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Best cheap car insurance in Chattanooga for 2024

Updated Nov 13, 2024
Car insurance rates in Chattanooga are often lower than the national average, but finding the best value requires comparing providers and exploring potential discounts.
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This advertisement is powered by Coverage.com, LLC, a licensed insurance producer (NPN: 19966249) and a corporate affiliate of Bankrate. The offers and links that appear on this advertisement are from companies that compensate Coverage.com in different ways. The compensation received and other factors, such as your location, may impact what offers and links appear, and how, where and in what order they appear. While we seek to provide a wide range of offers, we do not include every product or service that may be available. Our goal is to keep information accurate and timely, but some information may not be current. Your actual offer from an advertiser may be different from the offer on this advertisement. All offers are subject to additional terms and conditions.

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.

The best car insurance companies in Chattanooga

When searching for the best car insurance companies in Chattanooga, it's important to consider various factors beyond just price. Bankrate’s insurance editorial team analyzed premium data from Quadrant Information Services to find the most affordable options, while also evaluating providers based on the Bankrate Score. This proprietary score combines average rates with other aspects like coverage features, potential discounts, digital tools and third-party insights on financial strength and customer satisfaction. Here's a closer look at some of the best car insurance companies in the city to help you find the right fit.

Best for affordable rates and a top-rated mobile app

Bankrate Score

Rating: 4.4 stars out of 5
4.4

Avg. min coverage premium

$292

Min. coverage

Avg. full coverage premium

$1,276

Full coverage

Why Geico made our list: Geico stands out as a strong option for drivers in Chattanooga due to its comprehensive coverage choices and affordable rates. It provides features like rental reimbursement and mechanical breakdown insurance, which could be appealing for drivers seeking well-rounded protection. The company also offers 24/7 customer service and a top-rated mobile app, giving drivers access to their policies whenever needed. Geico's extensive list of discounts, such as savings for accident-free drivers and bundling policies, often helps customers save even more.

Why Geico Is best for affordable rates and a top-rated mobile app: With some of Chattanooga’s most competitive rates and a user-friendly mobile app, Geico is an excellent option for drivers seeking affordable insurance that remains accessible on the go. The app streamlines the management of policies, claims and billing, making it particularly useful for those who prefer handling insurance matters digitally. While Geico’s list of add-ons is limited, its competitive pricing and comprehensive discounts could make it a good fit for budget-conscious drivers who value digital convenience.

Scores and Ratings
Bankrate Score 4.4
J.D. Power 651/1,000
AM Best Rating A++
Read full review
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Best for customizable discounts

Bankrate Score

Rating: 4.3 stars out of 5
4.3

Avg. min coverage premium

$593

Min. coverage

Avg. full coverage premium

$2,436

Full coverage

Why State Farm made our list: State Farm is well-suited for Chattanooga drivers due to its extensive network of agents, with over 20 in the region. Its competitive rates often rank among the lowest, providing budget-friendly options for those seeking to save money on their auto insurance. State Farm offers a range of discounts tailored to different drivers, including programs like Drive Safe and Save and Steer Clear, which could help safe drivers, teens and students reduce their premiums. Despite its impressive mobile resources, the lack of 24/7 customer service might be a consideration for some drivers.

Why State Farm is best for customizable discounts: State Farm is a top pick for drivers who want to maximize their savings through customizable discount programs. The Drive Safe and Save and Steer Clear initiatives encourage safe driving practices while potentially offering significant discounts. Additional savings are typically available for teens, students and drivers with clean records. This blend of customizable discounts and accessible local agents makes State Farm an attractive choice for those seeking a personal touch with their coverage.

Scores and Ratings
Bankrate Score 4.3
J.D. Power 673/1,000
AM Best Rating A++
Read full review
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Best for new drivers and policy customization

Bankrate Score

Rating: 4.2 stars out of 5
4.2

Avg. min coverage premium

$363

Min. coverage

Avg. full coverage premium

$1,255

Full coverage

Why Travelers made our list: Travelers is an appealing option for Chattanooga drivers, offering a combination of discounts and endorsements that can help them save money and personalize their policies. Its average rates are often well below Chattanooga's typical costs. The IntelliDrive program allows careful drivers to potentially save up to 30 percent by monitoring driving habits. Travelers also offers a variety of discounts, such as multi-policy, new car and student savings. The company provides coverage in 42 states and Washington, D.C., making it a versatile option for drivers across many regions.

Why Travelers is best for new drivers and policy customization: Travelers excels at helping new drivers find affordable coverage through potential discounts like its telematics-based IntelliDrive program. With the ability to customize their policies by adding endorsements, such as rental car reimbursement or roadside assistance, drivers can tailor coverage to their specific needs. This combination of flexibility and potential savings makes Travelers a particularly good choice for those starting out on their driving journey or those who need customizable options.

Scores and Ratings
Bankrate Score 4.2
J.D. Power 642/1,000
AM Best Rating A++
Read full review
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Best for military-focused benefits and customer satisfaction

Bankrate Score

Rating: 4.2 stars out of 5
4.2

Avg. min coverage premium

$374

Min. coverage

Avg. full coverage premium

$1,541

Full coverage

Why USAA made our list: USAA could be an excellent choice for eligible Chattanooga drivers due to its strong customer satisfaction scores and specialized services. It exclusively serves active and veteran military members and qualifying family members. Coverage options include rideshare insurance, roadside assistance and extended benefits. USAA typically offers exclusive discounts for members who maintain low annual mileage or recently purchased a new vehicle. Additionally, loyalty savings may help policyholders save if they or a family member already have a USAA policy.

Why USAA is best for military-focused benefits and customer satisfaction: USAA is known for its military-focused benefits and high customer satisfaction ratings. Members of the military and their families often find USAA's tailored offerings to be comprehensive and designed for their needs. With the option to save through exclusive driver discounts, such as loyalty programs or new vehicle incentives, USAA provides coverage that aligns with its members' specific requirements. While the company’s eligibility criteria may limit its customer base, its focus on military benefits makes it a likely fit for those who qualify.

Scores and Ratings
Bankrate Score 4.2
J.D. Power 759/1,000
AM Best Rating A++
Read full review
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Best for a broad range of discounts

Bankrate Score

Rating: 3.8 stars out of 5
3.8

Avg. min coverage premium

$996

Min. coverage

Avg. full coverage premium

$2,395

Full coverage

Why Farmers made our list: Farmers auto insurance is available across most regions of the U.S., excluding a few states, making it widely accessible to drivers in Chattanooga. It typically appeals to those who want to tailor their policies to meet unique needs through optional coverages like accident forgiveness and car replacement. Although Farmers holds a slightly lower Bankrate Score than some other insurers, it's still reasonably priced for many drivers. Discounts like good payer, shared family car and the Signal telematics program can further help reduce costs.

Why Farmers is best for a broad range of discounts: Farmers offers a comprehensive range of discounts that can appeal to different driver profiles, making it a versatile choice for those seeking to lower their insurance costs. Drivers who qualify can take advantage of savings through the good payer program, the shared family car discount and the Signal telematics initiative. These varied discount opportunities could make Farmers a practical option for drivers in Chattanooga looking to optimize their auto insurance while potentially customizing their coverage.

Scores and Ratings
Bankrate Score 3.8
J.D. Power 676/1,000
AM Best Rating A
Read full review
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Bankrate's trusted insurance industry expertise

Read our full methodology

At Bankrate, our insurance editorial team is dedicated to delivering the most accurate, up-to-date information available. We gather data from Quadrant Information Services to analyze rates by ZIP code, helping drivers find the best quality analysis for their specific location. Our evaluations consider various factors like discounts, customer satisfaction and policy features to help you make informed decisions. Discount availability and eligibility can vary based on state regulations, individual driver profiles and the chosen insurance company.

46

years of industry experience

122

carriers reviewed

34.5K

ZIP codes examined

1.2M

quotes analyzed

The cheapest car insurance companies in Chattanooga

Chattanooga's scenic location near the Appalachian Mountains, its growing population and its central transportation hubs often contribute to the insurance needs of its residents. The city's diverse roadways and frequent rain showers can impact driving conditions, making it essential for drivers to find affordable car insurance that suits their needs. Fortunately, with careful comparison of rates, discounts and policy features, you can usually identify the best value for your situation. Below you’ll find the cheapest car insurance companies in Chattanooga based on minimum coverage pricing:

$363
$1,255
$292
$1,276
$381
$1,508
$374
$1,541
$543
$1,549

How much is car insurance in Chattanooga, Tennessee?

Chattanooga drivers typically pay around $506 annually for minimum coverage, which is 0 percent more than Tennessee's state average. For full coverage, drivers usually pay approximately $1,926 per year, which is also 4 percent less than the state's average. Here’s a look at some of the best cheap car insurance companies across various demographics in Chattanooga to help you start your search for the right policy.

Chattanooga rates for teens

Teen drivers in Chattanooga often face higher car insurance premiums due to their limited driving experience, which could increase the likelihood of accidents. To help minimize these costs, many parents choose to add their teenagers to their existing policies. This approach typically offers better rates than securing separate policies, thanks to multi-car discounts and other potential savings. Comparing quotes and seeking discounts for good grades or safe driving may help families manage the costs of insuring young drivers.

Coverage type
$603
$474
$689
$710
$883
$767
$999
$999
$1,142
$962
*Annual rates were determined by adding a 16- or 18-year-old teen to their 40-year-old married parents' policy. The rates displayed reflect the total cost of a driver this age added to their parents’ policy.
$2,283
$2,283
$2,321
$1,857
$3,000
$2,647
$3,247
$3,014
$3,345
$2,762
*Annual rates were determined by adding a 16- or 18-year-old teen to their 40-year-old married parents' policy. The rates displayed reflect the total cost of a driver this age added to their parents’ policy.

Chattanooga rates for young drivers

Young drivers in Chattanooga often pay significantly higher premiums compared to older, more experienced drivers. With limited driving histories and potentially higher risk profiles, young drivers could face challenges finding affordable rates. However, options like telematics-based programs that reward safe driving habits, bundling policies and seeking out companies with good student discounts might help young adults reduce their costs. Taking the time to shop around and compare rates from different insurers could also make a significant difference in finding the most budget-friendly option.

The rates you’ll see in the tables below are for young drivers on their own policy.

Coverage type
$515
$340
$699
$506
$713
$352
$828
$470
Tennessee Farmers Mutual
$898
$490
$2,289
$1,405
$2,700
$1,978
$2,851
$1,467
$3,060
$1,713
$3,322
$1,901

Chattanooga rates for adults

Adult drivers in Chattanooga generally have more stable insurance premiums than younger drivers, as their longer driving histories often lead to more favorable rates. However, factors like driving records, credit scores and vehicle types may still impact overall costs. To secure affordable coverage, adults should consider seeking out potential discounts for safe driving, bundling policies or opting for higher deductibles. Additionally, reviewing policy needs periodically and comparing rates across different insurers can help ensure that adult drivers continue to receive competitive pricing as their circumstances evolve.

Coverage type
$292
$292
$257
$334
$363
$308
Tennessee Farmers Mutual
$400
$368
$344
$420
$374
$353
$428
$381
$352
$1,276
$1,276
$1,130
$1,350
$1,255
$1,112
$1,501
$1,621
$1,369
$1,589
$1,549
$1,483
$1,630
$1,726
$1,484

Chattanooga rates for senior drivers

Senior drivers in Chattanooga, particularly those in their 60s and 70s, might notice changes in their car insurance rates as they age. While rates for this age group tend to be lower than for younger drivers due to their wealth of driving experience, some seniors could see increases in premiums because of age-related factors that may affect their driving abilities. To counter these potential increases, senior drivers can look for discounts aimed at their demographic, such as safe driving or defensive driving course discounts.

Coverage type
$257
$521
$301
$348
$330
$377
Tennessee Farmers Mutual
$333
$380
$351
$414
$301
$1,188
$257
$2,222
$613
$1,453
$330
$1,495
$495
$1,597
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Advertising disclosure
This advertisement is powered by Coverage.com, LLC, a licensed insurance producer (NPN: 19966249) and a corporate affiliate of Bankrate. The offers and links that appear on this advertisement are from companies that compensate Coverage.com in different ways. The compensation received and other factors, such as your location, may impact what offers and links appear, and how, where and in what order they appear. While we seek to provide a wide range of offers, we do not include every product or service that may be available. Our goal is to keep information accurate and timely, but some information may not be current. Your actual offer from an advertiser may be different from the offer on this advertisement. All offers are subject to additional terms and conditions.

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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Advertising disclosure
This advertisement is powered by Coverage.com, LLC, a licensed insurance producer (NPN: 19966249) and a corporate affiliate of Bankrate. The offers and links that appear on this advertisement are from companies that compensate Coverage.com in different ways. The compensation received and other factors, such as your location, may impact what offers and links appear, and how, where and in what order they appear. While we seek to provide a wide range of offers, we do not include every product or service that may be available. Our goal is to keep information accurate and timely, but some information may not be current. Your actual offer from an advertiser may be different from the offer on this advertisement. All offers are subject to additional terms and conditions.

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.

The cheapest car insurance in Chattanooga by driving record

A driver's record is likely one of the most influential factors affecting car insurance rates in Chattanooga. Drivers with clean records often enjoy lower premiums due to their reduced risk profile. However, those with violations like speeding tickets, at-fault accidents or DUIs could see substantial increases in their premiums. Fortunately, many insurance providers offer discounts and programs for safe driving or accident forgiveness that could help mitigate some of the cost. Exploring quotes from various insurers and leveraging available discounts are practical ways to find the cheapest car insurance in Chattanooga based on your driving history.

Car insurance with a speeding ticket in Chattanooga

Drivers in Chattanooga who receive a speeding ticket will likely notice an increase in their car insurance premiums, as this violation typically signals a higher risk to insurers. Rates are 4 percent less following a ticket compared to the state average. While the exact premium increase depends on factors like speed over the limit and the driver's overall record, it's generally advisable to compare quotes from different insurers. Some companies offer more lenient rate adjustments, while others provide programs to help mitigate the impact, such as safe driving incentives.

$292
$2,034
Tennessee Farmers Mutual
$368
$2,039
$400
$1,698
$456
$1,712
$456
$1,914

Car insurance after an accident in Chattanooga

Having an at-fault accident on your driving record often leads to a notable increase in car insurance premiums. In Chattanooga, drivers who have caused an accident might see their rates rise significantly, usually resulting in a cost that's 4 percent less than the state average. The exact increase may vary depending on the severity of the accident and other factors, but shopping around for quotes from different insurers can help find better rates. Some providers may also offer accident forgiveness programs or discounts to help reduce the impact on your insurance costs.

Tennessee Farmers Mutual
$368
$2,039
$445
$1,728
$467
$1,766
$530
$2,272
$595
$2,346

Car insurance after a DUI in Chattanooga

Getting a DUI can lead to a substantial increase in car insurance premiums due to the significant risk associated with this violation. In Chattanooga, drivers convicted of a DUI typically see have rates 3 percent less compared to the state average. This considerable rise in premiums makes it important for drivers to compare quotes from different insurers, as some companies specialize in offering more affordable rates for high-risk drivers. Additionally, taking defensive driving courses or pursuing reinstatement programs may help lower the long-term impact on your insurance costs.

$467
$1,846
Tennessee Farmers Mutual
$580
$3,253
$617
$2,850
$687
$2,426
$736
$3,080
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Minimum coverage requirements in Chattanooga

In Chattanooga and throughout Tennessee, the state requires drivers to maintain the following minimum coverage levels:

  • Bodily Injury Liability: $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident
  • Property Damage Liability: $25,000 per accident

These limits help cover damages for other drivers and passengers in the event of an at-fault accident. However, Tennessee doesn't mandate uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage, personal injury protection (PIP) or medical payments (MedPay) coverage.

Drivers may still want to consider adding these optional coverages for extra financial protection.

Given Chattanooga's varying traffic conditions and potential for unpredictable weather, it's often helpful to explore more comprehensive coverage beyond the minimum requirements. Higher liability limits or additional coverage types could better protect against the costs of severe accidents or damages, offering drivers greater peace of mind.

Frequently asked questions

Methodology

Bankrate utilizes Quadrant Information Services to analyze November 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.

Incidents: Rates were calculated by evaluating our base profile with the following incidents applied: clean record (base), at-fault accident, single speeding ticket and single DUI conviction.

Age: Rates were calculated by evaluating our base profile with the ages 20-70 (base: 40 years) applied. Depending on age, drivers may be a renter or homeowner. Age is not a contributing rating factor in Hawaii and Massachusetts due to state regulations.

Teens: Rates were determined by adding a 16- or 18-year-old teen to their 40-year-old married parents' policy. The rates displayed reflect the total cost of a driver this age added to their parents’ policy.

Bankrate Scores

Our 2024 Bankrate Score considers variables our insurance editorial team determined impacts policyholders’ experiences with an insurance company. These rating factors include a robust assessment of each company’s product availability, financial strength ratings, online capabilities and customer and claims support accessibility. Each factor was added to a category, and these categories were weighted in a tiered approach to analyze how companies perform in key customer-impacting categories.

Each category was assigned a metric to determine performance, and the weighted sum adds up to a company’s total Bankrate Score — out of 5 points. Our scoring model provides a comprehensive view, indicating when companies excel across several key areas and highlighting where they fall short.

5
Rating: 5 stars out of 5
Overall Score
  • Cost & ratings 50%
  • Coverage & savings 30%
  • Support 20%
  • Tier 1 (Cost & ratings): To determine how well auto and home insurance companies satisfy these priorities, average quoted premiums from Quadrant Information Services (if available), as well as any of the latest third-party agency ratings from J.D. Power, AM Best, Demotech and the NAIC, were analyzed.
  • Tier 2 (Coverage & savings): We assessed companies’ coverage options and availability to help policyholders find a provider that balances cost with coverage. Additionally, we evaluated each company’s discount options listed on its website.
  • Tier 3 (Support): To encompass the many ways an auto insurance company can support policyholders, we analyzed avenues of customer accessibility along with community support. This analysis incorporated additional financial strength ratings from S&P and Moody’s and factored a company’s corporate sustainability efforts.
Written by
Ashlyn Brooks
Writer II, Insurance
Ashlyn Brooks is a finance writer with more than half a decade of experience, known for her knowledge in areas such as taxes, insurance, investing, retirement, finance news, and banking products.
Edited by Editor, Insurance