What should you be paying for car insurance?

Across the states we model, full coverage averages roughly $170–$300 a month depending on where you live, with state-minimum liability typically a third of that. Louisiana, Florida, New York and Michigan sit at the top; Vermont, Maine and Idaho at the bottom.

Premiums are rated at ZIP level on claim frequency and severity. Dense urban ZIPs generate more collisions, more theft and vandalism, more uninsured motorists and higher repair labour costs, so the same driver pays materially more in a metro than 40 miles outside it.

Every renewal, and immediately after any life event that changes your rating — moving, marrying, buying a car, or a violation dropping off your record after three to five years. Insurers price new business more aggressively than renewals.

No. They are modelled estimates built from published state average premiums and standard rating factors, and are meant to tell you what range to expect. Only an insurer can quote you a binding price.