Cheapest Home Insurance Companies in Pennsylvania
We analyzed rates from major insurers to find the most affordable options for Pennsylvania homeowners. Rates shown are average annual premiums for a $250,000 dwelling coverage policy with a $1,000 deductible.
| Rank | Company | Annual Premium | Monthly Premium | vs. State Avg |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Erie Insurance | $780 | $65 | -41% |
| 2 | USAA* | $860 | $72 | -35% |
| 3 | State Farm | $980 | $82 | -26% |
| 4 | Amica Mutual | $1,060 | $88 | -20% |
| 5 | Nationwide | $1,180 | $98 | -11% |
| 6 | Travelers | $1,280 | $107 | -3% |
| 7 | Allstate | $1,420 | $118 | +8% |
| 8 | Progressive | $1,560 | $130 | +18% |
| 9 | Liberty Mutual | $1,680 | $140 | +27% |
| 10 | Chubb | $1,840 | $153 | +39% |
*USAA is available only to military members, veterans, and their families. Rates are approximate averages and may vary by location and individual factors.
Average Home Insurance Rates by Pennsylvania City
Home insurance rates in Pennsylvania vary by location. Urban areas with higher crime and older housing stock tend to have higher premiums.
| City | Annual Premium | Monthly Premium | vs. State Avg | Key Factors |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Philadelphia | $1,780 | $148 | +35% | Older row homes, higher crime areas |
| Pittsburgh | $1,520 | $127 | +15% | Older housing, river flooding risk |
| Allentown | $1,380 | $115 | +5% | Lehigh Valley, moderate risk |
| Reading | $1,420 | $118 | +8% | Older housing stock, urban area |
| Harrisburg | $1,280 | $107 | -3% | State capital, Susquehanna River flooding |
| King of Prussia | $1,220 | $102 | -8% | Philly suburb, newer construction |
| Lancaster | $1,140 | $95 | -14% | Rural-suburban, moderate risk |
| State College | $1,080 | $90 | -18% | College town, lower risk |
| Erie | $1,020 | $85 | -23% | Lake Erie area, Erie Insurance hometown |
*Rates shown are for standard coverage. Your actual rate depends on your specific ZIP code, home age, and other factors.
Pennsylvania Home Insurance Rates by Home Value
Your home's value and dwelling coverage directly impact your premium.
| Home Value | Annual Premium | Monthly Premium | vs. State Avg |
|---|---|---|---|
$150,000 Starter home | $920 | $77 | -30% |
$200,000 Below median | $1,120 | $93 | -15% |
$250,000 Median home | $1,320 | $110 | 0% |
$350,000 Above median | $1,720 | $143 | +30% |
$500,000 High-value home | $2,280 | $190 | +73% |
$750,000 Luxury home | $3,180 | $265 | +141% |
How Claims Affect Your Pennsylvania Rate
Filing a claim can increase your home insurance premium. Here's how common Pennsylvania claim types impact your rates.
Water Damage
| Before claim: | $1,320/yr |
| After claim: | $1,584/yr |
| Extra cost: | +$264/yr |
Wind & Storm Damage
| Before claim: | $1,320/yr |
| After claim: | $1,650/yr |
| Extra cost: | +$330/yr |
Theft & Burglary
| Before claim: | $1,320/yr |
| After claim: | $1,518/yr |
| Extra cost: | +$198/yr |
How Long Do Claims Affect Your Rate?
Pennsylvania Home Insurance Coverage Requirements
While Pennsylvania doesn't legally require homeowners insurance, your mortgage lender will mandate it. PA has a competitive insurance market with many strong options.
Recommended Minimum Coverage
Replacement Cost
Minimum
Deductible
| Coverage Type | Typical Minimum | Recommended | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dwelling Coverage | Loan balance | Full replacement cost | Many PA homes are older. Rebuild costs may exceed market value due to code updates. |
| Personal Property | 50% of dwelling | 70% of dwelling | Covers belongings. Use replacement cost valuation for adequate protection. |
| Personal Liability | $100,000 | $300,000+ | Winter slip-and-fall incidents on icy walkways are a common liability claim in PA. |
| Loss of Use | 20% of dwelling | 20% of dwelling | Covers temporary housing during repairs. Standard 20% is usually adequate in PA. |
| Sewer Backup | Not included | $10,000+ endorsement | Critical for PA's older cities with aging sewer systems. Standard policies exclude it. |
Flood Warning: Susquehanna and Delaware River Basin Homeowners
Pennsylvania has experienced severe flooding, notably Hurricane Agnes (1972) and Tropical Storm Lee (2011). The Susquehanna River basin, Delaware River communities, and many creeks across the state are flood-prone. Standard homeowners insurance does NOT cover flood damage. If you live near any waterway or in a FEMA flood zone, separate flood insurance through the NFIP or a private insurer is essential.
Understanding Your Coverage Options
Pennsylvania homeowners have several coverage options to protect their property.
Dwelling Coverage
RequiredWhat it covers: The physical structure of your home, walls, roof, foundation, and attached structures.
PA consideration: Many PA homes date to the 1800s and early 1900s. Rebuilding to current code can cost significantly more than market value. Ensure your coverage reflects replacement cost, not just purchase price.
Who needs it: Every homeowner.
Cost impact: The largest component of your premium, typically 50-60% of total cost.
Personal Property Coverage
RequiredWhat it covers: Your belongings including furniture, clothing, electronics, and appliances.
PA tip: Basements are common in PA homes and often contain valuable items. Sewer backup and water intrusion can damage basement contents. Consider replacement cost coverage.
Who needs it: All homeowners. Coverage is usually 50-70% of dwelling amount.
Cost impact: Included in standard policies. Replacement cost upgrade adds 5-10%.
Liability Coverage
RequiredWhat it covers: Legal responsibility if someone is injured on your property.
PA context: Pennsylvania's winter weather creates icy conditions. Slip-and-fall claims on walkways and driveways are common liability claims during winter.
Who needs it: Every homeowner. $300,000+ recommended.
Cost impact: Increasing from $100K to $300K adds only $15-30/year.
Loss of Use Coverage
RequiredWhat it covers: Additional living expenses if displaced from your home.
PA context: Adequate for storm damage or fire displacement. Standard 20% of dwelling is usually sufficient.
Who needs it: All homeowners.
Cost impact: Typically included at 20% of dwelling coverage.
Medical Payments Coverage
OptionalWhat it covers: Medical expenses for guests injured on your property, regardless of fault.
Coverage amounts: Usually $1,000 to $5,000 per person.
Who needs it: Recommended for all homeowners.
Cost impact: Very affordable at $15-30/year.
Flood Insurance
RecommendedWhat it covers: Damage from rising water, river flooding, and heavy rain accumulation.
PA context: Pennsylvania ranks among the top states for flood claims. The Susquehanna, Delaware, and Ohio river basins create flood risk statewide. Flash flooding in mountain areas is also common. Standard policies exclude all flood damage.
Who needs it: Essential for anyone near rivers, creeks, or in FEMA flood zones. Recommended for many PA homeowners.
Cost impact: NFIP policies average $600-$1,500/year depending on risk.
How to Save on Pennsylvania Home Insurance
Pennsylvania already has affordable home insurance. Here's how to save even more.
Choose Erie Insurance
Erie Insurance, headquartered in Erie, PA, consistently offers the lowest home insurance rates in the state. Their local expertise and commitment to Pennsylvania homeowners make them a top choice for affordability and service.
Bundle Your Policies
Combining home and auto insurance typically saves 10-25%. With PA's already low rates, bundling can bring your premium below $1,000/year with the right insurer.
Update Your Roof
A newer roof with impact-resistant shingles can qualify you for 10-20% discounts. Older PA homes with aging roofs pay higher premiums due to increased weather damage risk.
Install Safety Devices
Monitored alarms, smoke detectors, water leak sensors, and deadbolt locks can save 5-15%. Water sensors are especially valuable given PA's basement flooding risk.
Raise Your Deductible
Increasing your deductible from $1,000 to $2,500 can save 10-20% on your premium. Ensure you have savings to cover the higher out-of-pocket cost.
Winterize Your Home
Prevent frozen pipe claims by insulating pipes, maintaining your furnace, and sealing drafts. Water damage from frozen pipes is one of the most common winter claims in Pennsylvania.
Winter Protection Tips for Pennsylvania Homeowners
Pennsylvania's cold winters create specific risks for homeowners:
- Insulate pipes in exterior walls, attics, and crawl spaces to prevent freezing
- Keep gutters clear to prevent ice dams that can damage roofs and interior walls
- Trim tree branches near your home to prevent damage from ice and snow weight
- Maintain your heating system and keep the thermostat at 65°F+ when traveling in winter
Best Home Insurance Companies in Pennsylvania
Based on rates, customer satisfaction, and coverage options, these are the top insurers for Pennsylvania homeowners.
Best OverallErie Insurance
Headquartered in Erie, PA, with the lowest rates and highest customer satisfaction in the state. Deep local knowledge and excellent claims handling. The top choice for most PA homeowners.
Best for ServiceState Farm
Large agent network throughout Pennsylvania. Known for strong claims handling and community involvement. Competitive rates, especially when bundled.
Best for SatisfactionAmica Mutual
Highest customer satisfaction ratings nationally. Offers dividend policies that return premium when claims are low. Excellent for homeowners who value top-tier service.
Best for Older HomesTravelers
Strong expertise insuring older Pennsylvania homes. Offers specific coverage for code upgrades during repairs and specialized endorsements for historic properties.
What Pennsylvania Homeowners Are Saying
"Erie Insurance has been incredible for our family. We switched after comparing quotes and saved over $400 a year compared to our previous insurer. When we had a roof leak after a nor'easter, they handled the claim quickly and professionally. Being PA-based, they really understand our weather challenges."
"Our Philadelphia row house was damaged by a burst pipe during a cold snap. The water destroyed our basement and first-floor hardwood. Our insurance covered the full repair minus the deductible. Now we have water sensors on every floor. Every PA homeowner should winterize their pipes."
"After Tropical Storm Lee flooded parts of Harrisburg, we realized our standard policy didn't cover flooding. Credit Haven helped us find both a homeowners policy and flood insurance. Living near the Susquehanna, flood coverage is non-negotiable. The combined cost was still very reasonable."
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does home insurance cost in Pennsylvania?
The average cost of home insurance in Pennsylvania is approximately $1,320 per year ($110/month), about 42% below the national average of $2,270. PA is one of the most affordable states for home insurance, with Erie Insurance offering rates as low as $780/year for average coverage.
Why is Pennsylvania home insurance so affordable?
PA benefits from a competitive insurance market with many regional and national insurers, moderate natural disaster risk compared to coastal/tornado states, Erie Insurance headquartered locally driving competition, and relatively affordable construction costs outside the Philadelphia metro area.
Do I need flood insurance in Pennsylvania?
Standard homeowners insurance does NOT cover flood damage. If you live near the Susquehanna, Delaware, Ohio, or any of PA's many creeks and rivers, flood insurance is essential. Pennsylvania ranks among the top states for flood claims. Even if you're not in a FEMA flood zone, consider it—about 25% of flood claims come from outside designated zones.
Does home insurance cover frozen pipe damage?
Yes, sudden and accidental water damage from burst frozen pipes is typically covered. However, if your insurer determines you failed to maintain adequate heat, they may deny the claim. Keep your thermostat at 65°F+ even when away and insulate pipes in vulnerable areas.
What about sewer backup coverage?
Standard PA homeowners insurance does NOT cover sewer or drain backup. This endorsement is critical for Pennsylvania, where older cities have aging combined sewer systems that overflow during heavy rain. The endorsement typically costs $30-$75/year for $10,000-$25,000 in coverage.
Do older homes cost more to insure in PA?
Yes, older homes typically cost more to insure due to outdated electrical, plumbing, and heating systems that increase fire and water damage risk. Rebuilding older homes to current code is also more expensive. Updating electrical, plumbing, and roofing can help lower your premium.
Why is Erie Insurance so popular in PA?
Erie Insurance is headquartered in Erie, PA and has deep roots in the state. They consistently offer the lowest rates in PA with high customer satisfaction ratings. Their local agent network understands PA-specific risks, and they offer strong coverage options including guaranteed replacement cost and a vanishing deductible program.
How can I lower my PA home insurance rate?
Key strategies: choose Erie Insurance or other competitive PA insurers, bundle home and auto policies, update your roof, install safety devices, raise your deductible, maintain a claims-free history, improve your credit score, and add sewer backup coverage to prevent uncovered losses.
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 Pennsylvania insurers so you can make an informed decision. We don't sell insurance directly—we connect you with licensed providers.
Ready to Find Cheaper Pennsylvania Home Insurance?
Enter your ZIP code to compare personalized quotes from top Pennsylvania insurers. It only takes a few minutes and could save you hundreds.