What is the cheapest car to insure in Illinois in 2025? If you’re wondering, it’s not one specific model but rather a type of vehicle. In Illinois, SUVs are often the cheapest cars to insure, averaging around $579 per year for minimum coverage (much lower than the state average cost). Chicago drivers can save by choosing safe, reliable models that insurers consider low-risk.
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Which Cars Have the Cheapest Insurance Rates in Illinois?
Illinois insurance data shows that certain types of cars consistently have lower insurance rates. SUVs tend to be the cheapest vehicles to insure in Illinois, with average premiums significantly below those for sedans or trucks. For example, insuring an SUV with minimum coverage costs about $579 per year on average, whereas the typical Illinois sedan costs around $592 per year for the same coverage. Choosing a vehicle type known for low insurance rates can make a big difference in your budget.
| Vehicle Type | Average Annual Premium (IL Minimum Coverage) |
| SUV (lowest) | ~$579 per year |
| Coupe | ~$583 per year |
| Sedan | ~$592 per year |
| Truck | ~$595 per year |
| Minivan | ~$613 per year |
When it comes to specific models, many of the cheapest cars to insure are smaller SUVs and family vehicles with strong safety features. Popular models like the Honda CR-V, Subaru Forester, and Volkswagen Tiguan often come with below-average insurance premiums. These vehicles have affordable repair costs and advanced safety tech that help prevent accidents, which insurers reward with lower rates. In general, luxury sports cars or high-performance vehicles cost much more to insure due to their expensive parts and greater risk of accidents. By choosing a modest, safety-rated car, Illinois drivers can enjoy cheaper insurance premiums without sacrificing reliability.
Why Are Some Cars Cheaper to Insure in Chicago?
Car insurance pricing comes down to risk, and Chicago’s driving environment plays a big role. In a busy city like Chicago, heavy traffic and higher accident rates make insurers very mindful of what car you drive. A vehicle with advanced safety features or lower repair costs presents less risk to the insurer, leading to lower premiums for you. Conversely, a flashy sports car or a model known for theft is seen as a higher risk in Chicago, so it will cost more to insure. Here are key factors that explain why some cars are cheaper to insure than others:
- Safety Features & Ratings: Cars equipped with anti-lock brakes, airbags, collision avoidance systems, and high crash-test ratings are involved in fewer severe accidents. Insurers offer lower rates for these safer vehicles because they expect fewer or less costly claims.
- Repair Costs: If a car is inexpensive to repair or has readily available parts, insurance claims cost less. Common models (like popular sedans and compact SUVs) often have cheaper parts and simpler repairs, so companies charge less to insure them. In contrast, luxury cars or imported models can be very costly to fix, driving premiums up.
- Theft Risk: Auto theft is a concern in Chicago. Vehicles that are frequently stolen (or targeted in break-ins) will have higher comprehensive insurance costs. Choosing a car with strong anti-theft features or one that isn’t a common theft target will keep your insurance rates lower in the city.
- Vehicle Performance: High-performance sports cars and turbocharged models encourage faster driving and tend to be involved in more accidents or traffic tickets. Insurers charge extra for that risk. Meanwhile, modest family cars, vans, or small SUVs usually attract more careful drivers and have lower top speeds, resulting in cheaper insurance rates.
For Chicago drivers, picking a car that rates well on these factors can mean significant insurance savings. A safe, practical vehicle not only protects you on the road but also keeps your wallet safe with lower premiums.
How Can You Save on Car Insurance in Illinois?
Auto insurance rates might be higher in big cities like Chicago, but there are smart ways to cut your costs. Follow these tips to get the cheapest car insurance possible in Illinois:
- Compare Quotes from Multiple Insurers: Prices vary widely between insurance companies. Shop around or use a local independent agency like Insure on the Spot to gather quotes from different insurers. Comparing at least 3 quotes ensures you’re getting the best deal for your coverage needs.
- Choose the Right Coverage: Make sure you’re carrying the appropriate coverage for your vehicle’s value. If you drive an older car, you might drop collision or comprehensive coverage to save money (just keep the state-required liability coverage). On the other hand, don’t skimp on liability limits—Illinois requires a minimum 25/50/20 coverage, but increasing those limits can protect you better without a huge cost increase.
- Claim Your Discounts: Take advantage of insurance discounts that many Illinois insurers offer. Common discounts include safe driver discounts (for a clean driving record), good student discounts for young drivers with good grades, multi-car or multi-policy discounts (bundling auto with home insurance), and even defensive driving course discounts. Ask each insurer what discounts you might qualify for, as these can add up to big savings.
- Maintain a Clean Driving Record: In Chicago traffic, it’s crucial to drive safely and avoid accidents or tickets. A history free of collisions, DUIs, or serious violations will keep your insurance rates low over time. Consider using telematics or safe-driver programs that some insurers offer — they track your driving habits and can reward you with lower rates for good behavior on the road.
- Pick a Car That’s Cheap to Insure: As discussed above, the vehicle you drive has a big impact on your premium. Opt for a car model known for reliability and safety rather than a high-end sports car. Before buying a car, it’s wise to get an insurance quote for that specific model. You may find that a compact SUV or a mid-size sedan will be hundreds of dollars cheaper per year to insure than a luxury or performance car. Choosing a car with lower insurance costs is an easy way to save in the long run.
By taking these steps, Illinois drivers can trim their insurance expenses without sacrificing needed coverage. Small choices — from your car model to asking about discounts — can lead to major savings on your auto policy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is the minimum auto insurance required in Illinois?
A: Illinois requires drivers to carry at least 25/50/20 liability coverage. This means a minimum of $25,000 for bodily injury per person (up to $50,000 per accident) and $20,000 for property damage. Insure on the Spot can help you meet these state requirements at an affordable rate.
Q: How can I lower my car insurance rates in Chicago?
A: Compare quotes from different insurance providers to find the best deal. Maintain a clean driving record and look for discounts like safe driver, good student, or multi-policy discounts. Insure on the Spot helps Chicago drivers identify these savings and secure a cheaper policy.
Q: Are older cars cheaper to insure in Illinois?
A: Yes. Older vehicles are less valuable, so they are usually cheaper to insure—especially if you carry only liability coverage. Comprehensive and collision insurance on an older car also costs less than on a new model. Just make sure your coverage still fits your car’s value and your needs.
Q: What is an SR-22, and do I need one in Illinois?
A: An SR-22 is a certificate of financial responsibility required for certain high-risk drivers in Illinois (for example, after a DUI or serious violation). It’s not insurance itself, but a form your insurer files with the state to prove you have the required coverage. Insure on the Spot can file an SR-22 for you quickly and help high-risk Chicago drivers get back on the road legally.
Q: What are the penalties for driving without insurance in Illinois?
A: Driving uninsured in Illinois can result in hefty fines and a suspended license. For a first offense, you may face at least a $500 fine, and repeat violations bring higher penalties along with longer license suspension periods. It’s always safer (and cheaper in the long run) to carry at least the minimum required insurance rather than risk these penalties.
Get a Quote Today!
Insure on the Spot has decades of experience helping Chicago drivers find the cheapest car insurance. We understand Illinois insurance laws and the unique factors that affect your rates in the city. Don’t pay more than you have to for coverage – call 773-202-5060 or get a free quote online today to start saving on your auto insurance.