Key Takeaways
- Farmers offers the cheapest full-coverage car insurance for most Washington drivers at $1,881 per year or $157 per month.
- For military members only, coverage from USAA has a low average of $1,112 per year or $93 per month.
- On average, drivers in the Evergreen State pay $2,110 per year or $176 per month for full-coverage car insurance.
We at the MarketWatch Guides team have researched and reviewed the cheapest car insurance options in Washington state, comparing rates, coverage, ratings and reviews. We compiled a list of recommended providers along with cost estimates for drivers from different profiles below. You’ll also find key information about Washington insurance laws and regulations.
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Which Company Offers the Best Car Insurance Rates in Washington?
Based on quotes we received from Quadrant Information Services, Farmers is the most affordable car insurance company for most Washington drivers, with an average rate of $1,881 per year or $157 per month for full coverage. Rates from Farmers are often right behind USAA, which offers the most affordable coverage for military members and their families in Washington.
Cheapest Car Insurance Rates in Washington
The type of coverage you choose and your unique driver profile play a big role in how much you pay for car insurance. Below, we list the most affordable car insurance companies for drivers with different coverage levels and backgrounds:
| Cheapest Car Insurance in Washington (by Category) | Company | Average Monthly Premium |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum-Liability Coverage | Farmers | $38 |
| Full Coverage | Farmers | $157 |
| Young Drivers** | Travelers | $349* |
| Seniors*** | Travelers | $153* |
| After a Speeding Ticket | Farmers | $190* |
| After an Accident | State Farm | $211* |
| After a DUI | Farmers | $193* |
| Bad Credit | American Family | $171* |
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Cheapest Car Insurance Companies in Washington
Through our research, we’ve found the cheapest companies in Washington are:
- Farmers
- USAA
- Travelers
- American Family
Use the links above to learn more about each of the cheapest car insurance companies in Washington. Below, we break down the most affordable providers by car insurance type, age and vehicle type.
Cheapest Auto Insurance Coverage in Washington
One of the most important things you can do when shopping for insurance is decide on your coverage level. The reason why is that the coverage level you choose has a major impact on your insurance premium. Luckily, most quotes from providers include estimates for minimum-liability and full-coverage car insurance. And while minimum liability is all that is required, it’s worth considering a full-coverage auto insurance policy.
Below are the cheapest car insurance options in Washington state for both coverage types.
Cheapest Washington Liability Insurance
At $26 per month or $311 per year, USAA provides the most affordable liability car insurance in the state, but it only offers coverage for military members, veterans and their families. Most other drivers will find the most affordable minimum coverage with Farmers at just $38 per month or $456 per year. These rates are well below Washington’s statewide average of $661 per year for similar coverage.
| Cheapest Liability Car Insurance in Washington | Average Monthly Cost | Average Annual Cost |
|---|---|---|
| USAA | $26 | $311 |
| Farmers | $38 | $456 |
| Pemco Insurance | $41 | $496 |
| State Farm | $46 | $551 |
| Travelers | $46 | $551 |
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Cheapest Full-Coverage Car Insurance Washington State
Our research shows that USAA tends to offer the cheapest full-coverage car insurance in Washington state at $93 per month or $1,112 per year. Drivers not affiliated with the military can look to Farmers for low rates of $1,881 per year or $157 per month, far more affordable than the Washington average of $2,110 per year or $176 per month for the same level of coverage.
| Cheapest Full-Coverage Insurance in Washington | Average Monthly Cost | Average Annual Cost |
|---|---|---|
| USAA | $93 | $1,112 |
| Farmers | $157 | $1,881 |
| Travelers | $165 | $1,977 |
| Nationwide | $166 | $1,987 |
| American Family | $171 | $2,056 |
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Cheapest Car Insurance for Teen Drivers in Washington
Of all age groups, teen drivers typically pay the highest car insurance rates. As these young drivers age and learn safe habits on the road, however, their rates gradually decrease. Below, we list the cheapest car insurance providers for teens in Washington.
Cheapest Washington Car Insurance for 16-Year-Olds
Our research shows Travelers offers the most affordable full-coverage car insurance for 16-year-old drivers at nearly 38% cheaper than Washington’s average of $7,386 per year for drivers of the same age.
| Cheapest Car Insurance in Washington | Average Monthly Cost | Average Annual Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Travelers | $384 | $4,611 |
| USAA | $444 | $5,331 |
| State Farm | $527 | $6,328 |
| Mutual Of Enumclaw Insurance | $530 | $6,363 |
| American Family Insurance | $584 | $7,012 |
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Read more: Best Cheap Car Insurance for 16-Year-Olds
Cheapest Washington Car Insurance for 17-Year-Olds
Travelers again offers the most affordable full-coverage rates for 17-year-olds, clocking in at nearly 30% cheaper than the statewide average of $6,316 per year for drivers in this age group.
| Cheapest Car Insurance in Washington | Average Monthly Cost | Average Annual Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Travelers | $369 | $4,424 |
| USAA | $386 | $4,629 |
| Geico | $456 | $5,467 |
| American Family Insurance | $471 | $5,648 |
| State Farm | $503 | $6,041 |
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Read more: Best Cheap Car Insurance for 17-Year-Olds
Cheapest Washington Car Insurance for 18-Year-Olds
On average, Travelers has the cheapest full-coverage car insurance for 18-year-olds in Washington on average, offering rates as much as 29% less than the Washington average of $5,693 per year for drivers of this age.
| Cheapest Car Insurance in Washington | Average Monthly Cost | Average Annual Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Travelers | $336 | $4,032 |
| USAA | $345 | $4,146 |
| American Family Insurance | $386 | $4,628 |
| Geico | $438 | $5,256 |
| State Farm | $457 | $5,480 |
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Read more: Best Cheap Car Insurance for 18-Year-Olds
Cheapest Car Insurance for Young Drivers in Washington
While young adults may pay less for car insurance than teenagers, they still pay substantially more than older drivers. The tables below show the cheapest car insurance for young drivers in Washington state, along with estimated monthly and annual costs.
Cheapest Washington Car Insurance for 19-Year-Olds
While USAA is the cheapest provider for 19-year-old military members, Travelers is again the most affordable provider for other Washington drivers in this age group. Full coverage for a 19-year-old driver from Travelers is around 20% cheaper than the state average of $4,593 per year.
| Cheapest Car Insurance in Washington | Average Monthly Rate | Average Annual Rate |
|---|---|---|
| USAA | $222 | $2,667 |
| Travelers | $308 | $3,691 |
| American Family Insurance | $325 | $3,897 |
| Farmers | $336 | $4,037 |
| Progressive | $395 | $4,745 |
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Read more: Best Cheap Car Insurance for 19-Year-Olds
Cheapest Washington Car Insurance for 21-Year-Olds
According to our research, USAA and Farmers offer the cheapest coverage for 21-year-old drivers in the state on average. As this table illustrates, Washington drivers in their early 20s may find cheaper car insurance rates than when they were in their teens. USAA’s rates are 53% cheaper than the annual full-coverage state average of $3,417, while Farmers’ are 35% cheaper.
| Cheapest Car Insurance in Washington | Average Monthly Cost | Average Annual Cost |
|---|---|---|
| USAA | $134 | $1,607 |
| Farmers | $184 | $2,205 |
| American Family Insurance | $245 | $2,936 |
| Travelers | $250 | $3,005 |
| Geico | $280 | $3,364 |
Read more: Best Cheap Car Insurance for 21-Year-Olds
Cheapest Washington Car Insurance for 25-Year-Olds
25-year-old Washington drivers tend to find affordable full-coverage car insurance through USAA and Farmers. Average rates from USAA are around 47% cheaper than Washington’s average of $2,455 per year for full coverage for this age group, while rates from Farmers are around 20% cheaper.
| Cheapest Car Insurance in Washington | Average Monthly Cost | Average Annual Cost |
|---|---|---|
| USAA | $108 | $1,293 |
| Farmers | $164 | $1,964 |
| Travelers | $175 | $2,098 |
| American Family Insurance | $177 | $2,127 |
| Progressive | $187 | $2,243 |
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Read more: Best Cheap Car Insurance for 25-Year-Olds
Cheapest Car Insurance in Washington for Seniors
As drivers age out of their teen years and into adulthood, car insurance rates continue to decrease with safe driving habits. However, when drivers enter their senior years, insurance rates may start to increase again. Below, we look at the rates of the cheapest providers for drivers ages 65 and 75.
Read more: Cheapest Car Insurance for Seniors
Cheapest Car Insurance in Washington for 65-Year-Olds
In Washington, Travelers offers the most affordable full-coverage car insurance for most senior drivers at age 65. The company’s rates are around 18% cheaper than the Washington average for drivers of this age, $2,049 per year. USAA coverage is cheapest for military-affiliated drivers in this age group, with rates 47% cheaper than the state average.
| Cheapest Car Insurance in Washington | Estimated Monthly Cost | Estimated Annual Cost |
|---|---|---|
| USAA | $91 | $1,091 |
| Travelers | $140 | $1,684 |
| Farmers | $149 | $1,789 |
| State Farm | $161 | $1,937 |
| Progressive | $163 | $1,960 |
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Cheapest Car Insurance in Washington for 75-Year-Olds
While Travelers is again the most affordable provider for drivers around age 75, you’ll notice that rates from the company are somewhat higher than its average rates for 65-year-old drivers due to an increased risk of accidents based on senior driving statistics.
However, $1,995 per year for full coverage from Travelers is still 18% cheaper than the statewide average of $2,441 for this age group, and for the military-affiliated, USAA’s rates are 37% cheaper.
| Cheapest Car Insurance in Washington | Estimated Monthly Cost | Estimated Annual Cost |
|---|---|---|
| USAA | $127 | $1,529 |
| Travelers | $166 | $1,995 |
| Farmers | $177 | $2,123 |
| Geico | $177 | $2,128 |
| State Farm | $185 | $2,223 |
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Cheapest Washington Car Insurance for High-Risk Drivers
High-risk drivers who have had a speeding ticket, DUI or recent accident can pay substantially more for auto insurance in Washington state. The following sections provide averages for the cheapest car insurance rates for drivers who may fall into these categories.
Cheapest Washington Car Insurance for Drivers With a Speeding Ticket
Washington drivers can expect to pay a much higher rate for auto insurance coverage after receiving a speeding ticket. Car insurance premiums reach an average full-coverage rate of $2,679 per year for motorists who have a speeding violation on their driving record.
| Cheapest Car Insurance in Washington | Average Monthly Cost | Average Annual Cost |
|---|---|---|
| USAA | $109 | $1,308 |
| Farmers | $190 | $2,275 |
| State Farm | $195 | $2,343 |
| Travelers | $207 | $2,489 |
| American Family | $210 | $2,514 |
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Cheapest Washington Car Insurance for Drivers With a Recent Accident
Drivers who have been involved in a recent accident tend to pay about $3,109 per year for car insurance in Washington. Car insurance coverage isn’t cheap after car crashes in the Evergreen State, providing another reason to keep a clean driving record.
| Cheapest Car Insurance in Washington | Average Monthly Cost | Average Annual Cost |
|---|---|---|
| USAA | $129 | $1,553 |
| State Farm | $211 | $2,531 |
| Travelers | $215 | $2,584 |
| Farmers | $222 | $2,658 |
| American Family | $263 | $3,162 |
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Cheapest Washington Car Insurance for Drivers With a DUI
A DUI on your driving history will earn you the label of a high-risk motorist. That’s why full-coverage car insurance rates can reach $3,152 per year for Washington state drivers who’ve faced a DUI conviction.
| Cheapest Car Insurance in Washington | Average Monthly Cost | Average Annual Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Farmers | $193 | $2,319 |
| USAA | $193 | $2,318 |
| State Farm | $195 | $2,343 |
| Progressive | $205 | $2,460 |
| American Family Insurance | $210 | $2,514 |
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Cheapest Washington Car Insurance for Drivers With Poor Credit
Poor credit scores typically translate to extremely high rates for car insurance policies in most states, since providers see those with poor credit as riskier to insure, and that holds true in Washington. Evergreen State drivers with bad credit can expect to spend around $2,912 per year on full-coverage car insurance.
| Cheapest Car Insurance in Washington | Average Monthly Cost | Average Annual Cost |
|---|---|---|
| USAA | $148 | $1,780 |
| American Family Insurance | $171 | $2,056 |
| Progressive | $175 | $2,099 |
| Geico | $177 | $2,128 |
| Nationwide | $226 | $2,713 |
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Cheapest Car Insurance by Vehicle Type
In the sections below, we compare the cheapest car insurance providers for electric, hybrid and gas-powered vehicles. However, thanks to the state’s low average rates, you can expect to have affordable insurance coverage, no matter which type of vehicle you drive.
Cheapest Insurance for Electric and Hybrid Vehicles
Because electric vehicles use newer technology in place of a traditional gas engine, these vehicles are typically more expensive to build and repair than their gas-powered counterparts. For this reason, insurance rates are often higher for EV drivers.
Cheapest Car Insurance for Electric Cars in Washington
Based on our rate data, Washington drivers pay an annual average of $2,731 for full-coverage car insurance on fully electric vehicles. You’ll notice that each of the providers listed below comes in well below this average, however, with USAA and Farmers offering the cheapest rates.
| Company | Average Monthly Rate | Average Annual Rate |
|---|---|---|
| USAA | $135 | $1,625 |
| Farmers | $191 | $2,295 |
| State Farm | $192 | $2,308 |
| Progressive | $214 | $2,568 |
| Travelers | $220 | $2,638 |
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Read more: Electric Vehicle Insurance
Cheapest Hybrid Car Insurance in Washington
USAA and Geico stand out as the most affordable car insurance companies for drivers of hybrid vehicles in Washington. Each company’s rates are far more affordable than the statewide average of $1,874 per year for full coverage of this type of vehicle.
| Company | Average Monthly Rate | Average Annual Rate |
|---|---|---|
| USAA | $90 | $1,079 |
| Geico | $139 | $1,666 |
| Farmers | $141 | $1,689 |
| State Farm | $143 | $1,714 |
| Travelers | $157 | $1,886 |
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Cheapest Insurance for Gas-Powered Vehicles
While gas-powered vehicles are more affordable than electric vehicles to insure, they’re actually more expensive than most hybrid models. Below, we break down the cheapest car insurance providers for different types of gas-powered vehicles.
Cheapest SUV Insurance in Washington
In Washington, drivers pay around $1,835 per year on average to insure an SUV with full coverage. For most drivers, Farmers is the most affordable choice with USAA as a cheap choice for military members and their families in the Evergreen State.
| Company | Average Monthly Rate | Average Annual Rate |
|---|---|---|
| USAA | $90 | $1,083 |
| Farmers | $131 | $1,568 |
| Progressive | $134 | $1,608 |
| State Farm | $145 | $1,740 |
| Geico | $146 | $1,756 |
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Cheapest Car Insurance for Sedans in Washington
The average cost to insure a sedan in Washington is somewhat higher than the cost for trucks or SUVs. Still, USAA and Progressive offer competitively low rates for drivers with standard sedan models.
| Company | Average Monthly Rate | Average Annual Rate |
|---|---|---|
| USAA | $98 | $1,176 |
| Progressive | $153 | $1,841 |
| Farmers | $159 | $1,912 |
| Geico | $162 | $1,940 |
| State Farm | $168 | $2,011 |
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Cheapest Car Insurance for Trucks in Washington
Truck drivers in Washington pay an average rate of around $1,916 per year for full coverage on their vehicles. USAA and Farmers are again affordable choices for most Washington drivers with this type of vehicle.
| Company | Average Monthly Rate | Average Annual Rate |
|---|---|---|
| USAA | $92 | $1,102 |
| Farmers | $135 | $1,615 |
| State Farm | $146 | $1,757 |
| Geico | $153 | $1,836 |
| American Family Insurance | $156 | $1,873 |
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Read more: Everything You Need To Know about the Cost of Truck Insurance
Cheap Car Insurance Quotes in Washington
Your car insurance rates will likely vary from the estimates in this article. Providers calculate your premiums using a number of variables.
These are the most influential factors when it comes to the cost of car insurance in Washington:
- Age
- Marital status
- Driving record
- Gender listed on your license
- Credit score
- Location
- Coverage limits
Read more: Compare Car Insurance
Cheap Auto Insurance Quotes in Washington by ZIP
Below, you can get personalized cheap auto insurance quotes for your location in Washington.
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Car Insurance Discounts in Washington
If you’re shopping around for car insurance as a Washington driver, it can be helpful to find discounts to help bring down costs. When researching companies, check to see which discounts you qualify for — you can even ask your agent to add discounts you may not have known about to your existing policy.
Speak with your car insurance agent to see if any of the discounts below can help you get the best rates in Washington:
- Multi-policy: Bundling two or more insurance policies with the same company, such as home and auto insurance
- Multi-vehicle: Insuring multiple cars under the same policy or combining auto insurance policies with your family members or friends
- Military: Applies whether you’re an active military member or a veteran
- Senior: Typically applies to policyholders who are 55 and older
- Homeowners: You may qualify for this discount if you’re paying a mortgage
- Good student: Usually for college and high school students under 25 who maintain a B average in their courses
- Good driver: Applies to drivers with a clean driving record (no at-fault accidents, DUIs or speeding tickets in the last three years)
- Defensive driving: Those who take a defensive driving course tend to qualify for this discount
- Driver training: Get a discount by taking a driver education training course
- New car: Given to drivers who purchase a new car, typically three model years or newer
- Safe car: Applies if your vehicle has safety features like anti-theft technology or automatic braking
- Paperless: Get a discount by opting to receive your documents through email
- Pay-in-full: Save on your car insurance premium by paying your policy in full up front
Best Cheap Car Insurance Washington State
The average cost of car insurance in Washington is $2,110 per year or $176 per month for full coverage and $661 per year or $55 per month for minimum coverage. Keep reading to learn more about the cheapest auto insurance in the state.
#1 Farmers
Cheap for Most Drivers
Average monthly minimum-coverage cost: $38
Average monthly full-coverage cost: $157
Number of discounts: 15
Farmers Insurance Overview
Farmers offers the most affordable car insurance across the most driver profiles in Washington. It also offers a large number of discount opportunities and a strong coverage selection for drivers in the state.
Farmers Cost and Coverage in Washington
The average cost of full-coverage car insurance from Farmers is $1,881 per year or $157 per month, while minimum coverage is an affordable $456 per year or $38 per month. Both are well below the Washington statewide averages for similar coverage.
Farmers offers standard insurance coverage options for drivers in Washington, including liability, collision and comprehensive coverages. Add-on options available from Farmers include:
- Rental car reimbursem*nt
- Rideshare coverage
- Loss of use coverage
- Customized equipment protection
- Glass deductible buyback
- Safety equipment deductible waiver
- OEM part coverage
- New car replacement
- Accident forgiveness
- Residual debt or gap coverage
Top Farmers Insurance Discounts in Washington
Farmers recommends the following auto insurance discounts to Washington drivers:
- Multi-vehicle discount: If you own and operate more than one vehicle, you’ll receive discounted rates on your Farmers auto insurance policy.
- Multi-policy discount: Bundle your vehicle, property, life or business policies to receive discounted premiums.
- Shared family car discount: If you share the family car with another driver under age 20 in your household, you could receive a rate discount.
- On your own: Young drivers who were previously covered under their parents’ Farmers policy can receive discounts for getting their own policy with the company.
Keep reading: Farmers Insurance Review
#2 USAA
Best for Military Members
Average monthly minimum-coverage cost: $26
Average monthly full-coverage cost: $93
Number of discounts: 13
USAA Overview
As in many states, USAA is often the most affordable provider overall. However, this coverage is only available to retired or active-duty military members and their families. Still, USAA doesn’t just offer affordable coverage. The company also has a reputation for great customer service and often has the highest score in industry-wide customer satisfaction studies from entities like J.D. Power.
USAA Cost and Coverage in Washington
In Washington, drivers who are eligible for USAA coverage pay an average rate of $1,112 per year or $93 per month for full-coverage car insurance. Minimum coverage from the provider is around $311 per year or $26 per month on average.
USAA is known for its dependable minimum and full-coverage options, with add-on options like accident forgiveness and new car replacement.
Top USAA Insurance Discounts in Washington
USAA offers legacy discounts to drivers who join the company because their parents were members. For active-duty military who may not drive their vehicles often, USAA also offers low-mileage discounts and vehicle storage discounts.
Keep reading: USAA Insurance Review
#3 Travelers
Affordable for Young Drivers
Average Monthly Minimum-Coverage Cost: $46
Average Monthly Full-Coverage Cost: $165
Number of Discounts: 12
Travelers Overview
Travelers earned the top spot in our ranking of the best car insurance companies on a national level, and the company also offers some of the most affordable car insurance in Washington. Full-coverage rates from Travelers are especially affordable for teen drivers and seniors.
Travelers Cost and Coverage in Washington
Full coverage from Travelers costs drivers in Washington an average of $1,977 per year or $165 per month, just below the statewide average of $2,110 per year for similar coverage. Minimum coverage from Travelers averages out at $551 per year or $46 per month.
Coverage options available from Travelers include policies that meet mandatory insurance minimums in Washington as well as comprehensive and collision coverages. Add-on insurance options from Travelers include rental car reimbursem*nt, accident forgiveness and gap coverage.
Top Travelers Insurance Discounts in Washington
Travelers customers benefit from several discount opportunities, including:
- IntelliDrive®: This usage-based insurance program tracks your driving habits over a period of 90 days to adjust rates for either safe or risky driving.
- Good student discount: If you maintain an average of “B” or higher in school you could qualify for car insurance discounts.
- Homeowner’s discount: If you own a home in Washington, Travelers offers discounted insurance rates.
- Away-at-school discount: If you need insurance on your vehicle but want to park it while you’re away at college, Travelers has a discount for that.
Keep reading: Travelers Insurance Review
#4 American Family Insurance
Cheap for Drivers with Low Credit Scores
Average Monthly Minimum-Coverage Cost: $76
Average Monthly Full-Coverage Cost: $171
Number of Discounts: 16
American Family Insurance Overview
American Family Insurance is among the most affordable providers in Washington for young adult drivers and drivers with mixed credit histories. It also ranks among the top 10 providers in our national review of over 100 car insurance companies.
American Family Insurance Cost and Coverage in Washington
American Family Insurance can purchase the six standard types of car insurance coverage typically found in liability-only and full-coverage policies. You can also customize your coverage with the following add-ons:
- New car replacement
- Rental car reimbursem*nt
- Emergency roadside assistance
- Gap coverage
- Accidental death and dismemberment coverage
Top American Family Insurance Discounts in Washington
American Family offers a mileage-based car insurance program, MilesMyWay. If you drive less than 8,000 miles per year, you can save on car insurance premiums as a low-mileage customer. Other discounts available from American Family Insurance include:
- Steer Into Savings: If you join American Family by switching from another provider, you may be eligible for an incentive discount.
- DriveMyWay: This is a usage-based insurance program that rewards safe driving habits with select insurance discounts.
- Young driver discounts: American Family offers several discounts to help young drivers save on premiums, including a good student discount, an away-at-school discount and a young volunteers discount.
Keep reading: American Family Insurance Reviews
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Average Cost of Car Insurance in Washington State
The average cost of full-coverage car insurance in Washington state is $176 per month or $2,110 per year. The national average is $2,681 per year, so Evergreen State drivers save considerable money compared to many Americans.
Those looking for cheap car insurance in Washington should compare quotes from multiple providers before making a final decision. While it’s easy to find competitive rates in the state, looking at multiple quotes may save you hundreds of dollars per year.
Washington drivers pay about $661 per year or $55 per month for minimum liability insurance. For most drivers, Farmers offers the cheapest liability insurance in the state on average, with rate estimates as low as $456 per year, or $38 per month.
Average Cost of Auto Insurance in Washington State by Age
Washington car insurance costs vary widely depending on a driver’s age. Younger drivers tend to pay significantly higher premiums due to their lack of experience, while middle-aged drivers often pay the lowest rates.
The table below shows average monthly and annual full-coverage premiums for Washington drivers of all ages:
| Age | Estimated Monthly Cost | Estimated Annual Cost |
|---|---|---|
| 16 | $615 | $7,386 |
| 17 | $526 | $6,316 |
| 18 | $474 | $5,693 |
| 19 | $383 | $4,593 |
| 21 | $285 | $3,417 |
| 25 | $205 | $2,455 |
| 35 | $176 | $2,110 |
| 45 | $173 | $2,076 |
| 55 | $162 | $1,948 |
| 65 | $171 | $2,049 |
| 75 | $203 | $2,441 |
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Cost of Car Insurance in Washington by City
Auto insurance rates differ from state to state, but they also vary within states. Like in many other states, Washington residents in more urban ZIP codes typically pay higher rates for insurance than those in rural areas. The table below shows rate estimates for different Washington cities.
| City in Washington | Estimated Monthly Cost | Estimated Annual Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Auburn | $204 | $2,448 |
| Bellevue | $184 | $2,207 |
| Bellingham | $146 | $1,749 |
| Everett | $184 | $2,203 |
| Federal Way | $208 | $2,490 |
| Kennewick | $148 | $1,770 |
| Kent | $207 | $2,480 |
| Kirkland | $177 | $2,122 |
| Lacey | $167 | $1,999 |
| Lakewood | $202 | $2,422 |
| Longview | $155 | $1,864 |
| Marysville | $174 | $2,092 |
| Oak Harbor | $142 | $1,704 |
| Olympia | $160 | $1,923 |
| Pasco | $146 | $1,751 |
| Pullman | $146 | $1,752 |
| Redmond | $176 | $2,107 |
| Seattle | $195 | $2,344 |
| Spokane | $167 | $2,000 |
| Spokane Valley | $157 | $1,881 |
| Tacoma | $212 | $2,544 |
| Vancouver | $174 | $2,089 |
| Walla Walla | $147 | $1,765 |
| Wenatchee | $149 | $1,785 |
| Yakima | $155 | $1,863 |
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Washington Car Insurance Rates vs. National and State Averages
Overall, car insurance in Washington is more affordable than the national average. See the chart below for a visual comparison of Washington’s annual average rates against the national average:
Washingtonians pay considerably less on average for car insurance than drivers in other states. However, some drivers may find cheaper rates elsewhere. For a detailed comparison, we list the average minimum- and full-coverage rates for every state below:
| State | Average Annual Minimum-Liability Premium | Average Annual Full-Coverage Premium |
|---|---|---|
| Alabama | $572 | $2,048 |
| Alaska | $506 | $2,116 |
| Arizona | $956 | $3,127 |
| Arkansas | $589 | $2,398 |
| California | $736 | $3,040 |
| Colorado | $750 | $3,010 |
| Connecticut | $1,293 | $3,206 |
| Delaware | $1,288 | $3,364 |
| Florida | $1,605 | $3,795 |
| Georgia | $1,256 | $2,907 |
| Hawaii | $455 | $1,581 |
| Idaho | $463 | $1,588 |
| Illinois | $823 | $3,054 |
| Indiana | $557 | $1,949 |
| Iowa | $456 | $1,994 |
| Kansas | $683 | $2,421 |
| Kentucky | $1,072 | $2,545 |
| Louisiana | $1,497 | $4,357 |
| Maine | $456 | $1,460 |
| Maryland | $1,261 | $2,943 |
| Massachusetts | $759 | $2,620 |
| Michigan | $1,640 | $4,626 |
| Minnesota | $752 | $2,463 |
| Mississippi | $563 | $2,140 |
| Missouri | $752 | $2,613 |
| Montana | $517 | $2,368 |
| Nebraska | $545 | $2,252 |
| Nevada | $1,665 | $3,870 |
| New Hampshire | $594 | $1,766 |
| New Jersey | $1,609 | $3,454 |
| New Mexico | $608 | $2,335 |
| New York | $2,490 | $8,232 |
| North Carolina | $815 | $2,271 |
| North Dakota | $490 | $2,029 |
| Ohio | $511 | $1,660 |
| Oklahoma | $710 | $3,256 |
| Oregon | $1,161 | $2,408 |
| Pennsylvania | $893 | $3,909 |
| Rhode Island | $1,084 | $2,921 |
| South Carolina | $959 | $2,519 |
| South Dakota | $443 | $2,590 |
| Tennessee | $707 | $2,237 |
| Texas | $960 | $3,156 |
| Utah | $968 | $2,451 |
| Vermont | $366 | $1,539 |
| Virginia | $726 | $2,070 |
| Washington | $661 | $2,110 |
| Washington, D.C. | $870 | $2,636 |
| West Virginia | $617 | $2,308 |
| Wisconsin | $561 | $2,003 |
| Wyoming | $303 | $1,794 |
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Read more: Car Insurance Rates by State
Washington State Car Insurance Requirements
Like most states, Washington follows an at-fault car insurance system. This means whoever causes a car accident will be liable to pay for damages incurred by both drivers. At-fault states generally have lower premiums than those that follow no-fault systems, and that holds true in Washington.
Minimum Insurance Requirements Washington State
Washington state law mandates that all drivers carry at least the following minimum-coverage car insurance:
- Bodily injury liability insurance: $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident
- Property damage liability coverage: $10,000 per accident
Uninsured motorist coverage, underinsured motorist coverage and personal injury protection (PIP) are not required for drivers in Washington state.
While the state minimum coverage requirements are fairly slim, many drivers prefer greater car insurance coverage in Washington. Two of the most popular options for added protection are collision coverage and comprehensive coverage. The cost of adding these policies depends on the extent of your protection.
Is It Illegal Not To Have Car Insurance in Washington?
Driving without car insurance in Washington may lead to a fine of $550 or more, as well as the suspension of your license. Uninsured drivers should pick up coverage immediately, as driving without insurance can be both dangerous and costly.
How To Get Car Insurance in Washington
Farmers, USAA, Travelers and American Family usually offer some of the cheapest car insurance in Washington. If you’re looking for affordable and high-quality auto coverage, be sure to compare car insurance quotes from multiple providers across the Evergreen State.
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Cheap Auto Insurance in Washington State: The Bottom Line
In this article, we reviewed the cheapest auto insurance companies, coverage and rates in the state of Washington. We also looked at average cost of car insurance and coverage requirements in the Evergreen State.
Cheapest Car Insurance in Washington: FAQ
Below are frequently asked questions about the cheapest car insurance in Washington:
The average 35-year-old driver pays $176 per month or $2,110 per year for a full–coverage car insurance policy in Washington state. This is hundreds of dollars below the national average of $2,681 per year.
Car insurance generally costs around $2,110 per year in Washington state. This is about 21% lower than the national average of $2,681 per year.
The average cost for car insurance in Washington state is $176 per month, though full–coverage plans can be found for as little as $93 per month.
Minimum coverage in Washington state is $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident for bodily injury liability car insurance, along with $10,000 per accident in property damage coverage.
Car insurance in Seattle costs an average of $195 per month, or $2,344 per year. While this is higher than the statewide average of $2,110 per year, it’s still below the national average rate of $2,681.
No, Washington is an at-fault auto insurance state, meaning that whoever causes an accident is liable for covering all damages. At-fault states generally have lower prices for auto coverage, and that’s the case for Washington auto insurance.
How We Chose the Cheapest Car Insurance in Washington
Our comprehensive rating system utilizes the latest 2024 insurance rates from Quadrant Information Services in combination with data we’ve collected on dozens of insurance companies. To help consumers get the most accurate picture of insurance rates in the state of Washington, we’ve averaged rates from the top 12 providers across 40 Washington ZIP codes. Unless otherwise specified, our base driver profiles for Washington insurance quotes include male and female drivers, age 35, driving a 2023 Toyota Camry with a clean driving record and good credit.
We’ve also looked at quotes for Washington drivers of multiple ages and those with a history of accidents, speeding tickets or DUIs, as well as drivers with poor credit. Our minimum-coverage quotes reflect coverage that meets state minimum insurance requirements in Washington, while our full-coverage quotes reflect the following coverage amounts:
✔ $50,000 per person in bodily injury coverage
✔ $100,000 per accident in bodily injury coverage
✔ $50,000 per person in property damage coverage
✔ $500 comprehensive coverage deductible
✔ $500 collision coverage deductible
Our Methodology
Because consumers rely on us to provide objective and accurate information, we created a comprehensive rating system to formulate our rankings of the best car insurance companies. We collected data on dozens of auto insurance providers to grade the companies on a wide range of ranking factors. The end result was an overall rating for each provider, with the insurers that scored the most points topping the list.
- Coverage (30% of total score): Companies that offer a variety of choices for insurance coverage are more likely to meet consumer needs.
- Cost and Discounts (25% of total score): Auto insurance rate estimates generated by Quadrant Information Services and discount opportunities are both taken into consideration.
- Industry Standing (20% of total score): Our research team considers market share, ratings from industry experts and years in business when giving this score.
- Customer Experience (15% of total score): This score is based on volume of complaints reported by the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) and customer satisfaction ratings reported by J.D. Power. We also consider the responsiveness, friendliness and helpfulness of each insurance company’s customer service team based on our own shopper analysis.
- Availability (10% of total score): Auto insurance companies with greater state availability and few eligibility requirements score highest in this category.
Our credentials:
- 800 hours researched
- 130+ companies reviewed
- 8,500+ consumers surveyed
*Data accurate at time of publication.
If you have feedback or questions about this article, please email the MarketWatch Guides team at [email protected].
