About Tennessee Auto Insurance
Tennessee drivers pay an average of $1,402 per year for full coverage auto insurance, 7% less than the national average of $1,500. This makes Tennessee around average for car insurance costs nationally, ranking #27 out of 51 states and territories.
Tennessee uses a traditional at-fault insurance system, meaning the driver who caused an accident is financially responsible for damages. This can result in lower base premiums but exposes you to liability from lawsuits.
Your actual rate will depend on your driving record, vehicle, age, and coverage choices. We recommend comparing quotes from at least 3-5 carriers.
Tennessee Minimum Coverage Requirements
Tennessee requires all registered vehicles to carry minimum liability insurance of $25k/50k/15k. This notation means:
- • $25,000 bodily injury liability per person injured
- • $50,000 total bodily injury liability per accident
- • $15,000 property damage liability per accident
What Affects Tennessee Auto Insurance Rates
No state income tax
Nashville/Memphis urban areas higher
Hilly terrain affects accidents
How to Save on Tennessee Auto Insurance
- ✓Compare Nashville vs rural rates
- ✓Multi-policy bundling effective
- ✓Good student discounts available
Driving Risk Factors in Tennessee
These factors are used by insurers to set rates in Tennessee:
| Risk Factor | Tennessee | National Avg | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Traffic Fatalities (per 100k) | 16.9 | 12.8 | Above Average |
| Vehicle Thefts (per 100k) | 358 | 282 | Above Average |
| Most Stolen Vehicle | Chevrolet Silverado | ||
Tennessee ranks #12 for traffic fatalities and #14 for vehicle theft among all 50 states.
What This Means for Insurance Rates
States with higher accident and theft rates typically have higher insurance premiums. Tennessee's above-average risk profile for both categories contributes to higher premiums compared to safer states. If you drive a Chevrolet Silverado, consider adding comprehensive coverage with a low deductible.
Data: NHTSA FARS 2022, NICB Hot Spots Report 2022
Average Auto Insurance Rates in Tennessee
The average annual auto insurance premium in Tennessee is:
That's $117/month for full coverage
National avg: ~$$1,500/year
Top Auto Insurance Companies Operating in Tennessee
Tennessee Auto Insurance FAQ
What is the minimum car insurance required in Tennessee?
Tennessee requires minimum liability coverage of $25k/$50k/$15k.
Is Tennessee a no-fault or at-fault state?
Tennessee is an at-fault (tort) state. The driver who caused the accident is responsible for the other party's damages. You would file a claim against the at-fault driver's insurance.
How much does car insurance cost in Tennessee?
The average annual car insurance premium in Tennessee is $1,402, which is 7% below the national average of $1,500. Rates vary significantly based on your driving record, age, vehicle, and ZIP code within the state.
Data Sources & Methodology
The information on this page is compiled from authoritative sources:
- •NAIC↗ — National Association of Insurance Commissioners complaint data
- •State DOI — State Department of Insurance rate filings
- •U.S. Census Bureau↗ — Population and demographic data
Insurance quotes and actual premiums will vary based on individual factors. This content is for informational purposes only.