Homeowners insurance in Pennsylvania is relatively affordable, which is good news if you’re buying a home or switching insurance companies. The average cost of a home insurance policy in the Keystone State is $1,217 per year for a policy with a $1,000 deductible and $300,000 in dwelling coverage — significantly less than the national average of $2,532.

But you might need to pay for additional coverage. The state of Pennsylvania is home to several rivers and streams, and it’s prone to flooding, which most standard homeowners policies don’t cover.1 The most recent major flood was after Hurricane Irene in 2011, causing around $425 million in damage.2

Here’s what you need to know if you’re seeking a homeowners insurance policy in Pennsylvania.

Best home insurance companies in Pennsylvania

Several home insurance companies serve customers in Pennsylvania, and the best company for you isn’t always necessarily the cheapest. Shopping around for coverage can help you find the right policy for your individual situation and needs.

As you begin your search, consider the leading insurers listed in the table below.

Cheapest rates: Cumberland Insurance Group

Best insurer for flood insurance: Westfield

Best insurer for discounts: Allstate

Best insurer for customer satisfaction: Erie

Cheapest home insurance in Pennsylvania

Westfield offers the cheapest home insurance in Pennsylvania, at $58 per month.

Here’s a look at some of the other home insurance companies offering relatively affordable coverage for Pennsylvania homeowners.

Cost of homeowners insurance in Pennsylvania

The cost of your home insurance will vary depending on how much dwelling and personal property coverage you need, your home’s age, your ZIP code, your deductible, and other factors.

If you live in an area that has a high risk for flooding, you’ll also want to purchase flood insurance, which comes at an added cost.

Cost of homeowners insurance by dwelling coverage amount

Dwelling coverage protects your home’s physical structure from covered losses, such as fires or natural disasters. The higher your dwelling coverage amount, the more you can expect to pay in premiums.

Here’s a look at how dwelling coverage limits relate to average monthly premiums in Pennsylvania for policies with a $1,000 deductible.

Cost of homeowners insurance by deductible

Your deductible is the amount you must pay following an insurance claim before your home insurance kicks in for a covered loss. The deductible you choose can also affect your insurance premiums, with higher deductibles resulting in lower insurance prices. Lower deductibles generally mean higher premiums.

Here’s how your deductible amount ties into your insurance costs in Pennsylvania for policies with $300,000 in dwelling coverage.

How to get cheap homeowners insurance in Pennsylvania

If you’re seeking cheap home insurance, here are some strategies to keep your costs down:

• Get discounts. Discounts vary by insurance company. Look into available discounts and take advantage of any you qualify for.

• Increase your deductible. A higher deductible generally results in lower rates for your homeowners coverage. Ask your home insurance company about increasing your deductible.

• Add features. Certain features, like smoke detectors, burglar alarms, and sprinkler systems, not only protect your home and possessions but can also reduce your insurance rates. They might have an up-front cost, but they could save you money over time.

• Compare home insurance quotes. It pays to shop around for homeowners insurance coverage. Compare quotes and coverage options from different companies to determine which offers the most affordable policy for your needs.

How much homeowners insurance do you need in Pennsylvania?

If you take out a loan to purchase your home, your mortgage lender will also require you to purchase a home insurance policy. But even if you pay cash for your home, you’ll probably want to obtain proper insurance coverage.

As you shop for insurance, it’s essential to understand exactly what your home insurance policy covers and any exclusions that apply. This will help ensure that your policy adequately protects your house. Determine your needs, understand applicable weather-related dangers in your area, and search for policies that meet these goals and stay within your budget.

What are some of the biggest risks when owning a home in Pennsylvania?

No matter which state you live in, certain risks could damage your home. Pennsylvania is no exception. Here are some of the most common perils in the state and whether a standard home insurance policy typically covers them.