Most drivers are always searching for a better auto insurance policy that balances cost and coverage. With an increasing number of insurance providers in the market, it can be difficult to know which one to choose. Understanding the average cost of car insurance in Illinois is a good starting point. On average, full coverage can cost between $1,500 and $1,800 per year, while minimum coverage typically ranges from $400 to $600. However, your actual rate may vary based on your age, location, driving history, and other factors.
This article will help you better understand car insurance in Illinois, including what affects your premium and how to compare policies. You’ll also find tips on how to lower your insurance costs while still getting the protection you need from a reliable provider.
How Much is the Average Cost of Car Insurance in Illinois?
Average car insurance rates in a state are influenced by many factors. Traffic violations, criminal activity, and the driver’s history are also taken into account. Drivers usually pay around $170 for full coverage insurance if they have a good credit score and no accident history. They are charged around $50 for minimum coverage every month. However, the premium rates might increase if they have a traffic violation or a bad credit score.
Average Cost of Car Insurance Per Month
The average monthly auto insurance premium is around $70-$80. However, drivers with DUI or speeding tickets might have to pay more. Also, young drivers often are charged higher premiums than older drivers as they lack experience and are new to traffic conditions.
Who Offers the Best Car Insurance Rates in Illinois
Finding the best car insurance rates in Illinois depends on factors like your driving record, age, location, and coverage needs. Here are some key insights to help you find affordable options:
- Best Overall Rates:
- Automobile Club of Michigan (AAA) offers the cheapest full coverage at an average of $979 annually.
- Travelers and Geico also provide competitive rates, with average annual costs of $1,119 and $1,178, respectively​.
- Cheapest Minimum Liability Coverage:
- Geico offers the lowest rates for minimum liability insurance at $277 per year.
- Erie Insurance and Auto-Owners are also affordable, with annual rates of $312 and $318, respectively​​.
- Best for Specific Driver Profiles:
- Young Drivers: Country Financial offers the most affordable rates for teenagers, with minimum liability at $1,452 per year and full coverage at $3,691 per year​​.
- Drivers with Speeding Tickets or Accidents: State Farm is the cheapest option for drivers with a speeding ticket or an accident, offering full coverage for $1,491 and $1,603 per year, respectively​.
- Drivers with a DUI: Travelers offers the best rates for drivers with a DUI at $1,954 per year​.
- Drivers with Poor Credit: Travelers again provides the cheapest rates for drivers with poor credit, averaging $2,024 per year for full coverage​.
- Customer Service and Satisfaction:
- Auto-Owners is highly regarded for its blend of affordability and customer satisfaction, making it a top choice overall​.
To get the best deal, comparing quotes from multiple insurers is crucial. Factors such as your age, driving record, location, and the type of vehicle you drive can significantly impact your insurance premiums.
Average Cost of Minimum Liability Coverage in Illinois
Minimum liability coverage is a type of coverage that is made compulsory by the government. The insurance assists the victim party in case there is an accident. This type of insurance does not cover the damage to the vehicle or the at-fault driver. However, if the victim’s car is damaged, you might get some compensation for it. Minimum coverage insurance in Illinois costs around $60-$70.
Average Cost of Full Coverage Car Insurance in Illinois
A full coverage auto insurance policy in Illinois typically includes liability, uninsured motorist, collision, and comprehensive coverage. This level of protection can raise annual premiums to as much as $3,000, depending on factors like your driving history, location, and vehicle type. It’s important to choose coverage you can realistically afford to avoid falling into a debt trap.
Here’s what a standard full coverage policy in Illinois may offer:
- $100,000 bodily injury liability per person or $300,000 per accident
- $50,000 property damage liability per accident
- $100,000 uninsured motorist coverage per person or $300,000 per accident
- Collision coverage with a $1,000 deductible
- Comprehensive coverage with a $1,000 deductible
Factors That Influence Car Insurance Cost in Illinois
Several key factors influence the cost of car insurance in Illinois. Understanding what affects your premium can help you make smarter decisions and find ways to save on your policy. Here are the main factors that determine insurance rates in the state:
Location:
Drivers living in densely populated cities like Chicago often face higher premiums due to increased traffic, accident rates, and the risk of theft or vandalism. In contrast, rural areas usually see lower insurance costs.
Age and Gender:
Young drivers, especially those under 25, tend to pay more due to limited experience behind the wheel. Additionally, male drivers may be charged slightly higher premiums than female drivers based on risk assessment data.
Driving Record:
A clean driving record can significantly lower your insurance cost. On the other hand, violations such as speeding, reckless driving, or DUI offenses can cause your premium to increase sharply.
Credit Score:
Many insurers in Illinois use credit-based insurance scores to assess risk. Generally, drivers with higher credit scores are offered lower premiums, while those with lower scores may pay more.
Vehicle Type:
The make and model of your vehicle also impact your insurance rate. Cars with high repair costs, luxury models, or those with a high market value typically come with higher insurance premiums.
Illinois Car Insurance Rates by City
Car insurance in Illinois varies widely based on factors like traffic congestion, crime rates, and population density. Local laws and city-specific regulations can also influence the cost of coverage. As a result, moving to a new city, even within the same state, can lead to noticeable changes in your insurance premiums.
Here’s an overview of the average annual premiums for full coverage in five major Illinois cities. These numbers reflect how geography and local risk factors impact the cost of insuring a vehicle:
| City | Full coverage rate monthly | Full Coverage Rate Annually |
| Buckley | $149 | $1794 |
| Cabery | $146 | $1754 |
| Campus | $146 | $1749 |
| Cullom | $146 | $1749 |
| Gilman | $149 | $1793 |
Illinois Car Insurance Costs by Age and Gender
Age and gender play a significant role in determining car insurance costs in Illinois. Insurance providers assess risk based on statistical data, which shows that young and male drivers are more likely to be involved in accidents or file claims. As a result, they tend to face higher premiums.
Younger drivers, especially those under 25, typically pay the most for full coverage. Rates tend to decrease steadily with age, as drivers gain experience and demonstrate safer driving behavior. Drivers aged 60 and above often benefit from the lowest premiums, with some paying an average of around $897 per year for full coverage. This drop reflects a lower risk profile for mature, experienced drivers.
Car Insurance Rates in Illinois by Credit Score
The credit rating of the policyholder partly determines auto insurance in Illinois. Generally, those with an excellent score rate tend to have less insurance than those drivers who do not or those with lower score rates. A comparison of typical yearly premiums by credit score is presented here:
- Excellent: $1719 per year for full coverage
- Good: $2074 per year for full coverage
- Fair: $2257 per year for full coverage
- Below Fair: $2,586 per year for full coverage
- Poor: $3,559 per year for full coverage
Illinois Car Insurance Rates by Vehicle Type
The type of vehicle you drive has a significant impact on the cost of car insurance in Illinois. Insurance providers consider repair costs, safety ratings, and risk levels when calculating premiums. Here’s a breakdown of average annual premiums for different vehicle types commonly driven in Illinois:
| Vehicle Type | Example Model | Average Annual Premium | Notes |
| Economy Cars | Toyota Camry | $2,543 | Affordable repairs, good safety features, low risk |
| Luxury Cars | BMW 330i | $3,178 | Higher repair costs, expensive parts |
| Family Vehicles | Honda Odyssey | $2,229 | Considered safe, lower accident risk |
| Trucks and SUVs | Ford F-150 | $2,382 | Durable, lower repair costs but larger liability risks |
| Hybrids and Electric Cars | Toyota Prius | $2,620 | Higher cost due to specialized parts |
How to Save Money on Car Insurance in Illinois?
Car insurance in Illinois can be costly, but there are several effective ways to lower your premiums. Taking a defensive driving course, whether online or in person, often qualifies you for discounts from many insurers. Participating in telematics or usage-based insurance programs that monitor your driving habits can also help reduce rates by rewarding safer driving. Opting for a higher deductible is another way to lower your premium, though it’s important to choose a deductible amount you can comfortably afford in case of a claim.
Additionally, be sure to ask about available discounts, which may apply if you’re a student, belong to certain professional groups, or bundle multiple insurance policies. Lastly, regularly shopping around and comparing quotes from different providers ensures you find the best deal for your car insurance in Illinois.
Conclusion
Finding the right car insurance policy in Illinois doesn’t have to be overwhelming. The key is to look for coverage that fits your needs and budget while choosing a provider known for reliability and customer support. It’s important to carefully review terms and conditions to avoid surprises when filing a claim. Whether you’re a young driver facing higher rates or an experienced motorist with a solid credit score, there are always ways to reduce your insurance costs.
That’s where Beem comes in. Beem is a trusted financial app that helps you navigate the world of car insurance with ease. You can get personalized quotes from leading providers in just five minutes, compare all your options in one place, and find the best coverage tailored to you. Millions rely on Beem for secure money transfers, bill payments, and now smart insurance shopping. With Beem, you can save hundreds, sometimes up to $1,000 a year, by unlocking all available discounts with no hidden fees or catches.
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FAQs on Average Cost of Car Insurance in Illinois
Does Insurance Follow the Car or Driver in Illinois?
In Illinois, car insurance follows the vehicle, not the driver. This means the insurance policy is tied to the car owner rather than the person driving at the time of an accident. If an accident occurs, the owner of the vehicle is generally responsible for any damages or injuries. However, if the driver cannot prove they had the owner’s permission to use the car, the case may be taken to court for further determination. The state requires a minimum liability coverage that helps cover costs related to injury or property damage to the other party involved.
Does Illinois Require Proof of Insurance?
Yes, Illinois law requires drivers to carry proof of auto insurance whenever they are behind the wheel. This proof can be either a physical insurance card or an electronic version (e-card) on your phone. Having this documentation ready helps law enforcement officers verify your coverage if requested and can speed up the claims process if you’re involved in an accident.
How Much is Car Insurance for Teens in Illinois?
Teen drivers in Illinois typically face much higher insurance premiums compared to adults. On average, teens can pay between $4,500 and $5,000 annually for car insurance in Illinois until they reach around 20 years old. Premiums usually decrease significantly by age 25, reflecting increased driving experience and safer habits. The higher rates for teens are due to their limited experience and statistically higher likelihood of being involved in accidents.
