses from unlawful actions
  • Vacant property: Items in units left unoccupied beyond 30-60 days
  • High-risk dog breeds: Some insurers exclude Pit Bulls, Rottweilers, etc.

How Do Renters Insurance Claims Work?

Here is how claims work on your renters insurance.

Filing Process 
Report claims promptly by calling your insurer's claims hotline or using their mobile app. Document all damage with photos/videos and provide a detailed inventory of affected items with estimated values. Most insurers assign a dedicated claims adjuster who will assess damages, request documentation, and determine coverage within 24-72 hours.

Actual Cash Value (ACV) vs. Replacement Cost Value (RCV) 
ACV policies reimburse the depreciated value of items (original cost minus depreciation), resulting in lower premiums but smaller payouts. For example, a 5-year-old $1,000 laptop might only receive $300 in compensation. RCV policies pay what it costs to replace items with new equivalents today, regardless of age or condition. RCV typically costs 10-20% more but provides significantly better protection.

Settlement and Recovery
 After approval, some insurers offer direct deposit, while others send checks for claim amounts exceeding your deductible. For RCV policies, you may initially receive ACV payment, then submit receipts for purchased replacements to receive the difference. Keep all repair receipts, replacement purchase documentation, and communication with your insurer to ensure proper reimbursement.

Finding the Best Policy: Considerations for Different Profiles

Students and First-Time Renters College students living in dorms may be covered under their parents' homeowners policy, but should verify coverage limits and restrictions. First-time renters often underestimate their property value, so conducting a thorough inventory is essential. Consider lower deductibles despite slightly higher premiums, as you likely have less financial flexibility for out-of-pocket expenses.

Pet Owners Some insurers exclude certain dog breeds or exotic pets entirely, while others charge higher premiums or require additional liability coverage. Ensure your policy explicitly covers pet-related damages and injuries to avoid denied claims. Consider increasing liability coverage to at least $300,000 if you have pets, regardless of breed.

Home-Based Business Operators Standard renters policies typically limit business property coverage to $2,500 and may exclude liability for business-related injuries. Dedicated business endorsements or separate policies are necessary for inventory, specialized equipment, and client visits. Some insurers offer affordable home business add-ons for remote workers with minimal equipment needs.

Short-Term/Vacation Renters Traditional renters insurance may not cover properties rented through services like Airbnb or VRBO. Short-term rental platforms often provide limited host protection insurance, but coverage gaps remain. Consider specialized short-term rental insurance if you frequently move between temporary accommodations.

Seniors and Retirees Many insurers offer age-based discounts for renters over 55 or 65 years old. Collection valuables accumulated over a lifetime often exceed standard sub-limits and require scheduled endorsements. Consider policies with identity theft protection, as seniors are frequently targeted for financial scams.

FAQ About the Best Renters Insurance

If you still have questions about the best renters insurance, the following answers to some frequently asked questions should help you better understand renters insurance.

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About Mark Fitzpatrick


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Mark Fitzpatrick, a Licensed Property and Casualty Insurance Producer, is MoneyGeek's resident Personal Finance Expert. With over five years of experience analyzing the insurance market, he conducts original research and creates tailored content for all types of buyers. His insights have been featured in publications like 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!

Passionate about economics and insurance, he aims to promote transparency in financial topics and empower others to make confident money decisions.


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