What affects your car insurance rate?

Insurance pricing can feel like a black box, but most rates come down to a handful of factors. Some you control. Some you don't.

Driving history

Accidents, tickets, and DUIs raise rates significantly. A clean record over several years is the strongest discount you can earn.

Vehicle make and model

Repair cost, theft rates, and safety ratings all factor in. A modest sedan typically costs less to insure than a high-performance vehicle.

Location

Urban areas with more traffic and theft generally see higher premiums than rural ones.

Age and experience

Younger and newer drivers pay more on average. Rates often drop in your mid-20s and again in your 50s.

Credit-based insurance score

Most states allow insurers to use credit as a rating factor. Better credit usually means lower premiums.

Coverage choices

Liability limits, deductibles, and optional coverages directly affect what you pay.

Annual mileage

Less driving generally means lower risk — and lower rates.