Car insurance rates are influenced by many factors, but age is one of the most significant. Younger drivers tend to pay more because they are statistically more likely to be involved in accidents. As drivers gain experience, rates generally decrease. At Progressive, premiums typically drop significantly between ages 19–34, stabilize through middle age, and may rise again after age 75.
What Affects Car Insurance Rates?
Insurance premiums are not based on age alone. Other key factors include:
- Driving record: Fewer accidents or violations can lower rates.
- Claims history: Past claims may keep rates higher.
- Vehicle type: Make, model, and year affect risk assessment.
- Coverage choices: Liability, comprehensive, collision, and add-ons impact premiums.
While age is more influential for young drivers, middle-aged drivers usually benefit from experience and a clean record, keeping rates lower until senior years.
At What Age Does Car Insurance Get Cheaper?
- Age 25: On average, drivers see an 8% reduction in premiums.
- Experience matters: Young drivers who maintain a clean record may see rates drop sooner.
- Other factors can affect timing, such as recent accidents or traffic violations.
Other Reasons Your Rate May Decrease
- Discounts: Bundle home and auto insurance, good student, or safe driver programs.
- Improved driving record: Older violations eventually fall off your record, lowering risk.
- Family changes: Removing teenage drivers from your policy can reduce costs.
Average Car Insurance Rates by Age (Progressive)
| Age | 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%) |
Note: Based on Progressive Personal Auto policies sold nationwide from September 2023 to August 2024.
How Young Drivers Can Save
- Teen driver discount: Automatic discount for adding drivers 18 or younger.
- Good student discount: Full-time students under 23 with a B average or higher may qualify.
- Distant student discount: For students living 100+ miles from home without a car at school.
Adding a teen driver to your existing policy is often cheaper than having them start a separate policy.
How Seniors Can Save on Insurance
- While middle-aged drivers typically pay the lowest rates, premiums can rise for seniors due to physical, cognitive, or visual changes.
- Seniors who drive less or participate in safe-driving programs (like Progressive’s Snapshot) may reduce their rates.
- Some states offer mature driver discounts after completing approved driving courses.
Bottom Line
Car insurance generally decreases as drivers gain experience and maintain a clean record, with rates dropping significantly in the mid-20s and remaining stable until senior years. Discounts, driving habits, and family changes can further influence premiums.
