Buffalo is New York’s 2nd-largest City. It has more than 250,000 residents. 40% of them own at least one vehicle. Buffalo’s majority of workers commute by car, with 68% taking an average 19-minute commute to work. The average rate for car insurance in Buffalo is $1,127 for minimum coverage, and $2,292 to cover full coverage. These rates are substantially higher than the national average, which is $565 for minimum coverage and $1674 for complete coverage.
There are many ways that Buffalo residents can get affordable car insurance. We reviewed third-party ratings to help you find cheap car insurance in Buffalo. To compare coverage options and get sample quotes from top insurance companies, we compared them all. These are the top companies offering the lowest car insurance rates in Buffalo, NY.
The best car insurance companies in Buffalo
We did extensive research and found these insurance providers to be among the most reliable in Buffalo. This is based on their customer service ratings, pricing, and coverage options.
| Insurance Company | J.D. J.D. | Average Annual Premium for Minimum Insurance | Average annual premium for full coverage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Allstate | 876 / 1000 | $1,411 | $2,343 |
| GEICO | 871 / 1000 | $828 | $1,815 |
| NYCM | 837 / 1000 | $1,185 | $2,252 |
| State Farm | 881 / 1000 | $1,893 | $3,017 |
| USAA | 890 / 1000 | $1,012 | $2,214 |
Allstate
Allstate is second among New York’s car insurance companies at 13.8%. The company is ranked above the average in J.D. The company ranks above average in the J.D. Power 2020 U.S Auto Claims satisfaction Study with 875 points, and just below average in the 2020 U.S Insurance Shopping Study with 2020 U.S. Insurance Shopping Study with just under 800 points. Allstate’s performance in New York is also below average, with 833 points.
Allstate’s auto coverage covers all the bases, including collision, comprehensive, and liability. It also offers a range of add on coverages to provide additional protection.
GEICO
GEICO is the #1 New York insurer with 32.3 percent market share. This provider has the best car insurance rates for Buffalo residents and offers a broad range of discounts.
GEICO scored just below average in the Auto Claims Satisfaction Study, scoring 871 points. GEICO also landed the #2 spot on Insurance Shopping Study, scoring 867 points. GEICO is third in the New York Region with 837 points on Auto Insurance Satisfaction. State Farm and USAA are behind.
New York Central Mutual
New York Central Mutual was not ranked in the Auto Claims Satisfaction and Insurance Shopping Study rankings as a regional insurer. The company holds 2.7% market share and is New York’s eighth largest insurer. NYCM Insurance received high marks from New York Region, placing the company third with 837 points. This puts this central New York insurer on our list of the best car insurance companies in Buffalo.
This provider provides a wide range of coverage options. Although their full coverage policies can be quite expensive, they offer several discounts that will help to keep costs down.
State Farm
State Farm might have the highest rates, but it still maintains its position as the third-largest New York insurer with 12.1% market share. All three J.D.’s showed State Farm performing above average. With 851 points, Power studies was second to USAA in New York.
State Farm, like the other companies in our list, offers multiple insurance products. You can tailor your coverages and get stackable discounts to lower your car insurance cost.
USAA
USAA has 3.1% market share in New York and offers competitive rates in Buffalo. USAA is available only to veterans, military personnel, and their families. There are power studies available in all regions, even the New York one. USAA has the best car insurance rates in Buffalo for qualified drivers. It is also the second-cheapest on our list. You won’t find any other discount that is tailored for active service members.
Buffalo has the lowest car insurance
New Yorkers have the highest rates of car insurance in the country. The average rate is more than twice the average cost for car insurance nationwide.
Below is a table that shows the lowest car insurance rates for the most popular carriers in Buffalo. Progressive has the lowest rates, followed closely by Erie. These car insurance providers offer a wide range of coverage options and discounts, even at the lowest rates. Each one offers many discounts and coverage options to ensure that Buffalo drivers are fully protected, while still providing the best rates in New York.
These carriers offer mobile apps, claim filing options, and unique driving programs like Progressive’s Snapshot, Allstate’s Drivewise. These usage-based programs enable safe drivers to prove their roadworthiness while saving money.
| Insurance Company | Average Annual Premium for Minimum Insurance | Average annual premium for full coverage |
|---|---|---|
| Progressive | $600 | $999 |
| Geico | $828 | $1,815 |
| Erie | $892 | $1,622 |
| USAA | $1,012 | $2,214 |
| Allstate | $1,411 | $2,343 |
Buffalo insurance requirements
Most states require minimum liability coverages on all vehicles, and New York does not differ from the rest. A minimum of:
- $25,000 per person to treat bodily injuries
- $50,000 for all injuries
- $10,000 for property damage
Minimum coverage levels are very low and may not cover your vehicle. Many drivers would be better off buying higher coverage limits to protect their finances. Full coverage insurance is best for those who own a car that has a high value, or are able to obtain financing. However, many providers offer customizable packages.
Buffalo car insurance discount
You can take advantage of any discounts that are available to lower the cost of your car insurance in Buffalo. These discounts are available for New York drivers who need lower car insurance.
- You may be eligible for a discount on your auto insurance if you complete an approved accident prevention course in New York. This is not a feature offered by all auto insurance companies, so make sure you ask before you shop for car insurance quotes in Buffalo.
- Anti-theft measures. Having an alarm system installed in your vehicle or electronic tracking device may help you save money on your car insurance. Some carriers may offer discounts for VIN-etched glass.
- Raising your deductibles: An increase in your deductibles could also help lower your premiums. If you are required to use the coverage, make sure that you have the financial means to pay more. For even greater savings, remove comprehensive and collision coverage if your vehicle is less valuable.
- Safety features: Auto seat belts, antilock brakes, airbags, and other safety features can help reduce car insurance premiums. You’ll also be safer and less likely to get hurt in an accident.
Bundling multiple policies with the same insurance provider can result in significant savings on your premium.
Questions frequently asked
Which is the best auto insurance company?
The best car insurance company offers all you need in terms of coverages and limits. Each Buffalo driver is different, so it’s a good idea to get multiple quotes to compare rates and coverage to find the best deal.
What is the cost of car insurance in Buffalo?
Buffalo residents pay an average of $1,127 to insure their vehicle with liability-only insurance and $2,292 to insure their car with full coverage. Rates will vary depending on your driving record, age, gender, zip code and coverage needs.
What amount of car insurance do you need in Buffalo?
Even if the cost is higher, most people will be able to afford higher liability limits than the minimums set by the state. It is usually a good idea to spend more for complete coverage and protection if you own a car with a higher value or a loan. You should also consider additional coverages such as roadside assistance, rental car reimbursement, and gap insurance. Talk to an insurance agent licensed to help you determine the coverage that is right for you.