Average cost of car insurance in New York for 2023

How much is car insurance in New York?

Car insurance in the Empire State is significantly more expensive, on average, than the national average. Many factors contribute to high rates, including high minimum coverage requirements, expensive costs of living and densely populated cities. For many drivers, finding the best car insurance in New York means finding coverage within their budget. For reference, New Yorkers pay an average of $1,371 annually for minimum coverage and $3,139 annually for full coverage. Full coverage in the state is 56 percent higher than the national average of $2,014 and minimum coverage costs 120 percent more than the national average of $622.

New York car insurance rates by city

Most drivers know that their state impacts their car insurance costs, but did you know your city and ZIP code may also influence your rates? Differences in population, local weather patterns and crime rates cause average premiums to fluctuate from city to city. Below you can see how average rates vary from the state average in some prominent New York cities.

Average car insurance costs by age and gender in New York 

Your age influences how much you pay for car insurance in New York. Younger drivers have less experience behind the wheel and a higher likelihood of accidents, so they tend to pay significantly higher rates for car insurance. As you can see below, 18-year-old male drivers on their own policy in New York pay average full coverage rates 236 percent higher than the state average. 

Gender is another factor that can affect the cost of your car insurance. Statistics show that male drivers are more likely to engage in risky driving behavior, such as speeding. In some states, insurance companies use this information to justify charging a higher rate for male drivers. Not all states allow gender as a rating factor, but New York does.

Cost considerations for young drivers in New York

Young drivers may be able to save on premiums by remaining insured on their parents' policy. The table below shows the premium difference for drivers aged 20 and younger who join their parents' existing policy compared to those who purchase their own policy.

*16- and 17-year-old drivers must be on their parents’ policy.

How does driving record impact the cost of car insurance in New York?

Blemishes on your driving record such as speeding tickets, at-fault accidents and DWIs (driving while intoxicated) may all have a direct impact on how much more you pay for auto insurance. Some insurance companies may even deny coverage to drivers with high-risk incidents on their record, like a DUI. The following table breaks down the average premium costs a New York driver with various moving violations may pay and the percentage increase from average full coverage premiums.

Car insurance rates in New York by credit score

Credit is another factor that may impact your car insurance rates in some states, including New York. Drivers with lower credit-based insurance scores may be viewed as riskier to insure and pay higher average premiums as a result. If you're searching for the best rate on your car insurance, our data shows that having an excellent credit-based insurance score saves you an average of 18 percent on your premium compared to the state average.

New York car insurance rates by vehicle type

If you're looking for cheap car insurance in New York, you may want to rethink the type of vehicle you drive. Luxury cars and those with poor safety ratings or expensive parts typically cost more to insure. The following table shows the average premium for five common New York vehicle types.

How to save on car insurance in New York

While New York may be one of the most expensive states for auto insurance, drivers may be able to save on their premiums with some strategic planning. These tips and tricks may help bring down your insurance rate:

• Shop around: Most insurance professionals recommend comparing quotes from different providers to see who may offer the cheapest rates for your specific insurance needs. 
• Discounts: Most carriers offer at least a handful of discounts to help policyholders save money. Common discounts include good student, bundling and safe driver. 
• Improve your credit score: Improving your credit score may help keep your premium low. 
• Increase your deductible: Your deductible is the amount you are responsible for out of pocket in the event of a collision or comprehensive coverage claim. Raising your deductible may bring down your premium, but note that insurance professionals recommend keeping your deductible low enough that you could pay it comfortably in the event of a claim.

Estimate your car insurance cost in New York

Frequently asked questions