Best Columbia, MD Auto Insurance in 2024 (Check Out the Top 10 Companies)
State Farm, Geico, and Progressive are the best Columbia, MD, auto insurance, with only monthly rates beginning at $85. They are highly proactive in optimizing their customers' coverage and affordability. Discover their plans to identify what guarantees the best protection for your vehicle in Columbia, Maryland.
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Scott W. Johnson
Licensed Insurance Agent
Scott W Johnson is an independent insurance agent in California. Principal Broker and founder of Marindependent Insurance Services, Scott brings over 25 years of experience to his clients. His Five President’s Council awards prove he uses all he learned at Avocet, Sprint Nextel, and Farmers Insurance to the benefit of his clients. Scott quickly grasped the unique insurance requirements of his...
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UPDATED: Nov 22, 2024
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Full Coverage in Columbia MD
A.M. Best Rating
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Full Coverage in Columbia MD
A.M. Best Rating
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13,128 reviews
The best Columbia, MD auto insurance providers are State Farm, Geico, and Progressive, offering initial rates starting at $85 per month for quality service.
All these three are highly recommended for their affordability, quality, and coverage options. Compare below the different types of auto insurance coverage and select the one that aligns best with your needs to ensure your vehicle is well-protected.
Our Top 10 Company Picks: Best Columbia, MD Auto Insurance
Company Rank Bundling Discount A.M. Best Best For Jump to Pros/Cons
#1 17% B Overall Value State Farm
#2 25% A++ Low Rates Geico
#3 10% A+ Custom Coverage Progressive
#4 25% A+ Safe Drivers Allstate
#5 20% A+ Personalized Plans Nationwide
#6 25% A++ Local Service Erie
#7 13% A++ Frequent Travelers Travelers
#8 10% A++ Military Families USAA
#9 25% A New Cars Liberty Mutual
#10 5% A+ Experienced Drivers The Hartford
Read below and know more about the most affordable and dependable premiums offered by different insurers. Enter your ZIP code now to begin comparing rates.
#1 – State Farm: Top Overall Pick
Pros
- Tailored Assistance: With a vast network of agents, you get personalized service, ensuring the best coverage options in Columbia for your specific needs.
- Reliable Claims Support: State Farm’s reputation for customer satisfaction and support makes it a go-to choice for top-rated auto insurance in Columbia.
- Comprehensive Plans: Offering a wide variety of choices, State Farm ensures you can find the best protection in Columbia. Peruse our State Farm auto insurance review for details.
Cons
- Higher Rates for Riskier Drivers: Drivers with poor records might find their premiums higher compared to other affordable car insurance providers in Columbia.
- Not Ideal for Basic Coverage Seekers: State Farm’s options may not be the best fit for those looking for minimal coverage at a low cost in Columbia.
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#2 – Geico: Best for Low Rates
Pros
- Low-Cost Coverage: Known for offering competitive pricing, Geico provides an affordable option for the best value car insurance in Columbia.
- User-Friendly App: With an easy-to-navigate mobile app, managing your policy and claims makes Geico an excellent choice for those seeking hassle-free auto insurance in Columbia.
- Multiple Discounts: Geico’s extensive range of discounts helps secure cheap car insurance while living in Columbia. For complete information, read our Geico auto insurance review.
Cons
- Customer Service Delays: At times, Geico’s customer service may not be as responsive as some would expect from a top auto insurance provider in Columbia.
- Limited Local Service: With fewer in-person agents available, it may not be ideal for those who prefer face-to-face interactions when managing their auto insurance in Columbia.
#3 – Progressive: Best for Custom Coverage
Pros
- Customizable Coverage: Progressive offers flexible options to ensure the best protection for drivers in Columbia with varying needs. Read our Progressive auto insurance review for a details.
- Low-Mileage Options: For those with less driving, Progressive’s usage-based insurance can help secure the most affordable rates for auto insurance in Columbia.
- 24/7 Support: Travelers can rely on Progressive’s round-the-clock service for claims and assistance, a great perk for those looking for comprehensive auto insurance in Columbia.
Cons
- Inconsistent Rates: Rates can vary widely between drivers, meaning you may need to compare offers to get the best rate on auto insurance in Columbia.
- Hard-to-Access Discounts: Some Progressive discounts are tied to safe driving or good habits, which might make it challenging to find the best price for Columbia’s drivers with violations.
#4 – Allstate: Best for Safe Drivers
Pros
- Excellent Claims Support: Allstate’s reputation for strong claims handling ensures a smooth experience for drivers seeking reliable car insurance in Columbia.
- Discounts for Safe Driving: If you’re a responsible driver, Allstate offers discounts that bring affordable options for top-rated auto coverage in Columbia.
- Add-On Flexibility: Allstate’s wide range of coverage add-ons gives you the ability to tailor your policy for protection in Columbia. Check our Allstate auto insurance review for more.
Cons
- Premiums for Younger Drivers: Younger drivers might face higher rates, which could make Allstate less affordable for new or inexperienced drivers in Columbia.
- Variable Customer Service: Depending on the agent, service quality can differ, potentially affecting your experience with premium auto insurance in Columbia.
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#5 – Nationwide: Best for Personalized Plans
Pros
- Payment Flexibility: Nationwide provides a range of payment options, making it a great choice for those seeking the best auto insurance flexibility in Columbia.
- Tailored Plans for High-Risk Drivers: Offering specialized coverage options for drivers with previous infractions, Nationwide ensures affordable insurance in Columbia for a variety of risk levels.
- Financial Stability: Known for strong financial standing, Nationwide is a reliable choice for auto insurance in Columbia. For deeper details, access our Nationwide auto insurance review.
Cons
- Not Always the Cheapest: While Nationwide offers great service, it may not always have the lowest premiums in Columbia, especially for low-risk drivers.
- Complex Policies: The details of Nationwide’s policies can be tricky to navigate, so some drivers may find it difficult to compare it with other auto insurance options in Columbia.
#6 – Erie: Best for Local Service
Pros
- Strong Local Service: Erie’s focus on local agents ensures that you get the best personalized auto insurance options in Columbia.
- Competitive Pricing: Offering affordable rates and various driver discounts, Erie provides one of the best value policies in Columbia.
- Stable Rates: With their rate lock feature, Erie ensures your premiums won’t unexpectedly rise, making it a top contender for long-term auto insurance in Columbia.
Cons
- Limited Availability: Erie is mostly available on the East Coast, so availability could be an issue for some Columbia residents. Read our Erie auto insurance review for details.
- No Mobile App: The lack of a mobile app in some regions means it may not offer the convenient management that other top auto insurance companies provide in Columbia.
#7 – Travelers: Best for Frequent Travelers
Pros
- Great for Frequent Drivers: Travelers offers specialized coverage options for frequent drivers, making it one of the best auto insurance providers for commuters in Columbia.
- 24/7 Availability: With 24-hour support, Travelers is a reliable option for constant access to coverage in Columbia. Read through our Travelers auto insurance review for more.
- Discounts for Safety Features: If your vehicle is equipped with advanced safety tech, Travelers provides great discounts, ensuring the best rates for safety-conscious drivers in Columbia.
Cons
- Higher Premiums for Young Drivers: Travelers may not be the best choice for younger drivers, who could face higher rates than with other affordable auto insurance options in Columbia.
- Limited In-Person Support: With fewer physical locations, you may find it challenging to get personalized help for your policy in Columbia.
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#8 – USAA: Best for Military Members
Pros
- Military-Focused Service: USAA offers excellent rates and support for military families, making it a top choice for those seeking affordable and reliable car insurance in Columbia if they are eligible.
- Specialized Coverage for Veterans: USAA’s policies are tailored to the needs of veterans, making it one of the best options for military families in Columbia.
- Excellent Mobile App: USAA’s digital tools offer an efficient and convenient way to manage policies, a huge benefit for Columbia drivers on the go.
Cons
- Eligibility Restrictions: USAA is only available to military members and their families, so it might not be the right fit for the general population in Columbia.
- Limited Specialized Vehicle Coverage: USAA may not offer the best coverage for non-standard or specialized vehicles. Read our USAA auto insurance review for more.
#9 – Liberty Mutual: Best for New Cars
Pros
- New Car Discounts: Liberty Mutual offers excellent savings for new or hybrid cars, making it a top choice for drivers with newer vehicles in Columbia.
- Customizable Policies: Liberty Mutual provides coverage options to suit a variety of driver needs in Columbia. Read our Liberty Mutual auto insurance review to learn more.
- Great Add-Ons: With add-ons like roadside assistance, Liberty Mutual ensures comprehensive coverage, offering top-notch protection in Columbia.
Cons
- Higher Rates for Young Drivers: If you’re a young driver, Liberty Mutual’s rates might be higher than other affordable Columbia auto insurance options.
- Limited Availability of Agents: Fewer agents in some areas can make it harder to access personalized support for your auto insurance needs in Columbia.
#10 – The Hartford: Best for Experienced Drivers
Pros
- Retiree Discounts: The Hartford offers lower rates for retired drivers, providing some of the best rates for seniors in Columbia. Read our The Hartford auto insurance review for more.
- Multi-Policy Savings: For those who bundle their home and car policies, The Hartford offers significant discounts, ensuring best value for Columbia residents with multiple needs.
- Roadside Assistance: A standout feature, Hartford’s roadside assistance provides peace of mind for drivers who want the best coverage on the road in Columbia.
Cons
- Higher Rates for High-Risk Drivers: If you have a poor driving record, you may face higher premiums compared to other auto insurance providers in Columbia.
- Limited Options for New Drivers: The Hartford may not offer the best rates for first-time drivers, who may find more affordable options elsewhere in Columbia.
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Maryland’s Mandatory Auto Insurance Coverage Guidelines
It should be noted that these minimum requirements are higher and more robust than in most other states. The required amount of liability coverage is higher, and uninsured motorist coverage is also a deviation from most states.
Columbia, MD Auto Insurance Monthly Rates by Provider & Coverage Level
Insurance Company Minimum Coverage Full Coverage
$110 $175
$95 $160
$90 $155
$120 $185
$105 $170
$100 $165
$96 $150
$115 $180
$106 $170
$85 $145
It costs the average driver in Maryland around $151 monthly for their automotive insurance premiums. But living in Columbia means you don’t have to pay nearly as much.
Auto Insurance Discounts From the Top Providers in Columbia, MD
Insurance Company Available Discounts
Multi-Policy, Safe Driver, Anti-Theft, New Car, Paperless Billing, Early Signing, Responsible Payer, EZ Pay Plan, Senior Citizen, Full-Pay Discount, New Graduate
Multi-Policy, Safe Driver, First Accident Forgiveness, Young Driver, Pay-In-Full, Reduced Usage, Vehicle Safety Equipment, Age 55+ Driving Course, Annual Mileage, Accident Prevention
Multi-Vehicle, Defensive Driving, Good Student, Military, Emergency Deployment, Federal Employee, Alumni Associations, Membership Groups, Daytime Running Lights, Seatbelt Use
Paperless Billing, New Car Replacement, Accident Forgiveness, Bundling, Vehicle Recovery Device, Advanced Safety Features, Online Purchase, Preferred Payment Discount
SmartRide (Telematics), Multi-Policy, Accident-Free, Good Student, Family Plan, Long-Term Policyholder, Affinity Member, Defensive Driving, Passive Restraint, SmartMiles
Snapshot (Telematics), Multi-Policy, Continuous Coverage, Good Student, Homeowner, Automatic Payment, Sign Online, Snapshot Mobile App, Continuous Insurance, Teen Driver
Multi-Policy, Safe Driver, Defensive Driving, Good Student, Accident-Free, Drive Safe & Save (Telematics), Anti-Theft, Passive Restraint, Vehicle Safety Discount, Steer Clear (For Teens)
AARP Member Discount, Driver Training, Bundling, Pay-In-Full, Vehicle Recovery, Good Student, Anti-Lock Brakes, Airbags, Pay-As-You-Drive, Hybrid/Electric Vehicle
Multi-Policy, Home-Auto Bundling, Safe Driver, Good Student, Hybrid/Electric Vehicle, Green Vehicle, Continuous Insurance, Paid-In-Full, Automatic Payments, Early Quote, New Car Replacement
Safe Driver, Military-Specific, Multi-Vehicle, Loyalty, Annual Mileage, Garage Storage, Driver Training, Defensive Driving Course, Family Legacy, Good Student
In fact, by exploring different auto insurance coverage options, you can secure affordable Columbia, MD auto insurance for as low as $47/month if you know how to find the right deal.
Nationwide, Cal Casualty, and State Auto are some of the lowest-priced providers in Columbia today. But a low rate isn’t everything. Sometimes, the company that provides superior customer service and deals with claims efficiently might be worth a few extra dollars per month.
Chris Abrams
Licensed Insurance Agent
Columbia, MD auto insurance companies consider different factors when assessing your insurance quote, including marital status, ZIP code, credit history, your level of education, and your current insurance coverage and limits.
Additionally, premiums will change from company to company. To discover whether you are still getting the most favorable rate, you should compare cheap Columbia auto insurance quotes on the internet. Enter your ZIP code now to begin comparing.
Key Factors for Affordable Car Insurance in Columbia, Maryland
There are lots of ways that your car insurance rate might be estimated. But not all of it is out of your control; there are steps you can take to be able to control which discounts you are entitled to get. Listed below are a few of these components in greater detail:
Your ZIP Code
Your car insurance rates may vary based on where you call home. Usually, highly populated areas have higher auto insurance rates because the extra number of drivers on the highway boosts the probability of a car accident.
Columbia, MD Auto Insurance Monthly Rates by ZIP Code
| ZIP | Rates |
|---|---|
| 21224 | $98 |
| 21229 | $108 |
| 21206 | $113 |
| 21218 | $124 |
| 21215 | $133 |
The total population of Columbia is 99,615 and the average household income is $100,902.
Automotive Accidents
Accident rates are quite low in Columbia. This means that insurance rates in your area will be lower than in other cities, where accidents are more common.
Columbia, MD Fatal Accidents
| Category | Count |
|---|---|
| Persons involved in fatal crashes | 100 |
| Vehicles involved in fatal crashes | 70 |
| Fatalities | 46 |
| Fatal accident count | 45 |
| Pedestrians involved in fatal accidents | 20 |
| Fatal crashes involving drunk persons | 12 |
And you don’t have to do anything to reap the benefits – your provider makes the adjustment automatically.
Auto Thefts in Columbia
Acquiring cheap auto insurance can often be difficult if you are vulnerable to auto theft. Several trendy vehicle models are attractive to thieves, and also vehicles which are parked typically in huge cities.
The risk of possible auto theft in Columbia is 70% below average theft statistics for the state of Maryland, and also 30% below the national average. But if you still have concerns about auto theft, make sure you have Comprehensive coverage on your policy.
Your Credit Score
The secret’s out: your credit rating may have a serious effect on how costly your monthly Columbia, MD auto insurance rates is going to be. As shown within the chart below, getting a bad credit score can increase your rate between 100-200% or even more, based on your insurance provider.
Your Age
The fewer years you have, the fewer years of experience you’ve got when it comes to driving. And the greater you will probably invest in your automotive insurance every month.
Columbia, MD Auto Insurance Monthly Rates by Age
| Insurance Company | Age: 17 | Age: 34 |
|---|---|---|
| $233 | $354 |
| $148 | $224 |
| $120 | $183 |
| $270 | $423 |
| $268 | $406 |
| $157 | $239 |
| $130 | $198 |
| $186 | $324 |
| $176 | $267 |
| $101 | $154 |
As you can tell within the chart, a teenage driver with no good student or defensive driving discount rates needs to pay much more every month.
Your Driving Record
Accident Forgiveness is a terrific way to decrease your rates for those who have a small citation or two on their record.
Columbia, MD Auto Insurance Monthly Rates by Provider & Driving Record
| Insurance Company | Clean Record | One Ticket | One Accident | One DUI |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| $120 | $150 | $170 | $210 |
| $110 | $140 | $160 | $200 |
| $100 | $130 | $150 | $190 |
| $115 | $145 | $165 | $205 |
| $110 | $140 | $160 | $200 |
| $105 | $135 | $155 | $195 |
| $120 | $150 | $170 | $210 |
| $125 | $155 | $175 | $215 |
| $115 | $145 | $165 | $205 |
| $95 | $125 | $145 | $185 |
Individuals having a clean driving history pay substantially lower rates than drivers who’ve speeding tickets, other moving violations, or serious accidents within their recent past. For those who have serious violations, like a Drunk driving incident, certain companies won’t insure you whatsoever
Your Vehicle
Costly luxury automobiles are not just more costly to insure simply because they are more expensive to exchange. Chances are that you are likely to wish to safeguard a costly vehicle with a lot more insurance policy.
Columbia, MD Auto Insurance Monthly Rates by Make & Model
| Insurance Company | 2024 Honda Accord | 2024 Porsche Boxster Spyder |
|---|---|---|
| $242 | $350 |
| $181 | $210 |
| $118 | $150 |
| $199 | $215 |
| $122 | $165 |
| $173 | $210 |
| $121 | $160 |
| $150 | $195 |
| $187 | $205 |
| $155 | $200 |
And also the more coverage you purchase, the greater you’ll have to pay in rates.
Understanding these factors can help you take control of your auto insurance costs in Columbia, Maryland. When you compare auto insurance companies, you can evaluate different policies, identify potential savings, and leverage available discounts to secure affordable coverage tailored to your needs. Enter your ZIP code now to begin.
Second Considerations for Cheap Auto Insurance in Columbia, MD
Don’t forget about these other factors. They can also influence your rate:
Your Marital Status
For a solo policy, marital status has maybe a 1-2% difference, on overall rates. But married people can help to save money by bundling their products along with the same company. Insurance providers frequently give discount rates in exchange for bundling multiple issuances together.
Your Gender
Our research into the data shows no significant factor in monthly rates between men and women motorists. Some companies might charge women more, while some might charge males a greater rate. But for companies who charge different prices, it always varies by a maximum of 2-3%.
Your Driving Distance to Work
Odds are that if you live in Columbia, you’re got a lengthy work commute ahead of you. On average, most workers spend between 26-32 minutes behind the wheel just to get to work. Up to 11% of drivers may carpool on any given day, but in some areas that number is as low as 5%.
Driving less miles every year, or arranging your automobile for outings back and forth from work only, will not help you save much in your monthly rates. The only real factor that will influence your cost is if you designate your automobile as “for business” use. Business automobiles are usually billed 10-12% more every month.
Your Coverage and Deductibles
Should you add more coverage choices to your policy, you are able to decrease your monthly obligations by raising your deductible. Bear in mind, though, that should you ever need to file claims, you will need to have the cash available to have the ability to pay that deductible.
Education in Columbia, MD
Did you know that having a bachelor’s or a master’s degree can save you lots of money when it comes to cars insurance in Columbia, MD? It’s even more effective than having a good job with a nice salary.
If you live in Columbia, this bit of news is especially important for you. Columbia is one of the top well-educated cities in the country, and the statistics reflect this: nearly one-third of all residents have completed a four-year degree, and just under 20% have a master’s.
There are several institutions in Columbia which have satellite campuses located conveniently close to the city. For starters, there is a Johns Hopkins facility, in addition to the Loyola College in Maryland.
For a specialized degree in less time, you may also want to look into Howard Community College, the Lincoln College of Technology, or the local University of Phoenix.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which auto insurance provider offers the lowest rates in Columbia, MD?
Geico and Nationwide are among the lowest-priced auto insurance providers in Columbia, MD. They offer competitive rates that make them attractive options for cost-conscious drivers.
What is the average monthly cost for auto insurance in Maryland?
The average cost of auto insurance in Columbia, MD, is around $151 per month. However, some drivers can find rates as low as $47 per month by comparing providers and utilizing available discounts. Enter your ZIP code now to begin.