Navigating the roads of Beaumont, Texas comes with its own unique set of challenges, from unpredictable weather to bustling traffic—all of which lead to the inevitable costs of car insurance.
On average, a liability-only policy in Beaumont will set you back about $56 monthly, while full coverage costs around $130 per month. This is right on par with the Texas average, and less than the national average, but still a major expense for most households.
Let’s take a look at what’s driving car insurance costs in Beaumont, TX and how you can keep yours affordable.
How to find affordable car insurance in Beaumont, TX
Here are some key points on how to find affordable car insurance in Beaumont, TX:
Factor | Reason |
---|---|
Shop around | Obtain quotes from different insurance providers to compare rates. Online comparison tools and contacting local agents can be helpful. |
Bundle policies | Consider bundling your auto insurance policy with other policies like home insurance or renters insurance to unlock potential discounts. |
Maintain a good driving record | Safe driving can lead to lower premiums. Avoid accidents and traffic violations to keep your record clean. |
Choose the right coverage | Tailor your coverage to fit your specific needs. While it’s important to have adequate coverage, avoid unnecessary add-ons that can increase costs. |
Increase deductibles | Raising your deductibles can lower your premiums, but be sure you can comfortably cover the higher deductible if you need to file a claim. |
Ask about discounts | Inquire about available discounts such as safe driver discounts, good student discounts, or even car insurance discounts for specific professions. |
Monitor your credit | Your credit score can impact your insurance rates. Maintaining good credit can help you secure lower premiums. |
Drive a safer car | Vehicles with safety features and good safety ratings may qualify for lower insurance rates. |
Consider usage-based insurance | Some insurers offer policies that base premiums on your actual driving habits. If you’re a safe driver, this could lead to lower rates. |
Review and update regularly | Your circumstances may change over time, so it’s essential to revisit your insurance policy at least annually, if not more often, to ensure you still have the most cost-effective coverage. |
Average cost of car insurance in Beaumont, TX
Not sure if you’re overpaying for car insurance? The table below shows how average rates for full coverage stack up in Beaumont, the state of Texas, and the United States:
Location | Average Cost of Full Coverage Car Insurance (per month) |
---|---|
Beaumont | $129 |
Texas | $130 |
United States | $149 |
When it comes to state minimum coverage, it’s a slightly different picture.
Location | Average Cost of State Minimum Coverage (per month) |
---|---|
Beaumont | $56 |
Texas | $115 |
United States | $62 |
Learn more: The average cost of car insurance
The best car insurance companies in Beaumont, TX
In Beaumont, TX, several car insurance companies stand out for their strong customer service, competitive rates, and overall reliability. While the “best” car insurance company can vary depending on individual needs and circumstances, here are some of the top options that consistently receive positive reviews from Beaumont residents.
State Farm is a well-known and respected insurance provider with a strong local presence in Beaumont. They offer a wide range of coverage options, excellent customer service, and competitive rates. Many customers appreciate their responsive claims handling and the availability of local agents for personalized assistance.
GEICO is known for its affordability and user-friendly online tools. Beaumont residents often choose GEICO for its competitive rates, easy-to-use website and app, and efficient claims process. Their 24/7 customer support is a plus for those seeking assistance at any time.
Allstate is another reputable option in Beaumont, offering a variety of coverage choices and a strong network of local agents. They are known for their personalized service and numerous discounts, making it a popular choice among residents looking for tailored coverage.
Progressive is praised for its innovative approach to insurance, including usage-based insurance options like Snapshot. Their competitive rates and user-friendly online tools make it an attractive choice for tech-savvy Beaumont drivers.
State Farm is a well-known and respected insurance provider with a strong local presence in Beaumont. They offer a wide range of coverage options, excellent customer service, and competitive rates. Many customers appreciate their responsive claims handling and the availability of local agents for personalized assistance.
Remember that the “best” insurance company can vary depending on factors like your driving history, the type of coverage you need, and your budget. It’s essential to obtain quotes from multiple insurers, compare coverage options, and read customer reviews to find the right fit for your specific situation.
Additionally, consider consulting with an independent insurance broker or insurance agency that can provide personalized guidance based on your needs.
Learn more: The best car insurance companies
Recent trends in Beaumont car insurance prices
Car owners in Beaumont, TX have witnessed a notable increase in auto insurance premiums reflecting broader trends across the state. Here are some of the most noteworthy influences:
- Rising premiums: Like most of the US, Beaumont has seen a general upward trend in car insurance premiums. In Texas alone, regulators approved 122 rate hikes in Q2 of 2023 alone, 40 of which were for more than 10%. Included among these hikes were three of Beaumont’s most popular providers: GEICO, State Farm, and Allstate.1 Also driving these increases are factors such as rising repair costs, inflation, and an overall increase in auto accidents.
- Severe weather: Texas is ranked first in the nation for frequency and variety of natural disasters and that frequency is on the rise.2 Beaumont is prone to hurricanes and severe weather events, which can lead to a temporary spike in insurance premiums due to an increased risk of claims related to storm damage. Insurers may adjust their rates based on the likelihood of such events.
- Changes in driving habits: The COVID-19 pandemic led to changes in driving habits, with many people working from home and driving less. Some insurers responded by offering discounts or rebates to policyholders. However, as driving patterns return to normal, these discounts may be less prevalent.
As the industry continues to evolve, policyholders in Beaumont should keep an eye on these trends and explore options to help mitigate the impact of rising car insurance costs.
What are the minimum car insurance requirements in Texas?
Texas drivers are required to carry minimum auto insurance coverage to operate a vehicle legally on public roads. The state’s minimum insurance requirements consist of what is commonly referred to as “30/60/25” coverage:
- $30,000 bodily injury liability per person: This means your insurance policy must provide a minimum of $30,000 in coverage for bodily injuries sustained by an individual in an accident for which you are at fault.
- $60,000 bodily injury liability per accident: Your policy must also have a minimum of $60,000 in coverage for total bodily injuries for multiple individuals in an accident for which you are at fault.
- $25,000 property damage liability: You must have at least $25,000 in coverage for property damage resulting from an accident for which you are at fault. This coverage helps pay for the repair or replacement of other vehicles or property damaged in the accident.
These minimum requirements are designed to provide some financial and legal protection for both drivers and victims in the event of an accident. But many experts recommend considering higher coverage limits as these minimums may not cover all expenses fully in a severe accident, potentially leaving you personally responsible for any excess costs.
OPTIONAL COVERAGEIn Texas, car insurance companies must offer $2,500 of personal injury protection (PIP) coverage, but you’re not obligated to buy it. They’re also required to offer uninsured/underinsured motorists coverage (UM/UIM) but you don’t have to buy that, either.
Liability vs. full coverage: Which should you get in Beaumont, TX?
If you’re trying to decide if state minimum coverage is enough to protect you and your finances, here’s a bit of expert advice to guide you.
State minimum insurance leaves you financially vulnerable
We get it—state minimum coverage is cheaper than full coverage, which makes it a tempting choice for drivers on a budget. Unfortunately, while it may save you money now, it could wind up costing you thousands of dollars if you cause a serious accident.
To make sure you’re fully protected from lawsuits if you cause an accident, insurance experts recommend purchasing a policy with enough liability coverage to protect all your current assets, as well as anticipated future earnings.
It only takes a single mistake to put your financial safety in jeopardy, and raising your liability limits to $100k/$300k/$100k or higher typically only costs a few extra dollars each month.
Full coverage costs more upfront but provides a financial safety net
Full coverage costs more than minimum coverage—but it provides not only the increased liability limits you need but also the physical damage coverage for your own car that liability coverage lacks.
Collision insurance repairs your car if it’s damaged in a collision with another vehicle or object. Car accidents are usually when collision coverage is involved. Comprehensive insurance covers damage from theft, fire, vandalism, and natural disasters.
The bottom line:You may pay a bit more per month for full coverage but you could save thousands in the long run if you cause a serious accident. Plus, you’ll have the peace of mind knowing your car—and your wallet—are protected against damages from things like hurricanes, floods, and other severe weather events Beaumont residents have to deal with.
Learn More: Liability vs full coverage car insurance
Optional add-on coverage
When it comes to optional add-on car insurance coverage in Beaumont, Texas, drivers have several choices to tailor their policies to their unique needs and preferences. These include:
Add-on | Benefits |
---|---|
Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage | This coverage protects you if you’re involved in an accident with a driver who has little or no insurance. It can help cover your medical expenses and property damage when the at-fault driver doesn’t have adequate coverage. |
Gap insurance | Guaranteed asset protection, or gap insurance, will cover the ‘gap’ between your vehicle’s actual cash value and remaining loan balance at the time of a total loss accident. |
Collision coverage | Collision coverage helps pay for repairs to your vehicle if it’s damaged in an accident, regardless of fault. This coverage can be especially valuable in Beaumont, where severe weather events and increased traffic can lead to a higher risk of accidents. |
Comprehensive coverage | Comprehensive coverage protects your vehicle from non-collision-related damages, such as theft, vandalism, hail, and flooding. Given Beaumont’s vulnerability to hurricanes and severe weather, comprehensive coverage can be vital for safeguarding your car. |
Towing and roadside assistance | This coverage provides peace of mind by covering the cost of emergency services like towing, jump-starts, flat tire changes, and lockout assistance, ensuring you’re not stranded in Beaumont’s varying driving conditions. |
These optional add-on coverages allow Beaumont residents to customize their car insurance policies to better suit their specific needs and concerns, considering factors like climate, driving habits, and financial circumstances.
Penalties for driving without insurance in Beaumont
Driving without car insurance in Texas can lead to a range of penalties and consequences, including:
First offense:
- Fine: $175 to $350
Subsequent offenses:
- Fine: $350 to $1,000
- Driver’s license suspension: Your license will be suspended until you can provide proof of insurance.
- License Reinstatement fee: $100
Your vehicle may also be impounded if you’re caught driving without insurance, and you’ll likely be charged a $15 fee to retrieve it.
THE TEXAS DRIVER RESPONSIBILITY PROGRAMTexas used to charge an annual $250 surcharge for three years upon conviction for several traffic offenses, including lack of insurance. The Driver Responsibility Program was repealed in 2019.
In addition to the fines and penalties listed above, you’ll also face serious consequences if you cause an accident while driving without insurance. Not only will you be financially responsible for all damages, but if you’re unable to pay out of pocket, you’ll likely be facing a lawsuit.
What affects the cost of car insurance in Beaumont, TX?
The cost of car insurance in Beaumont, TX, is influenced by several factors.
Factor | Reason |
---|---|
Driving record | Your driving record plays a significant role in determining your car insurance rates. Drivers with a clean record and no accidents or traffic violations typically enjoy lower premiums. |
Age and gender | Young and inexperienced drivers, senior drivers, and male drivers, often pay higher premiums due to a higher perceived risk. |
Vehicle type | The make and model of your vehicle, as well as its age and safety features, can impact your insurance rates. Sports cars and luxury vehicles generally have higher premiums due to their higher repair and replacement costs. |
Coverage level | The type and amount of coverage you choose significantly affects your premiums. Comprehensive and collision coverage will raise your rates, while liability-only coverage is typically more affordable, though it offers less protection. |
Credit score | In many states, including Texas, your credit score is used as a factor in determining your insurance rates. Maintaining good credit can lead to lower premiums. |
Location | Beaumont’s geographic location can impact insurance rates. Urban areas tend to have higher premiums due to increased traffic, higher accident rates, and the potential for theft and vandalism. |
Local climate | Beaumont’s susceptibility to severe weather events, such as hurricanes and flooding, can influence insurance costs, particularly for comprehensive coverage. |
Annual mileage | How much you drive annually can affect your rates. The more you drive, the higher your risk of being involved in an accident, which can lead to higher premiums. |
Deductibles | Choosing a higher deductible can lower your premium, but you’ll be responsible for more out-of-pocket expenses in the event of a claim. |
Discounts | Many insurers offer discounts for factors like safe driving, bundling multiple policies, and installing anti-theft devices in your vehicle. Taking advantage of these discounts can reduce your premium. |
Marital status | Married individuals may qualify for lower rates, as they are statistically seen as safer drivers. |
Previous insurance history | Maintaining continuous coverage and having a history of prior insurance can sometimes lead to lower rates. |
Claims history | A history of making insurance claims can lead to higher premiums. |
To find the most cost-effective car insurance in Beaumont, shop around, obtain quotes from multiple insurers, and consider your specific needs and circumstances. Keep in mind that insurance rates can vary significantly among providers, so comparing options is essential for securing the best coverage at an affordable price.
Age
Age greatly influences car insurance rates, with higher costs for inexperienced teen drivers. Rates decrease as young drivers gain experience in their 20s and beyond, then rise again for seniors over the age of 75.
Monthly car insurance rates for Beaumont drivers aged 21-24
Insurance company | Average monthly premium |
---|---|
Electric | $184 |
Mercury | $214 |
Clearcover | $224 |
Progressive | $225 |
Allstate | $249 |
Infinity | $261 |
Bristol West | $261 |
Monthly car insurance rates for Beaumont drivers aged 25-34
Insurance company | Average monthly premium |
---|---|
State Auto | $148 |
Assurance America | $149 |
Infinity | $156 |
Mercury | $163 |
Travelers | $173 |
Kemper | $179 |
Safeco | $183 |
Monthly car insurance rates for Beaumont drivers aged 35-44
Insurance company | Average monthly premium |
---|---|
Commonwealth Insurance | $120 |
Allstate | $124 |
Kemper | $138 |
Infinity | $141 |
Mercury | $152 |
Travelers | $154 |
Assurance America | $155 |
Monthly car insurance rates for Beaumont drivers aged 45-54
Insurance company | Average monthly premium |
---|---|
State Auto | $93 |
Kemper | $104 |
Travelers | $114 |
Infinity | $119 |
Allstate | $120 |
Safeco | $120 |
Mercury | $132 |
Monthly car insurance rates for seniors in Beaumont
Insurance company | Average monthly premium |
---|---|
Bristol West | $84 |
National General | $101 |
Progressive | $101 |
Mercury | $105 |
Kemper | $108 |
Safeco | $120 |
Clearcover | $161 |
Gender
In Beaumont, men pay slightly less for car insurance than women.
Average annual premium | |
---|---|
Male | $2,326 |
Female | $2,131 |
Housing situation
If you’re a Beaumont homeowner, you may qualify for lower rates than if you rent a home or apartment. Regardless of whether you rent or own, you’ll still be eligible for a discount if you bundle your home insurance or renters insurance with your auto coverage.
Credit score
A low credit score can raise your car insurance premiums significantly.
We investigated the monthly rate for full coverage car insurance for drivers with poor credit and found drivers with a score less than 680 paid about $17 more per month for full coverage than those with a score above 680.
Vehicle
Like most Texans, Beaumont drivers love a good pickup truck. But for practicality’s sake, the economical and fuel-efficient Toyota Camry is also a favorite among commuters.
Let’s see how the average monthly cost of insurance compares between Beaumont’s three most popular vehicles:
- Ford F-150: $153 per month
- Chevy Silverado: $191 per month
- Toyota Camry: $183 per month
You’ll pay more to insure higher trims of each of these models, such as the F-150 King Ranch.
Military drivers
Members of the military and their families living in Beaumont are eligible for added discounts, such as a storage discount during emergency deployment from insurers like GEICO and USAA. If you’re active or retired military, or part of a military family, talk to your insurance agent about possible military discounts.
Crime
Beaumont has one of the highest crime rates in both Texas and the US. So high, in fact, that crimegrade.org gives the city an F for both violent and property crimes.
This average crime rate doesn’t impact all neighborhoods the same way, though. For example, areas in the west of the city experience less crime than those in the southeast.
To see how this might affect your insurance rates in Beaumont, check out the tables below that break down insurance rates by zip code.
The cheapest zip codes in Beaumont
Zip code | Average monthly premium |
---|---|
77713 | $1,908 |
77705 | $2,007 |
77706 | $2,126 |
77701 | $2,162 |
77703 | $2,283 |
The most expensive zip codes in Beaumont
Zip code | Average annual premium |
---|---|
77708 | $3,994 |
77707 | $3,775 |
77702 | $3,443 |
77703 | $3,487 |
77701 | $3,445 |
Driving record
Your driving record is a crucial factor in calculating your car insurance rates because it helps insurers assess the level of risk you pose as a driver. A clean record with safe driving behavior typically results in lower rates, while a history of violations, accidents, or high-risk behavior can lead to higher premiums.
The table below outlines how certain violations can affect your insurance premiums.
Average monthly rates after a violation in Beaumont, TX
Violation | Average monthly premium |
---|---|
Speeding over 15 | $271 |
Speeding under 15 | $232 |
Suspension | $215 |
Other | $181 |
Improper Passing | $181 |
Failure to Obey Traffic Sign | $109 |
Driving on Sus. License | $66 |
Average monthly rates after a violation in Beaumont, TX
Violation | Average monthly premium |
---|---|
Speeding over 15 | $271 |
Speeding under 15 | $232 |
Suspension | $215 |
Other | $181 |
Improper Passing | $181 |
Failure to Obey Traffic Sign | $109 |
Driving on Sus. License | $66 |
SR-22 insurance in Beaumont, TX
Infractions like speeding tickets have a different impact on your Texas driving record than serious violations, like DUIs or reckless driving. Following major convictions like these, you’ll usually be required to file an SR-22 with the TX Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) for three to five years.
An SR-22 serves as proof of financial responsibility by demonstrating to the DMV that you’ve purchased an insurance policy that meets or exceeds Texas insurance requirements. That’s why an SR-22 is also sometimes required after the DMV has recorded a lapse in coverage.
Your insurance company will usually file this on your behalf, but not all providers in Beaumont will offer coverage for drivers who require an SR-22—those that do, usually charge much higher rates as a result of the violations that resulted in the filing requirement.
To find the cheapest rates on Beaumont car insurance with an SR-22, compare rates from several different insurance providers, including non-standard companies that specialize in coverage for high-risk drivers.
FAQ
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Who is the cheapest car insurance in Beaumont?
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Who normally has the cheapest car insurance?
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How much is car insurance per month in Texas?
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Why is auto insurance so high in Texas?
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Sources
- https://www.spglobal.com/marketintelligence/en/news-insights/latest-news-headlines/texas-a-key-driver-of-us-private-auto-insurance-rate-growth-in-q2-2023-77127308 ↩︎
- https://nisar.jpl.nasa.gov/rails/active_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–33a80afba0b332779ef6d94ed39e7d6217782042/NISAR_Applications_Hazards_Texas.pdf?content_type=application%2Fpdf&disposition=attachment%3B+filename%3D%22NISAR_Applications_Hazards_Texas.pdf%22%3B+filename%2A%3DUTF-8%27%27NISAR_Applications_Hazards_Texas.pdf ↩︎
Maria is an insurance writer with over 10 years of experience as a professional writer. Prior to joining Jerry’s editorial team in 2023, she worked at various online publications like Nimble Media, Factinate.com, and served as editor-in-chief at The Medium. She holds a double major in English and Professional Writing and Communications.
Expert insurance writer and editor Amy Bobinger specializes in car repair, car maintenance, and car insurance. Amy is passionate about creating content that helps consumers navigate challenges related to car ownership and achieve financial success in areas relating to cars. Amy has over 10 years of writing and editing experience. After several years as a freelance writer, Amy spent four years as an editing fellow at WikiHow, where she co-authored over 600 articles on topics including car maintenance and home ownership. Since joining Jerry’s editorial team in 2022, Amy has edited over 2,500 articles on car insurance, state driving laws, and car repair and maintenance.
As Vice President of Insurance Operations at Jerry, Josh Damico leads teams across product development, operations and carrier relations, integrating Jerry’s smart and fast car insurance customer experience with that of traditional carriers to help customers find savings and coverage. Josh’s nearly 20 years of insurance-industry experience and knowledge generate partnerships with more than 55 name-brand and specialty insurance partners that enable Jerry to serve customers with all types of vehicle and policy needs.
Previously, Josh held executive roles at Geico, where he had vast regional oversight and leadership opportunities. In his most recent role as director of sales, servicing, and underwriting, Josh developed and executed profit and growth strategy for the New England states and New Jersey.
Josh holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration and management from Medaille College.
*Illustration only. For all the pricing information presented in this article (including various tables), please note that not all customers find savings and the information is for illustrative purposes only. Savings depend on type of car, location, policy features, driving history and other factors. Drivers who switch through Jerry save over $70/month on average.