Are you ready to save some major dollars on vehicle insurance? If so, you’re at the correct spot. Today, we’re going deep into the realm of inexpensive vehicle insurance, and believe me, there’s a lot more to it than meets the eye. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or seeking to transfer vehicles, discovering the lowest cost cars to Insure may make a major difference in your pocketbook.
Let’s get started!
Let’s cut to the chase: vehicle insurance in the U.S. is pricey. If you’re under 25, you’re likely spending $3,000+ a year to remain legal on the road. Even seasoned drivers feel the squeeze, with rates climbing 8.4% countrywide in 2025. But here’s the good news: the automobile you drive may save you hundreds.
I’ve spent weeks studying data from various, analyzed Reddit and Quora discussions, reviewed customer testimonials, and consulted industry reports and studies, IIHS safety ratings, and NHTSA reports to offer you the 10 cheapest automobiles to insure this year.
Whether you’re a college student on a budget, a parent juggling expenses, or simply weary of overpaying, this list is your route to better savings.
Let’s plunge in!
Why Does Car Insurance Cost So Much?
Before we move into the list of automobiles that are inexpensive to insure, let’s talk about why insurance rates vary so much from one vehicle to another. After all, knowing the “why” can help you make wiser judgments.
- Risk Factors That Affect Insurance Rates
Insurance firms compute rates depending on risk. In my book, these are the main variables they consider:
- Safety Ratings: Cars with excellent safety ratings frequently come with cheaper rates since they lessen the chance of injuries.
- fix Costs: Vehicles that are costly to fix (think premium brands) often have higher insurance rates.
- Theft Rates: Insurance charges extra to cover future claims if a vehicle model is regularly stolen.
- Engine Power: High-performance automobiles are costly to insure as they’re connected with dangerous driving behavior.
- High Insurance Bills
Here’s the deal: many drivers suffer from sky-high insurance costs. And let’s face it no one wants to pay hundreds of dollars every month simply to keep their vehicle lawfully on the road. This is particularly true for young drivers aged 18-25, who already pay exorbitant rates owing to lack of experience. But don’t worry I’ve got remedies for you.
Factors Affecting Car Insurance Premiums

Several main factors may greatly affect your car insurance premiums:
- Car Type and Model: Smaller, less expensive cars with good safety scores frequently have lower insurance prices. Sports cars and expensive vehicles, on the other hand, often come with higher rates due to their higher worth and chance for more damage in crashes.
- Safety Features: Cars equipped with advanced safety features such as automatic emergency braking (which automatically applies the brakes to avoid or mitigate a collision), lane departure warning (which alerts you if you drift out of your lane), and blind-spot monitoring (which warns you of vehicles in your blind spots) are often viewed as less risky by insurers, leading to lower premiums.
- Theft Rate: Cars with high theft rates often have higher insurance fees to minimize the risk for insurers.
- Repair Costs: The cost of fixing or changing components may greatly affect insurance costs. Cars with easily available and economical components tend to be cheaper to cover.
- Size: Larger cars often cause more damage when involved in an accident, which may result in higher insurance costs.
- Age and Driving Past: Younger, less experienced drivers, and those with a past of crashes or traffic crimes, often pay higher rates due to their heightened risk profile. For example, compared to the national average rate, young drivers may spend up to 198% more on car insurance.
- Location: Where you live has a big effect on your insurance rates. Areas with high rates of crashes, theft, or natural disasters tend to have higher prices.
- Coverage and Deductibles: The kind of coverage you pick (liability, accident, comprehensive) and your deductible amounts will affect your rate. Higher coverage limits and smaller fees often result in higher rates.
- Credit Score: In certain places, your credit score might impact your insurance prices. Insurers may view people with bad credit as a greater risk.
- Government Regulations: Changes in government policies, such as the President-elect’s suggested policies or raised minimum financial responsibility limits in some states, might affect insurance costs.
- Technological Disruption: Advancements in technology, such as AI-driven sensors, may affect insurance prices by providing more exact evaluations of driving risk.
- Economic Factors: Factors including healthcare expenses, inflation, taxes, the cost of used cars, vehicle repair prices, medical care costs, normal repair cycle times, gasoline costs, and scrap returns may all indirectly or directly affect auto insurance rates.
- Transmission Type: Manual transmission cars might be somewhat cheaper to cover than automatic ones.
5 Pro Tips to Lower Your Premiums (Even Further!)
Want to save more? Pair the proper automobile with these hacks:
- Raise Your Deductible: Jumping from 500 to 500to1,000 may save 15% yearly.
- Bundle Policies: Insure your auto + renters/home insurance for up to 25% discount.
- Maintain Good Credit: In most states, a 700+ score equals 20% reduced rates.
- Ask About Discounts: Low-mileage? A student with high grades? Speak up!
- Compare Quotes Every Year: Loyalty doesn’t pay. Use [The Zebra] to shop rates in 5 minutes.
Fun fact: I saved $480 last year merely by switching insurance. No joke.
Lowest Cost Cars to Insure 2025
SUVs and trucks are generally cheaper to insure than sedans. Here are some of the most affordable vehicles to insure in 2025, based on industry analyses:
SUVs Car Cost to insure:
Car Model | Average Annual Premium |
Subaru Outback | $1,903 |
Honda CR-V | $1,946 |
Subaru Forester | $2,043 |
Honda Pilot | $2,046 |
Ford Escape | $2,052 |
Sedan Car Cost to insure:
Car Model | Average Annual Premium |
Honda Civic | $2,331 |
Mazda 3 | $2,362 |
Toyota Camry | $2,388 |
Kia Forte | $2,425 |
Trucks:
Car Model | |
Toyota Tacoma | $2,326 |
GMC Sierra | $2,179 |
Chevrolet Silverado 1500 | $2,237 |
Ford F-150 | $2,253 |
It’s important to remember that these lists are not exhaustive and insurance premiums can vary based on individual circumstances. Always get personalized quotes from different insurance providers to find the best rates for your specific needs.

Her’s a table showing annual and monthly insurance rates for some popular car models:
Make Model | Annual rate | Monthly rate |
Honda HR-V | Make Model | $139 |
Mazda CX-30 | $1,679 | $140 |
Chevrolet TrailBlazer | $1,683 | $140 |
Chevrolet Express 2500 Cargo Van | $1,685 | $140 |
Kia Seltos | $1,693 | $141 |
Ford F-Series | $2,202 | $183 |
Chevrolet Silverado | $2,157 | $180 |
Toyota RAV4 | $1,852 | $154 |
Tesla Model Y | $3,103 | $259 |
Honda CR-V | $1,722 | $144 |
GMC Sierra | $2,154 | $180 |
Toyota Camry | $2,093 | $174 |
Electric Vehicles (EVs):
While EVs are becoming increasingly popular, it’s important to note that they often cost more to insure than gas-powered cars.
This is primarily due to their higher purchase price, the specialized parts required for repairs, and the limited number of qualified technicians to service them.
Customer Testimonials
Real-world experiences can provide valuable insights into car insurance costs. Here are some testimonials from Reddit users, categorized by age group:
Young Drivers (18-30):
”I’m 20 and my RX-8 was I think $7 less a month to insure than my RX-7.” This highlights how seemingly similar cars can have different insurance costs.
Middle-Aged Drivers (30-50):
”Up until 2022 when I got my new car. I had a 2007 focus insured for liability + uninsured coverage only for 50 / month. I missed that. The current is 2022 CX-5 for ~110 / mo. ( 1k deductible)” This shows how insurance costs can change as you upgrade your vehicle.
Older Drivers (50-80):
”When I do my yearly checks Geico and Progressive usually come in the cheapest” This suggests that these providers may offer competitive rates for older drivers.
”In short, a Subaru is the cheapest to insure. Like 15% cheaper than any other car I’ve run quotes for.” This indicates that Subarus may be a good option for those seeking lower insurance costs.
These testimonials highlight the variability of insurance premiums and the importance of getting personalized quotes.
Safest Cars and Their Impact on Insurance
Cars with high safety ratings often have lower insurance premiums. Here are some of the safest cars of 2025, based on IIHS and NHTSA ratings:

Car Model | Safety Features |
Ford Explorer | Ford’s Digital Experience software provides a user-friendly interface for accessing various vehicle functions. It also includes standard safety features like forward collision warning (which alerts you of potential collisions), automated emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert (which warns you of approaching vehicles when backing up). |
Honda Pilot | Honda Sensing is a suite of driver-assist features that includes adaptive cruise control (which maintains a set distance from the car ahead), automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection, blind-spot monitoring, and rear-cross traffic alert. |
Mazda 3 | This car comes standard with adaptive cruise control, automated emergency braking, and lane departure prevention (which helps you stay in your lane). |
Honda Civic | The Civic features adaptive cruise control, lane departure prevention, and forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking. |
Toyota Prius | The Prius has achieved perfect scores in all government and IIHS crash tests and boasts a sophisticated system of collision avoidance technology. |
Honda Accord | The Accord stands out for its excellent crashworthiness scores (its ability to protect occupants in a crash) and a competent standard collision prevention system. |
Mini Cooper | The Mini Cooper is equipped with automatic emergency braking and forward collision warning. |
Hyundai Ioniq 5 | This electric vehicle features forward collision-avoidance assist and smart cruise control. |
Volvo XC90 | Volvo’s IntelliSafe system offers a range of safety technologies, including run-off road protection (which helps prevent you from leaving the road) and auto brake at intersections. |
Audi Q7 | The Q7 comes standard with all-wheel drive, which can improve handling and stability, and advanced driver assistance systems. |
Genesis GV60 | This luxury electric vehicle features a highway driving assist (which helps with steering and lane keeping on the highway) and forward collision-avoidance assist. |
By choosing a car with top safety ratings, you can potentially reduce your insurance costs while also prioritizing your safety on the road.
Insurance Providers
The choice of insurance provider can also significantly impact your premiums. Here are some of the leading insurance providers in the USA:
- State Farm
- Geico
- Progressive
- Allstate
- USAA (for military members and their families)
- Auto-Owners
- Travelers
- Nationwide
- Erie Insurance
- Amica
It’s crucial to compare quotes from multiple providers to find the most competitive rates and coverage options. For example, GEICO has introduced a ”Welcome Factor” that provides a discount for new customers, but this discount gradually decreases over time.
The Future of Car Insurance
The car insurance business is constantly changing, with technology playing an increasingly important role.
AI-powered telemetry, for example, is being used to reduce bias in car insurance prices by focusing on real driving behavior rather than depending solely on traditional factors like demographics.
This technology can make car insurance more specific and fair for all drivers.
Related Insurance Trends
While this piece focuses on car insurance, it’s worth noting that other types of insurance are also having trends that could indirectly affect your total insurance costs.
For example, healthcare cost increases are likely to lead to higher health insurance rates in 2025.
This could impact your spending and possibly affect your ability to pay car insurance. Additionally, life insurance rates are expected to rise modestly in 2025.
Frequently Asked Questions on Lowest Cost Cars to Insure

Why are some cars cheaper to insure than others?
Insurance companies play detective with your car’s DNA. They analyze:
Crash Test Scores: Safer cars = fewer injuries = lower payouts.
Repair Costs: A Honda Civic’s fender bender is cheaper to fix than a Mercedes’.
Theft Rates: Hyundai and Kia models surged in thefts (thanks, TikTok), so premiums spiked.
Driver Demographics: If your car is popular with teens (looking at you, Mustang), rates climb.
Pro Tip: Stick with cars labeled “boring” by thieves and beloved by safety engineers.
What’s the absolute cheapest car to insure for a teen driver?
The 2023 Honda CR-V wins here.
Why: Standard Honda Sensing (automatic braking, lane assist) slashes accident risk.
Average Premium: .1,342/year(vs.3,000+ for sports cars).
Parent Hack: Add your teen to your policy (vs. standalone) to save 20%.
Does car color affect insurance rates?
Nope! Insurers don’t even ask about color. They care about:
Make/Model: A red Toyota Corolla costs the same to insure as a white one.
Engine Size: A V8 Mustang? That’ll cost you, no matter the shade.
Myth Busted: The “red car tax” is just an urban legend.
Are older cars cheaper to insure?
Not always. While older cars have lower value, they might lack:
Safety Tech: No airbags or ABS = higher injury risk.
Parts Availability: Discontinued models = pricier repairs.
Sweet Spot: Cars 5–7 years old (e.g., 2018 Toyota Camry) balance affordability and safety.
Why is my insurance so high even though I drive a cheap car?
Blame these hidden factors:
Your ZIP Code: High theft/accident areas = higher rates.
Credit Score: Poor credit can double premiums in some states.
Driving Record: A single speeding ticket hikes costs by 22%, on average.
Fix It: Use [The Zebra] to compare quotes sometimes switching insurers save $500+/year.
Are electric cars (EVs) cheaper to insure?
Not yet. EVs like Teslas have:
Pricier Repairs: Battery replacements can cost $15,000+.
Higher Theft Rates: Luxury EVs are targeted.
Exception: The 2023 Nissan Leaf (average premium: $1,500/year) is relatively affordable.
What’s the best used car for low insurance costs?
The 2020 Subaru Outback is a steal:
Why: All-wheel drive + top safety scores.
Average Premium: $1,300/year.
Reddit Wisdom: “Buying certified pre-owned Subarus saved me from SUV-level premiums.
Can I negotiate my car insurance rate?
Sort of. You can’t haggle like at a dealership, but you can:
Ask for Discounts: Good student, low mileage, defensive driving courses.
Bundle Policies: Insure your car + home/renters for up to 25% off.
Raise Your Deductible: A 1,000deductiblevs.500 can save 15%.
Script: “I’ve been a loyal customer are there any unapplied discounts?
Why do sports cars cost so much to insure?
Three words: risk, repairs, and reputation.
Speed Temptation: Insurers know a Mustang GT is more likely to speed.
Costly Parts: A Ferrari bumper costs 10x a Honda’s.
Theft Magnet: Flashy cars attract thieves.
Workaround: Opt for “slow fun” cars like the Mazda MX-5 Miata (premium: $1,450/year).
How can I check insurance costs before buying a car?
Use free tools like [Gabrielle Insurance’s Quote Comparison Tool]:
Enter the car’s VIN or make/model.
Add your driver profile (age, location, etc.).
Get instant estimates from 10+ insurers.
Pro Tip: Reddit users swear by doing this before visiting the dealership.
Conclusion for Lowest Cost Cars to Insure
Finding the cheapest car to cover requires careful consideration of various factors, including the car’s safety features, theft rate, fixed costs, and driving profile.
SUVs and trucks tend to be more cheap to cover than cars, while electric vehicles often come with higher rates.
By studying different car types, knowing the factors that affect insurance rates, and comparing quotes from various companies, you can make informed choices and secure a cheap car insurance policy.
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Remember to value safety and choose a car that meets your wants and budget while also lowering your insurance costs.