Since 2010, Virginia's population has grown by 7.9%. So if you're considering relocating to the state, you may be wondering how expensive it may be, especially when it comes to car insurance.
The average cost of car insurance in Virginia is $200 per month, compared to the national average of $193. However, how much your premiums will cost depends on factors such as your location, car's make and model, credit score, and driving history.
Key takeaways
- The average cost of car insurance in Virginia is $200 per month for full coverage.
- State-minimum liability coverage costs an average of $117 per month.
- Teen drivers pay an average of $430 per month for full-coverage car insurance and $253 for liability-only.
How much does car insurance cost in Virginia?
Car insurance is generally less expensive in Virginia than in other states. The average monthly cost of full coverage insurance — which includes liability, collision, and comprehensive protection — is $200 per month, compared to the national average of $193.
However, young drivers should expect substantially higher premiums. The average cost for insurance for teens is $430 per month for full-coverage car insurance.
Avg. cost for full coverage | Avg. cost for minimum coverage |
$200/month | $117/month |
Avg. full coverage for teens | Avg. full coverage for seniors (60s) | Avg. full coverage for drivers with an incident on their record |
$430/month | $170/month | $232/month |
Average cost of car insurance in Virginia by provider
You can choose from various car insurance companies in Virginia, ranging from large household names like State Farm and Progressive to smaller insurers like Mercury.
USAA offers some of the cheapest premiums for both full and state-minimum coverage in Virginia. However, USAA insurance isn't available to everyone. If you are looking for other companies that offer affordable car insurance, consider State Farm.
Provider | Avg. full coverage monthly premium | Avg. liability-only coverage monthly premium |
Nationwide | $168 | $97 |
Travelers | $271 | $156 |
Mercury |
$178 |
$84 |
Progressive | $153 | $82 |
State Farm | $97 | $55 |
USAA | $130 | $74 |
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How does credit score affect car insurance rates in Virginia?
In Virginia, insurance companies can use your credit as a determining factor when setting your premiums. Having excellent credit can help you save money on car insurance; those with credit scores of 750 or higher paid less than those with poor credit.
Credit health | Avg. full coverage monthly premium |
Poor (550-649) | $250 |
Average (650-699) | $206 |
Good (700-749) | $194 |
Excellent (750+) | $178 |
Average car insurance rates for high-risk drivers in Virginia
Maintaining a clean driving record can help keep your premiums low. Driving infractions like speeding tickets, at-fault accidents, and driving under the influence (DUI) convictions can cause your premiums to skyrocket.
Violation | Avg. monthly premium |
At-fault accident | $250 |
DUI | $321 |
Speeding ticket | $239 |
Average rate:
How does age affect car insurance rates in Virginia?
As is common in most states, car insurance is much more expensive for Virginia teens than for other age groups. The average full-coverage premium for those that are 18 is $430 — significantly more expensive than average premiums for those who are in their 30s.
Age | Avg. monthly premium |
Teen | $430 |
20s | $274 |
30s | $210 |
40s | $199 |
60s | $170 |
Virginia car insurance rates by city
If you live in a densely populated area, there is a higher likelihood of getting into an accident or being the victim of crime. As a result, where you live can substantially impact your car insurance premiums.
In Virginia, Norfolk residents had the highest car insurance premiums in the state. That's not surprising, as NeighborhoodScout gave Norfolk a four on its crime index, meaning that 96% of cities in the U.S. are safer than Norfolk.
City | Avg. monthly full-coverage premium |
Alexandria | $223 |
Richmond | $235 |
Virginia Beach | $198 |
Norfolk | $240 |
Chesapeake | $211 |
VA's minimum car insurance requirements
Car insurance is required in most states, and Virginia is no exception. Drivers are required to meet the following coverage minimums:
- $30,000 in bodily injury protection for one person
- $60,000 in bodily injury protection for two or more people
- $20,000 in property damage protection
However, Virginia does have one unique feature. Drivers who wish to forgo coverage can do so if they pay a $500 uninsured motor vehicle fee. It allows you to legally drive the vehicle for 12 months.
However, you are personally liable for any damages or injuries that occur, so opting to pay the fee rather than purchasing insurance is risky. And because the average premium for state-minimum coverage is lower than the $500 uninsured motor vehicle fee, getting an auto policy is financially wiser.
How to save money on car insurance in Virginia
To save money on your car insurance premiums in Virginia, use these tips:
- Take a mature driver course: In Virginia, drivers 55 or older can complete a mature driver safety course to help them recognize how aging can affect their driving abilities. You may be eligible for up to 15% off your premiums for up to three years if you successfully complete the course.
- Contact your agent: Talk to your agent about how to reduce your premiums. They may suggest increasing your deductible, or they may know about discounts you may qualify for that can help you save money. For example, you may be eligible for a multi-policy discount if you have homeowners or renters insurance.
- Shop around: Rates and coverage options can vary by insurer. Switching companies instead of sticking with one insurer for years can be a smart way to save hundreds of dollars. Request quotes from the best car insurance companies to find out if you can save money on your premiums.
Methodology
Our analysis was conducted using six different auto insurance marketplaces to determine the average cost of auto insurance in each state. The data we analyzed included coverage premiums from up to 10 different insurance providers. We looked at rates by city, driver profile, and credit score, as well as factored in the impact of driving violations. This data is for comparative purposes only. Your actual quote may be different.
FAQs about car insurance costs in VA
Is car insurance expensive in VA?
Generally, car insurance is a little more expensive in Virginia than it is in most other states. On average, premiums for full coverage insurance cost $200 monthly in Virginia, compared to the national average of $193.
How much is car insurance per year in VA?
On average, drivers pay $200 monthly, and $117 per month for state-minimum coverage.
Data throughout provided by Insurify.
Average rate: