Located along the banks of the Susquehanna River, Harrisburg is known for attractions like the Harrisburg Shakespeare Festival and the Susquehanna Museum of Art. Even though it’s the capital of Pennsylvania and home to more than 50,000 people, its car insurance rates are cheaper than the state average.
This is likely due to its comparatively lower car accident rates.1 Harrisburg recorded 569 motor vehicle accidents in 2022, according to Pennsylvania Department of Transportation data.
Harrisburg drivers can find the lowest car insurance rates from National General, State Farm, and Progressive. But comparing car insurance quotes from multiple companies could help drivers find even better rates.
Here’s what you need to know about finding affordable car insurance coverage in Harrisburg.
Cheapest car insurance companies in Harrisburg
As you look for the right car insurance company, consider factors like your ZIP code, budget, driving record, coverage level options, and personal needs. The best way to find the ideal coverage for you is to compare quotes from several insurers.
USAA, Mile Auto, and Clearcover are three insurers to consider in any comparison list. Here, you can learn more about each company and see the state coverage averages for each insurer.
Best insurer for military members: USAA
Best insurer for infrequent drivers: Mile Auto
Best insurer for students: Clearcover
How to get the cheapest car insurance in Harrisburg
No two car companies will judge your unique driver profile the same. Each has its own underwriting process, coverage options, and policy specifics. That’s why you should do your research and explore your options.
As you search for new insurance, keep these tips in mind to help you secure the best deal on an auto policy in Harrisburg:
Shop around. It’s a good idea to get quotes from at least three different car insurance companies. This can help you find the lowest price and the lowest rates for your unique needs and financial situation.
Look for discounts. Most car insurers offer a variety of discounts. You may qualify for one for being a good student, insuring multiple vehicles, or installing an anti-theft device.
Consider usage-based insurance. Usage-based, or pay-per-mile insurance, might lessen your insurance costs, especially if you work from home, are retired, or don’t drive a lot. Your monthly premiums will be based on the miles you drive.
Drive responsibly. Speeding tickets, at-fault accidents, and DUIs can all increase your insurance premiums. Practice safe driving habits to keep your costs low.
Cheapest liability-only car insurance in Harrisburg: National General
Pennsylvania requires all drivers to have at least a minimum amount of liability car insurance. This coverage pays for the other driver’s property damage and injuries in an accident you cause. Because it’s the minimum required car insurance, it’s usually the cheapest option.
National General offers the most affordable liability insurance for Harrisburg drivers, with rates starting at $66 per month.
The table below shows quotes for liability-only policies from different car insurance companies in Harrisburg.
Cheapest full-coverage car insurance in Harrisburg: State Farm
Full-coverage car insurance is typically made up of three types of coverage: liability, collision, and comprehensive coverages. This type of car insurance can provide you with additional protection and peace of mind, and it may be required if you have a lease or loan on your car.
Here’s a look at the insurance companies with the cheapest quotes for full-coverage auto insurance in Harrisburg.
Car insurance requirements in Pennsylvania
The state of Pennsylvania is unusual in that it operates under a choice no-fault system for auto insurance.5
As a driver in Harrisburg, you can choose between “limited-tort” (no-fault) and “full-tort” (at-fault) coverage. If you opt for the limited-tort option, you’ll file a claim with your own insurer after a car accident, even if you weren’t at fault.
Full tort, on the other hand, usually comes with higher monthly payments but allows you to recover compensation for property damage and medical bills following an accident that wasn’t your fault.
In order to drive legally in Pennsylvania, your coverage must at least meet the following minimum car insurance requirements:
Adding more coverage to your auto insurance policy can protect your finances in a number of situations.
Here are some additional coverages to consider including in your policy:
Cheapest car insurance for drivers with an incident
Incidents such as at-fault accidents, speeding tickets, and driving under the influence (DUI) position you as a riskier driver to insurance companies. In turn, insurers will increase your car insurance premiums. This is why Harrisburg drivers with clean records usually pay cheaper rates than high-risk drivers.
Fortunately, finding affordable insurance with a poor driving record is still possible. Here’s an overview of the cheapest companies for Harrisburg drivers with incidents on their records.
Average cost of car insurance by age
Compared to teens and younger adults, seniors have a higher car accident mortality rate.7 Average premiums, by age group, tend to go down around age 35 and pick back up around age 70. This is due to age-related physical and mental limitations, including changes in vision and reaction time.
Harrisburg car insurance quotes by credit tier
Pennsylvania allows car insurance companies to consider your credit history when they underwrite your policy and determine your premium.
Because the top car insurance companies perceive drivers with good to excellent credit as less risky than drivers with poor credit, they offer these drivers the best coverage and most affordable car insurance rates.
The table below outlines the best car insurance rates for Harrisburg drivers with different credit scores.