Car Insurance For College Students In Oregon 2024

In Oregon, GEICO is my top choice for car insurance for college students.

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Written by Doug Schaffer
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I devoted hours to evaluating different auto insurance companies, ultimately finding that GEICO provides the best and most affordable coverage for college students in Oregon.

State Farm performed well for Oregon college students who need minimum coverage, or who prioritize excellent customer service. Progressive, on the other hand, was the best choice for drivers with previous accidents or violations.

This guide will provide an overview of all the top companies, highlighting how different factors like location and age can affect insurance rates for Oregon college students.

Best Car Insurance For College Students In Oregon, 2024

Car Insurance For College Students, Oregon, 2024

Compare The Best Car Insurance For College Students In Oregon

Overall Rating Best For JD Power Rating AM Best Rating Get A Quote
State Farm
4.9

Minimum Coverage

842

A++

Instant Quote
Progressive
4.6

Driving Violations

853

A+

Instant Quote
GEICO
4.7

Full Coverage

824

A++

Instant Quote
Auto-Owners
4.6

Customer Service

837

A++

Instant Quote
GEICO
4.7

Affordable Coverage

824

A++

Instant Quote
State Farm
4.9

Low-Mileage Drivers

842

A++

Instant Quote
Scroll to see comparisons

Best Car Insurance Companies For College Students In Oregon


Best Customer Service

Overall Rating
4.6

Key Statistics

9/10 Affordability
8/10 Customer Reviews
8/10 Payouts
8/10 Coverage Level

Why We Like Them

College students frequently have questions about their auto insurance policies. While many companies offer digital tools for assistance, Auto-Owners Insurance goes a step further by providing access to a live person. The extra support from a local agent can be worth the slightly increased premium.

Along with providing excellent customer service, the company offers numerous discounts to help reduce your costs. College students should expect to pay approximately $3,829 per year for coverage.

Benefits & Drawbacks

Benefits
  • Builds strong relationships with local agents
  • Provides accident forgiveness and diminishing deductibles
  • Flexible coverage and a variety of discounts
  • Exceptional customer service reputation
Drawbacks
  • Lacks online tools for managing policies
  • Quotes must be acquired through agents
  • Available in just 26 states

Info on the category and how it impacts drivers

Many assume that great customer service comes with a high price, but this isn’t necessarily true with Oregon car insurance companies. Both Auto-Owners Insurance and State Farm are praised for customer satisfaction and provide affordable options for college students.


Best Minimum Coverage

Overall Rating
4.9

Key Statistics

10/10 Affordability
10/10 Customer Reviews
9/10 Payouts
9/10 Coverage Level

Why We Like Them

For college students choosing a minimum coverage policy, it’s wise to go with a company known for supporting its policyholders. State Farm excels in creating a tailored experience and provides competitive rates for young drivers.

Known for its fast claims process and one-on-one customer service, State Farm quickly handles issues. Oregon college students can expect to pay about $2,253 for a minimum coverage policy with State Farm.

Benefits & Drawbacks

Benefits
  • Industry-best customer support team
  • Low rates for the majority of college students
  • High rate of policy renewals
  • Personalized service with a large network of local agents
Drawbacks
  • Limited flexibility in policy customization compared to other major companies
  • Lacks gap insurance options

Info on the category and how it impacts drivers

While minimum coverage policies are generally cheaper, they can make you vulnerable in the event of an accident. These budget-friendly plans provide only the state-mandated minimum coverage, so you could end up paying out-of-pocket for any extra costs.

Minimum coverage policies are a smart option for college students, supplying the necessary insurance to drive legally and helping to keep costs down.


Best Affordable Coverage

Overall Rating
4.7

Key Statistics

10/10 Affordability
9/10 Customer Reviews
9/10 Payouts
9/10 Coverage Level

Why We Like Them

For college students, finding an affordable first auto insurance policy is essential. GEICO not only meets this need with an average cost of $1,337 per year but also offers the assurance of a reputable company.

GEICO has been a leading auto insurance provider for many years, recognized for its competitive rates and top-notch customer service. The company has also prioritized its digital presence, creating a mobile app and website that make account management easy and efficient.

Benefits & Drawbacks

Benefits
  • Excellent rates for college students
  • Provides a variety of discounts for students
  • Easy policy management through mobile app and website
  • Above-average scores for customer satisfaction
Drawbacks
  • Few local agents
  • Gap and rideshare insurance not offered

Best Full Coverage

Overall Rating
4.7

Key Statistics

10/10 Affordability
9/10 Customer Reviews
9/10 Payouts
9/10 Coverage Level

Why We Like Them

Full coverage car insurance generally costs more than minimum coverage, so it’s important to choose a company like GEICO that offers reasonable rates. Oregon college students typically pay about $3,602 per year for full coverage through GEICO.

GEICO’s advantages extend beyond affordable coverage, as the company is also a pioneer in innovation. Policyholders have access to a website that makes updating account information fast and straightforward.

Benefits & Drawbacks

Benefits
  • Provides accident forgiveness for policyholders
  • Usage-based program offers discount opportunities
  • Full coverage at competitive rates for college students
  • Above-average satisfaction among customers
Drawbacks
  • No new car replacement or rideshare insurance add-ons
  • Lower bundle discount rates compared to competitors
  • Few local agents available

Info on the category and how it impacts drivers

College students who regularly commute or drive for their job should consider full coverage rather than minimum coverage. Full coverage plans offer more protection, including liability, comprehensive, and collision insurance.

While full coverage policies provide greater protection, they also come with a higher price. It’s crucial to weigh the additional coverage benefits against the higher monthly cost.


Best For Low-Mileage Drivers

Overall Rating
4.9

Key Statistics

10/10 Affordability
10/10 Customer Reviews
9/10 Payouts
9/10 Coverage Level

Why We Like Them

Utilizing low-mileage policies and discounts can help college students save a lot on car insurance. State Farm provides the most cost-effective options, with policies generally costing around $2,658 annually.

With top ratings for customer service and financial stability, State Farm is a trustworthy option for college students looking to purchase their first auto insurance policy.

Benefits & Drawbacks

Benefits
  • Rewards low-mileage drivers with a generous usage-based discount program.
  • Recognized for outstanding customer service.
  • High policyholder renewal and retention rates.
  • Consistently earns strong financial ratings from agencies like AM Best.
Drawbacks
  • Does not offer additional coverage for rideshare and gap insurance.
  • May be pricier for drivers with poor credit.

Info on the category and how it impacts drivers

For college students who drive only occasionally during the school year, paying for extra insurance isn’t necessary. You’ll still need the state minimum coverage, but you can find discounts and affordable policies that cater to your low-mileage habits.

Insurance providers often offer reduced rates for low-mileage policies if you remain under a certain annual mileage threshold. This limit typically ranges from 7,500 to 10,000 miles, depending on the company.


Best For Motorists With Driving Violations

Overall Rating
4.6

Key Statistics

7/10 Affordability
9/10 Customer Reviews
9/10 Payouts
10/10 Coverage Level

Why We Like Them

Even though Progressive Insurance didn’t have the lowest rates for standard coverage, it was the best choice for Oregon college students who had driving violations. Whether it was a speeding ticket or an accident, Progressive still offered cost-effective insurance.

Most college students with driving violations face annual auto insurance costs of around $4,697.

Progressive also offers rideshare coverage, an option that benefits college students who work part-time with DoorDash or Lyft.

Benefits & Drawbacks

Benefits
  • Covers pet vet expenses in case of an accident, if collision insurance is in place Customer service is typically average Customer loyalty ratings are below average
  • Offers add-on coverage for rideshare drivers
  • Affordable insurance rates for drivers with driving violations
Drawbacks
  • Customer service is typically average
  • Customer loyalty ratings are below average

Info on the category and how it impacts drivers

A driving violation can lead to a substantial increase in monthly insurance premiums for drivers of any age. College students, who are already high-risk, are likely to face even steeper hikes after an accident or ticket.

To lessen the consequences of a driving violation, consider teaming up with a company like Progressive that specializes in providing insurance for drivers with tickets or accidents on their record.

Average Cost Of Car Insurance For College Students In Oregon – By City

City Average Annual Cost (Full Coverage) Average Monthly Cost
Portland          $2,676 $223
Eugene           $2,040 $170
Salem           $2,352 $196
Gresham           $2,976 $248
Hillsboro           $2,520 $210

Average Rates For 18 Year Old College Students In Oregon

Car Insurance Provider Average Monthly Cost
State Farm $146
Nationwide $249
Travelers $219
GEICO $241
Progressive $480

Car Insurance Rates For 19 Year Old College Students In Oregon

Car Insurance Provider Average Monthly Cost
Allstate $238
State Farm $126
Travelers $175
Nationwide $212
Progressive $221

Average Car Insurance Rates For 20 Year Old College Students In Oregon

Car Insurance Provider Average Monthly Cost
State Farm $111
GEICO $188
Progressive $201
Nationwide $173
Allstate $200

Car Insurance Costs For 21 Year Old College Students In Oregon

Car Insurance Provider Average Monthly Cost
GEICO $147
State Farm $97
Travelers $130
Allstate $162
Progressive $163

Average Cost Of Car Insurance For 22 Year Old College Students In Oregon

Car Insurance Provider Average Monthly Cost
GEICO $132
Nationwide $111
Progressive $151
State Farm $89
Allstate $159

Average Rates For 23 Year Old College Students In Oregon

Car Insurance Provider Average Monthly Cost
GEICO $116
State Farm $79
Progressive $130
Travelers $108
Allstate $144

Rates For 24 Year Old College Students In Oregon

Car Insurance Provider Average Monthly Cost
State Farm $73
Progressive $120
GEICO $111
Travelers $105
Allstate $133

Average Rates For 25 Year Old College Students In Oregon

Car Insurance Provider Average Monthly Cost
State Farm $64
Nationwide $84
GEICO $108
Travelers $91
Allstate $118

Average Rates On Family Policy vs. Individual Policy

Insurance Company Individual Student Policy Family Policy
GEICO $132 $132
Nationwide $111 $110
Progressive $151 $151
State Farm $89 $89
Allstate $159 $159

Common Auto Insurance Claims In Oregon

Oregon generally has 4 common types of auto insurance claims, which consist of:

  • Collision Claims (5.8 claims per 100 years of a car’s lifespan)
  • Comprehensive Claims (2.81 claims per 100 years of a car’s lifespan)
  • Bodily Injury Claims (0.95 claims per 100 years of a car’s lifespan)
  • Property Damage Claims (3.36 claims per 100 years of a car’s lifespan)

Do College Students Need Their Own Insurance, or Can They Stay On A Parent’s?

Although insurance is usually clear-cut, whether you need your own policy as a college student depends on a variety of factors. Let’s explore different scenarios where you might be able to stay on your family’s plan and where you would need to find coverage independently.

Keeping Students On A Family Car Insurance Policy

In contrast to health insurance, which limits how long a child can stay on their parent’s plan, car insurance has no such age restriction. Children living at home or using their parents’ permanent address while at college can remain covered under the same auto insurance policy.

Purchasing Coverage As A College Student

The primary reason for a college student to get their own car insurance is if they change their address. When they establish a permanent address separate from their parents, they must buy a new insurance policy.

How Can College Students Save Money On Car Insurance In Oregon

Unfortunately, car insurance rates for most college students are much higher than for drivers in their mid to late 20s. If you can’t stay on a parent or guardian’s insurance, you’ll need to explore ways to lower your monthly premium.

The upcoming strategies will give you ideas for making car insurance more cost-effective.

Security And Safety Improvements

This advice is applicable to all drivers, regardless of age, unlike some strategies focused on college students. Many insurance companies offer discounts if you improve your vehicle’s safety and security with certain devices.

As an example, adding a car alarm and other anti-theft measures can decrease your car insurance premium by up to 5%.

Used vs. New

Buying a new vehicle as a graduation present is a common practice among parents. While these cars may be more fuel-efficient, they often result in higher insurance premiums. Insurers raise rates for new cars to account for the increased repair and replacement expenses.

Affiliation Discounts

Engaging in campus clubs and organizations is a common way for students to immerse themselves in university life. These groups might also offer extra perks, such as access to special discounts. Depending on your insurance carrier, membership in a sorority, fraternity, honor society, or alumni group could help reduce your monthly insurance premium.

Student Discounts

Good grades usually lead to student discounts, but college students can also access several other types of discounts, such as:

  • Discount for students studying away from their home campus
  • Discount for taking a driver’s education course
  • Safe driver discount

Try Usage-Based Car Insurance

Usage-based car insurance tracks driving habits just like telematics, but it also comes with an extra feature that college students find particularly appealing.

Driving fewer miles each year can lead to discounts and lower premiums with usage-based car insurance. These “Pay-Per-Mile” plans are an excellent way to secure affordable coverage if your car is kept in the dorm lot or at home for most of the school year.

How To Buy Car Insurance As A College Student In Oregon

For college students, securing your first auto insurance policy can be a stressful task. Thankfully, platforms like Insuranceopedia make the experience more manageable and enjoyable.

These websites facilitate easy comparison of rates from different insurance providers, but you’ll need specific information to guide you through the process. Here’s a summary of the steps to follow when purchasing your next auto insurance policy:

Step 1: Gather essential details like your vehicle info, driver’s license numbers, personal information, and driving records.
Step 2: Figure out how much coverage is required to meet Oregon state laws.
Step 3: Choose between buying your insurance online or through a local agent.
Step 4: Compare quotes from at least three auto insurance companies.
Step 5: Purchase your policy and inform your old insurance provider about the change.

Telematics Car Insurance For College Students

As a college student, it’s essential to find creative ways to save on car insurance. Telematics is one of the best ways to effectively lower your monthly premium.

Insurance companies use telematics devices to observe and evaluate your driving. The safer you drive, the better your rates, and you’ll be more likely to receive discounts for safe driving.

How To Get Discounts

Car insurance can be a significant expense for college students, particularly if tickets or accidents are on your driving record. Using carrier-provided discounts is a way to help cut down the cost of coverage.

Although every car insurance company has different discounts available, here are a few worth considering before purchasing a policy:

  • Paid in full
  • Multi-vehicle
  • Multi-policy
  • Military
  • Student away
  • Good student
  • Safe driver
  • Defensive driving
  • Low mileage
  • Accident-free

Temporary Car Insurance

Not every car insurance company provides temporary coverage, but it can be an excellent solution for college students who don’t plan to drive frequently.

Temporary auto insurance policies generally cover six months, with the option to cancel when the period ends. This allows college students to avoid paying for unnecessary coverage while at school and works well for those planning to study abroad for a semester.

Our Methodology

In our quest to find the cheapest car insurance for Oregon college students, we reviewed data from various insurance review sites, some of which relied on public rate filings from Quadrant Information Services. Our evaluation also included insights from our team's 25 years of combined insurance experience. Be aware that, although the rates in this guide are accurate, premiums can change on a daily basis and may differ depending on the driver.

278

Quotes Analyzed

25

Years Of Industry Experience

22

Brands Reviewed

38+

Research Hours

FAQs

Who has the best car insurance for college students in Oregon?

Overall, GEICO tends to provide the most affordable insurance for college students. Yet, depending on your driving record and what coverage you need, Progressive and State Farm are also good options to consider in Oregon.

Do college students need car insurance in Oregon?

Oregon mandates that all drivers carry car insurance. College students can either keep their parents’ policy while staying at home or obtain their own coverage once they move out.

Is car insurance more expensive for college students in Oregon?

In Oregon, car insurance is often more expensive for younger drivers. College students generally get better rates compared to 16-year-olds but still see much higher premiums than 25-year-old drivers.

How can you add a college student to a family policy?

When adding a college student to your family plan, be sure to discuss it with your insurance provider before college starts. Most insurance companies will require the student’s new zip code and confirmation that their primary address is still the family home. Out-of-state students could have additional requirements.

Can you stay on your parents’ car insurance if you move out?

One perk of staying at your parents’ home while in college is that you can remain on their car insurance. However, you must get your own auto policy once you officially move out and have a new permanent address.

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