We give Nationwide car insurance a 4.4 out of 5.0-star rating for its variety of car insurance coverage options and discount programs for drivers.
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Nationwide is one of the biggest car insurance companies in the country and is widely known by Americans for its popular commercial slogan, but is Nationwide as good to its policyholders as its reputation and “on your side” motto suggest?
Our team dug into Nationwide Insurance reviews from customers, along with the company’s costs, coverage offerings, and more to see how the provider compares to the best auto insurance and cheapest car insurance companies in the country. Keep reading to see what we learned.
Nationwide Auto Insurance Reviews
Nationwide earns a 4.4 out of 5.0 rating from our editorial team, after an in-depth look at the company’s industry standing, availability, coverage, affordability, customer service, and online experience.
| Review Category | Ratings Score |
|---|---|
| Industry Standing | 4.2 |
| Availability | 4.7 |
| Coverage | 4.2 |
| Affordability | 4.5 |
| Customer Service | 4.4 |
| Online Experience | 4.4 |
| Overall Rating | 4.4 |
How Good Is Nationwide Insurance?
Nationwide can be a good car insurance company for most drivers. The insurer provides a variety of unique add-on coverage options, like gap insurance and accident forgiveness, along with several discount opportunities and usage-based programs. In addition, the company has the financial backing to pay out customer claims, which is backed up by A+ financial strength rating from AM Best.
Pros and Cons of Nationwide Auto Insurance
Here are the pros and cons of Nationwide auto insurance:
| Nationwide Pros | Nationwide Cons |
|---|---|
| Relatively affordable rates for drivers with bad credit | Low rate of customer renewal |
| Multiple telemetrics programs | Average claims satisfaction performance |
| Lots of insurance products for bundling | Higher than average insurance premiums |
Nationwide Insurance Rating
Nationwide earned an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau (BBB) based on more than 100 customer reviews. In the last three years, there have been more than 200 customer complaints, and all of them have been resolved. Most complaints and negative Nationwide reviews tend to be specific examples and should be read with that in mind.
Nationwide Customer Satisfaction
In 2022, we polled nearly 7,000 respondents to determine their overall satisfaction with their car insurance company. Around 3% reported that they had a Nationwide car insurance policy. The Nationwide policyholders rated their overall satisfaction with the company a 4.1 out of 4.2.
About Nationwide
Headquartered in Columbus, Ohio, Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company has been in business since 1926. Today, the company provides auto insurance coverage in 47 states.
According to data from the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) the company wrote over $5.5 billion in premiums in 2021, claiming a 2.13% market share.
Nationwide Car Insurance Coverage
Nationwide offers a large selection of both standard and optional coverages, allowing drivers to build policies that fit their needs and budgets.
These standard coverage options offered by Nationwide include:
- Bodily injury liability insurance: Covers medical expenses and lost wages for others involved in an accident you are found at fault for.
- Property damage liability insurance: Covers damage to other parties’ vehicles and other property resulting from an accident for which you are found at fault.
- Collision coverage: Covers damages to your car and personal property regardless of who is found at fault for an accident.
- Comprehensive coverage: Covers damage from sources other than an accident, such as vandalism, flooding, or fire.
- Medical payments (MedPay): Covers medical expenses for you and your passengers resulting from a covered accident.
- Personal injury protection (PIP): Similar to MedPay but also covers lost wages.
- Uninsured motorist/underinsured motorist coverage: Covers damages to your vehicle and your medical expenses if the at-fault driver in an accident doesn’t have sufficient coverage.
Nationwide Roadside Assistance (And Other Add-Ons)
The company also offers a robust selection of coverage options and add-ons that can provide more financial protection and cover some of the other costs related to owning and driving your car:
- Roadside assistance: Get 24/7 emergency services like locksmiths, towing, fuel delivery, and tire repair with your vehicle.
- Accident forgiveness: Avoid paying more after your first at-fault accident or minor violation.
- Total loss deductible waiver: In the event of a total loss, Nationwide will have the physical damage deductible waived.
- Vanishing deductibles: Earn $100 off your deductible for each year of safe driving. Your deductible could vanish completely (up to $500).
- Rental car expense: Nationwide provides access to a rental car or other transportation while your car is in the repair shop after a covered accident.
- Guaranteed asset protection (GAP) insurance: Cover a portion of the difference between the replacement cost of your vehicle and the amount you owe on it when it is totaled in a covered loss.
Nationwide Insurance Products
In addition to car insurance, Nationwide also offers:
- Motorcycle insurance
- RV insurance
- ATV insurance
- Boat and personal watercraft insurance
- Scooter and moped insurance
- Snowmobile insurance
- Travel insurance
- Umbrella insurance
- Condo insurance
- Homeowners insurance
- Renters insurance
- Life insurance
- Identity theft insurance
- Dental insurance
- Business insurance
- Pet insurance
Nationwide Claims Process
Nationwide has an easy online claims process that allows customers to file and track claims, as well as search for repair facilities. The website also has a helpful list for “do’s” and “don’ts” after an accident – such as phone numbers to call and information you need to gather from the other party.
In the J.D. Power 2022 U.S. Auto Claims Satisfaction StudySM, Nationwide scored 868 out of 1,000 possible points. That score is slightly below the national average of 873. This indicates that the company is relatively average at how it handles its insurance claims.
With any insurance company, reviews of the claims process will be mixed, but Nationwide insurance reviews typically point to a smooth claims experience.
How Much Does Nationwide Car Insurance Cost?
Nationwide has a reputation for being expensive, according to Nationwide insurance reviews from customers. However, our own rate estimates show Nationwide is far cheaper than the national average. Good drivers can find annual full coverage rates for around $1,281 per year or $107 per month with Nationwide, while the average is $1,730.
Nationwide Car Insurance Cost Comparison
Your car insurance costs with Nationwide will depend on a number of factors, and the rates you receive from the provider may not reflect the estimates below. The best way to determine your monthly and annual costs from Nationwide is to get a car insurance quote from the company.
Nationwide High-Risk Auto Insurance Rates
One of the most significant factors that impacts your car insurance costs is your driving record. During our research, we found that Nationwide car insurance estimates are significantly below the national average for drivers with a recent speeding ticket, DUI, or at-fault accident on their record. The table below shows monthly and annual cost estimates for different driving situations.
| Driving Situation | Nationwide Average Monthly Cost Estimate | Nationwide Average Annual Cost Estimate | National Average Annual Cost Estimate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Speeding Ticket | $138 | $1,656 | $2,313 |
| Car Accident | $197 | $2,366 | $2,689 |
| DUI | $239 | $2,867 | $3,277 |
Nationwide Car Insurance Rates by Age
Age is another factor that impacts the final price you pay for car insurance. Younger drivers who lack driving experience pay hundreds of dollars more for car insurance than drivers in their 30s. The table below compares cost estimates by age for a full coverage car insurance policy from Nationwide.
| Age | Average Monthly Cost Estimate | Average Annual Cost Estimate |
|---|---|---|
| 16 | $381 | $4,567 |
| 17 | $353 | $4,238 |
| 18 | $344 | $4,132 |
| 21 | $179 | $2,147 |
| 25 | $130 | $1,556 |
| 30 | $118 | $1,415 |
| 40 | $114 | $1,368 |
| 50 | $107 | $1,279 |
| 55 | $102 | $1,221 |
| 65 | $105 | $1,263 |
| 75 | $123 | $1,479 |
Nationwide Car Insurance Rates by State
The state where you live also dictates what you pay for car insurance to a large degree. Below, you can see how Nationwide estimates compare to the average in 28 states and Washington, D.C. You’ll notice that Nationwide is cheaper than the average in many places.
| State | State Average Cost Estimate | Nationwide Annual Cost Estimate |
|---|---|---|
| Alabama | $1,448 | $1,027 |
| Arkanksas | $1,449 | $1,192 |
| Colorado | $1,672 | $1,323 |
| Connecticut | $1,885 | $1,683 |
| Delaware | $1,921 | $1,550 |
| Washington, D.C. | $1,787 | $2,537 |
| Georgia | $1,548 | $1,255 |
| Iowa | $1,095 | $871 |
| Kansas | $1,364 | $1,069 |
| Kentucky | $1,817 | $4,913 |
| Maryland | $1,941 | $1,698 |
| Mississippi | $1,357 | $1,217 |
| Montana | $2,214 | $1,495 |
| Nebraska | $1,372 | $929 |
| New Mexico | $1,356 | $1,130 |
| New York | $3,964 | $5,485 |
| North Carolina | $1,277 | $1,056 |
| Ohio | $923 | $703 |
| Oregon | $1,284 | $1,067 |
| Pennsylvania | $1,405 | $1,228 |
| Rhode Island | $1,923 | $1,963 |
| South Carolina | $1,592 | $1,380 |
| South Dakota | $1,331 | $1,968 |
| Tennessee | $1,217 | $1,220 |
| Texas | $2,067 | $1,558 |
| Vermont | $1,013 | $871 |
| Virginia | $1,079 | $928 |
| Washington | $1,271 | $1,166 |
| West Virginia | $1,390 | $961 |
Is Nationwide Insurance Expensive?
Based on our research, we found that Nationwide is one of the cheapest car insurance companies in the industry. Its rates tend to be about 29% cheaper than the national average.
Nationwide Car Insurance Rates Comparison
Below, you can see how Nationwide compares to a variety of popular providers. These estimates apply to 35-year-old drivers with good driving records and good credit.
| Car Insurance Company | Average Monthly Car Insurance Cost Estimate | Average Annual Car Insurance Cost Estimate |
|---|---|---|
| USAA | $88 | $1,054 |
| Erie Insurance | $103 | $1,238 |
| Nationwide | $107 | $1,280 |
| Geico | $109 | $1,308 |
| Auto-Owners | $111 | $1,337 |
| State Farm | $123 | $1,481 |
| Progressive | $134 | $1,611 |
| Travelers | $139 | $1,669 |
| Allstate | $174 | $2,088 |
| Farmers | $178 | $2,140 |
Nationwide Car Insurance Quotes
Nationwide and other insurers base car insurance quotes on a number of different factors. Some of the most influential include:
- Car insurance coverage: You can choose an auto insurance policy that only meets your state minimum coverage requirements or choose to pay more in premiums to add more coverage.
- Coverage limits: You can also choose how much coverage you take on. The higher your coverage limits, the more you’ll pay for your premium.
- Driving record: A clean driving record will get you the lowest auto insurance rates. Any tickets or recent at-fault accidents will cause your rates to rise.
- Age: Young drivers and especially teen drivers pay the highest rates for car insurance. Seniors also pay more than middle-aged drivers.
- Deductible: A lower deductible means you’ll have to pay less out of pocket towards covered repairs, but it also comes with a higher premium.
- Credit history: You’ll get lower rates if you have a good credit score. Drivers with poor credit pay higher rates.
- Location: Different states have different average rates for insurance, but rates vary within states too. Drivers in urban areas tend to pay more than those in rural areas.
Nationwide Car Insurance Discounts
If you’re trying to make a decision on Nationwide coverage, check out some of the ways you could save on your auto policy.
| Nationwide Discount | Details |
|---|---|
| Multi-policy discount | Save an average of $710 per year when you combine Nationwide home insurance and auto coverage. |
| SmartRide | Get a discount by joining Nationwide’s usage-based insurance program. |
| SmartMiles | Get a flexible monthly rate that is based on how many miles you drive. |
| Accident free | Get discounts by maintaining an accident-free driving record. |
| Good student discount | Young drivers (age 16 to 24) who maintain at least a B average are eligible for a discount. |
| Defensive driving | Complete a state-approved safety course to get a discount.(You may have to be 55 or over to be eligible.) |
| Anti-theft device discount | Install anti-theft devices in your vehicle. |
| Safe driver | If you have at least five years of safe driving experience, you could be eligible. |
| Easy pay sign-up | Get a one-time discount for setting up automatic deductions from your bank account or credit card. |
| Affinity member | Join Nationwide’s partner organizations. |
Nationwide SmartRide
Nationwide also offers an app called SmartRide – a telematics program that tracks users’ driving habits and adjusts their rates accordingly. The app monitors behaviors like a driver’s speed and how hard they brake, along with things like the number of miles driven and what time of day they drive.
The company gives a 10% discount to policyholders who sign up for SmartRide. Drivers who consistently practice safe driving habits can earn a discount on their premium – as much as 40% according to Nationwide. However, drivers who practice unsafe habits can also see their rates go up.
Nationwide SmartMiles
If you work from home or otherwise don’t drive much, you may want to consider the company’s SmartMiles program. This usage-based insurance charges you based on how many miles you drive, rather than a flat rate.
But be aware that if you do end up putting a lot of miles on your car in a month you could end up paying much more for coverage.
Nationwide Insurance Review: Conclusion
Nationwide could be a good choice for some drivers, especially those looking for options. In addition to a broad selection of optional coverages and add-ons, the company also offers both telematics and usage-based insurance programs. That gives drivers the ability to tailor their policy to their specific needs in several different ways.
While Nationwide offers a robust selection of discounts, its rates tend to be higher than average in many cases. Still, the company does offer competitive rates to some drivers, such as those with lower credit scores. That means that, at the very least, it’s worth getting a car insurance quote from Nationwide to see how it compares to other providers.
Nationwide Insurance: Recommended Competitors
Even if you think Nationwide is a good option for you, it’s always a good idea to shop around and get quotes from a few other providers to compare. That way, you can find out who offers the best rates for you. We recommend starting your search with some of the highest-rated providers from our car insurance study.
USAA: Best for Military Families
USAA finished among the top three providers in our industry-wide auto insurance study. The provider offers some of the cheapest car insurance in most of the places it serves and has a stellar reputation for claims handling and customer satisfaction. However, USAA is only available to members of the military, veterans, and their family members. The company should be among your first options if you’re eligible. If not, you’ll need to look elsewhere.
Keep reading: USAA car insurance review
State Farm: Best Overall
State Farm earned the highest score of all providers in our latest insurance study and with it, the award for Best Overall. The company offers consistently low rates in all 50 states and features the largest network of insurance agents and offices in the country. State Farm also features wide selections of both coverage options and discounts. Simply put, the company is worth a look for just about everyone.
Keep reading: State Farm car insurance review
Nationwide Insurance Reviews: FAQ
Below are frequently asked questions about Nationwide Insurance reviews.
Is Nationwide a good insurer?
Yes, Nationwide is a good car insurance company. Our editorial team gave the company a 4.4 out of 5.0 rating for its comprehensive coverage options and discount programs and opportunities.
Is Nationwide good about paying claims?
During our industry research, we found that Nationwide was average when it came to paying claims compared with other large insurance companies. This is backed up from data in the J.D. Power 2022 U.S. Auto Claims Satisfaction Study where Nationwide scored below the national average.
How do I cancel Nationwide insurance?
To cancel your Nationwide insurance policy, you can contact your insurance agent. If you don’t have an insurance agent or don’t know how to reach them, you can also call 877-669-6877.
Where can you get Nationwide coverage?
Nationwide coverage is available in 46 states and Washington, D.C.. Coverage from Nationwide is not available in Alaska, Hawaii, Louisiana, and Massachusetts.
What is the Nationwide claims customer service phone number?
If you need help with your Nationwide claims, the customer service phone number is 1 (877) 669-6877. You can find support at this number 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Is Nationwide insurance expensive?
Nationwide insurance has a reputation for being expensive, but the company does have many discounts and a usage-based auto insurance option. Bundling discounts and practicing safe driving habits can save you money with Nationwide.
Is Nationwide better than State Farm?
Nationwide and State Farm are two of the biggest auto insurers in the country. Which one is better for you will depend on what you’re looking for. Nationwide is a good choice for senior car insurance, while State Farm has great discounts and programs for students and teens.
What is the best insurance company?
After performing in-depth industry research, our review team named State Farm Best Overall. However, the best insurance company for you will depend on what you’re looking for. With any company, your rates will depend on many factors, including your vehicle and driving history.
Our Methodology
Our expert review team takes satisfaction in providing accurate and unbiased information. We identified the following rating categories based on consumer survey data and conducted extensive research to formulate rankings of the best car insurance providers.
- Affordability: A variety of factors influence cost, so it can be difficult to compare quotes between providers. Our team considers auto insurance rate estimates generated by Quadrant Information Services and discount opportunities when giving this score.
- Coverage: Because each consumer has unique needs, it’s essential that a car insurance company offers an array of coverage options. We take into account types of insurance available, maximum coverage limits, and add-on policies.
- Industry Standing: Our team considers Better Business Bureau (BBB) ratings, financial strength, and years in business when giving this score.
- Availability: Auto insurers with greater state availability and few eligibility requirements are more likely to meet consumer needs.
- Customer Service: Reputable car insurance providers operate with a certain degree of care for consumers. We consider complaints filed with the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC), J.D. Power claims servicing scores, and customer feedback.
- Online Experience: Insurers with easy-to-use websites and highly rated mobile apps scored best in this category.
