Car insurance rates are influenced by many factors, but age is one of the most significant determinants. Younger drivers tend to pay more because they are statistically more likely to be involved in accidents. As drivers gain experience, premiums generally decrease.
At Progressive, car insurance rates typically drop significantly between ages 19 and 34, stabilize through middle age, and may begin rising again around age 75.
What Affects Car Insurance Rates?
Besides age, your insurance premium can be affected by:
- Driving record: Accidents or violations increase rates.
- Claims history: Frequent claims signal higher risk.
- Car make and model: Luxury and sports cars usually cost more to insure.
- Coverage choices: Higher coverage limits or lower deductibles increase rates.
- Other factors: Location, credit history, and family situation can also impact your price.
At What Age Does Car Insurance Get Cheaper?
- At Progressive, rates drop by an average of 8% at age 25.
- Young drivers with clean records may see their premiums decrease sooner.
- Your rate may not drop if you recently had an accident or traffic violation.
Other Reasons Your Insurance Rate May Decrease
- Discounts: Bundling home and auto insurance or qualifying for good driver discounts.
- Improved driving record: Old violations may fall off your record, lowering your rate.
- Family changes: Removing a teenage driver from your policy can reduce premiums.
Average Car Insurance Rates by Age
| Age | Average Rate | Change |
|---|---|---|
| 17 and under | $247.28 | – |
| 18 | $271.92 | +10% |
| 19-20 | $242.40 | -11% |
| 21-22 | $215.04 | -11% |
| 23-24 | $189.78 | -12% |
| 25-29 | $168.86 | -11% |
| 30-34 | $159.72 | -5% |
| 35-39 | $156.13 | -2% |
| 40-44 | $151.81 | -3% |
| 45-49 | $151.61 | 0% |
| 50-54 | $141.85 | -6% |
| 55-64 | $128.60 | -9% |
| 65-74 | $122.26 | -5% |
| 75+ | $127.96 | +5% |
Data based on Progressive Personal Auto policies sold nationwide from September 2023 to August 2024.
How to Get Affordable Auto Insurance for Young Drivers
- Teen driver discount: Automatic discount when adding a teen driver (18 or younger).
- Good student discount: Full-time students under 23 with a B average or better.
- Distant student discount: For students under 22 attending school 100+ miles from home without a car.
Adding a teen to your existing policy is usually more affordable than getting them their own policy.
How to Lower Car Insurance for Seniors
- Seniors may see rates rise due to physical, cognitive, or visual changes, even with a clean driving record.
- Savings tips for seniors:
- Drive less frequently
- Participate in safe driving programs like Progressive’s Snapshot program
- Enroll in state-approved mature driver courses for discounts
👉 Bottom line: Car insurance generally goes down as you gain driving experience and maintain a clean record, often dropping significantly by age 25. Discounts, driving habits, and family changes can also lower premiums, while rates may rise again in senior years
