Cheap Car Insurance, Montana: Your Complete Guide

Finding affordable car insurance in Montana can be challenging if you do not understand the factors that affect your insurance premiums. This blog considers all aspects of Montana auto insurance, including costs by age group, driving history, and city, as well as tips to save money.

Average Cost of Car Insurance in Montana

The average cost of car insurance in Montana is lower than the national average, but prices still vary depending on a range of factors. According to Bankrate, Montana drivers can expect to pay $2,395 per year for full coverage and $408 per year for minimum coverage.

This is lower than the national average because Montana is one of the least densely populated states. Also, low costs could be because Montana has a lower average cost of living and medical expenses. However, the exact amount you will pay varies because of factors such as:

• Age: Young drivers often face higher rates.
• Driving History: Good drivers with a clean record will pay less than those with speeding tickets, DUIs, or at-fault accidents.
• Location: Car insurance costs can vary by city and zip code, based on factors such as traffic density and crime rates. Higher crime rates or traffic density often mean higher car insurance costs.
• Credit History: Drivers with poor credit can expect to pay more for insurance.
• Coverage Levels: Minimum coverage car insurance is often cheaper than full coverage.

While Montana may have lower-than-average rates, you should still compare car insurance quotes from multiple companies to get the best deal.

Cheap Auto Insurance in Montana for Different Age Groups

Car insurance rates vary by different age groups because of the levels of risk associated with each group. That is why you should compare rates with different companies. Here's a breakdown of what drivers can expect to pay depending on their age:

Teens

Teenagers (17-year-olds) are the highest-risk drivers, so they pay the most for car insurance in Montana. According to US News, the average premium for a female teen in Montana is $6,355, while male teens in the state pay an average of $6,651 per year. State Farm offers the most affordable rates for drivers in this category: $3,883 for female drivers and $4,160 for male drivers. Other affordable companies include USAA and Nationwide.

Source: Cheapest Car Insurance in Montana for 2025 (US News)

Young Adults

Young adults aged 25 often pay lower car insurance rates in Montana than teens. Other factors that may affect drivers' rates in this category include their driving history and credit score.

USAA offers the cheapest rate for drivers in this category at $1,308. However, note that USAA only serves military personnel and their family members. Those who do not qualify for USAA can find the cheapest rates with State Farm at $1,488.

Source: Cheapest Car Insurance in Montana for 2025 (US News)

Adults

40-year-old drivers often qualify for lower, more stable car insurance premiums. Insurers see these drivers as less likely to file a claim, leading to lower average costs. USAA has the lowest average rate at $1,040 per year for adults. Those who do not qualify for USAA can find the cheapest rates with State Farm at $1,371.

Source: Cheapest Car Insurance in Montana for 2025 (US News)

Senior Drivers

Drivers aged 60 see a slight decrease in insurance premiums as they tend to be safer drivers. Also, some may qualify for low-mileage discounts. The cheapest company for drivers in this category is USAA at $967. If you do not qualify for USAA, consider State Farm at $1,230 per year.

Source: Cheapest Car Insurance in Montana for 2025 (US News)

Cheap Car Insurance in Montana: By Driving History

Your driving record affects how much you will pay for car insurance. Good drivers with clean driving records and no traffic violations often pay less for car insurance in Montana. On the other hand, drivers with speeding violations, DUIs, and car accidents often pay more for car insurance.

Even these high-risk drivers can find lower rates. Here's a look at cheap auto insurance in Montana for these drivers:

Speeding Ticket

According to US News, the state average auto insurance rate for drivers with one speeding ticket is $2,381 per year. The following companies offer the best rates, below this average:

• State Farm: $1,437
• USAA: $1,450
• Geico: $2,228

At-Fault Accident

Drivers in Montana with an at-fault car accident can expect to pay an average of $2,926 per year. USAA has the lowest average rate for drivers after an at-fault accident at $1,489 per year. If you do not qualify for USAA, consider State Farm’s $1,521.

DUI

A DUI can raise premiums by up to 100%, making it the most serious driving violation of the three. According to US News, the state average for this violation is $3,203. State Farm offers $1,437 per year to these drivers, making it the most affordable company.

Source: Cheapest Car Insurance in Montana for 2025 (US News)

Cheapest Auto Insurance in Montana for Drivers With Poor Credit

Drivers with good credit get cheaper annual rates. But having poor credit can increase the cost of car insurance in Montana. According to US News, drivers with poor credit can pay about $3,728 per year in premiums. Insurers charge higher rates for these drivers because they are considered more likely to file a claim.

The cheapest car insurance in Montana for drivers with poor credit is USAA, at $2,360. If you do not qualify for USAA, consider Geico, which offers $2,551 per year.

Source: Cheapest Car Insurance in Montana for 2025 (US News)

Cheapest Car Insurance in Montana by Cities

Insurance premiums can vary depending on your location within Big Sky Country. Larger cities may have higher rates due to increased traffic and accident frequency, while rural areas with less traffic may have lower premiums. Wildlife activity can also affect car insurance rates in Montana, often leading to higher comprehensive coverage costs. The cheapest cities for most drivers are:

Source: Cheapest car insurance in Montana for 2025 (Bankrate)

Tips for Getting the Cheapest Montana Car Insurance

Montana drivers should consider the following tips to get lower coverage rates:

1. Compare Quotes: Always get car insurance quotes from at least three different insurance companies. Each insurer uses different factors to calculate premiums, so prices can vary.
2. Choose the Right Coverage: Consider the type of car you drive and how much coverage you need. If your car is old and has a low market value, you might not need comprehensive or collision coverage.
3. Bundle Policies: Many insurance companies offer discounts for bundling auto insurance with homeowners' or renters' insurance.
4. Increase Your Deductible: Raising your deductible can lower your premium, but make sure you can afford the out-of-pocket cost in an accident.
5. Take Advantage of Available Discounts: Many insurers offer discounts for factors such as good driving behavior and safe vehicle features. Ask what discounts apply to you.

Minimum Coverage Car Insurance Requirements in Montana

All drivers in Montana should carry minimum liability insurance that helps compensate others in an accident. When you carry liability insurance, you can drive legally in the state. The minimum requirements in the state are:

• $25,000 for bodily injury per person.
• $50,000 for bodily injury per accident.
• $20,000 for property damage.

Bodily injury liability helps pay for the medical expenses of others you injure in an accident, while accident property damage liability helps cover damage you cause to others' property.

These are just the state minimum coverage limits, and in some cases, they do not offer enough protection. Therefore, some drivers get higher liability limits, which help protect them more. However, it's important to assess your financial situation before getting higher limits.

Additional Coverages in Montana

Montana drivers can also purchase other coverages for more financial protection. Additional coverage car insurance in the state includes:

Comprehensive Coverage

Comprehensive protects you against non-collision-related events, such as theft, vandalism, fire, or natural disasters. This insurance is important in areas where severe weather or wildlife collisions are common.

Collision Coverage

Collision pays for damage to your car from a collision with another vehicle or an object like a tree or a guardrail. It's recommended for new or valuable cars.

Roadside Assistance

Roadside assistance provides help if your car breaks down. Depending on the company, you may receive services such as towing, flat tire changes, fuel delivery, and battery jumps. This coverage can be a good option for people in Montana's remote areas.

Underinsured/Uninsured Motorist Coverage

This coverage helps pay for your expenses if you're hit by a driver with too little insurance or no coverage. Montana car insurance providers must offer you uninsured motorist coverage, but you can reject it as long as you do it in writing.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are the Penalties for Driving Uninsured in Montana?

Driving without insurance in Montana can lead to serious penalties, including fines and suspension of your driver's license and vehicle registration. The state requires all drivers to carry at least minimum liability insurance.

What is the Minimum Car Insurance in Montana?

Montana's minimum car insurance requirements include $25,000 for bodily injury per person, $50,000 for bodily injury per accident, and $20,000 for property damage liability.

Do I Have to Insure a Vehicle That Isn’t Being Used?

Yes, even if your vehicle is not being driven, you must still insure it if it is registered. You can reduce coverage if you’re not using the vehicle regularly.

How Do I Show Proof of Car Insurance in Montana?

You can show proof of coverage with your insurance card or by providing digital proof via a mobile app. Montana law requires drivers to carry proof of insurance while driving.