Cheapest Auto Insurance Companies in Hawaii
We analyzed rates from major insurers to find the most affordable options for Hawaii drivers. Rates shown are average annual premiums for a 35-year-old driver with a clean record. Note: Hawaii prohibits using credit scores for insurance pricing.
Full Coverage Rates
| Rank | Company | Annual Premium | Monthly Premium | vs. State Avg |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | GEICO | $1,020 | $85 | -25% |
| 2 | USAA* | $1,050 | $88 | -23% |
| 3 | State Farm | $1,190 | $99 | -13% |
| 4 | First Insurance Company of Hawaii | $1,250 | $104 | -8% |
| 5 | Progressive | $1,320 | $110 | -3% |
| 6 | Farmers Hawaii | $1,380 | $115 | +1% |
| 7 | Allstate | $1,450 | $121 | +7% |
| 8 | Liberty Mutual | $1,540 | $128 | +13% |
| 9 | Nationwide | $1,590 | $133 | +17% |
| 10 | Travelers | $1,650 | $138 | +21% |
*USAA is available only to military members, veterans, and their families. Hawaii has a significant military population making USAA an excellent option for many residents. Rates are approximate averages and may vary by location and individual factors.
Liability-Only (Minimum Coverage) Rates
| Rank | Company | Annual Premium | Monthly Premium |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | GEICO | $380 | $32 |
| 2 | USAA* | $395 | $33 |
| 3 | State Farm | $420 | $35 |
| 4 | First Insurance Company of Hawaii | $445 | $37 |
| 5 | Progressive | $470 | $39 |
*Liability-only rates include Hawaii's minimum 20/40/10 requirements plus mandatory $10,000 PIP coverage.
Average Auto Insurance Rates by Hawaii City
Car insurance rates in Hawaii vary by island and city. Urban areas like Honolulu tend to have higher rates due to traffic congestion, while more rural areas on the neighbor islands often see lower premiums.
| City | Annual Premium | Monthly Premium | vs. State Avg | Key Factors |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Honolulu | $1,530 | $128 | +13% | Urban congestion, higher traffic density |
| Pearl City | $1,440 | $120 | +6% | Oahu suburban area, moderate traffic |
| Kailua (Oahu) | $1,400 | $117 | +3% | Windward Oahu, residential community |
| Kapolei | $1,380 | $115 | +1% | West Oahu, growing suburban area |
| Kaneohe | $1,350 | $113 | 0% | Windward Oahu, moderate density |
| Hilo | $1,280 | $107 | -6% | Big Island, lower traffic volume |
| Kailua-Kona | $1,260 | $105 | -7% | Big Island west side, resort area |
| Kahului (Maui) | $1,310 | $109 | -4% | Maui's main town, moderate traffic |
| Lihue (Kauai) | $1,230 | $103 | -10% | Garden Isle, lower population density |
| Waimea (Big Island) | $1,160 | $97 | -15% | Rural area, low accident rates |
*Rates shown are for full coverage. Your actual rate depends on your specific ZIP code, driving record, and other factors.
Hawaii Auto Insurance Rates by Age
Age is one of the biggest factors affecting car insurance rates. Teen drivers pay the most, while rates typically drop significantly after age 25 and reach their lowest point around age 50-60.
| Driver Profile | Annual Premium | Monthly Premium | vs. State Avg |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Teen Driver (16-17)
Added to parent's policy
|
$3,670 | $306 | +170% |
|
Teen Driver (18-19)
Own policy
|
$3,280 | $273 | +141% |
|
Young Adult (20-24)
Clean record
|
$2,070 | $173 | +52% |
|
Adult (25-34)
Clean record
|
$1,430 | $119 | +5% |
|
Adult (35-44)
Clean record
|
$1,320 | $110 | -3% |
|
Middle-Aged (45-54)
Clean record
|
$1,210 | $101 | -11% |
|
Older Adult (55-64)
Clean record
|
$1,140 | $95 | -16% |
|
Senior (65-74)
Clean record
|
$1,250 | $104 | -8% |
|
Senior (75+)
Clean record
|
$1,390 | $116 | +2% |
Tip for Young Drivers
If you're under 25, staying on a parent's policy is usually the cheapest option. You can also reduce rates by maintaining good grades (good student discount), completing a driver's education course, and choosing a safe, modest vehicle rather than a sports car. Hawaii's lower overall rates make it one of the best states for young drivers.
How Driving Violations Affect Your Hawaii Rate
Traffic violations and accidents can significantly increase your insurance premiums. Here's how much you can expect to pay after common incidents in Hawaii.
Speeding Ticket
| Before ticket: | $1,360/yr |
| After ticket: | $1,632/yr |
| Extra cost: | +$272/yr |
At-Fault Accident
| Before accident: | $1,360/yr |
| After accident: | $1,931/yr |
| Extra cost: | +$571/yr |
DUI Conviction
| Before DUI: | $1,360/yr |
| After DUI: | $2,448/yr |
| Extra cost: | +$1,088/yr |
How Long Do Violations Affect Your Rate?
Hawaii Auto Insurance Requirements
Hawaii is a no-fault state, meaning your own insurance pays for your injuries regardless of who caused the accident. Here are the legal requirements and recommended coverage levels for Hawaii drivers.
Hawaii's No-Fault System Explained
In Hawaii's no-fault system, after an accident you file a claim with your own insurance company for medical expenses and lost wages, regardless of who caused the accident. This is covered by Personal Injury Protection (PIP). The system is designed to speed up compensation and reduce lawsuits. However, you can still sue the at-fault driver for serious injuries that exceed your PIP coverage or meet the state's "serious injury" threshold.
Hawaii Minimum Coverage (20/40/10 + PIP)
Per Person
Per Accident
Per Accident
Required
| Coverage Type | State Minimum | Recommended | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bodily Injury Liability | $20,000/$40,000 | $100,000/$300,000 | Medical costs can easily exceed minimums. Higher limits protect your assets. |
| Property Damage | $10,000 | $50,000+ | Vehicle repair costs are high in Hawaii due to shipping. $10K may not cover damages. |
| Personal Injury Protection (PIP) | $10,000 | $25,000+ | Required in Hawaii's no-fault system. Covers your medical bills regardless of fault. |
| Uninsured Motorist | Not required | $100,000/$300,000 | About 9% of Hawaii drivers are uninsured. Protects you if they cause an accident. |
| Collision | Not required | $500 deductible | Covers your car regardless of fault. Essential for financed or newer vehicles. |
| Comprehensive | Not required | $500 deductible | Covers theft, vandalism, floods, volcanic activity. Important for Hawaii's climate risks. |
Why You Should Exceed Minimums
While Hawaii's minimums are higher than some states, they may still not be enough for a serious accident. Vehicle parts and repairs cost more in Hawaii due to shipping costs from the mainland. Medical expenses can quickly exceed $20,000 for even moderate injuries. If your liability limits don't cover the full cost, you could be personally sued for the difference.
Understanding Your Coverage Options
Hawaii offers various types of auto insurance coverage. Understanding what each covers helps you make informed decisions, especially with Hawaii's unique no-fault requirements.
Personal Injury Protection (PIP)
RequiredWhat it covers: Your own medical expenses, lost wages, and essential services (like childcare) after an accident, regardless of who's at fault.
Hawaii minimum: $10,000 per person
Why it's unique: As a no-fault state, Hawaii requires PIP coverage. This means you file claims with your own insurer first, speeding up the process and reducing lawsuits.
Who needs more: If you have limited health insurance or would struggle with lost wages during recovery, consider higher PIP limits ($25,000-$50,000).
Liability Coverage
RequiredWhat it covers: Bodily injury and property damage you cause to others in an accident where you're at fault.
Hawaii minimum: 20/40/10 (but this may not be enough)
Who needs it: Every driver in Hawaii—it's the law. If you cause an accident that exceeds your liability limits, you can be personally sued for the difference.
Cost impact: Higher limits typically add only $10-30/month but provide much better protection for your assets.
Collision Coverage
RecommendedWhat it covers: Damage to your own vehicle from collisions with other cars, objects, or rollovers, regardless of fault.
Deductible options: Typically $250, $500, or $1,000. Higher deductible = lower premium.
Who needs it: Anyone with a car loan or lease (usually required by lender), or anyone who couldn't afford to replace their car out of pocket.
Hawaii consideration: Repair costs are higher in Hawaii due to parts shipping. Collision coverage is valuable even for moderately-priced vehicles.
Comprehensive Coverage
RecommendedWhat it covers: Non-collision damage including theft, vandalism, fire, floods, falling objects, animal strikes, and weather damage.
Why it matters in Hawaii: Hawaii faces unique risks including flash floods, volcanic activity (especially on the Big Island), falling coconuts, and tropical storms. Comprehensive coverage protects against these Hawaii-specific hazards.
Who needs it: Highly recommended for most Hawaii drivers, especially those on the Big Island near active volcanic areas or in flood-prone regions.
Cost impact: Adds $15-35/month. Often required along with collision if you have a car loan.
Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist
RecommendedWhat it covers: Your injuries and damages when the at-fault driver has no insurance or insufficient coverage to pay for your losses.
Hawaii statistics: Approximately 9% of Hawaii drivers are uninsured, which is lower than the national average but still significant.
Who needs it: Recommended for all Hawaii drivers. Even with the no-fault system, UM/UIM coverage provides extra protection for serious injuries.
Cost impact: Adds $8-20/month and provides crucial protection against uninsured drivers.
Gap Insurance
OptionalWhat it covers: The difference between what you owe on your car loan and what your car is worth if it's totaled.
Example: You owe $20,000 on your loan, but your car is only worth $16,000. If totaled, gap insurance covers the $4,000 difference.
Who needs it: Anyone who put less than 20% down, has a loan longer than 4 years, or leases their vehicle.
Hawaii consideration: Vehicle depreciation can be rapid, and replacement vehicles cost more due to shipping. Gap insurance is especially valuable in Hawaii.
How to Save on Hawaii Auto Insurance
Hawaii has unique insurance regulations that can work in your favor. Here are proven strategies to lower your premiums in the Aloha State.
Credit Score Doesn't Matter
Hawaii is one of only three states (along with California and Massachusetts) that prohibits insurers from using credit scores to set rates. If you have poor credit but a clean driving record, you'll pay the same as someone with excellent credit.
Island Driving = Lower Mileage
Island geography means shorter distances. Most Hawaii drivers put far fewer miles on their cars than mainland drivers. Be sure to report your actual annual mileage accurately—low-mileage discounts can save you 5-15% on your premium.
Military Discounts (USAA)
Hawaii has a significant military population due to Pearl Harbor and other bases. If you're military, a veteran, or a family member, USAA consistently offers some of the lowest rates in Hawaii with excellent service.
Good Student Discount
Students under 25 with a B average or better typically save 10-25% on their premium. This applies to high school and college students. Just provide a report card or transcript when getting your quote.
Bundle Your Policies
Combining auto with home, condo, or renters insurance typically saves 5-20%. Given Hawaii's high home insurance costs, bundling can provide significant overall savings while simplifying your coverage.
Choose Your Vehicle Wisely
Many Hawaii residents drive older vehicles due to the high cost of importing new cars. Older, reliable vehicles cost less to insure. Consider dropping collision/comprehensive on older cars worth less than 10x your deductible.
Why Hawaii Has Lower Auto Insurance Rates
Hawaii enjoys some of the lowest auto insurance rates in the nation for several reasons: island geography limits high-speed highway driving, lower average speeds due to traffic and road conditions, shorter commute distances, and a no-fault insurance system that reduces litigation costs. Additionally, Hawaii's prohibition on using credit scores for rating ensures fairer pricing for all drivers.
Compare multiple quotes to ensure you're getting the best rate for your situation. Rates can vary significantly between companies.
Best Auto Insurance Companies in Hawaii
Based on rates, customer satisfaction, and coverage options, these are the top insurers for Hawaii drivers.
Best for Price
GEICO
Consistently offers the lowest rates in Hawaii. Best for drivers who want a straightforward policy and prefer managing everything online or through their mobile app.
Best for Military
USAA
Available only to military members, veterans, and their families. With Hawaii's large military population, USAA serves many residents with excellent rates and top-rated customer service.
Best for Service
State Farm
One of the largest insurers in Hawaii with local agents on multiple islands. Ideal for those who prefer in-person service, bundling options, and a company with strong financial stability.
First Insurance Company of Hawaii
Hawaii's largest locally-based insurer, founded in 1911. Deep knowledge of local conditions, strong network of local agents, and specialized coverage for Hawaii-specific risks.
What Hawaii Drivers Are Saying
"I moved to Honolulu from Los Angeles and was pleasantly surprised that my car insurance dropped by almost 40%. Even with Oahu's traffic, rates here are so much more reasonable. I used Credit Haven to compare quotes and found a policy with better coverage than I had in California for way less money."
"As a military family stationed at Pearl Harbor, USAA has been amazing. Their rates are unbeatable and the service is top-notch. When we had a fender bender, the claims process was so smooth. I recommend all military families in Hawaii at least get a quote from them."
"Living on the Big Island, I was worried about coverage for volcanic activity. My agent at First Insurance Hawaii really understood the local risks and set me up with comprehensive coverage that made sense. Plus, they didn't penalize me for my credit score like mainland companies would."
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does car insurance cost in Hawaii?
The average cost of full coverage car insurance in Hawaii is approximately $1,360 per year ($113/month), which is about 32% lower than the national average of $2,000. This makes Hawaii one of the cheapest states for car insurance. However, rates vary based on your island, city, age, and driving record. Honolulu tends to have the highest rates due to traffic congestion.
Why is Hawaii auto insurance so affordable?
Several factors contribute to Hawaii's low insurance rates: island geography limits high-speed driving and reduces severe accidents, shorter commute distances mean less time on the road, Hawaii's no-fault insurance system reduces litigation costs, the state prohibits using credit scores for insurance pricing, and relatively low rates of uninsured drivers (about 9%) compared to other states.
What is Hawaii's no-fault insurance system?
Hawaii is a no-fault state, which means after an accident, you file a claim with your own insurance company for medical expenses and lost wages through your Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage, regardless of who caused the accident. This system speeds up compensation and reduces lawsuits. You can still sue the at-fault driver for serious injuries that exceed PIP limits or meet the state's serious injury threshold.
What is the minimum car insurance required in Hawaii?
Hawaii requires: 20/40/10 liability coverage ($20,000 bodily injury per person, $40,000 bodily injury per accident, $10,000 property damage) plus $10,000 in Personal Injury Protection (PIP). While these minimums are higher than some states, experts recommend higher limits (at least 100/300/50) to adequately protect your assets, especially given Hawaii's higher vehicle repair costs.
Can insurers in Hawaii use my credit score?
No. Hawaii is one of only three states (along with California and Massachusetts) that prohibits auto insurers from using credit scores or credit history to determine rates or eligibility. Your premium is based on factors like your driving record, years of experience, annual mileage, vehicle type, and location—not your credit. This is great news for drivers with less-than-perfect credit.
What happens if I drive without insurance in Hawaii?
Driving without insurance in Hawaii is illegal. Penalties include: fines of $500-$1,000, vehicle impoundment, license suspension, and requirement to file SR-22 proof of insurance for 3 years. If you cause an accident while uninsured, you'll be personally liable for all damages and could face lawsuits. Hawaii has relatively strict enforcement of insurance requirements.
Do I need comprehensive coverage for volcanic activity?
Yes, comprehensive coverage typically covers damage from volcanic activity, including lava flows, volcanic ash, and related damage. This is particularly important for Big Island residents near active volcanic zones. Comprehensive also covers other Hawaii-specific risks like flash floods, falling coconuts, and tropical storm damage. It's highly recommended for most Hawaii drivers.
Are car repairs more expensive in Hawaii?
Yes, car repairs and parts typically cost more in Hawaii due to shipping costs from the mainland. This is one reason why adequate property damage liability and collision coverage are important. A repair that might cost $5,000 on the mainland could easily cost $6,000-$7,000 or more in Hawaii. Make sure your coverage limits account for these higher costs.
Does my insurance cover me on all Hawaiian islands?
Yes, your Hawaii auto insurance policy covers you on all Hawaiian islands. However, you'll need to rent a car or arrange transportation when visiting other islands, as inter-island car shipping is expensive and impractical for short trips. If you rent a car on another island, your personal auto insurance typically extends coverage, but verify with your insurer.
How often should I shop for new car insurance quotes?
Experts recommend comparing quotes at least once a year, ideally 2-3 weeks before your policy renews. You should also shop after major life changes like moving to a different island, getting married, buying a new car, or when violations fall off your record (typically after 3 years). Insurance rates change frequently, and the cheapest company last year may not be the cheapest this year.
Is it free to compare quotes on Credit Haven?
Yes, comparing quotes through Credit Haven is 100% free with no obligation. We help you see your options from multiple Hawaii insurers so you can make an informed decision about your coverage. We don't sell insurance directly—we connect you with licensed providers who can offer you personalized quotes.
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