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Last updated: May 8, 2026Best Auto Insurance in Virginia of 2026
USAA, Travelers, and Progressive are among our picks for residents of the Old Dominion State.
Best for Military/Veterans
Editor's Rating:
5/5
5/5
Full Coverage Averages in Virginia
- Annual premium: $1,226
- Monthly premium: $102
Cheapest Overall
Editor's Rating:4.1/5
4.1/5
Full Coverage Averages in Virginia
- Annual premium: $1,209
- Monthly premium: $101
Best for Coverage Add-Ons
Editor's Rating:4.7/5
4.7/5
Full Coverage Averages in Virginia
- Annual premium: $1,782
- Monthly premium: $149
Key Takeaways: Best Auto Insurance in Virginia 2026
USAA and Travelers offer the best and cheapest auto insurance in Virginia for most drivers.
- Full coverage averages $2,003/year in Virginia — about 15% below the national average of $2,356/year.
- Travelers is the cheapest option at $1,209/year; USAA is nearly as cheap at $1,226/year and offers top-rated customer service.
- USAA is only available to military members, veterans, and their eligible family members.
- Erie is the top pick for customer service, with an above-average J.D. Power rating and competitive rates at $1,529/year.
Our pricing data includes average rates, which don’t necessarily reflect rates you may be quoted. However, the rates we provide do offer a useful starting point when comparing auto insurance providers.
Summary of the Best Auto Insurance in Virginia
- Best for Military/Veterans: USAA
- Cheapest Overall: Travelers
- Best for Coverage Add-Ons: Progressive
- Best for Online Purchasing: GEICO
- Best for Customer Service: Erie
Compare the Best Cheap Auto Insurance in Virginia
| Company | Full Coverage Monthly Avg. in Virginia | Minimum Coverage Monthly Avg. in Virginia | Mid-Atlantic customer satisfaction (J.D. Power) |
|---|---|---|---|
| USAA | $102 | $40 | Above average |
| Travelers | $101 | $40 | Below average |
| Progressive | $149 | $91 | Below average |
| GEICO | $131 | $50 | Below average |
| Erie | $127 | $50 | Above average |
| Virginia | $167 | $63 | – |
Breaking Down the Best Cheap Auto Insurance in Virginia
1. USAA - Best for Military/Veterans
5
Editor's Rating:
- Average Texas Rate for Minimum Coverage
- $29 mo.
- Average Texas Rate for Full Coverage
- $106 mo.
- Military-focused policies with strong coverage options
- Competitive rates under the Virginia state average
- Excellent customer satisfaction
Military eligibility required- Limited to members
- Fewer branch locations
Why we chose it
USAA is a well-regarded carrier that caters exclusively to eligible military, veterans, and family (spouses or children of current/former USAA members). The company has competitive pricing with numerous discount opportunities and high customer satisfaction ratings. Since USAA doesn’t have physical offices, it’s best for drivers who prefer managing policies online or on the phone.
Who it’s best for
Military/veteran and eligible family members, budget-minded drivers who qualify for membership, policyholders prioritizing excellent customer service
USAA Virginia Pricing
| USAA | Full coverage | Minimum coverage |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly | $102 | $40 |
| Annually | $1,226 | $482 |
| Difference from Virginia average | -39% | -36% |
2. Travelers - Cheapest Overall
4.1
Editor's Rating:
- Average Rate for Minimum Coverage
- $40 mo.
- Average Rate for Full Coverage
- $101 mo.
- Very competitive rates for budget-minded drivers
- Broad coverage options and discounts
- High level of customer satisfaction
- Average satisfaction scores
- Limited agent density in some regions
Why we chose it
Travelers consistently offers some of the cheapest auto insurance in the country, including in Virginia. It offers numerous coverage options at a great value, including add-ons like accident forgiveness and gap insurance, as well as multiple discount opportunities.1
Additionally, Travelers has a low complaint volume per NAIC, plus a strong financial rating of A++ from AM Best (meaning it has a strong ability to pay claims). While it does have a below average customer satisfaction rating from J.D. Power, it’s still a great pick for drivers who prioritize getting strong coverage options at great value over top-notch customer service.
Who it’s best for
Budget-minded drivers prioritizing low rates, people seeking quality coverage at a great value, policyholders who like customizable plans
Travelers Virginia Pricing
| Travelers | Full coverage | Minimum coverage |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly | $101 | $40 |
| Annually | $1,209 | $478 |
| Difference from Virginia average | -40% | -37% |
3. Progressive - Best for Coverage Add-Ons
4.7
Editor's Rating:
- Average Rate for Minimum Coverage
- $56mo.
- Average Rate for Full Coverage
- $136 mo.
- Large selection of strong coverage add-ons
- Low rates with ample discounts available
- Highly customizable policies
- Mixed reviews for customer service
- Gap insurance won’t necessarily cover full amount owed
Why we chose it
Progressive is our top pick for drivers seeking customizable policies with a wide range of optional add-ons. The company offers coverages like loan/lease payoff (similar to gap coverage), protection of aftermarket parts, rideshare coverage, and more.
We also like that Progressive offers low baseline rates for full coverage, and discounts like safe driver, good student, and a telematics program that rewards safe drivers. Progressive does have a lower-than-average customer satisfaction rating per J.D. Power, but we still recommend it for drivers prioritizing an affordable, customized plan over customer service.
Who it’s best for
Drivers planning to purchase full coverage, policyholders on a budget, drivers who like self-servicing online or on mobile app
Progressive Virginia Pricing
| Progressive | Full coverage | Minimum coverage |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly | $149 | $91 |
| Annually | $1,782 | $1,091 |
| Difference from Virginia average | -11% | +43% |
4. GEICO - Best for Online Purchasing
4.2
Editor's Rating:
- Average Rate for Minimum Coverage
- $28 mo.
- Average Rate for Full Coverage
- $87 mo.
- Seamless and intuitive online purchase experience
- Competitive rates for budget-minded drivers
- Numerous discount opportunities
- Limited agent presence
- Doesn't underwrite home insurance
Why we chose it
GEICO offers a strong online and mobile experience for insurance shoppers who like easy self-service. On its main website, customers can generate quotes and buy policies via a simple, step-by-step purchase flow. GEICO’s strong digital platforms make it easy to then manage your newly purchased plan, pay bills, and view ID cards — all without going through an agent.
We also recommend GEICO for its budget-friendly premiums and impressive array of discounts, including easily obtainable markdowns for enrolling in Paperless and Auto Pay options.2
Who it’s best for
Digital-first shoppers who like self-servicing, customers who prefer online policy management, budget-minded customers seeking low rates
GEICO Virginia Pricing
| GEICO | Full coverage | Minimum coverage |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly | $131 | $50 |
| Annually | $1,575 | $606 |
| Difference from Virginia average | -21% | -20% |
5. Erie - Best for Customer Service
5
Editor's Rating:
- Average Rate for Minimum Coverage
- $50 mo.
- Average Rate for Full Coverage
- $127 mo.
- Superb customer service rating
- Competitive pricing in service regions
- Personalized and people-powered claims process
- Agent-only
- Fewer online features
Why we chose it
Erie is a regional carrier that services twelve states and Washington, D.C. across the East Coast, Midwest, and Mid-Atlantic. It holds consistently high customer service ratings from J.D. Power, and drivers appreciate how Erie’s independent agents offer a prompt, personalized touch to claims processing and more.
As a regional carrier, Erie offers competitive baseline premiums that are often lower than those of larger national carriers. It does have fewer discounts than competitors and has a limited digital experience, so you’ll have to call an agent to manage your plan.3 But if you don’t mind speaking to an agent for policy needs — and in fact prefer it — Erie remains an excellent choice.
Who it’s best for
Drivers who value customer service, drivers who want competitive baseline premiums, customers who like interacting with agents
Erie Virginia Pricing
| Erie | Full coverage | Minimum coverage |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly | $127 | $50 |
| Annually | $1,529 | $600 |
| Difference from Virginia average | -24% | -21% |
Best Cheap Picks — Detailed Customer Satisfaction Summary
| Company | J.D. Power Auto Insurance Study – Mid-Atlantic4 | CRASH Network Report Card5 | J.D. Power Claims Satisfaction6 | NAIC Complaint Index7 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| USAA | 743 | C- | 741 | 3.10 |
| Travelers | 633 | C | 691 | 0.30 |
| GEICO | 643 | C- | 697 | 1.55 |
| Erie | 706 | A- | 743 | 1.29 |
| Progressive | 625 | C- | 673 | 2.79 |
| Average | 656 (out of 1,000) | C+ | 700 (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 |
Average Cost of Auto Insurance in Virginia
Full Coverage Rates in Virginia
On average, full coverage in Virginia costs $2,003 a year or $167 a month. Virginia residents can expect to pay around 15 percent less than the national average for car insurance.
| Category | Full coverage average (annual) | Full coverage average (monthly) |
|---|---|---|
| Virginia Average | $2,003 | $167 |
| National Average | $2,356 | $196 |
Minimum Coverage Rates in Virginia
In Virginia, the average cost of a minimum coverage policy is $758 a year or $63 a month. This is around 4 percent higher than the national average.
Auto insurance costs can vary significantly based on your driving history, vehicle, and provider. We recommend comparing quotes from at least three providers to help you find the best coverage at the most affordable cost.
| Category | Minimum coverage average (annual) | Minimum coverage average (monthly) |
|---|---|---|
| Virginia Average | $758 | $63 |
| National Average | $722 | $60 |
TIP:
Minimum coverage is often insufficient for covering the medical bills and vehicle repair costs stemming from a moderate or severe crash. If your budget allows, opt for full coverage – which includes comprehensive and collision coverage to protect your car from physical damage – and add-ons like uninsured or underinsured coverage.
Auto Insurance Costs by City in Virginia
Auto insurance rates can also vary significantly based on region and city. Residents of Arlington and Reston enjoy some of the cheapest average rates in Virginia. Conversely, Norfolk and Richmond’s auto insurance rates are some of the most expensive in the state.
| City | Average annual premium | Average monthly premium |
|---|---|---|
| Norfolk | $2,373 | $198 |
| Richmond | $2,213 | $184 |
| Falls Church | $2,204 | $184 |
| Fairfax | $2,191 | $183 |
| Virginia Beach | $2,188 | $182 |
| Chesapeake | $2,157 | $180 |
| Reston | $2,128 | $177 |
| Arlington | $2,111 | $176 |
How Many Car Accidents Happen in Virginia?
According to the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles, 75,900 crashes occurred between Jan-Sept 2025.8 This figure fell from the same nine-month period of the previous year (93,400 crashes between Jan-Sept 2024). Fatalities also dropped over the same period, with 589 traffic fatalities this year compared to 700 in 2024. These are preliminary figures, as final crash data for 2025 has not been released as of this writing.9
Minimum Auto Insurance Requirements in Virginia
If you’re a licensed driver in Virginia, having auto insurance is a legal requirement.10 Virginia state law requires these minimum liability limits:
- Bodily injury/death to one person: $50,000
- Bodily injury/death to two people: $100,000
- Property damage: $25,000 per accident
TIP:
It goes without saying, but make sure you’re always insured before driving. Virginia has strict consequences for drivers lacking insurance, including fines, suspension and revoking of your vehicle registration. Be sure to keep your proof of insurance in your car at all times so that you’re covered in the event you’re asked for it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Rates can vary depending upon whether your risk factor is tickets, accidents, or DUI. For general high-risk drivers and people with at-fault accidents or DUIs, Travelers is one of the cheapest large insurers. Erie is also a great option for drivers looking for cheap car insurance, especially those with multiple tickets on their record.
For the first 3-5 years after a DUI, insurers may classify DUI drivers as high-risk and add surcharges accordingly. DUI drivers also need an FR-44 filing during that period, which mandates higher-than-minimum liability limits. Drivers can start to see premiums drop if they maintain a clean record for at least three years after the DUI.
Most major insurers in Virginia offer a similar set of discounts. For instance, Travelers and USAA offer safe driver, telematics, and multi-policy discounts – considered to be some of the biggest money-saving discounts. When comparing plans, be sure to ask about discounts available for your driver profile so you can see how much you can save on top of your base premium.
Virginia offers several DMV-approved safe-driver courses tailored towards seniors, which can help them qualify for auto insurance discounts. You can check out the Virginia DMV’s list of approved Mature Driver Safety courses on its official website, which include options from AAA, AARP, the American Safety Council, and Traffic School Online.11
Here’s some of the most important info to have for every driver on the policy: legal name, birthdate, gender, marital status, home address, driver’s license number, date when first licensed, driving history for past 3-5 years, and vehicle info (e.g. year, make, model, VIN, and ownership/financing status). Info about desired coverage is also helpful.
Methodology - How We Review Providers
We evaluated auto insurance providers in Virginia and based our reviews on the following criteria:
- Pricing (40%): We analyzed the costs of both full and minimum coverage premiums in Virginia for drivers with clean records and those with prior incidents like DUIs. We also considered available discounts. Minimum coverage averages meet Virginia’s state-mandated limits, while full coverage averages use the following limits:
-
- Bodily injury liability: $100,000 per person / $300,000 per accident
- Property damage liability: $100,000 per accident
- Uninsured and underinsured motorist bodily injury: Same as bodily injury liability
- Comprehensive and collision: $500 deductible
- Claims handling (25%): Efficient claims handling is critical for any auto insurance provider. We reviewed third-party data from independent sources like the J.D. Power Claims Satisfaction Study, AM Best, and other reports to evaluate claims handling.
- Customer experience (25%): We assessed customer experience from various perspectives, including the ease of getting a quote, digital tools, policy management options, and availability of local agents. Our evaluation incorporated third-party data from sources like J.D. Power, alongside app ratings and data on the provider’s customer service for Virginia drivers.
- Coverage options (10%): We reviewed each company’s coverage offerings, preferring providers with options beyond Virginia’s minimum requirements. Additional coverage options considered include mechanical breakdown insurance, rideshare coverage and other benefits.
Learn more about our ratings and methodology sources.
Sources
Car Insurance Coverage. Travelers. (2026).
https://www.travelers.com/car-insurance/coverageoCar Insurance Discounts – Save Money on Auto Insurance. GEICO. (2026).
https://www.geico.com/save/discounts/car-insurance-discounts/Find an Erie Agent near you. Erie Insurance. (2026).
https://www.erieinsurance.com/find-an-agentIt’s Now a Buyer’s Market for Auto Insurance, JD Power Finds. JD Power. (2025, June 10).
https://www.jdpower.com/business/press-releases/2025-us-auto-insurance-studyTop Rated U.S. Car Insurance Companies for 2026. Crash Network. (2026).
https://www.crashnetwork.com/irc/Satisfaction with Auto Insurance Claims Strained by Higher Deductibles, More Total Losses, JD Power Finds. JD Power. (2025, Oct 28).
https://www.jdpower.com/business/press-releases/2025-us-auto-claims-satisfaction-studyConsumer Insurance Search Results. NAIC. (2026).
https://content.naic.org/cis_refined_results.htmCrashes in Virginia down significantly compared to this time last year. News 3 WTKR. (2025, Oct 10).
https://www.wtkr.com/transportation/crashes-in-virginia-down-significantly-compared-to-this-time-last-yearVirginia Traffic Crash Facts. Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles. (2026).
https://www.dmv.virginia.gov/safety/crash-data/traffic-crash-factsInsurance Requirements. Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles. (2026).
https://www.dmv.virginia.gov/vehicles/insurance-requirementsMature Driver Safety Courses. Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles. (2026).
https://www.dmv.virginia.gov/safety/programs/mature-driver/courses
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