Car Insurance by State

Your state sets the rules, coverage limits, and even risk factors insurers must consider. High-traffic cities, severe weather, and accident frequency often push rates up. Rural states or those with fewer claims usually mean lower premiums. And that’s how where you live directly shapes what you’ll pay.

12 states follow no-fault laws: Florida, Michigan, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Hawaii, Kentucky, Massachusetts, Minnesota, North Dakota, and Utah. Puerto Rico also applies no-fault. These states require personal injury protection (PIP), which covers your medical costs after a crash, no matter who caused it. Some, like Michigan, also have unique add-ons, such as property protection insurance.

Premiums rise when a state has higher minimum coverage requirements, policy limits, claim history, costly lawsuits, or high repair bills. For example, Florida and Michigan often see higher rates because they’re no-fault states and face added challenges like storm damage, insurance fraud, and a higher volume of claims and repairs. In contrast, states with lower risks and fewer claims, like Maine, often see cheaper insurance costs.

Florida, Georgia, New York, Michigan, and Louisiana are some of the highest-paying states for car insurance. High accident rates, dense traffic, and unique insurance laws keep costs up. On the other hand, states like Maine, Vermont, and New Hampshire are among the cheapest because of fewer claims and lower risks overall.

Yes, as we said, every state sets its own laws. Most require liability coverage, but the minimum limits are different everywhere. Some mandate personal injury protection or uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, too. A few, like New Hampshire, don’t require it at all, though drivers still need to show proof of financial responsibility.

No, you’ll need a new policy that meets your new state’s requirements. Insurers calculate premiums based on local risks, laws, and minimums. If you move, let your insurer know right away. They can help you switch smoothly so you’re always covered legally without a lapse in coverage.

In no-fault states, your own insurance pays for medical costs regardless of who caused the accident. At-fault states hold the driver responsible for damages. This difference affects premiums, required coverage, and how claims are handled. As has been mentioned, Florida, Michigan, and New Jersey are common no-fault examples.

Yes, almost every insurers offer discounts everywhere, but availability can vary. Safe driving, bundling home and auto, or even paying in full often lowers costs. Some states limit certain discount types, but you’ll usually find ways to save no matter where you live.

There’s no specific date or time for this. Some states review laws regularly, while others only update after big changes, like rising medical costs or court rulings. It’s best to check your state’s insurance department or ask your agent to stay up to date on new rules.

No, your insurance must match the state where the car is registered. If you try mixing states, your claim or the insurance application could be denied by the insurance providers. So, you should always update your registration and insurance together when you move to another state.