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Beth Swanson

SEO Content Strategist

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Beth joined The Zebra in 2022 as an Associate Content Strategist. She is a licensed insurance agent whose goal is to make insurance content easy to r…

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Nathan Foster

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Nathan is an insurance professional with a focus on creating positive customer experiences with more than 10 years of industry experience.

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Ross Martin

Insurance Writer

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Ross joined The Zebra as a writer and researcher in 2019. He specializes in writing insurance content to help shoppers make informed decisions.

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How much does car insurance cost in Chesapeake?

In Chesapeake, drivers should expect to pay an average of $796 for a six-month car insurance policy, which equates to $133 per month. According to our 2024 research, USAA has the most affordable car insurance rates in Chesapeake, starting at $524 for a six-month policy or $87 per month. Chesapeake's rates are slightly more than both the Virginia state average of $757 for six months and the national average of $742.

38% of our Chesapeake customers said that they're paying too much for car insurance. Below, The Zebra provides tips on how to lower premiums and explains how rating factors impact what you pay and how you can find the right policy for your needs and budget.

Car Insurance in Chesapeake vs. Virginia Avg. 6 Mo. Premium
Chesapeake Average $796
Virginia Average $757

The cheapest car insurance companies in Chesapeake

1st place medal
1st place: USAA

USAA is the cheapest at $87 per month or $524 for a six-month policy.

2nd place medal
2nd place: Nationwide

If you don't qualify for USAA, Nationwide came in as a close second and costs $89 per month ($533 for six months)

3rd place medal
3rd place: Auto-Owners

Auto-Owners costs an average of $98 a month ($585 for a six-month policy), coming in third on our list of cheap auto insurance options in Chesapeake.

The Zebra's key takeaways about car insurance in Chesapeake:

  • The average cost of a car insurance policy in Chesapeake is $796 per six-month policy — or $133 per month.
  • The cheapest company in Chesapeake is USAA ($524 every six months).
  • 38% of Zebra customers in Chesapeake stated they used our product because they were paying too much for car insurance.

Are you paying too much for auto insurance?

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Chesapeake car insurance rates by company

Looking for the most economical full coverage auto insurance in Chesapeake? Look no further than USAA, based on our 2024 data. Their six-month policy runs for approximately $524, which equates to $87 per month. However, not everyone qualifies for USAA membership, as it's designed for military members and their families. Nationwide is another comparable option, with a monthly payment of $89 or a total of $533 for a six-month policy.

For additional information about the best car insurance companies, see The Zebra's Customer Satisfaction Survey.

Cheapest car insurance companies in Chesapeake, VA
Company Avg. 6 Mo. Premium
USAA $524
Nationwide $533
Auto-Owners $585
GEICO $613
State Farm $619
Virginia Farm Bureau $635
Progressive $825
Allstate $1,030

The Zebra’s Dynamic Insurance Rating Tool data methodology

The Zebra’s Dynamic Insurance Rating Tool for home and auto insurance rates utilizes the latest ZIP code-level rate filings from across the U.S., sourced from Quadrant Information Services and S&P Global. These filings, typically updated annually or biennially by insurers, are verified through Quadrant’s QA process and then integrated into The Zebra’s estimator.

The displayed rates are based on a dynamic home and auto profile designed to reflect the content of the page. This profile is tailored to match specific factors such as age, location, and coverage level, which are adjusted based on the page content to show how these variables can impact premiums.

For a comprehensive understanding, see our detailed methodology.


Shop around for the best rates


If you're aiming to save money on your auto insurance, the best solution is to compare rates from different companies. Fortunately, The Zebra can help you accomplish this with ease. By simply inputting your ZIP code, you can access rates from the most reputable insurance providers such as Allstate, GEICO, Progressive, and many others. In Chesapeake, you can use The Zebra to find cheap auto insurance that provides a level of coverage that suits your needs.

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Average car insurance in Chesapeake by rating factor

There are factors that can impact the cost of car insurance, some of which are within your control, and others that are not. Rating factors refer to specific characteristics that pertain to your profile, such as age, claims history, and credit score. Although companies typically consider the same factors, they may apply varying weights to them. For example, one insurer may place a greater emphasis on your credit score, while another may focus more on previous claims.

Keep in mind that the right coverage and insurance company for you can shift over time. As you accumulate more driving experience and age, your profile will transform. It's crucial to obtain new quotes on your auto insurance periodically to ensure that you're still receiving the most favorable rates possible.

Q: I didn't have an accident — Why is my insurance going up?

A: Chesapeake car insurance rates are influenced by end-of-year earnings, which reflect the balance between the revenue generated from premiums and the cost of paying out claims to insureds. Even if you have a clean driving record with no prior claims, insurers may still adjust their rates to compensate for the increasing cost of doing business in specific areas.

Auto insurance premiums by age in Chesapeake

The age of the driver is one of the most important factors when it comes to car insurance premiums. Insurance companies have data to help them identify the age group most likely to file claims. Teen drivers, for example, have the highest number of accidents and, therefore, face the highest premiums. In Chesapeake, there's a $1,583 difference in rates between teenage drivers and those in their 20s for a six-month policy, making it the most significant price gap between any two age groups for a new car insurance policy.

It might be shocking to see how expensive it is to insure a young driver, but keep in mind that insurance companies have to balance the cost of paying claims. They charge the riskiest drivers higher rates to keep their business going, knowing that accidents will occur.

Cheapest car insurance companies for teen drivers in Chesapeake, VA
Company Avg. 6 Mo. Premium
Virginia Farm Bureau $1,505
USAA $1,690
GEICO $1,822
Auto-Owners $1,929
Nationwide $1,957
State Farm $2,420
Allstate $2,655
Progressive $4,232
Age Bracket Cheapest Companies Avg. 6 Mo. Premium
20s Nationwide $721
30s USAA $548
40s USAA $492
50s USAA $467
60s USAA $468
70s Nationwide $587

Zebra Tip: The cheapest companies for Chesapeake drivers between ages 20 and 40 are USAA and Nationwide


The data shows that the largest demographic of drivers in Chesapeake falls in the age range of 20-40. This particular group usually pays $938 every six months for their car insurance. Opting for one of these insurers can result in savings of up to 27%. Keep in mind that USAA is only available to members, so be sure to check your eligibility.

Auto insurance premiums for minimum coverage in Chesapeake

When shopping for auto insurance, one detail that can significantly impact your rates is the level of coverage you choose. The numerous options available can be overwhelming, so it's critical to take the time to consider your choices and specific needs. According to our research, just 33% of Chesapeake drivers have opted for the minimum coverage required by the state. While this technically meets Virginia's legal requirements, it also means that you're more vulnerable in the event of an accident.

Including collision coverage or comprehensive coverage (also known as "full coverage" when both are present) in your policy can lead to a significant increase in your rates. However, by selecting the right deductible, you can have more control over how much you pay. The higher the deductible, the lower your rates will be. If you prefer a lower deductible, then you'll have to pay a higher premium. It's crucial to weigh the pros and cons of each option and consider your budget before making a decision.

Roadside assistance and uninsured motorist coverage are two additions that can impact your insurance rates. They provide additional peace of mind. Uninsured motorist coverage helps protect you from drivers who do not carry auto insurance or do not have enough coverage. Although these extras will increase your premiums, they are worth considering, and The Zebra recommends carrying them for unexpected situations where you and your vehicle may require additional assistance.

Q: Can I lower my car insurance coverage?

A: Possibly — if your vehicle is paid off.

If you opt to finance or lease your car, a specific level of coverage may be required. However, if you fully own your car, it may be worthwhile to think about whether dropping comprehensive or collision coverage is a viable choice. We advise using a source like Kelley Blue Book to determine your car's true market value. Generally, if your car isn't worth more than $4,000, collision coverage isn't necessary. Keep in mind that the risk of dropping collision coverage is that you'll have to cover the cost of repairs if you're in an accident.

Cheapest car insurance companies for minimum coverage in Chesapeake, VA
Company Avg. 6 Mo. Premium
USAA $219
Auto-Owners $230
GEICO $262
State Farm $269
Nationwide $284
Virginia Farm Bureau $296
Allstate $369
Progressive $429

33% of our customers in Chesapeake opt for the minimum level of coverage, but this may not be the best option for everyone. While we understand this is a budget-friendly solution, it does leave you at risk for damages that exceed your liability limits. Virginia's 30/60/20 liability limits provide coverage for damage you cause up to $30,000 per person in bodily injury, $60,000 per accident in bodily injury and $20,000 for property damage. While this may be sufficient for most standard car accidents, it might not be for bodily injury claims or multi-vehicle accidents.

Learn more about insurance laws in Virginia.

Chesapeake car insurance rates by credit score

While it may seem like your credit score and your car insurance rates are not related, the reality is that they are more intertwined than you might assume. In most states, such as Virginia, credit score is one of the factors that insurance companies consider when determining rates. This is because individuals with lower credit scores are more likely to file insurance claims, are more prone to having gaps in their car insurance coverage, and typically take greater risks while driving. As a result, insurance companies must factor in these risk elements when calculating premiums.

Chesapeake drivers with poor credit scores (300-579) pay 106% more in insurance rates compared to drivers with excellent credit scores (800-850), which is a significant difference to take note of. This information can be quite shocking! Fortunately, our data shows that the majority of Chesapeake drivers have an "Excellent" credit score. USAA provides the most affordable insurance for drivers in this credit category.

car insurance in Chesapeake by credit score

Auto insurance rates with an at-fault accident

Insurance claims are commonly related to at-fault accidents and collisions. An at-fault accident in 2024 caused an average monthly increase of between $50 and $67, which is 51% higher than the rate for drivers who haven't been involved in accidents. Auto-Owners offers the most affordable insurance rates in Chesapeake for individuals who have had an at-fault accident.

To ensure that your auto insurance rates remain affordable, regardless of where you live, it's crucial to maintain a clean driving record by avoiding accidents and citations. Speeding citations, reckless driving charges, DUIs and DWIs, and at-fault accidents can all result in increased rates. Your premium will be affected for several years depending on the type of citation or ticket you receive. Typically, at-fault accidents and speeding tickets stay on your record for three to five years, while DUIs or DWIs can have a longer-lasting impact on your rates.

Cheapest car insurance companies after an at-fault accident in Chesapeake, VA
Company Avg. 6 Mo. Premium
Auto-Owners $585
USAA $755
State Farm $797
Nationwide $836
Virginia Farm Bureau $846
GEICO $898
Progressive $1,400
Allstate $1,552

Chesapeake car insurance rates by violation

Below you can see how much different violations and claims will increase your rate in Chesapeake.

Car insurance rate increases after violations and citations in Chesapeake, VA
Accident/Violation Avg. 6 Mo. Premium % Rate Increase $ Rate Increase
None $796 0% $0
One Med/PIP claim $798 0% $2
Not-at-fault accident $822 3% $26
Two Med/PIP claims $853 7% $57
One comp claim $854 7% $58
Two comp claims $905 14% $109
Failure to show documents $910 14% $114
Driving without lights $927 16% $131
Child safety restraint $933 17% $137
Driving with expired registration $940 18% $144
Failure to wear a seat belt $947 19% $152
Failure to yield $967 22% $171
Driving too slowly $967 22% $172
Texting while driving $969 22% $174
Cell phone violation $969 22% $174
Failure to stop at a red light $970 22% $174
Wrong way/wrong lane $970 22% $175
Speeding in school zone $971 22% $175
Illegal turn $971 22% $175
Following too closely $971 22% $175
Improper passing $974 22% $178
Speeding 6 - 10 MPH over limit $977 23% $181
Speeding 11 - 15 MPH over limit $992 25% $196
Speeding 16 - 20 MPH over limit $992 25% $196
Passing school bus $1,017 28% $221
Speeding 21 - 25 MPH over limit $1,053 32% $257
Open container $1,083 36% $287
In 65 MPH zone $1,091 37% $295
At-fault accident - less than $1000 $1,093 37% $297
Operating a vehicle without permission $1,181 48% $385
At-fault accident - $1000-$2000 $1,193 50% $397
At-fault accident - greater than $2000 $1,198 51% $403
Reckless driving $1,418 78% $623
Racing $1,487 87% $692
Refusal to submit to a chemical test $1,627 104% $831
DUI $1,627 104% $831
Driving with a suspended license $1,706 114% $911
Leaving scene of an accident/hit and run $1,714 115% $918

Why is car insurance in Chesapeake so expensive?

There are numerous reasons why auto insurance in Chesapeake is pricey. One of the primary factors is the high cost of living in the city, which causes car insurance companies to raise their rates. Apart from your coverage level, driving record, and credit report, there are additional elements that determine your insurance premiums.

To gain insight into why car insurance in Chesapeake is expensive, read the following rundown, regardless of your driving profile.

location
Location

Alongside your credit score and driving history, where you live in Chesapeake is one of the key contributing factors to your insurance premiums. The frequency of crime or theft and the number of uninsured drivers vary depending on the ZIP code. Some parts of the city are more susceptible to criminal activity, making them more dangerous for insurance companies. As a result, if you live (and drive) in a high-crime area, you will likely pay more for auto insurance than someone who lives in a safer location. The good news is that the difference between the cheapest and most expensive ZIP codes in Chesapeake is only about $4 per month

drivers
Number of drivers

You may be a very safe driver with a flawless driving record, but as we know, insurance rates are not always within our control. According to our data, roughly 29% of drivers in Chesapeake are not presently insured. This number is not the highest compared to other Virginia cities, but it is still substantial. Insurance companies look at this information to help them determine the risk of a certain area.

weather
Weather

Although its location near the sea makes it a desirable location for many people, Chesapeake is also in a precarious location as far as severe storms. In 2022, the Virginia Beach metropolitan area ranked in the top ten locations in the U.S. for both storm surge risk and hurricane wind damage risk.[1] Insurers take climate into account when calculating rates, so areas with risk of hurricanes, tornadoes and other natural disasters typically pay more than areas of the country that are lower risk. 

Zebra Tip: Comprehensive coverage and uninsured property damage coverage are good to have in Chesapeake


Comprehensive coverage encompasses damage resulting from weather, animals, and vandalism. It is highly recommended to include comprehensive coverage in your Chesapeake car insurance policy, especially if you own a new or valuable vehicle.

Moreover, in areas with a high prevalence of uninsured drivers, we suggest obtaining uninsured motorist coverage (UMPD). In case of damage to you or your vehicle caused by an underinsured or uninsured driver, this coverage offers assistance. With a lower deductible and cheaper premiums than collision coverage, UMPD is an affordable option. In addition, a UMPD claim may result in a much lower rate increase compared to a collision claim, potentially saving hundreds of dollars.


Bundling insurance policies in Chesapeake

Despite the increase in car insurance rates, there are ways to cut down on costs. One way to do this is by bundling your home and auto insurance policies to take advantage of potential savings. Many policyholders have been able to secure discounts worth up to 10%, making this an appealing option for people who want to save money while still having adequate coverage.

If your home and auto policies are currently separate, it only takes a few minutes to ask about bundling them. When looking for a new insurance provider, explore bundling options to help make your coverage more affordable.

bundling home and auto insurance in Chesapeake
Cheapest car insurance companies for bundling home and auto insurance in Chesapeake, VA
Company Avg. 6 Mo. Premium
Nationwide $404
USAA $490
State Farm $506
Auto-Owners $526
Virginia Farm Bureau $568
GEICO $586
Progressive $710
Allstate $834

Many factors are taken into consideration when determining insurance rates. Although many of these factors are not within your control, there are still things you can do as a driver to keep your car insurance affordable. We strongly suggest shopping around for auto insurance quotes so that you can thoroughly compare your options and find the most affordable rate.

By educating yourself and exploring various car insurance providers, you can find the appropriate coverage for your needs and budget. It is a good idea to get quotes frequently, particularly when personal factors change, such as significant birthdays or credit improvements, as these events can help you save money. It may feel uncomfortable to switch insurance providers, but some providers are just more expensive than others, so don't be afraid to make a change.

Find the best rates for both auto and home insurance in minutes!

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Frequently asked questions

In Chesapeake, the average cost of a six-month auto insurance policy is $796 or $133 per month, exceeding both the national and Virginia average.

Insuring teenage drivers in Chesapeake can be expensive, with a six-month policy costing over $2,600, equivalent to $444 per month. Adding young drivers to their parents' policies is recommended because car insurance is prohibitively expensive for young drivers with their own policies.

Chesapeake residents in search of the most affordable car insurance rates should consider GEICO. Their six-month policy average of USAA is the lowest among all carriers, making them the go-to choice for those seeking affordable rates. However not everyone is eligible for USAA membership, so Nationwide is a good alternative.


Find affordable rates in minutes!

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How much is car insurance near me? — explore more cities near Chesapeake, VA


About The Zebra

The Zebra is not an insurance company. We publish data-backed, expert-reviewed resources to help consumers make more informed insurance decisions.

  • The Zebra’s insurance content is written and reviewed for accuracy by licensed insurance agents.
  • The Zebra’s insurance editorial content is not subject to review or alteration by insurance companies or partners.
  • The Zebra’s editorial team operates independently of the company’s partnerships and commercialization interests, publishing unbiased information for consumer benefit.
  • The auto insurance rates published on The Zebra’s pages are based on a comprehensive analysis of car insurance pricing data, evaluating more than 83 million insurance rates from across the United States.