The cheapest car insurance company in Pennsylvania is State Farm, followed by The Hartford, Erie, Nationwide, and Donegal — though rates will depend on your driving record and other factors.
By
Andrew HurstAndrew HurstSenior Editor & Licensed Insurance ExpertAndrew Hurst is a former senior editor at Policygenius who has spent his entire career writing about life, disability, home, auto, and health insurance. His work has been featured in The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, the Washington Post, Forbes, USA Today, NPR, Mic, Insurance Business Magazine, and Property Casualty 360.&Rachael BrennanRachael BrennanSenior Editor & Licensed Insurance ExpertRachael Brennan is a licensed auto insurance expert and a former senior editor at Policygenius. Her work has also been featured in MoneyGeek, Clearsurance, Adweek, Boston Globe, The Ladders, and AutoInsurance.com.
Edited by
Anna SwartzAnna SwartzSenior Managing EditorAnna Swartz is a senior managing editor who specializes in home, auto, renters, and disability insurance at Policygenius. Previously, she was a senior staff writer at Mic and a writer at The Dodo. Her work has also appeared in Salon, HuffPost, MSN, AOL, and Heeb.
The cheapest car insurance company in Pennsylvania is State Farm, at an average of $81 per month for a full-coverage policy. That’s $703 cheaper than the statewide average in Pennsylvania ($1,672 per year).
Ready to shop car insurance?
The other cheapest car insurance companies in Pennsylvania include TheHartford, Erie, Nationwide, and Donegal. Since the cost of insurance varies so much by driver, it’s a good idea to compare rates before getting covered to find the best prices for your needs.
Average cost per month
State Farm
$81
The Hartford
$86
Erie
$87
Nationwide
$88
Donegal
$108
Methodology & why you can trust our rates
Policygenius has analyzed car insurance rates provided by Quadrant Information Services for every ZIP code in all 50 states plus Washington, D.C. For full coverage policies, the following coverage limits were used:
Bodily injury liability: $50,000 per person/$100,000 per accident
Property damage liability: $50,000
Uninsured/underinsured motorist: $50,000 per person/$100,000 per accident
Comprehensive: $500 deductible
Collision: $500 deductible
In some cases, additional coverages were added where required by state or insurer.
Rates for overall average rate, rates by ZIP code, and cheapest companies determined using averages for single drivers ages 30, 35, and 45. Our sample vehicle was a 2017 Toyota Camry LE driven 10,000 miles/year.
Rates for driving violations and “Poor” credit determined using average rates for a single male 30-year-old driver with a credit score under 578.
Some carriers may be represented by affiliates or subsidiaries. Rates provided are a sample of costs. Your actual quotes may differ.
Cheapest car insurance companies in Pennsylvania
State Farm
Policygenius rating
Our proprietary rating methodology takes multiple factors into account, including customer satisfaction, cost, financial strength, and policy offerings. See the "methodology" section for more details.
4.8
AM Best rating
AM Best is a global credit rating agency that scores the financial strength of insurance companies on a scale from A++ (Superior) to D (Poor).
A++
Cost
Using a mix of internal and external rate data, we grade the cost of each insurance company's premiums on a scale from least expensive ($) to most expensive ($$$$$).
$
$
$
$
$
Bundle home & auto
Coverage for rideshare drivers
Good student discount
Mobile app
Usage-based discount
Offers classic car insurance
Offers motorcycle insurance
Why we chose it
State Farm is a top car insurance company in Pennsylvania thanks to its cheap rates and high customer service ratings. State Farm may even be an affordable option for drivers with spotty records.
Pros and cons
Pros
Available in almost every state
Low rates for teens and drivers with accidents
High customer satisfaction ratings
Cons
Limited coverage options
More details
Why we chose State Farm:
State Farm is one of the best and cheapest car insurance companies in Pennsylvania thanks to its affordable rates, even with a spotty driving record.
One of the things we like most about State Farm is its high customer service scores. It aso receives fewer complaints than is average for the industry, according to the National Association of Insurance Commissioners.
How does the cost of car insurance from State Farm compare to the average in Pennsylvania?
The average cost of State Farm car insurance in Pennsylvania is $81 a month or $969 per year, which is 42% cheaper than the statewide average.
Our proprietary rating methodology takes multiple factors into account, including customer satisfaction, cost, financial strength, and policy offerings. See the "methodology" section for more details.
4.0
AM Best rating
AM Best is a global credit rating agency that scores the financial strength of insurance companies on a scale from A++ (Superior) to D (Poor).
A+
Cost
Using a mix of internal and external rate data, we grade the cost of each insurance company's premiums on a scale from least expensive ($) to most expensive ($$$$$).
NA
Mobile app
New homebuyer discount
Smart home discounts
Usage-based discount
Offers new car replacement
Why we chose it
The Hartford is a top company for senior drivers in Pennsylvania looking for low rates. You also can customize your policy with add-ons, including gap insurance.
Pros and cons
Pros
Affordable rates for seniors
Lots of endorsements
Special coverage for household chores if you’re injured in an accident
Cons
Offers coverage exclusively to AARP members
More details
Why we chose The Hartford:
The Hartford is one of the best car insurance companies in Pennsylvania if you’re a senior-age driver and an AARP member. The Hartford works exclusively with AARP, but you can still add your children or partner to your policy if they’re not members.
You can add car insurance endorsements, including gap insurance (which may be required if you lease or finance your car), accident forgiveness, new car replacement, and a disappearing deductible option.
How does the cost of car insurance from The Hartford compare to average in Pennsylvania?
The average cost of car insurance from The Hartford in Pennsylvania is $86 a month or $1,026 per year, which is 39% cheaper than the statewide average.
Our proprietary rating methodology takes multiple factors into account, including customer satisfaction, cost, financial strength, and policy offerings. See the "methodology" section for more details.
4.9
AM Best rating
AM Best is a global credit rating agency that scores the financial strength of insurance companies on a scale from A++ (Superior) to D (Poor).
A+
Cost
Using a mix of internal and external rate data, we grade the cost of each insurance company's premiums on a scale from least expensive ($) to most expensive ($$$$$).
$
$
$
$
$
Mobile app
Offers new car replacement
Good student discount
Accident forgiveness
Bundle home & auto
Offers classic car insurance
Coverage for rideshare drivers
Usage-based discount
Offers gap coverage
Offers motorcycle insurance
Why we chose it
Erie’s cheap rates and claims satisfaction stack up well against larger competitors in Pennsylvania. Erie also offers a range of endorsements and perks, like new car replacement coverage and rate lock.
Pros and cons
Pros
Low car insurance rates
Lots of useful add-ons, like new car replacement
Accident forgiveness automatically included after three years
Cons
Not available in every state
More details
Why we chose Erie:
Erie’s low average rates make it one of the best companies for finding affordable car insurance in Pennsylvania. Erie also offers a handful of discounts, plus exclusive discounts if you’re 21 years old or younger, or if there’s a young driver on your policy.
Another thing we like about Erie is its range of car insurance coverage options. You can add gap insurance, new car replacement, personal belongings coverage, and more to your Erie policy. You can also qualify for accident forgiveness at no extra cost.
How does the cost of car insurance from Erie compare to average in Pennsylvania?
The average cost of car insurance from Erie in Pennsylvania is $87 a month or $1,048 per year, which is 37% cheaper than the statewide average.
Our proprietary rating methodology takes multiple factors into account, including customer satisfaction, cost, financial strength, and policy offerings. See the "methodology" section for more details.
4.2
AM Best rating
AM Best is a global credit rating agency that scores the financial strength of insurance companies on a scale from A++ (Superior) to D (Poor).
A+
Cost
Using a mix of internal and external rate data, we grade the cost of each insurance company's premiums on a scale from least expensive ($) to most expensive ($$$$$).
$
$
$
$
$
Bundle home & auto
Coverage for rideshare drivers
Mobile app
Good student discount
Offers flood insurance
Offers motorcycle insurance
Usage-based discount
Offers gap coverage
Why we chose it
Nationwide has cheap average rates in Pennsylvania (including for young drivers), along with some coverage options you won’t find everywhere, like gap coverage and accident forgiveness.
Pros and cons
Pros
Low rates
Few customer complaints
Annual coverage review
Cons
Not available in Alaska, Hawaii, Louisiana or Massachusetts
Lower-than-average claims satisfaction ratings
More details
Why we chose Nationwide:
Nationwide is another of the cheapest options for car insurance in Pennsylvania. We like Nationwide’s low rates for families with young drivers, and its pay-per-mile program (Smartmiles) which can help you save money if you don’t drive much.
You can also choose from option coverage add-ons like gap insurance, accident forgiveness, and a vanishing deductible.
How does the cost of car insurance from Nationwide compare to average in Pennsylvania?
The average cost of car insurance from Nationwide in Pennsylvania is $88 a month or $1,055 per year, which is 37% cheaper than the statewide average.
Our proprietary rating methodology takes multiple factors into account, including customer satisfaction, cost, financial strength, and policy offerings. See the "methodology" section for more details.
3.8
AM Best rating
AM Best is a global credit rating agency that scores the financial strength of insurance companies on a scale from A++ (Superior) to D (Poor).
A
Cost
Using a mix of internal and external rate data, we grade the cost of each insurance company's premiums on a scale from least expensive ($) to most expensive ($$$$$).
NA
Good student discount
Mobile app
Accident forgiveness
Why we chose it
Donegal has affordable car insurance in Pennsylvania and it offers a few great add-ons. Donegal also offers a few special discounts for students and young drivers.
Pros and cons
Pros
Offers accident forgiveness
Has special discounts for students
Gets few complaints
Cons
Small range of coverage options
More details
Why we chose Donegal:
Donegal is one of the cheaper options for car insurance in Pennsylvania. Rates are often lower than average, and Donegal may still be affordable even if you don’t have a clean record or you have poor credit.
Donegal doesn’t offer many ways to customize your car insurance, but it does offer accident forgiveness and basic add-ons like rental reimbursement and roadside assistance.
How does the cost of car insurance from Donegal compare to average in Pennsylvania?
The average cost of car insurance from Donegal in Pennsylvania is $108 a month or $1,293 per year, which is 23% cheaper than the statewide average.
The best car insurance company in Pennsylvania is USAA. It scored the highest in the region in the most recent J.D. Power Auto Insurance Study, which measures how policyholders feel about their car insurance company’s overall price, value, and claims service. [1]
Since USAA is only available for members of the military and their families, that makes Erie the top-rated car insurance company in Pennsylvania that’s available to most drivers.
Company
Score
1
USAA
877
2
Erie
863
3
The Hartford
840
4
NJM
834
5
CSAA
827
Cheapest car insurance companies by age in Pennsylvania
Car insurance companies factor in a person's age when determining rates and coverage. For young drivers, meaning teenagers and young adults, insurance rates are considerably higher than more experienced drivers, because younger drivers are more likely to get into an accident and file a claim.
As a driver ages and gains more experience, insurance rates can decrease. The milestone birthday, at least where insurance is considered, is 25. It’s not a guarantee, but rates can start to lower after age 25.
Choosing the right car insurance company in Pennsylvania
Choosing an insurance company can seem overwhelming, but it doesn't have to be. There are a few factors to consider when selecting a car insurance company.
Cost: Different companies can and do charge different rates for similar coverage. That's why it's important to gather quotes for multiple insurance companies to find the best rate.
Coverage: Insurance policies offer a wide range of coverage options. Make sure the company you choose offers the types of coverage you need.
Communication: When you need assistance, having multiple points of contact can make all the difference.
If you're ready to start shopping, Policygenius can help you compare quotes from top car insurance companies.
Car insurance rates for drivers with driving violations in Pennsylvania
On average, State Farm has the best car insurance rates in Pennsylvania for drivers with violations, like a speeding ticket or a DUI. Any past accidents and driving violations on your record can make your rates more expensive, but your rates will return to average after a few years of safe driving.
Violation
State Farm
The Hartford
Erie
Nationwide
Atlantic States Insurance
At-fault accident
$1,142
$1,469
$1,528
$1,835
$2,051
Suspended license
$1,059
$1,367
$1,805
$2,836
$3,292
Open container
$1,059
$1,322
$1,251
$1,620
$1,293
Expired registration
$1,059
$1,322
$1,251
$1,620
$1,293
Driving without lights
$1,059
$1,553
$1,251
$1,620
$1,293
Running a red light
$1,059
$1,322
$1,251
$1,620
$1,293
Following too closely
$1,059
$1,322
$1,251
$1,620
$1,293
Hit and run
$1,059
$1,367
$1,805
$2,836
$3,292
Not-at-fault accident
$993
$1,064
$1,121
$1,102
$1,293
Passing a school bus
$1,059
$1,367
$1,251
$1,620
$1,293
Reckless driving
$1,059
$1,553
$1,251
$2,836
$1,293
Collapse table
Cheapest car insurance after an accident in Pennsylvania
The cheapest car insurance after an accident in Pennsylvania is State Farm, where your average rates after an accident are $95 a month or $1,142 a year. If you’re in a not-at-fault accident, your rates won’t go up as much.
Rates for drivers with an at-fault accident
State Farm
$1,142
The Hartford
$1,469
Erie
$1,528
Nationwide
$1,835
Donegal
$2,051
Cheapest car insurance for drivers with a DUI in Pennsylvania
Drivers in Pennsylvania should expect to see a significant increase in their rates if they get a DUI or DWI. The average annual cost for car insurance in Pennsylvania is $1,672 per year, but drivers with a DUI on their record will pay much more, with an average rate of $3,163 per year, which is 89% higher than the rates for drivers with a clean driving history.
But rates can vary significantly by company, even for drivers with a DUI. Our research shows that the companies in Pennsylvania with the lowest rates for drivers with a DUI are State Farm, The Hartford, and Erie.
Rates for drivers with DUIs
State Farm
$1,059
The Hartford
$1,553
Erie
$1,805
Nationwide
$2,836
Atlantic States Insurance
$3,292
Cheapest car insurance for drivers with a speeding ticket in Pennsylvania
A speeding ticket or other moving violation can also cause your car insurance rates to go up in Pennsylvania, where the average cost of insurance for a driver with a speeding ticket is $2,169 per year.
Our research shows that State Farm, Erie, and Atlantic States Insurance offer the lowest rates for drivers with a speeding ticket in Pennsylvania.
Cheapest car insurance for drivers with bad credit in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania, and many other states, use credit scores as one factor to determine car insurance rates. In general, drivers with lower credit scores will pay higher insurance rates.
Nationwide has the cheapest car insurance rates in Pennsylvania for drivers with bad credit.
Rates for drivers with bad credit
Nationwide
$1,487
USAA
$1,588
Atlantic States Insurance
$1,596
State Farm
$2,192
Erie
$2,665
Cheapest car insurance in Pennsylvania by city
The cost of car insurance in your area can be affected by local factors like crime rates, population density, the number of car accidents, and other things specific to your city. Here are the cheapest car insurance companies in the 10 most populated cities in Pennsylvania.
Largest cities
Cheapest company
Average yearly rate for the cheapest company
Overall citywide average
Philadelphia
State Farm
$1,752
$3,096
Pittsburgh
State Farm
$997
$1,669
Allentown
Erie
$1,012
$1,728
Reading
Erie
$979
$1,623
Erie
Erie
$1,041
$1,651
Upper Darby
The Hartford
$1,454
$2,469
Scranton
Nationwide
$969
$1,665
Bensalem
The Hartford
$1,278
$2,138
Abington
State Farm
$1,197
$2,002
Bethlehem
State Farm
$971
$1,598
Collapse table
Ready to shop car insurance?
Buying car insurance in Pennsylvania
Every state has different minimum requirements for drivers and their car insurance. Pennsylvania is no different. The required coverages in Pennsylvania are:
Medical Benefits: You must have a minimum of $5,000 in medical benefits coverage
Bodily Injury Liability: You must have a minimum of $15,000 per person and $30,000 per accident
Property Damage Liability: You must have a minimum of $5,000 per accident
Limited or Full Tort: You must choose between limited or full tort coverage. With full tort coverage selection, you have unrestricted rights to sue a negligent driver in an accident. With limited tort, you pay less for coverage but you give up the ability to sue for pain and suffering or other expenses beyond out-of-pocket medical costs.
Pennsylvania is also a "no-fault" state. No-fault means that, in the event of an accident, your insurance company will pay for any medical bills incurred regardless of who caused the accident. Drivers do have the ability to file a third party claim against an at-fault driver, but injuries and damages must exceed the states established threshold. Because it’s a no-fault state, Pennsylvania requires drivers to have $5,000 per person in medical benefit coverage, typically referred to as personal injury protection (PIP).
Where Pennsylvania differs from other no-fault states is that it allows drivers to opt out. Drivers may choose to opt out of the no-fault system when they purchase a car or an insurance policy.
How to get cheap car insurance in Pennsylvania
Car insurance can be a hefty financial expense, but it does offer drivers peace of mind. Fortunately, there are ways to offset this cost and find cheap auto insurance.
Take advantage of bundles and discounts offered by insurance companies
Why is car insurance so expensive in Philadelphia?
Insurance companies understand that heavily populated cities present more risks. There are more people in the Philadelphia area, so there are more cars on the road. This increases the potential for accidents or damages and resulting claims.
Is car insurance required in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania, like most states, does require drivers to be insured. Pennsylvania requires all drivers to carry bodily injury and property damage liability coverage, as well as PIP.
How much is car insurance per month in Pennsylvania?
The average cost of car insurance in Pennsylvania is $139 per month, or $1,672 per year.
Who has the cheapest insurance in Pennsylvania?
State Farm has the cheapest average annual car insurance rates in Pennsylvania, at $969 per year.
References
Policygenius uses external sources, including government data, industry studies, and reputable news organizations to supplement proprietary marketplace data and internal expertise. Learn more about how we use and vet external sources as part of oureditorial standards.
Andrew Hurst is a former senior editor at Policygenius who has spent his entire career writing about life, disability, home, auto, and health insurance. His work has been featured in The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, the Washington Post, Forbes, USA Today, NPR, Mic, Insurance Business Magazine, and Property Casualty 360.
Rachael Brennan is a licensed auto insurance expert and a former senior editor at Policygenius. Her work has also been featured in MoneyGeek, Clearsurance, Adweek, Boston Globe, The Ladders, and AutoInsurance.com.
Anna Swartz is a senior managing editor who specializes in home, auto, renters, and disability insurance at Policygenius. Previously, she was a senior staff writer at Mic and a writer at The Dodo. Her work has also appeared in Salon, HuffPost, MSN, AOL, and Heeb.