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Cheapest car insurance for college students

Updated Apr 24, 2024
Auto-Owners and Geico are the cheapest car insurance companies overall for college students, but it’s still worth shopping around. 
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The cheapest car insurance for college students

While many of the best car insurance companies provide affordable rates for college students, some are more generous than others. Below, Bankrate’s insurance editorial team selected five top car insurance providers that offer competitive rates for college-aged drivers either on their parents’ policy or on a standalone policy, according to April 2024 auto insurance rate data pulled from Quadrant Information Services.

Each company is listed with its Bankrate Score, which shows how well each insurance provider performs overall on a five-point scale. Our team calculates Bankrate Scores by analyzing each company’s average premiums, coverage offerings, discount options, complaints filed with the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC), mobile app, J.D. Power score for customer service and AM Best rating for financial strength. The closer a company scores to five, the better it performs across each category.

Insurance company Bankrate Score Average full coverage premium with a student discount on their parents’ policy Average full coverage premium without a student discount on their own policy
Geico 4.4 $3,210 $5,098
Auto-Owners 4.3 $2,968 $4,137
State Farm 4.3 $4,215 $6,312
USAA 4.2 $2,830 $4,627
Nationwide 4.0 $2,935 $6,113
*Rates calculated for 18-year-old students, either on their parents’ joint policy with a student discount applied or on their own policy without a student discount applied
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Coverage.com, LLC is a licensed insurance producer (NPN: 19966249). Coverage.com services are only available in states where it is licensed. Coverage.com may not offer insurance coverage in all states or scenarios. All insurance products are governed by the terms in the applicable insurance policy, and all related decisions (such as approval for coverage, premiums, commissions and fees) and policy obligations are the sole responsibility of the underwriting insurer. The information on this site does not modify any insurance policy terms in any way.

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Coverage.com, LLC is a licensed insurance producer (NPN: 19966249). Coverage.com services are only available in states where it is licensed. Coverage.com may not offer insurance coverage in all states or scenarios. All insurance products are governed by the terms in the applicable insurance policy, and all related decisions (such as approval for coverage, premiums, commissions and fees) and policy obligations are the sole responsibility of the underwriting insurer. The information on this site does not modify any insurance policy terms in any way.

Why we picked this carrier:

Geico’s average annual cost for full coverage car insurance for 18-year-olds on their parents’ policy is $3,210 per year with a good student discount. College students may also be able to qualify for other discounts to further bring down the cost, like Geico’s discounts for membership in certain fraternities, sororities and alumni organizations. The company received a high Bankrate Score of 4.4 for its wide range of discounts and low average premiums, and its app-based policy management tools might appeal to younger drivers who prefer to do business on a smartphone Unlike some of its competitors, however, Geico does not offer a 24-hour phone helpline — only an online virtual assistant.

PROS

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    Offers discounts for fraternity, sorority, honor society and other membership organizations

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    Low average rates for college students added to their parents’ policy

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    Highly-rated digital tools

CONS

  • Close X Icon

    No 24/7 phone helpline

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    Few optional endorsements

Geico National average
Student age 18 $5,098 $6,488
Student age 19 $4,136 $5,289
Student age 20 $3,574 4,864
Student age 21 $2,960 $3,912
Student age 22 $2,586 $3,620
* Rates calculated for 18-year-old students on their own policy without a student discount applied.

Why we picked this carrier:

Auto-Owners consistently offers some of the lowest average rates for college students, especially first- and second-year students. It may also be a good option for families who prefer working with a local independent agent rather than interfacing primarily with a carrier app. The company’s Bankrate Score of 4.3 reflects its affordable rates and a wide variety of coverage options, including additional expense coverage and diminishing deductibles. However, Auto-Owners is only available in 26 states, which means it may not be an option for some families.

PROS

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    Multiple student discounts, including a Teen Driver Monitoring discount

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    Wide network of local agents

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    Personalized coverage options

CONS

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    Limited state availability

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    Below-average J.D. Power satisfaction scores

Auto-Owners National average
Student age 18 $4,137 $6,488
Student age 19 $3,646 $5,289
Student age 20 $3,314 4,864
Student age 21 $2,893 $3,912
Student age 22 $2,644 $3,620
* Rates calculated for 18-year-old students on their own policy without a student discount applied.

Why we picked this carrier:

Parents with 18-year-old students on their State Farm auto policy pay an average annual cost of $4,215 for full coverage car insurance with a good student discount. While that number is higher than some competitors, State Farm offers additional savings opportunities for families with young drivers, including a distant student discount and the Steer Clear safe driving program for drivers under age 25. The company received one of the highest Bankrate Scores on our list for its low average premiums and excellent online policy management. However, if you’re interested in buying accident forgiveness coverage, a State Farm policy wouldn’t be ideal. The company only offers the coverage as a perk earned by having a certain number of claim-free years on your record.

PROS

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    Below-average rates for college students added to their parents’ policy

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    Good student and distant student discounts available

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    Offers two safe driving programs for young drivers and adults

CONS

  • Close X Icon

    Gap insurance unavailable

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    Accident forgiveness can’t be purchased, only earned

State Farm National average
Student age 18 $6,312 $6,488
Student age 19 $5,214 $5,289
Student age 20 $4,669 4,864
Student age 21 $4,101 $3,912
Student age 22 $3,761 $3,620
* Rates calculated for 18-year-old students on their own policy without a student discount applied.

Why we picked this carrier:

For families eligible for coverage through USAA, this military-focused carrier offers some of the cheapest auto insurance for college students on a parent’s policy or with their own standalone coverage. USAA received a 4.2 Bankrate Score in recognition of its affordable rates and outstanding customer satisfaction ratings from J.D. Power. This carrier may offer especially attractive options for ROTC students, who can benefit from a wide range of military-focused financial services after graduation.

PROS

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    Below-average rates for college students on or off a parent’s policy

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    Additional services and discounts for military members and veterans

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    College students whose parents have insurance through USAA may get a discount

CONS

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    Only military members and immediate family are eligible

  • Close X Icon

    No brick-and-mortar agencies

USAA National average
Student age 18 $4,627 $6,488
Student age 19 $3,728 $5,289
Student age 20 $3,778 4,864
Student age 21 $2,744 $3,912
Student age 22 $2,609 $3,620
* Rates calculated for 18-year-old students on their own policy without a student discount applied.

Why we picked this carrier:

Nationwide offers some of the cheapest car insurance for 18-year-old college students on a parent’s policy. While rates for teens on standalone policy are higher, college students may see significant rate drops as they enter their early 20s. In addition to student discounts, Nationwide offers two usage-based insurance apps that could help college students and their families save on coverage: SmartRide, which rewards safe driving, and SmartMiles, a pay-per-mile insurance program available in 44 states.

PROS

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    Robust coverage options

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    Discounts for good grades, safe driving and autopay

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    Multiple telematics programs

CONS

  • Close X Icon

    Below-average J.D. Power satisfaction scores for claims and customer service

  • Close X Icon

    Not available in all states

Nationwide National average
Student age 18 $6,113 $6,488
Student age 19 $5,289 $5,289
Student age 20 $4,576 4,864
Student age 21 $3,136 $3,912
Student age 22 $2,871 $3,620
* Rates calculated for 18-year-old students on their own policy without a student discount applied.

How to save on car insurance for college students

While most college students age into a more affordable insurance bracket during their time at school, you don’t have to wait to save on car insurance.

Shop often

As the tables above illustrate, not all insurers treat college students the same way — and an individual carrier might charge higher or lower rates over time. Shopping around for quotes at least once a year can help you stay on top of the lowest available prices.

Lower your mileage

The less time a driver spends on the road, the less likely they are to get into an accident. That’s why many insurance providers will offer lower premiums to those who drive fewer miles.

Explore pay-as-you-go insurance

Some insurance providers offer pay-per-mile insurance or telematics systems that track driving. If you have a car at school but don’t drive often, this type of usage-based insurance could reduce your rate significantly.

Drive a used car

Used cars are typically less expensive to insure and can be easier to repair than new cars since they lack more complex technology than the latest models. You may also earn lower premiums if the car has extra safety features such as anti-lock brakes, electronic stability control, forward-collision warnings and automatic emergency braking.


If you’re considering buying your teen their own car to bring to college, consult the list of safe vehicles for teens issued each year by Consumer Reports and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

Ways for college students to save on driving

Between fuel, vehicle maintenance and insurance premiums, the cost of driving can add up quickly. Here are some ways to save.

Fuel: Take the bus or join a gas rewards program

High gas prices can cut into a college student’s budget significantly. Consider these steps to reduce your overall gas usage:

  • Choose a car with good gas mileage: If you’re buying a new (or used) car, look at the EPA’s guide to the most fuel-efficient vehicles in every vehicle class — and avoid gas guzzlers like large SUVs and pickups. 
  • Use public transportation when possible: If your college town has a public transit system, learn its routes and opt for the bus or train when you can. 
  • Invest in a bicycle: A bicycle is a great option to consider, especially for students in urban areas. In cities and college towns, there are often options for low-cost bike sharing or rentals.
  • Carpool with your classmates or colleagues: If you must drive, consider setting up a carpool or car-sharing arrangement with classmates or colleagues who live along your route. Just be sure to talk to your insurer if you’re exchanging money for gas and maintenance to make sure you’re still covered.
  • Get a gas rewards card: Gas rewards cards can offer discounts on gas. Sometimes, rewards programs offer partnerships with other businesses like grocery stores, so purchases earn points that can be redeemed for discounts on gas.
  • Find the cheapest gas stations close to the campus: Gas prices often fluctuate and you can use tools or apps that will point you to the gas station with the cheapest price available.

Maintenance: Find a trusted shop and learn to DIY

Maintenance costs should be factored into buying a vehicle as well, as they can be a large portion of your car budget. Here are some tips to save on maintenance:

  • Find a mechanic you trust: Some auto repair shops and dealership service centers overcharge for repairs — and young drivers could be easier targets for dishonest merchants. Ask around in your college town and read customer reviews to find a reliable mechanic. 
  • Ask about student savings programs for oil changes: When getting car maintenance done, such as going in for an oil change, ask if a student discount is available. Some large chains, including Jiffy Lube, do offer discounts for college students.
  • Utilize free tire and air fill-up services: You can often find free or cheap self-service tools at gas stations, including air for tires. Keeping your tires properly inflated can improve your car's performance.
  • Research DIY repairs: Some car maintenance tasks, like oil and spark plug changes, are reasonably easy and affordable to do at home. Do your homework before you start to ensure that you have the proper tools and safety procedures in place.

Car insurance discounts for college students

Most insurance companies offer at least one auto insurance discount designed specifically for college students, such as:

  • Good student discount: Earning good grades in school demonstrates responsibility, which may correlate with responsible driving. A B average or 3.0 GPA is the most common eligibility requirement for this discount. 
  • Driver education discount: Some insurers, like Geico, offer discounts to young drivers who complete an approved driver’s education discount. All household members below a certain age may need to complete the course in order to earn the discount. 
  • Distant student discount: Families with a college student attending school far from home without a car can sometimes receive a discount based on the time the student is not using the vehicle. Typically, a student must attend school at least 100 miles from home in order to qualify. 
  • Safe driver discount: While most insurers offer a safe driving discount to all drivers, some offer specialized programs for young drivers, such as State Farm’s Steer Clear or American Family’s Teen Safe Driver program. 
  • Membership discounts: Some insurers, like Geico, offer discounts to students in certain fraternities, sororities and honor societies as well as alumni organizations. 
  • Education discount: Once you’ve completed a college degree, you may be eligible for a discounted rate from many insurance companies. 
  • Military discounts: Some insurers, such as Geico and Liberty Mutual, offer unique discounts to members of the U.S. military.

What do parents need to know about insuring a college student?

For parents sending their child off to college, there are a number of things to consider regarding insurance coverage. It may be helpful to sit down as a family and go over the policy so everyone involved understands the coverage and how to utilize it if needed.

  • Decide whether or not to keep your college student on your policy. Having a college student on your car insurance policy is likely to make the premiums increase, but it is also likely the cheapest option to provide coverage for the student. If a car is jointly owned by the student and parent, the student may be required to remain on the insurance policy. If the student owns their own car, they can get insurance in their own name but will likely have to pay more. Talk with an agent about your options to determine what’s best for your family.
  • Let your insurance provider know when your child starts college. It can be beneficial to keep your student on your insurance policy regardless of whether they are taking a car to college. They may be eligible for a student discount that offers a more affordable rate. Additionally, removing them from your coverage may result in a lapse of coverage that can lead to higher rates later on when they are added back to the policy or seek out their own insurance policy.
  • Consider your college student’s job. If a student will have a job at college that will require them to drive, whether it is as a delivery driver or for a driving service like Uber, standard car insurance will likely not be sufficient to cover those activities. Insurance providers will typically offer options for additional coverage, but it is best to reach out to your insurance company and discuss how to make sure your student is covered by your policy.

Frequently asked questions

Methodology

Bankrate utilizes Quadrant Information Services to analyze April 2024 rates for all ZIP codes and carriers in all 50 states and Washington, D.C. Rates are weighted based on the population density in each geographic region. Quoted rates are based on a single, 40-year-old male and female driver with a clean driving record, good credit and the following full coverage limits:

  • $100,000 bodily injury liability per person
  • $300,000 bodily injury liability per accident
  • $50,000 property damage liability per accident
  • $100,000 uninsured motorist bodily injury per person
  • $300,000 uninsured motorist bodily injury per accident
  • $500 collision deductible
  • $500 comprehensive deductible

To determine minimum coverage limits, Bankrate used minimum coverage that meets each state’s requirements. Our base profile drivers own a 2022 Toyota Camry, commute five days a week and drive 12,000 miles annually.

These are sample rates and should only be used for comparative purposes.

Age: Rates were calculated by evaluating our base profile with the ages 18-22 (base: 40 years) applied. Driver aged 18-22 on own policy is a renter. Age is not a contributing rating factor in Hawaii and Massachusetts due to state regulations.

Written by
R.E. Hawley
Senior writer, Insurance
R.E. Hawley is a senior writer for Bankrate. Prior to joining Bankrate’s insurance editorial team in 2024, they worked as senior writer for a popular car ownership and insurance comparison app, leading a team of over a dozen writers in creating customer-focused financial advice content on topics ranging from insurance to vehicle reliability and auto loan refinance. R.E. holds a personal lines insurance license.
Edited by Editor II, Insurance
Reviewed by Expert Reviewer, CFA, CPA