Best Life Insurance Companies in New Jersey for 2024

I have concluded that MassMutual is the best life insurance provider in New Jersey based on my findings.

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Updated: 13 October 2024
Written by Bob Phillips
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Like everyone, people in New Jersey want to save time and money when looking for the best life insurance. My goal is to take on the research and guide you to the most suitable policy efficiently.

In my findings, MassMutual stands out as the best life insurance company in New Jersey, not because of its market share, but due to its great service, coverage, and competitive pricing, which I see as the ideal combination.

Besides MassMutual, our top picks include Mutual of Omaha for seniors, Transamerica for young people, State Farm for outstanding customer service, and Nationwide for smokers. MassMutual was also acknowledged for offering the lowest life insurance prices in New Jersey.

Taking a moment to read the results below is a smart investment of your time. Without sufficient life insurance, your family could struggle to live the life you want for them if something happens to you. Buying life insurance is a sure sign of your dedication to their future.

Best Life Insurance In New Jersey, 2024

transamerica-icon-logo
Best for Seniors - Mutual of Omaha
transamerica-icon-logo
Best for Young People - Transamerica
nationwide-icon-logo
Best for Smokers - Nationwide
Best Life Insurance, New Jersey 2024

Compare The Best Life Insurance In New Jersey

To help in your assessment of the top life insurance providers in New Jersey, here is a table that presents our top choices based on key criteria.

Overall Rating A.M. Best Rating Best For Online Experience J.D. Power Rating Get A Quote
Mutual of Omaha
4.6

A+

Seniors

9.7

801

Instant Quote
MassMutual
4.8

A++

Best Overall

9.7

780

Instant Quote
Transamerica
4.7

A

Young Adults

9.8

740

Instant Quote
Nationwide
4.6

A+

Best For Smokers

9.6

791

Instant Quote
MassMutual
4.8

A++

Best For Cheapest Life Insurance

9.7

780

Instant Quote
State Farm
4.8

A++

Best For Customer Service

9.5

839

Instant Quote
Scroll to see comparisons

Our Methodology

We used a thorough and comprehensive approach to select the top life insurance companies, taking into account factors like customer service, product offerings, pricing, and online experience. My own experience selling life insurance and working with other agents has given me additional insight into their services. While price played a role, our selections weren’t solely about offering the cheapest life insurance, except for the "Best for Cheapest Life Insurance" category. We believe these companies are leaders in their niches, and cost shouldn’t be the only consideration when picking a life insurance provider.

68

Quotes Analyzed

15+

Years of experience

19

Brands reviewed

28+

Research hours

The 6 Best Life Insurance Companies In New Jersey 2024


Best For Customer Service

Overall Rating
4.8

Key Statistics

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

Why We Like Them

State Farm’s consistent recognition by J.D. Powers for high customer satisfaction in life insurance reflects its dedication to superior service. This is to be expected, as State Farm boasts the largest network of agents in the U.S.

State Farm is highly valued for its commitment to customer service, which policyholders truly appreciate. What sets the company apart is its network of local offices, where agents are available to meet with policyholders in person for any service or sales needs.

State Farm has earned a reputation for providing excellent customer service and fast claims processing, which is crucial in life insurance when families depend on their insurer for timely, compassionate assistance during difficult times.

Benefits & Drawbacks

Benefits
  • Largest network of service agents
  • Holds top financial ratings for paying claims
  • Lower number of complaints than the industry average
Drawbacks
  • Limited rider selection
  • Policies must be bought from State Farm agents

Best Overall

Overall Rating
4.8

Key Statistics

10/10 Affordability
8/10 Customer Reviews
10/10 Claims
10/10 Coverage Level

Why We Like Them

MassMutual received the Best Overall recognition because of its exceptional life insurance offerings. The company offers term, whole, and universal life policies at competitive rates and provides a wide selection of riders to enhance coverage.

MassMutual’s sales agents, called “career agents,” are highly knowledgeable thanks to their extensive training on the company’s life insurance offerings. Since they sell only MassMutual products, they are well-suited to help buyers unfamiliar with life insurance navigate their options.

MassMutual’s robust financial strength was essential in our evaluation. AM Best gave it the highest possible rating, A++ Superior, reflecting its solid financial stability and reliable claims-paying ability.

The decision to name MassMutual as Best Overall reflects the company’s commitment to a diverse product range and a well-trained sales force, not just offering low prices. Though it may not be as widely recognized or have the same market share as other companies in New Jersey, MassMutual is highly respected throughout the state.

Benefits & Drawbacks

Benefits
  • Most affordable rates in New Jersey
  • Strong financial ratings
  • Diverse range of life insurance products with rider options
Drawbacks
  • Whole life policies not available for online purchase
  • J.D. Power rating lower than some competitors
  • Only available through MassMutual's agent network

Best For Seniors

Overall Rating
4.6

Key Statistics

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

Why We Like Them

Mutual of Omaha is a leader in providing insurance to seniors. Seniors have trusted the company for years, not just because of the famous “Mutual of Omaha’s Wild Kingdom” show but also due to the in-depth training its agents receive to focus on the needs of the senior market.

This insurance provider is recognized for its senior life insurance product range, including two options tailored to seniors with health issues. The guaranteed-issue policy, which doesn’t require a medical exam or health questions, is ideal for seniors facing serious conditions like cancer, stroke, or heart attack.

The second product offered is a simplified-issue policy that involves answering a few medical history questions, but it doesn’t require a medical exam. It’s great for seniors with minor health issues like high blood pressure or type 2 diabetes who prefer not to take an exam.

Seniors, who typically pay the most for life insurance, trust Mutual of Omaha for their insurance needs. The company has been a well-established name in the senior insurance industry, offering Medicare supplements and life insurance for years. Baby Boomers and their parents have grown up recognizing and trusting the company.

Mutual of Omaha is a trusted name in the senior insurance market, bolstered by an effective direct mail program that reaches seniors and agents who are highly trained in the company’s insurance products.

Benefits & Drawbacks

Benefits
  • Peace of mind from well-trained agents
  • Very strong financial foundation
  • Affordable premiums for seniors in New Jersey
Drawbacks
  • Higher rate of complaints than other leading companies
  • Smaller agent network in New Jersey than competitors

Best Life Insurance Companies For Seniors In New Jersey

Life Insurance Company Monthly Cost
GEICO $50
Mutual of Omaha $44
Nationwide $49
Protective $46
Prudential $50

*Based on $75,000 of coverage for a 60-year-old male non-smoker buying a 10-year term life insurance contract.


Best For Cheapest Life Insurance

Overall Rating
4.8

Key Statistics

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

Why We Like Them

Recognized as Louisiana’s leading life insurance provider, MassMutual is also a financial powerhouse, offering some of the best rates across the state. Despite numerous affordable term insurers, MassMutual consistently provides the most favorable rates.

While it’s not recommended to choose life insurance purely based on price, it’s still a key factor for buyers. MassMutual offers the most competitive rates in Louisiana, despite being more associated with professionalism. The company is using aggressive pricing to increase its market presence in the state.

In the current economy, price is a key consideration for life insurance buyers. MassMutual is a great option due to its affordable premiums and high coverage. Although their whole and universal life policies aren’t as competitive, their term life insurance typically offers larger coverage amounts because permanent insurance tends to be pricier.

Benefits & Drawbacks

Benefits
  • The least expensive life insurance provider in New Jersey
  • Full range of life insurance products offered
  • MassMutual policies are sold through a wide network of experienced agents
Drawbacks
  • Must buy policies through a MassMutual agent
  • Does not offer online life insurance applications

Cheapest Life Insurance Companies In New Jersey

Life Insurance Company Average Monthly Cost
Transamerica $13
Protective $11
Nationwide $14
GEICO $11
AAA $15

*Rates based on a $250,000 10-year term life coverage for a 30-year-old female nonsmoker


Best For Young Adults

Overall Rating
4.7

Key Statistics

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

Why We Like Them

Transamerica acknowledges its strength in providing life insurance at affordable rates for young adults. The company understands that many young people are careful about their spending, particularly with life insurance, and has priced its policies to make it easier for budget-conscious young consumers to get sufficient coverage.

Transamerica created its website with the younger demographic in mind, providing clear and concise information that’s easy to find. The site is designed to be both informative and user-friendly, allowing customers to navigate their options easily. Transamerica believes everyone, regardless of age or budget, deserves the peace of mind life insurance brings.

Younger buyers often don’t view life insurance as essential, making it a challenging market. They tend to purchase policies after marriage or having kids. However, companies like Transamerica still focus on this group, as lower mortality rates bring greater profits.

Transamerica’s customer service rating was the lowest among the companies we reviewed. This may be due to their reliance on independent agents for both sales and service, where some agents working alone may not meet the desired service standards.

Benefits & Drawbacks

Benefits
  • Online purchase of term life insurance is an option
  • No medical exam for eligible applicants seeking up to $2 million
  • Policies go up to $10 million in coverage
Drawbacks
  • Has lower customer service satisfaction than some rivals
  • The minimum term life face amount is $25,000

Best Life Insurance Companies For Young Adults In New Jersey

Life Insurance Company Monthly Cost
Mutual of Omaha $7
State Farm $13
GEICO $8
Nationwide $9
Protective $7

*Rates are for a 25-year-old male nonsmoker that purchases a $250,000 20-year term life insurance policy.


Best For Smokers

Overall Rating
4.8

Key Statistics

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

Why We Like Them

Nationwide, known for its strong reputation and local office presence, truly lives up to its slogan, “Nationwide is on your side,” particularly for smokers in Louisiana looking for life insurance. Despite slightly higher smoker rates than other leading insurers, we concluded that Nationwide is the best choice because of its competitive pricing, agent accessibility, and excellent customer service.

Benefits & Drawbacks

Benefits
  • Provides a full array of life insurance products
  • Numerous offices located in New Jersey
  • A large network of trained agents sells Nationwide life insurance policies
Drawbacks
  • Policies are only available through a Nationwide agent
  • Life insurance cannot be applied for online

Best Life Insurance Companies In New Jersey For smokers

Company Average Monthly Cost
State Farm $68
GEICO $44
Mutual of Omaha $43
Nationwide $50
Prudential $43

*Rates based on $632,000 of 20-year term life for a 30-year-old male smoker

Smoking significantly increases life insurance premiums, but if you quit and stay smoke-free for 12-24 months, depending on the insurer, your rates could drop to non-smoker levels. You’ll need a paramedical exam and blood test to show that you no longer have nicotine in your system.


Best For Smokers

Overall Rating
4.6

Key Statistics

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

Why We Like Them

Nationwide is a well-respected company with numerous local offices catering to both sales and service. Their slogan, “Nationwide is on your side,” truly applies to smokers in New Jersey searching for life insurance. While Nationwide’s rates for smokers may be slightly higher compared to leading competitors, our assessment determined it to be the top choice for smokers due to its competitive pricing, readily available agents, and outstanding customer service.

If you’re a smoker seeking life insurance, you’re likely to face higher premiums compared to non-smokers. However, there’s a path to potentially reduce your life insurance rates to a level similar to those of non-smokers by demonstrating abstinence from smoking for 12-24 months, depending on the insurer’s policies. This typically involves undergoing a paramedical exam and a blood test to confirm the absence of nicotine in your system.

Benefits & Drawbacks

Benefits
  • Nationwide policies are available through a widespread network of trained agents.
  • A comprehensive range of life insurance products is offered.
  • Nationwide maintains numerous offices across New Jersey.
Drawbacks
  • Online applications for life insurance products are not available.
  • Buying life insurance is exclusively done through a Nationwide agent

How To Find The Best Life Insurance Company For You

Looking for life insurance in New Jersey? Remember that there’s no one-size-fits-all policy. At Insuranceopedia, we assess each person’s unique situation and evaluate insurers in multiple categories to provide recommendations. To find the right policy for you, we recommend taking these three steps:

  1. Calculate the amount of coverage you need. Most life insurance companies offer “life insurance calculators” to help you estimate the right amount based on your financial situation.
  2. Choose three insurance companies to assess. Focus not only on their premiums but also their financial stability. Low rates won’t be useful if the insurer struggles to pay out claims.
  3. Move forward with your application. Procrastination can lead to missed opportunities—ensure your family’s future is protected by securing life insurance now.

Largest Life Insurance Companies In New Jersey

In New Jersey, there is no shortage of life insurance providers. Here are the five biggest companies ranked by market share:

Life Insurance Company Market Share
Prudential Financial Inc. 9.71%
MassMutual 7.77%
Northwestern Mutual 7.70%
Guardian 7.70%
Lincoln Financial 6.05%
New York Life 5.98%
Brighthouse Financial 3.77%

Average Cost of Life Insurance in New Jersey

Best Cheap Life Insurance Companies in New Jersey for Females

Company Rates for $250,000 Coverage Rates for $632,000 Coverage
Mutual of Omaha $11 $14
MassMutual $10 $15
Nationwide $11 $24
Transamerica $14 $29
State Farm $21 $33

*Rates based on a 10-year term life policy for a 30-year-old female nonsmoker

Best Cheap Life Insurance Companies in New Jersey for Males

Company Rates for $250,000 Coverage Rates for $632,000 Coverage
MassMutual $10 $17
Nationwide $11 $16
Mutual of Omaha $12 $19
Transamerica $16 $32
State Farm $19 $34

**Rates based on a 10-year term life policy for a 30-year-old male nonsmoker

Factors That Impact The Cost Of Your Life Insurance In New Jersey

Several different factors impact the cost of life insurance in New Jersey, including:

  • Your life insurance company
  • Age
  • Gender
  • Health status
  • Smoking habits
  • Credit score
  • Riders added to your policy

Men often pay higher premiums than women due to their shorter life expectancy. Smokers also face higher rates for the same reason. In New Jersey, your credit score may also be factored into your insurance rate. Adding riders, like a disability waiver of premium or child coverage, can further raise the cost of your policy.

How Much Life Insurance Do You Need In New Jersey?

Your life insurance needs depend on your specific situation. Homeowners generally need more coverage than renters, and people with dependents, such as children, may require additional protection.

Life insurance agents often advise securing coverage that is 10 to 20 times your yearly salary. So, if you make $75,000 a year, your recommended coverage range would be $750,000 to $1.5 million.

New Jersey Life Insurance Laws To Know

If you’re considering life insurance in New Jersey, you should know that the state has certain protections in place for policyholders. These laws include:

Contestable period

Life insurance companies in New Jersey have the authority to reject claims if they identify false or misleading information on the application within two years of the policy becoming active. After this period, they cannot contest the policy for application errors.

Free Look Period

You have a 10-day period to review your life insurance policy after it’s issued. If you decide during this time that it’s not the right policy for you, you can return it for a full refund of your premiums, penalty-free.

Grace period for missed payments

New Jersey law gives you a 30-day grace period after missing a payment, during which your life insurance coverage will remain active while you make the payment.

Time allowable to settle a claim

Beneficiaries must file a claim with the insurer to get benefits, and under New Jersey law, life insurance companies must settle claims within 30 days.

FAQs

Is life insurance more expensive in New Jersey?

Life insurance prices in New Jersey are generally in line with other states. Insurers charging higher premiums usually do so after paying out more claims than they had anticipated.

How much per month is a million-dollar life insurance policy in New Jersey?  

MassMutual’s rate of $34 per month for a 10-year, $1 million term life insurance policy in New Jersey is the best value we found.

What is the average monthly cost of life insurance in New Jersey?  

In New Jersey, a 30-year-old male could get life insurance coverage of $250,000 for as low as $11 per month, and a female the same age could pay $10

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