North Carolina drivers typically pay less than the U.S. national average for auto insurance. Drivers in the Tar Heel State spend an average of $62 per month for a liability-only policy, compared to the nationwide average of $104 per month.
Car insurance rates in North Carolina have fallen in the past few years. As of February 2025, the average cost for a full-coverage policy is $1,049 per year, compared to an average of $1,338 in 2024. Thanks to the state’s low traffic volume and vehicle theft rates, North Carolina has some of the cheapest car insurance in the U.S.
Let’s explore rates for different types of drivers and how you can save money on your auto insurance.
How much is car insurance in North Carolina?
How much you spend on car insurance in North Carolina depends on the type of policy you purchase. Full-coverage policies include comprehensive and collision coverage and cost more than a liability-only policy. The average cost of a full-coverage policy is $87 per month, or $1,049 per year. A liability-only policy costs an average of $62 per month, or $743 annually.
Comparing quotes from multiple insurers is the best way to make sure you get the coverage you need at the best price.
How North Carolina car insurance rates have changed over the past two years
The average price for full-coverage car insurance in North Carolina rose to $1,300 in 2024, up significantly over rates from just a few years ago. Full-coverage rates also rose nationally, though they remain more expensive than in North Carolina.
See how North Carolina car insurance prices have changed over the past two years below.
Average North Carolina car insurance rates by city
Where you live plays a big role in how much you pay for car insurance. When setting rates, insurers consider factors like crime, weather, and traffic patterns.1 Living somewhere with high car theft rates can increase your premium, and residing somewhere with very little traffic can lower it. Rates can vary even within the same state.
The following table illustrates how much rates can vary across different cities in North Carolina, according to Insurify data.
Average North Carolina car insurance rates by age and gender
Drivers younger than 25 typically pay more for car insurance than older drivers. Younger drivers — especially teens — usually pay higher premiums because they have less experience and are more likely to be involved in an accident.
Gender also influences rates. Male drivers usually pay higher premiums than female drivers because they have higher accident rates. But as drivers age and gain experience, the gap narrows, and other factors like driving history and location become more significant in determining rates.
The table below shows the average rates by age for male and female drivers in North Carolina, according to Insurify data.
Average cost to insure popular vehicles in North Carolina
The car you drive also affects your auto insurance rates. Cars with expensive repair or replacement costs can also cost more to insure.
It’s easy to see why drivers like some of the most popular vehicles in the Tar Heel State. The Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V are practical and fuel-efficient, making them ideal for families and daily commuters.
The Chevrolet Silverado and Ford F-Series are known for their towing capacity and durability, appealing to drivers needing robust work vehicles. The Tesla Model Y attracts consumers interested in electric vehicles with cutting-edge technology and performance.
To show you how your choice of vehicle influences your auto insurance premium, check out the average monthly quotes for some of the most popular vehicle types in North Carolina, according to Insurify data.
How your driving record affects car insurance rates in North Carolina
Insurance companies consider your driving record when evaluating how risky you are to insure. Insurers are more likely to offer you lower rates if you don’t have any speeding tickets, car accidents, or DUIs on your record.
Drivers in North Carolina with an incident on their record pay an average of $94 per month, and drivers with a DUI see their average monthly rate increase to $122.
The table below shows average rates for drivers with an incident on their record, according to Insurify data.
How to lower your insurance costs in North Carolina
If you’re struggling to find car insurance that works for your budget, consider these money-saving tips: