How Much Is Car Insurance Per Month? 2026 Average Costs
Updated 2026 National Averages by Age, Record, and Vehicle
The national average cost of car insurance is $167 per month for full coverage in 2026. But that number varies by hundreds of dollars depending on your age, driving record, the vehicle you drive, where you live, and the insurer you choose. This guide breaks down exactly what you can expect to pay.
$167
National avg full coverage/month
$72
National avg liability only/month
$400+
Average savings when switching
Average Cost by Coverage Type
| Coverage Type | Avg Monthly Cost |
|---|
| Liability minimum | $52 |
| Liability recommended | $72 |
| Collision only | $58 |
| Comprehensive only | $18 |
| Full coverage | $167 |
Average Cost by Age
| Age Group | Full Coverage/Month | Liability Only/Month |
|---|
| 16-19 | $368 | $162 |
| 20-24 | $248 | $108 |
| 25-29 | $192 | $82 |
| 30-39 | $168 | $72 |
| 40-49 | $158 | $68 |
| 50-59 | $148 | $64 |
| 60-64 | $152 | $66 |
| 65+ | $162 | $70 |
Average Cost by Driving Record
| Driving History | Avg Monthly Full Coverage | vs Clean Record |
|---|
| Clean record | $167 | Baseline |
| One speeding ticket | $209 | +25% |
| At-fault accident | $249 | +49% |
| DUI/DWI conviction | $317 | +90% |
| Two or more violations | $287 | +72% |
Average Cost by Vehicle Type
| Vehicle Type | Avg Monthly Full Coverage |
|---|
| Economy sedan | $128 |
| Mid-size SUV | $152 |
| Full-size pickup truck | $168 |
| Luxury sedan | $218 |
| Sports car | $248 |
| Electric vehicle | $198 |
What Factors Affect Your Rate
- Age and experience: Young drivers pay dramatically more due to higher accident rates.
- Driving record: Tickets and accidents raise rates and stay on your record 3 to 5 years.
- Location: State, city, and ZIP code affect your rate due to local accident rates, theft, and weather.
- Vehicle make and model: Repair cost, safety ratings, and theft frequency all factor into your premium.
- Coverage levels and deductibles: Higher limits cost more; higher deductibles reduce premiums.
- Credit score: In most states, insurers use credit-based insurance scores. Better credit typically means lower rates.
- Annual mileage: Driving more increases exposure and may raise your rate.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a good monthly rate for car insurance?
For a 35-year-old with a clean record and a mid-size sedan, under $130/month for full coverage is excellent. Under $100/month for liability only is very competitive. Always compare at least 3 quotes to benchmark your situation.
Why did my car insurance rate go up?
Rates increase for many reasons: an accident or ticket, adding a driver, a new vehicle, or market-wide rate increases due to inflation or higher claims in your area. If your rate went up at renewal with no personal changes, it is a good time to shop around.
How can I lower my monthly car insurance payment?
Compare quotes from multiple insurers, bundle home and auto, raise your deductible if you have savings to cover it, maintain a clean driving record, and ask about every available discount including good student, low mileage, and defensive driving discounts.