The average cost of car insurance in Reno is $695 per year for minimum coverage and $1,896 per year for full coverage auto insurance. Additionally, the average household in Reno owns two cars. Auto insurance is required in the state of Nevada, so those vehicle-owning households need to have a proper policy to satisfy the state’s laws.
Bankrate’s insurance editorial team continually analyzes the insurance market to help you find the best and cheapest car insurance companies in Reno. We have chosen to feature these companies based on factors like coverage options, pricing, discounts and third-party ratings. If you are looking for the best cheap car insurance in Reno, these companies could be a good starting point.
Best car insurance companies in Reno
There is more to finding the best car insurance in Reno than price. Customer service, coverage options and available discounts may be just as important. That is why Bankrate also considered ratings from J.D. Power’s 2021 U.S. Auto Insurance Study for customer satisfaction as we searched for the top car insurance Reno companies.
In addition to customer satisfaction, we consider factors like available coverage options, pricing, available discounts, resources and customer support. Here is how several Reno auto insurance companies measure up:
Geico
Reno drivers on a tight budget in need of the cheapest rates might want to get a car insurance quote from Geico. The carrier has 16 discounts available for everyone from students to good drivers to those willing to pass a defensive driver course to save money. In addition, Geico scores high with customers when it comes to service and customer satisfaction.
Nationwide
Nationwide could be ideal for Reno residents with a clean driving record. The insurer offers discounts that could reduce the cost of car insurance, such as savings for being accident-free and for when you enroll in the Smart Ride program. Once you have signed up for Smart Ride, Nationwide might lower your premiums based on your driving habits.
Progressive
Progressive adds value for its customers by providing options like gap coverage, custom parts reimbursement and classic vehicle insurance. If you like to handle your coverage digitally, Progressive could be a good option. The carrier offers discounts for getting a quote online, buying a policy online and signing up for paperless documents.
State Farm
State Farm is the largest insurance company in the country and has a big customer base in Reno. Besides cheap coverage and plenty of policy options, State Farm offers two safe driving programs. Steer Clear is geared toward young drivers and includes training and driving tips. Drive Safe & Save is available for all drivers willing to enroll and download the app.
USAA
USAA is highly rated among its policyholders. The insurance provider consistently earns the highest number of points for customer satisfaction in J.D. Power’s studies, although USAA does not qualify for official ranking. The only drawback to USAA is its limited availability to Reno residents. You will need to be military personnel or related to one to qualify for auto insurance.
Cheapest car insurance in Reno
The average cost of car insurance in the state of Nevada is $860 per year for minimum coverage and $2,245 per year for full coverage. Reno’s cheapest car insurance is available from the following companies:
As you can see, the cheapest companies in Reno are the same as the best companies. Each company may be best suited to a different customer. USAA is limited to military personnel and their immediate families. State Farm, Geico, Nationwide and Progressive are among the largest carriers in the country. They all offer a wide range of coverages and discounts to tailor your policy to your needs.
State Farm is best for tech-focused drivers looking for a solid mobile app and telematics. Nationwide’s optional coverages are ideal for Reno drivers in need of custom coverage. Geico is the most affordable and offers mechanical breakdown insurance, which many carriers do not have. Progressive may be best for drivers looking to buy and handle their policies online.
Reno insurance requirements
Reno drivers must have a minimum amount of car insurance or face license suspension and a reinstatement fee of $250. Minimum coverage may be a cheap option, but it does not offer you as much financial protection as higher liability limits do. And if you plan on financing a vehicle, most lenders will require full coverage.
Although it is more expensive, full coverage includes optional insurance that pays for damages to your vehicle in addition to the injuries and damages you cause others when you are at fault.
Reno minimum insurance requirements are:
- $25,000 bodily injury per person
- $50,000 bodily injury per accident
- $20,000 property damage per accident
Car insurance discounts in Reno
Some of the largest savings on car insurance for Reno residents are available when you enroll in telematics programs that track your driving habits, or when you bundle at least two vehicles or your home and car with one carrier. Other discounts Reno residents may have access to include:
- Good student discounts: If you are a full-time student under 25 or if you insure a full-time student under 25, you might get a discount if you have a B or better average.
- Vehicle safety equipment: Cars with advanced safety features like automatic braking, side curtain air bags and anti-theft systems might qualify for a lower premium.
- Paperless policy: Agreeing to receive your policy documents and billing statements electronically might save you money.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best car insurance company?
There are many quality car insurance companies in Reno to choose from. Before you make a decision on the best carrier for you, consider factors like customer ratings, price, eligibility and any other areas that may pertain to you. The best option will vary depending on your personal needs.
How do I get the cheapest car insurance in Reno?
The cost of your car insurance in Reno depends on a number of factors, including the company you choose, your driving history and the coverages you purchase. To get the best price on vehicle insurance, shop around and get several car insurance quotes. On average, the cheapest car insurance carriers in Reno include Geico, USAA, Progressive, Nationwide and State Farm.
How much car insurance do I need in Reno?
You will need liability coverage of at least $25,000 in bodily injury per person, $50,000 in bodily injury per accident and $20,000 in property damage per accident. However, most insurance experts recommend that you purchase higher liability limits for more financial protection. If you have a loan or lease on your vehicle, you will also likely need to carry comprehensive and collision coverage, commonly called “full coverage.”
How does car insurance in Reno compare to the rest of Nevada?
The average cost of car insurance in Nevada is $860 annually for minimum coverage and $2,245 annually for full coverage. In Reno, drivers pay an average of $695 per year for minimum coverage and $1,896 per year for full coverage.