Car insurance for a 19-year-old in the United States typically costs between $220 and $460 per month, depending on factors like driving history, coverage level, vehicle type, and whether the driver is added to a parent’s policy or has their own. Young drivers often pay higher premiums due to limited driving experience and higher accident risk. However, adding the teen to a family policy, choosing a safe vehicle, and applying for discounts such as good student, defensive driving, or low mileage can help reduce monthly costs. Comparing quotes from multiple insurers is the best way to find an affordable rate.
Average Monthly Cost of Car Insurance for a 19-Year-Old
Breakdown by Policy Type:
| Policy Type | Average Monthly Cost |
| Teen on Own Policy | $300 – $450 |
| Teen on Parent’s Policy | $200 – $300 |
Why Is Car Insurance Still Expensive at Age 19?
Even though 19-year-olds are no longer considered beginners, they are still part of the high-risk age group for car insurance. Insurance companies look at claim history, and young drivers between 16 and 20 are more likely to get into accidents.
According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), drivers under 20 have more than double the crash rate of drivers over 25. That is why premiums remain high until around age 25.
Key Risk Factors at Age 19:
- Limited driving experience
- Higher crash rates
- More claims on average than adults
- Increased likelihood of distracted driving
Cost by Gender
Gender can influence insurance prices for young adults.
| Gender | Average Monthly Premium |
| Male | $310 to $450 |
| Female | $260 to $390 |
Males typically pay more because of higher accident rates at this age, especially for single-vehicle crashes and speeding violations.
State-by-State Cost Comparison
Insurance rates vary widely across the United States. Here are examples of average monthly costs for 19-year-olds in different states:
| State | Monthly Cost (Own Policy) |
| California | $380 – $440 |
| Texas | $350 – $420 |
| Florida | $400 – $470 |
| New York | $410 – $480 |
| Ohio | $220 – $290 |
| Illinois | $250 – $320 |
Drivers in big cities or high-risk areas (with more theft or accidents) tend to pay more.
Should a 19-Year-Old Stay on a Parent’s Policy?
Comparison Table:
| Policy Arrangement | Monthly Cost |
| Own policy (full coverage) | $350 – $450 |
| On parent’s policy | $200 – $300 |
What Coverage Does a 19-Year-Old Need?
Every state requires liability insurance. But for better protection, especially if the car is financed or leased, full coverage is recommended.
Suggested Coverages:
| Coverage Type | Why It Matters |
| Liability | Required by law, pays for other parties |
| Collision | Pays for your car after an accident |
| Comprehensive | Covers theft, fire, weather, and more |
| Uninsured Motorist | Protects against drivers without insurance |
| Medical Payments | Covers medical bills for injuries |
| Roadside Assistance | Provides towing and lockout help |
For older or lower-value cars, liability-only coverage can help save money — but it will not pay to repair your own car.
Cheapest Cars to Insure for 19-Year-Olds
Affordable Cars to Insure:
| Make and Model | Why It Is Cheaper to Insure |
| Honda Civic | Reliable and easy to repair |
| Toyota Corolla | Low theft rate, strong safety scores |
| Ford Focus | Low repair cost, good visibility |
| Subaru Impreza | All-wheel drive, not performance-based |
| Hyundai Elantra | Compact, great for daily use |
Ways to Lower Car Insurance Costs for 19-Year-Olds
Here are some proven ways to reduce your monthly car insurance bill:
1. Stay on a Parent’s Policy
This can save up to 50 percent compared to buying your own plan.
2. Maintain a Clean Driving Record
Avoid tickets and accidents. A clean record helps lower rates over time.
3. Get Good Grades
Most insurers offer a Good Student Discount for full-time students with a B average or higher.
4. Complete a Defensive Driving Course
Certified courses can qualify you for a discount and teach safer habits.
5. Use a Telematics App
Some insurers track your driving with a phone app. Safe drivers get rewards and lower premiums.
6. Choose a Higher Deductible
This reduces your monthly payment, but make sure you can afford the cost in case of an accident.
7. Limit Coverage for Older Cars
If your car is worth less than 3,000 dollars, full coverage may not be necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. At 19, you are legally allowed to buy your own car insurance policy. But it will cost more unless you live with your parents and stay on their plan.
Possibly. Every year of safe driving helps reduce your premium. Significant drops usually happen around age 25, but even age 20 can bring some savings.
You might. If the accident was not your fault and your insurer recovers the cost from the at-fault driver, you could be refunded. This process is called subrogation.
It depends on your car and financial situation. Liability is the cheapest legal option, but full coverage is recommended for newer or financed vehicles.
Yes, in most states. However, some states like California and Hawaii have banned gender-based pricing.
Final Thoughts
The average monthly cost of car insurance for a 19-year-old in the United States is between 200 and 450 dollars, depending on several personal and policy-related factors. While the cost is still high due to risk factors, it is more affordable than for younger teens.
To save money, it is smart to stay on a parent’s policy, take advantage of discounts, drive a safe car, and keep a clean record. Small steps can make a big difference over time.
If you want to compare real-time quotes and find the best car insurance options for 19-year-olds, Alias Insurance makes it fast and easy. Our free tools let you view offers from top companies in your area and get coverage that fits your budget.
