The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics says car insurance is 7% higher this year compared to a year ago and may go higher into the second half of 2025
Some of the reasons why Floridians are paying more in auto insurance are.
Florida’s No-Fault System requires drivers to purchase Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage.
Extreme weather like hurricanes that also do damage to vehicles not just houses.
The state has a high rate of uninsured motorists. Insurance experts say Florida has the highest rate of uninsured motorists among all other states in the country.
The population density is also another reason why car insurance rates are higher in Florida.
However, while insurance analysts identify these as the primary issues driving rising rates for Floridians, personal finance website NerdWallet suggests that other factors are contributing to higher rates for drivers.
It’s not just getting a speeding ticket or a DUI, but higher premiums could include a driver’s “personal characteristics.”
Age
Young, inexperienced drivers are more likely than older drivers to get in a fatal accident. As a result, insurance companies generally charge higher rates for drivers in their 20s, according to NerdWallet’s most recent rate analysis.
Gender
In most states, insurers can charge different rates for male and female drivers. This often means young men are charged higher rates than young women. The price gap between men and women decreases dramatically by age 30
Marital status
Most large auto insurance companies have lower rates for married drivers than for those who are single, separated, divorced or widowed.
Education
Drivers with college degrees generally pay less for car insurance. Insurers claim that highly educated individuals tend to file fewer claims. However, using education levels in setting prices has come under fire in recent years, and some states are moving away from allowing this practice.
Location
NerdWallet states that a driver’s address is one of the primary factors that affect car insurance rates. Average premiums vary dramatically by state because each state has different regulations. Rates also vary significantly by ZIP code and neighborhood. For instance, rural drivers pay less than those in cities, where vandalism, theft, and crashes are more common.
Occupation
Drivers with certain occupations pay higher rates because they’re more likely than others to file insurance claims, according to some insurers. But consumer advocates have challenged the use of occupation in setting car insurance rates. Some states have banned it or are considering a ban.
Credit history
In many states, insurance companies use credit-based insurance scores, which are different from your regular credit score, to set prices. Your credit score is typically a good indicator of your credit-based insurance score.
