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Last updated: August 28, 2025Best Cheap Car Insurance in Charlotte
Erie has the cheapest average rates in Charlotte, NC at $1,068 for full coverage and $461 for minimum coverage.
Cheapest
Editor's Rating: 5/5
Average Cost in Charlotte
- Full Coverage Monthly: $89
- Minimum Coverage Monthly: $38
Best Major Insurer
Editor's Rating: 4.9/5
Average Cost in Charlotte
- Full Coverage Monthly: $115
- Minimum Coverage Monthly: $57
Best for Online Quotes
Editor's Rating: 4.7/5
Average Cost in Charlotte
- Full Coverage Monthly: $122
- Minimum Coverage Monthly: $60
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Key Takeaways
- Charlotte is the most expensive city in North Carolina for car insurance. Full coverage insurance in Charlotte averages $1,731 annually; minimum coverage averages $796 annually.
- Erie, State Farm, and Progressive offer some of the cheapest average rates in Charlotte. They also rank well for customer satisfaction in North Carolina.
- Finding the cheapest car insurance for you will depend on individual factors like your vehicle, coverage limits, driving record, credit history, and more. To get the best insurance at the best rate, compare quotes from at least three providers.
Our Top Picks for the Best Cheap Auto Insurance in Charlotte
- Cheapest: Erie
- Best Major Insurer: State Farm
- Best for Online Quotes: Progressive
- Best Regional Provider: North Carolina Farm Bureau
- Best for Low Mileage Drivers: Nationwide
Compare the Best Cheap Auto Insurance in Charlotte
| Company | Full Coverage Annual Avg. | Minimum Coverage Annual Avg. | Southeast Customer Satisfaction (J.D. Power) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Erie | $1,068 | $461 | Above average |
| State Farm | $1,374 | $687 | Above average |
| Progressive | $1,461 | $725 | Below average |
| North Carolina Farm Bureau | $1,733 | $819 | Below average |
| Nationwide | $1,876 | $673 | Above average |
| Charlotte | $1,731 | $796 | – |
Detailed List of the Best Cheap Providers in Charlotte
1. Cheapest - Erie
What We Like Most:
- Cheapest rates in Charlotte
- Stellar claims satisfaction
- Independent agents
Why we chose it
Erie is a regional provider, offering high-quality affordable car insurance in 12 states and Washington, DC. It scored well above-average on J.D. Power customer satisfaction and claims satisfaction surveys, indicating that customers are happy with their coverage and claims experiences. Erie had below-average complaint scores (suggesting above-average service) and was named to the honor roll in CRASH Network’s study on claims handling and payment practices among repair shops.
Who it’s best for
Customers who want cheap auto insurance rates with highly-rated customer service from Erie’s network of helpful agents. While Erie’s personalized service earned praise, some customers found its online and app experiences less than ideal. Note that you can begin a quote online with Erie, but must complete your quote by phone with an agent.
Charlotte pricing
| Erie | Full coverage | Minimum coverage |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly | $89 | $38 |
| Annually | $1,068 | $461 |
| Difference from Charlotte average | -38% | -42% |
2. Best Major Insurer - State Farm
What We Like Most:
- Local Charlotte agents
- Good telematics discount
- Offers rideshare coverage
Why we chose it
State Farm was the runner-up for cheapest full coverage auto insurance in Charlotte and a top-five contender in the minimum coverage category. In our analysis, State Farm’s average full-coverage rate came in 21 percent cheaper than the citywide average. State Farm scored above-average for customer satisfaction and claims practices, and had a lower incidence of customer complaints than the NAIC industry average.
Who it’s best for
State farm offers cheaper-than-average insurance with better-than-average service. It offers great bundling discounts for people who also need home or renters insurance, and has a variety of extra coverages like rideshare insurance. Note that State Farm scored a C- in CRASH Network’s survey of repair shops. You may want to work with a direct repair (“in-network”) shop for a smoother experience if you need a covered repair. Safe drivers can get a discount with its Drive Safe & Save telematics program.
Charlotte pricing
| State Farm | Full coverage | Minimum coverage |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly | $115 | $57 |
| Annually | $1,374 | $687 |
| Difference from Charlotte average | -21% | -14% |
3. Best for Online Quotes - Progressive
What We Like Most:
- Name Your Price tool makes it easier to budget
- Competitive rates in Charlotte
- Cheapest in North Carolina with a DUI or low credit
Why we chose it
Progressive has some of the cheapest average rates for both full coverage and minimum liability coverage in Charlotte. As the nation’s second-most popular auto insurance provider, Progressive is well-known for its long list of discounts and money-saving features like accident forgiveness. While Progressive didn’t score as well as our other two top cheap providers on third-party customer satisfaction measures, their scores were in the average range among insurance companies overall.
Who it’s best for
Drivers who want cheap auto insurance rates and don’t need a lot of hand-holding. If you’re shopping for a new policy, Progressive makes it easy to get online quotes that show you multiple coverage options, so you can choose the policy that gives you the best value. Progressive also has the lowest average rates in North Carolina for drivers with a DUI or poor credit — the only two categories in which Erie wasn’t the cheapest.
Charlotte pricing
| Progressive | Full coverage | Minimum coverage |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly | $122 | $60 |
| Annually | $1,461 | $725 |
| Difference from Charlotte average | -16% | -9% |
>>Head-to-Head: See our full comparison between State Farm vs. Progressive.
4. Best Regional Provider - North Carolina Farm Bureau
What We Like Most:
- #1 nationally on CRASH Network Insurer Report Card
- Headquartered in North Carolina
- Member perks
Why we chose it
Though it didn’t have the lowest rates in our survey, North Carolina Farm Bureau’s strong local reputation still makes the company worth considering if you’re comparing quotes. Local agents deliver personalized service, and North Carolina Farm Bureau was ranked No. 1 in the entire country for claims handling on CRASH Network’s Insurer Report Card.
Who it’s best for
North Carolina Farm Bureau doesn’t have the cheapest rates in Charlotte, so it’s a good fit for drivers who prioritize local service and will take advantage of Farm Bureau membership perks. These include a $500 cash reward when you lease or purchase an eligible new Ford truck, travel discounts, and other financial services including banking. Membership is just $25 per year, which is cheaper than other regional Farm Bureaus.
Charlotte pricing
| North Carolina Farm Bureau | Full coverage | Minimum coverage |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly | $144 | $68 |
| Annually | $1,733 | $819 |
| Difference from Charlotte average | Even with average | +3% |
5. Best for Low Mileage Drivers - Nationwide
What We Like Most:
- Pay-per-mile available
- High telematics discount
- Strong third-party ratings
Why we chose it
Nationwide’s average rate for minimum-coverage insurance in Charlotte is next-cheapest after Erie at $673 annually, or $56 per month. Nationwide offers a wide range of potential discounts and add-on coverages, including gap coverage and accident forgiveness. Its SmartRide telematics program rewards safe drivers with a discount up to 40 percent and it also offers SmartMiles, a pay-per-mile insurance option. It scored in the top three in the Southeast region on J.D. Power’s Auto Insurance Study, trailing only Erie and Tennessee Farm Bureau.
Who it’s best for
Nationwide is a good choice for drivers who prioritize customer service. Those who log fewer-than-average miles per year — such as remote workers, retirees, and households with an extra car driven less often — can take advantage of its pay-per-mile program. In addition to low average rates for minimum coverage, Nationwide has some of the cheapest rates in North Carolina for drivers with poor credit.
Charlotte pricing
| Nationwide | Full coverage | Minimum coverage |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly | $156 | $56 |
| Annually | $1,876 | $673 |
| Difference from Charlotte average | +8% | -15% |
Charlotte Best Cheap Picks — Detailed Customer Satisfaction Summary
| Company | J.D. Power Auto Insurance Study – Southeast1 | CRASH Network Report Card2 | J.D. Power Claims Satisfaction3 | NAIC Complaint Index4 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Erie | 718 | A- | 733 | 0.68 |
| State Farm | 677 | C- | 710 | 0.84 |
| Progressive | 645 | C | 672 | 0.98 |
| North Carolina Farm Bureau | 657 | A+ | Not rated | 0.66 |
| Nationwide | 697 | C | 728 | 0.69 |
| Average | 667 (out of 1,000) | C+ | 697 (out of 1,000) | 1 |
| What the study measures | Customer satisfaction regionally, based on responses from over 40,000 customers | Claims handling and payment practices, based on an annual survey of collision repair shops | Satisfaction with the claims process, based on responses from nearly 10,000 customers who recently filed a claim | Consumer complaints relative to market share. The lower the score, the better |
Cheapest Full Coverage Car Insurance in Charlotte
Erie Insurance has the cheapest full-coverage rates in Charlotte, 38 percent cheaper than the city average. In our analysis, State Farm, Progressive, and GEICO also had full coverage rates that weighed in below the average.
| Company | Annual Charlotte Average | Monthly Charlotte Average |
|---|---|---|
| Erie | $1,068 | $89 |
| State Farm | $1,374 | $115 |
| Progressive | $1,461 | $122 |
| GEICO | $1,597 | $133 |
| North Carolina Farm Bureau | $1,733 | $144 |
| Nationwide | $1,876 | $156 |
| Allstate | $3,126 | $261 |
| Charlotte average | $1,731 | $144 |
| North Carolina average | $1,455 | $121 |
| U.S. average | $2,399 | $200 |
Cheapest Minimum Coverage Car Insurance in Charlotte
Erie also tops the list for cheap minimum liability car insurance in Charlotte. Its average rate is $461 per year ($38 monthly), 42 percent lower than the citywide average. Progressive, Nationwide, and State Farm follow close behind.
| Company | Annual Charlotte Average | Monthly Charlotte Average |
|---|---|---|
| Erie | $461 | $38 |
| Progressive | $669 | $56 |
| Nationwide | $673 | $56 |
| State Farm | $687 | $57 |
| GEICO | $769 | $64 |
| North Carolina Farm Bureau | $819 | $68 |
| Allstate | $1,453 | $121 |
| Charlotte average | $796 | $66 |
| North Carolina average | $745 | $62 |
| U.S. average | $635 | $53 |
TIP:
Need help bringing the cost of your car insurance down? Here are five ways to lower your car insurance costs.
How many car accidents happen in Charlotte?
In 2023, the city of Charlotte had 32,932 traffic accidents – roughly twice as many accidents as Raleigh had and more than 10 percent of the state’s total accidents for the year.5
The most common causes of car accidents in Charlotte are distracted driving, speeding, alcohol impairment, and lane departures. To keep yourself safe, pay attention and observe traffic laws when you’re driving in Charlotte (and everywhere else). Also make sure your auto insurance liability limits are high enough to protect you and your assets in the event of an accident. Collision and comprehensive coverage can help ensure that you can get back on the road with needed repairs or replacement if your car is damaged in an accident.
Minimum Auto Insurance Requirements in North Carolina
North Carolina has enacted changes to its auto insurance requirements, starting on July 1, 2025. Beginning on that date, new and renewed car insurance policies must have the following minimum liability coverage levels:
- Bodily Injury Liability: $50,000 per person/$100,000 per accident
- Property Damage Liability: $50,000
In addition, new and renewed policies will automatically include underinsured motorist coverage, and new drivers can expect to pay an inexperienced driver surcharge for the first eight years after first getting their licenses. The surcharge is highest during your first three years of driving and begins phasing out in year four.6
>>GOOD TO KNOW: Learn more about how to choose liability coverage limits
FAQs
Who has the cheapest full coverage auto insurance in Charlotte?
Erie has the cheapest full coverage insurance in Charlotte, with an average rate of $89 monthly. State Farm ($115 monthly), Progressive ($122 monthly), and GEICO ($133 monthly) also offer cheap full coverage rates in Charlotte. The average monthly rate for full coverage auto insurance in Charlotte is $144.
Why is Charlotte car insurance getting more expensive?
One reason minimum coverage car insurance in Charlotte may be going up is North Carolina’s recent changes to minimum coverage requirements. Minimum liability coverage limits have increased, from $30,000 per individual and $60,000 per accident to $50,000 per individual and $100,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $50,000 for property damage. The additional coverage is likely to raise insurance rates for minimum coverage policyholders.
How can I get cheaper car insurance in Charlotte?
The best tool for getting the cheapest car insurance rates in Charlotte to shop around and compare. Car insurance rates can vary from one provider to the next, and according to individual factors like your driving record, vehicle, liability limits, and coverages. Comparing at least three policies side by side will help you find the best value for you.
Methodology
At AutoInsurance.com, we evaluate auto insurance providers based on four key factors:
- Price (40%): We analyzed average premiums for full and minimum coverage in Charlotte, North Carolina, for good drivers with good credit. Full coverage averages use the following limits:
- Bodily injury liability: $100,000 per person/$300,000 per accident
- Property damage liability: $50,000 per accident
- Uninsured and underinsured motorist bodily injury: $50,000 per person/$100,000 per accident
- Comprehensive and collision: $500 deductible
- Claims Handling (25%): A good claims handling process from an auto insurer is prompt, transparent, and efficient, with clear communication throughout, fair evaluation of damages, and timely payment or resolution. We assess claims practices through sources like the CRASH Network Insurer Report Card and J.D. Power’s Claims Satisfaction Report, and financial strength from sources like AM Best and S&P Ratings. Real-life customer experiences are included when available.
- Customer Experience (25%): We evaluate the ease of the customer journey, from getting a quote and purchasing a policy to making changes or accessing documents. We consider the availability and quality of both online and agent interactions, as well as the functionality of the company’s website and mobile app. Our sources include J.D. Power studies, the NAIC complaint index, BBB ratings, and app store reviews.
- Coverage Options (10%): We review each company’s coverage offerings and value providers with options beyond the state required minimums, like accident forgiveness, gap coverage, rideshare coverage, and more.
Read more about our ratings and methodology.
Writer
Gayle has written several articles for AutoInsurance.com, including guides to cheap auto insurance in Atlanta and Sacramento. Her work has appeared on various personal finance, banking and business sites, including (most frequently) the consumer blog for Experian. She’s also written for a number of magazines, including Entrepreneur, Independent Business, Fit Pregnancy, Men’s Fitness and Shape.
Citations
It’s Now a Buyer’s Market for Auto Insurance, J.D. Power Finds. J.D. Power. (2025, June 10).
https://www.jdpower.com/business/press-releases/2025-us-auto-insurance-studyTop Rated U.S. Car Insurance Companies for 2025. Crash Network. (2025).
https://www.crashnetwork.com/irc/Auto Insurance Repair Cycle Times Improve but Price Increases Take a Toll, J.D. Power Finds. J.D. Power. (2024, Oct 29).
https://www.jdpower.com/business/press-releases/2024-us-auto-claims-satisfaction-studyConsumer Insurance Search Results. NAIC. (2025).
https://content.naic.org/cis_refined_results.htmCharlotte Road Safety Overview. Safe Roads USA. (2025, Feb 24).
https://www.makeroadssafe.org/charlotte-road-safety-overview/Changes to the Rating of Automobile Insurance Policies, Effective July 1, 2025. NC Department of Insurance. (2025, July 01).
https://www.ncdoi.gov/changes-rating-automobile-insurance-policies-effective-july-1-2025
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