Best Car Insurance in Montana for 2025 [MT Top 10 Company Ranking]

Farmers, Allstate, and Progressive offer the best car insurance in Montana for as low as $14 a month.

This guide breaks down everything Montana drivers need to know, including how state minimum requirements affect your policy, tips for getting coverage in rural areas, and ways to save if you’re a young or senior driver.

Our Top 10 Company Picks: Best Car Insurance in Montana

It also covers average rates by city, driving history, and credit score, along with insights into Montana’s at-fault accident laws.

The best way to secure the cheapest car insurance companies in Montana is to compare multiple quotes to make sure you’re getting the best value for your needs.

Get the right car insurance at the best price — enter your ZIP code to shop for coverage from the top insurers.

#1 – Farmers: Top Overall Pick

Pros

• Customized Coverage: Montana drivers receive tailored insurance coverages with Farmers’ personalized service options that adapt to individual driving habits.
• Strong Claims Handling: Farmers car insurance reviews show that claims processing in Montana consistently receives positive feedback from rural and urban policyholders alike.
• Bundling Benefits: Montana residents save up to 20% when combining home and auto policies, offsetting the $164 full coverage premium cost.

Cons

• Premium Costs: Farmers’ minimum coverage at $45 monthly ranks among the more expensive options for Montana drivers seeking basic protection only.
• Limited Online Resources: Montana customers sometimes struggle with Farmers’ digital tools when managing policies in remote areas of the state.

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#2 – Allstate: Best for Full Coverage

Pros

• Accident Forgiveness: Montana drivers benefit from Allstate’s forgiveness program, which prevents rate increases after your first accident within the state.
• Local Agent Network: Our Allstate car insurance review highlights their strong presence across Montana with agents who understand regional driving challenges.
• Vanishing Deductible: Montana policyholders can reduce their deductibles by $100 annually for each claim-free year, making the $154 full coverage worthwhile.

Cons

• Higher Premiums: Montana residents with poor credit face significantly higher rates with Allstate, reaching up to $470 monthly.
• Mobile App Limitations: The Allstate app experiences occasional connectivity issues in Montana’s remote mountainous regions, where service is spotty.

#3 – Progressive: Best for Competitive Rates

Pros

• Snapshot Program: Montana drivers can earn personalized discounts based on actual driving habits through Progressive’s telematics monitoring system.
• Name Your Price Tool: Progressive car insurance reviews consistently praise this unique feature, helping Montana residents find coverage matching their budget constraints.
• Pet Injury Coverage: Montana’s outdoor enthusiasts appreciate Progressive’s inclusion of pet protection when animals travel in covered vehicles during adventures.

Cons

• Claims Satisfaction: Some Montana customers report longer-than-average claim resolution times, particularly in the state’s more remote western regions.
• Premium Increases: Montana drivers with accidents face steep jumps from $47 minimum to potentially $171 full coverage after filing claims.

#4 – American Family: Best for Customer Focus

Pros

• KnowYourDrive Discount: American Family car insurance reviews suggest that Montana drivers can save up to 20%  through its usage-based insurance program.
• Dreams Restored Program: Montana vehicle owners receive guaranteed OEM parts during repairs, maintaining higher resale values across the state.
• Affordable Coverage Options: Montana residents appreciate the reasonable $34 minimum and $125 full coverage monthly rates for quality protection.

Cons

• Limited Coverage Area: In some rural Montana communities, fewer American Family agents are available for in-person consultation and policy adjustments.
• Weather-Related Claims: Montana’s severe winter conditions sometimes lead to slower claim processing during peak storm seasons.

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#5 – Travelers: Best for Financial Stability

Pros

• IntelliDrive Program: Montana drivers receive up to 20% off premiums when demonstrating safe driving habits through Travelers’ monitoring technology.
• Premier Service: Travelers car insurance review showcases exceptional roadside assistance coverage across Montana’s vast and sometimes isolated highways.
• Financial Strength: Montana policyholders gain peace of mind with Travelers’ A++ rating while paying just $111 monthly for full coverage.

Cons

• Complex Policy Structure: Montana customers sometimes find Travelers’ coverage options and policy documents overly complicated and difficult to understand.
• Customer Service Inconsistency: Travelers’ support quality varies depending on which Montana regional office handles your policy inquiries or claims.

#6 – Nationwide: Best for Flexible Policies

Pros

• SmartRide Discount: Nationwide car insurance review highlights how Montana drivers can earn up to 40% off by allowing driving habit monitoring.
• Accident Forgiveness Option: Montana policyholders can add protection against rate increases after their first at-fault accident anywhere in the state.
• Vanishing Deductible: Safe drivers throughout Montana can reduce their collision deductible by $100 annually, down to $88 for full coverage.

Cons

• Limited Agent Availability: Montana’s less populated regions have fewer Nationwide agents, making personal consultations difficult for rural residents.
• Mixed Customer Feedback: Some Montana drivers report dissatisfaction with claim handling speeds during busy winter accident seasons.

#7 – State Farm: Best for National Presence

Pros

• Drive Safe & Save: Montana drivers can earn up to 30% off premiums based on actual driving behaviors through State Farm’s telematics program.
• Strong Financial Rating: State Farm offers Montana drivers an A++ rating and $19 monthly minimum coverage. See our State Farm car insurance review for more details.
• Extensive Agent Network: Montana residents in both urban and rural areas have access to local State Farm representatives for personalized service.

Cons

• Limited Bundling Options: Montana customers report fewer discount opportunities when bundling multiple policies compared to some competitors.
• Digital Tools Limitations: State Farm’s technology sometimes lags behind competitors in Montana’s more remote areas with limited connectivity.

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#8 – Geico: Best for Affordable Rates

Pros

• Military Discount: Montana service members stationed at Malmstrom AFB receive special reduced rates through Geico’s military program (Read More: Geico Car Insurance Review).
• DriveEasy Program: Montana drivers can earn significant discounts by demonstrating safe driving habits through Geico’s mobile app monitoring system.
• Low Premiums: Montana residents appreciate Geico’s affordable $23 minimum coverage while maintaining an impressive A++ financial strength rating.

Cons

• Limited Local Presence: Montana has fewer Geico agents available for in-person consultations compared to companies with stronger physical presence.
• Claims Process Challenges: Some Montana policyholders report difficulties navigating Geico’s claims process during severe weather events across the state.

#9 – Liberty Mutual: Best for Comprehensive Coverage

Pros

• RightTrack Program: As mentioned in our Liberty Mutual car insurance review, Montana drivers can save up to 30% with its usage-based program that tracks driving habits.
• New Car Replacement: Montana vehicle owners receive replacement coverage for totaled cars less than one year old with under 15,000 miles.
• Affordable Options: Montana residents benefit from Liberty Mutual’s surprisingly low $16 minimum and $59 full coverage monthly premium rates.

Cons

• Customer Satisfaction Issues: Montana also had a high complaint rate of 5.95 per 1,000 vehicles, which could be complaints regarding services.
• Coverage Exclusions: Some Montana policyholders discover unexpected coverage limitations when filing claims for specific types of accidents or damage.

#10 – USAA: Best for Military Focus

Pros

• Military Expertise: USAA car insurance review shows an exceptional understanding of Montana’s military community needs with specialized coverage options.
• Competitive Pricing: Montana military families benefit from USAA’s impressively low $14 minimum and $50 full coverage monthly premium rates.
• Deployment Discounts: Montana service members receive reduced rates during overseas deployments while vehicles remain stored on or off base.

Cons

• Limited Branch Locations: Montana has no physical USAA offices, requiring members to handle all transactions online or by phone.
• Membership Restrictions: Montana residents without military connections cannot access USAA’s excellent rates and highly-rated coverage options.

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Montana’s Car Insurance Rates by Company

When comparing car insurance quotes in Montana, it’s clear that rates vary significantly depending on the provider and level of coverage. USAA and Liberty Mutual offer the cheapest liability car insurance in Montana, with minimum coverage at $14 and $16 per month, respectively, appealing to drivers seeking cheap car insurance in Montana.

Montana Car Insurance Monthly Rates by Provider & Coverage Level

However, while low-cost options exist, it can be bad to just carry minimum coverage car insurance, especially considering how much full coverage can protect against Montana’s rural road risks.

For those wondering how much car insurance is in Montana, full coverage options range from $50 at USAA to $171 at Progressive.

Choosing the right provider involves balancing affordability with protection that fits your lifestyle and driving conditions.

Factors Affecting Car Insurance Rates in MT

Understanding Montana car insurance quotes starts with knowing how rates vary across regions, driving profiles, and providers. Top Montana car insurance companies adjust premiums based on age, credit, commute, and ZIP code.

Learn how auto insurance quotes in Montana change by driving record or provider. Explore key factors that affect car insurance rates and compare costs from top insurers to find the most affordable option for your needs.

A good credit score can help you qualify for an affordable insurance rate, while poor credit may significantly raise your premiums, making it harder to find cheap auto insurance in Montana.

Montana Car Insurance Monthly Rates by Credit History

Your driving history also plays a major role in determining the cost of auto insurance in Montana. Clean records lead to lower rates, while violations like DUIs cause significant increases.

Montana Car Insurance Monthly Rates by Driving Record

Aside from driving behavior, commute distance can affect your car insurance quote in Montana because longer daily drives may increase your risk of accidents, though many insurers in the state charge the same rate regardless of mileage.

Commute Distances Auto Insurance Monthly Rates in Montana by Provider

ZIP codes influence Montana car insurance rates through factors related to traffic and crime. Compare your ZIP code’s average rates and see which local insurers recommend it.

In Montana, age greatly affects car insurance rates, with 17-year-olds paying the most due to inexperience, while rates drop with age; gender has little impact, as males and females pay nearly identical premiums, especially by age 60.

The tables show how driving habits, coverage levels, and credit scores can sharply raise the average cost of car insurance in Montana.

Key risk factors like DUIs and accidents have the biggest impact on Montana auto insurance premiums, potentially increasing rates by up to 35%. This helps Montana drivers understand what behaviors to avoid to keep premiums low.

Discount Options for the Best Car Insurance in Montana

Car insurance companies in Montana offer various discounts designed to help drivers lower their car insurance costs effectively. Common discounts include bundling policies (home and auto), safe driver rewards, and multi-vehicle savings.

Auto Insurance Discounts From Top Montana Providers

For example, Liberty Mutual offers up to 35% off for anti-theft devices, while State Farm provides a 35% discount for good students. Geico and American Family both offer 25% discounts for bundling and safe driving.

Understanding and leveraging these discounts can significantly reduce your premium, making it essential to compare offers from top providers like Allstate, Farmers, and USAA to find the best savings tailored to your situation.

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Minimum Coverage Requirements for the Best Car Insurance in Montana

Montana is an at-fault state, meaning the driver who causes an accident is financially responsible. Choosing coverage from the best car insurance companies helps protect you from costly out-of-pocket expenses if you’re at fault. Without proper coverage, you could face significant financial liability. Montana requires a minimum liability coverage of 25/50/20, which includes:

• $25,000 for injury or death of one person in an accident you cause
• $50,000 for total injuries or deaths of multiple people
• $20,000 for property damage

These are the state minimums, but many drivers opt for higher limits or additional coverage to ensure better financial protection in the event of a serious accident. The average annual cost of different types of coverage in Montana is outlined in the table below:

Average Monthly Car Insurance Costs in Montana by Coverage Type

Choosing higher liability limits or adding collision and comprehensive coverage can increase your premium, but significantly reduce your out-of-pocket expenses after an accident, theft, or natural disaster.

Read More: Collision vs. Comprehensive Car Insurance

Forms of Financial Responsibility

Montana law requires drivers to carry a minimum level of liability insurance and maintain proof of financial responsibility, such as a valid insurance identification card.

Montana has a web-based verification system (MTIVS), so citizens don’t need to carry physical proof of insurance while driving. If you’re pulled over, law enforcement can access MTIVS to verify your minimum liability insurance.

This does not apply to out-of-state drivers, who must carry physical proof of financial responsibility (e.g., insurance ID card or policy copy).

Driving without minimum insurance coverage results in a misdemeanor charge.

This misdemeanor, even for a first offense, carries a fine of $250 to $500 and up to 10 days in jail. To avoid this, ensure you have at least the minimum insurance coverage in Montana. Additionally, consider bundling policies, maintaining a clean driving record, and utilizing available discounts to reduce your car insurance costs.

Read More: Bodily Injury Liability Coverage

Premiums as a Percentage of Income

Per capita disposable income affects car insurance premiums. Here’s what it means and how it impacts your rates.

Disposable income is post-tax earnings. Per capita disposable income is the average post-tax income for individuals within a population, such as Montana residents.

966-Montana-Disposable-Income-2019-10-24.csv

Montana’s average disposable income is $36,041, and the annual cost of full coverage car insurance is $868.55, which is 2.41% of the average income. State law requires minimum liability coverage.

Montana’s average disposable income is $36,041, and the annual cost of full coverage car insurance is $868.55, which is 2.41% of the average income. State law requires minimum liability coverage.

Read More: How much insurance do I need for my car?

Add-ons, Endorsements, and Riders

When searching for the best car insurance in Montana, many prioritize affordability. Additional coverage includes medical payments (MedPay) and uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage.

Montana’s uninsured motorist rate is 9.90%, ranking 33rd in the U.S., emphasizing the need for added liability protection.

941-391-Additional-Liability-Coverage-in-Montana-2019-07-24.csv-2019-10-24.csv

The table above shows loss ratios for add‑on coverages. Balanced ratios indicate fair pricing; ratios that are too low or too high signal overcharging or premium hikes. Med Pay and U/UIM maintain solid ratios.

Cheap extra coverage options may be available, providing more protection at lower costs. Check below for options your provider may offer to save while staying covered:

• Gap Insurance: This covers the difference between your car’s actual cash value and the remaining loan or lease balance if your vehicle is totaled.
• PUP (Personal Umbrella Policy): Offers extra liability protection beyond standard auto policy limits, ideal for high-asset drivers.
• Rental Reimbursement & Roadside Assistance: Pays for a rental car during repairs and provides emergency towing, battery jumpstarts, or lockout service.
• Mechanical Breakdown Insurance: Helps pay for repairs not caused by accidents, like engine or transmission failure, similar to an extended warranty.
• Specialty Coverage: Includes non-owner insurance for occasional drivers, modified car coverage for custom parts, and classic car insurance for vintage vehicle protection.

Exploring these affordable add-ons can enhance your policy without breaking the bank, keeping you covered with the different types of car insurance coverage that match your unique driving needs in Montana.

Key Montana Laws Every Driver Should Know

Montana’s car insurance laws are unique compared with all other states. Learn about them to keep you in compliance, avoid hassle, and know how car insurance works.

High-Risk Insurance

Drivers with poor records often face coverage denials from Montana insurers, making it difficult to find affordable policies. Explore high-risk car insurance options, as this is one of the things that can raise your premiums.

Montana offers the Montana Automobile Insurance Plan (MAIP) for high-risk drivers unable to secure voluntary coverage. This plan ensures they still have access to insurance.

All providers in Montana are required to participate in the Montana All-Payer Initiative Program (MAIP). Once accepted, you are assigned a provider who must offer at least the minimum coverage; however, they can set the rates as they see fit.

It’s recommended to use the MAIP only if no other options are available. Using it to find the lowest rate may actually lead to higher costs.

This high-risk insurance plan is part of the Western Association of Automobile Insurance Plans (WAAIP), a group of states offering similar coverage.

Car Insurance Fraud in Montana

According to the Insurance Information Institute (III), property and casualty fraud results in an annual loss of approximately $30 billion. This type of fraud is considered a criminal offense across the United States.

Car insurance fraud occurs when an individual deceives an insurer to receive benefits or payments they’re not entitled to. This can increase car insurance costs for everyone, impacting your average monthly premium.

Insurance fraud is basically when someone intentionally hides or twists facts, helps others cheat the system, or submits fake claims.

Penalties:

• Class B felony (value > $20,000): Imprisonment for a period not exceeding 10 years and/or a fine of up to $25,000.
• Class C felony (value > $300): Imprisonment for a period not exceeding 5 years in prison and/or a fine of up to $10,000.
• Misdemeanor (value ≤ $300): Imprisonment for a period not exceeding 1 year and/or a fine of up to $2,000.

Avoiding fraud protects you from serious legal penalties such as fines, license suspension, or even jail time. It also helps keep car insurance premiums fair and affordable for all drivers by reducing false claims that drive up costs.

Statute of Limitations

The statute of limitations is the deadline to file a claim or lawsuit after an accident. This deadline protects both parties. Understanding how to file a car insurance claim after an accident ensures you don’t miss your opportunity for legal action or compensation. In Montana, you have three years to file a personal injury claim and two years to file a property damage claim.

Montana law outlines nine exceptions to this limitation. File your claims within the allowed timeframe to stay compliant.

Montana’s Vehicle Licensing Laws

Just as car insurance laws exist, vehicle licensing laws do, too. Let’s review some major laws you should be aware of in Montana, including fines for driving without a license.

Penalties for Driving Without Insurance

If you’re caught without insurance in Montana, the state’s web-based system can detect it, leading to penalties.

• First Offense – $250–$500 fine and/or up to 10 days in jail
• Second Offense – $350 fine and/or up to 10 days in jail; if within five years, license and registration are revoked until proof of insurance and fees are submitted within 90 days

You need car insurance to avoid significant penalties in Montana, such as fines, license suspension, or vehicle impoundment. Securing the best car insurance ensures you’re protected with reliable coverage while driving.

Teen Driver Laws

Before your teen begins driving in Montana, it’s crucial to ensure they comply with the state’s Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) laws and meet all insurance requirements.

Montana Teen Driver Licensing Laws

Teen drivers are high-risk, and failing to meet insurance requirements can result in fines, suspension, and long-term financial consequences.

Read More: Common Risks Faced by Teen Drivers

License Renewal Procedures

In Montana, drivers are required to renew their licenses every eight years. Failure to renew on time can result in penalties, including fines.

955-410-Older-Driver-and-General-Population-Renewal-Procedures-Montana-2019-07-24.csv-2019-10-24.csv

You may receive a ticket for driving without a valid license, so keep your license up to date to avoid legal trouble.

Read More: Can I get car insurance without a license?

New Residents

If you are new to Montana, there are a few things you’ll want to be aware of:

• Apply for a Montana driver’s license within 60 days of establishing residency.
• Visit the Montana DMV to get your new driver’s license.
• If you have a valid license from another state, you may need to pass a written road and vision test, unless waived.

New residents in Montana must update their driver’s license and vehicle registration within 60 days of moving to the state. This is also a good time to explore car insurance companies when planning to buy car insurance to ensure your coverage meets Montana’s legal requirements and provides the protection you need.

Negligent Operator Treatment System (NOTS)

Montana follows comparative negligence in driving accidents. If you’re in an accident, the fault is determined, and if the other driver is at least 51% responsible, they must pay damages. If you’re 51% or more at fault, the case won’t proceed.

If you’ve found 10% at fault, the other driver will pay damages, but 10% will be deducted from your settlement. For example, if you seek $1,000, you’ll receive $900.

Read More: Car Accident Preparedness

Rules of the Road

Know the road rules before driving. They help ensure safety, prevent damage, and protect your insurance. Follow them and carry proper coverage to stay compliant.

Read More: Safe Driving Tips

Fault vs. No-Fault

Montana is an “at-fault accident” state, meaning you are responsible for paying if you are at fault. Minimum liability coverage may leave you facing significant financial challenges in the event of a serious accident.

Read More: What’s the Difference: No-Fault vs. Tort Car Insurance

Keep Right and Move Over Laws

Keep Right laws require slower traffic to stay in the right lane, with four exceptions. Move laws mandate changing lanes or slowing down when passing emergency or stopped vehicles. Following these rules enhances roadway safety and may help lower your insurance rates. These practices are key to understanding how to drive safely, no matter the time of day.

Speed Limits

Montana speed limits are as follows:

• Rural Interstates: 80 mph
• Urban Interstates: 65 mph
• Limited Access Roads: 70 mph
• Other Roads: 65 mph

Speeding violations can raise your insurance rates. Keeping within the speed limit not only improves safety but also helps maintain lower premiums.

Read More: What is a traffic citation?

Seatbelt and Car Seat Laws

Montana law requires children five years old or younger or weighing less than 60 pounds to be in a child safety seat. Vehicle insurance is essential for protecting you and your passengers in the event of an accident. Children six years and older, weighing more than 60 pounds, can sit in adult seats but must wear seatbelts.

Anyone caught not following this rule will face a base fine of $100 plus additional fees. Taking a defensive driving course can help lower insurance rates and improve driving skills to avoid costly penalties.

Read More: How Your Children Will Impact Your Car Insurance Policy

Ridesharing

Ridesharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have gained popularity, offering flexible work options for drivers.

While Montana’s rural nature means these services are less common than in more densely populated states, they still operate, with companies like Farmers offering rideshare insurance for drivers seeking additional coverage.

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Safety Laws

Let’s examine Montana’s safety laws, which are designed to prevent unsafe driving. Understanding these laws can help you avoid violations or points that may affect your insurance premiums and driving privileges.

Read More: Safe Driving Means Checking Your Bad Attitude at the Car Door

DUI Laws

Montana’s DUI laws result in fines, license suspension, and potential jail time for offenders.

Montana DUI Laws

If you’re a high-risk driver in Montana, you can still get car insurance by learning about your options and figuring out what coverage you need, even if your driving record isn’t perfect.

Marijuana-Impaired Driving Regulations

Montana’s strict DUI laws set a THC limit of five nanograms per milliliter of blood. Violations can lead to fines, license suspension, and additional penalties for driving without insurance. It’s essential to know your rights when you get pulled over.

Distracted Driving Laws

Montana is one of the few states without laws banning the use of handheld devices while driving, according to the IIHS. However, some cities and counties have their own bans. Check the map below for details.

In this final section, we’ll cover essential facts and statistics, including the impact of distracted driving on your driving record and insurance rates.

Vehicle Theft Rates in Montana

Vehicle theft in Montana remains a serious concern, especially for full-size pickups from Chevrolet, Ford, and Dodge. These theft trends can impact premiums, particularly for high-risk models. Based on an FBI study in Montana, we have compiled a list of the most frequently stolen vehicles in the state, along with the number of thefts by city.

Most Stolen Vehicles in Montana

Drivers owning frequently stolen vehicles may pay more unless they shop smart. Comparing Montana’s cheap auto insurance options can help offset higher rates. Also, choosing the best car insurance by vehicle ensures coverage is tailored to your car’s risk profile, offering peace of mind and potential savings despite regional theft trends.

Fatal Crashes in Montana

Choosing the best car insurance in Montana isn’t just about price—it’s about protection on unpredictable and often dangerous roads. From rural highways to mountain passes, Montana drivers face significant risks from weather, poor lighting, and impaired driving. Reviewing Montana auto insurance quotes can help you balance affordability with the coverage you need to stay protected.

Montana roads are especially deadly under dark and stormy conditions. While most fatal crashes happen in clear weather and daylight, a troubling number still occur in darkness or poor visibility. Given the high number of fatalities—186 in one year alone—Montana drivers should consider full coverage policies.

Montana Traffic Fatalities by Weather and Light Conditions

Of those, 143 were passenger vehicle occupants, 23 were motorcyclists, 14 were pedestrians, and one was a bicyclist. Drivers were involved in 228 fatal incidents, underscoring the need for strong liability and medical coverage. Crash patterns reveal that 139 fatalities involved roadway departures, and 90 involved rollovers.

Traffic Fatalities

Single-vehicle accidents accounted for 116 deaths, while speeding contributed to 59, and large trucks were involved in 22. These real-world risks make both collision and comprehensive coverage essential for Montana drivers.

Montana Fatalities by Person Type

Most victims—144 in total—were occupants of enclosed vehicles, followed by 23 motorcyclists and 14 nonoccupants. In rural areas, where roadside assistance is less accessible, choosing policies that include towing, emergency repairs, and other key protections is crucial.

Fatal crashes have gradually increased in counties with growing populations. Between 2018 and 2022, deaths rose in Missoula (from 15 to 18), Flathead (13 to 17), and Yellowstone (18 to 22).

Montana County Traffic Fatalities

More recent data shows Yellowstone, Flathead, and Gallatin counties each had 10 or more fatalities in 2023 and 2024, reinforcing the need for county-specific insurance consideration. Speed and alcohol remain major factors.

Montana County Traffic Fatalities

If you have prior violations or a high-risk profile, some insurers still offer affordable Montana auto insurance, especially if they provide options like accident forgiveness or good driver discounts. Montana also ranks worst in the U.S. for teen alcohol-related fatalities.

Alcohol-Involved Crash Fatalities in Montana by County

For families with young drivers, it’s critical to choose policies that offer teen safety programs and usage-based tracking. In recent years, counties like Gallatin, Big Horn, and Glacier have seen steady rises in fatal teen crashes. Alcohol-impaired driving remains a serious issue, with Montana recording 3.0 alcohol-related deaths per 100,000 people, more than double the national average.

Among minors, there were 42 DUI arrests, or about 184.53 per million residents under 18, emphasizing the need for strong teen driving protections. In rural Montana, it can take over 59 minutes from the time of a crash to hospital arrival, compared to 35 minutes in urban areas.

Drivers in remote regions are especially vulnerable, making emergency medical and personal injury protection (PIP) vital additions to any policy.

Read More: 10 Worst States for Daylight Saving Time Fatal Crashes (New Study)

Transportation Situation in Montana: Car Ownership & Commute Time

Keep reading for facts and statistics on transportation in Montana, along with insights on the best car insurance companies to meet your needs.

According to Data USA, the average number of vehicles owned per household in Montana is two. The bar chart below visually supports the statement that most Montana households own two vehicles. In both 2013 and 2016, the highest share of households fell into the “2 cars” category, peaking at over 40% in 2016.

This confirms that two-car ownership is the norm in Montana. Additionally, a notable portion of households owns three or more vehicles, reflecting the state’s rural landscape and limited public transportation options, which often require families to rely more heavily on personal vehicles for daily travel.

Montanans can take comfort in the fact that, according to Data USA, the average commute time in the state is just 16.9 minutes, well below the national average of 25.5 minutes. See the chart below:

This shorter commute, often aided by carpooling, is a welcome advantage for drivers across the state.

Companies With the Best Ratings & Most Complaints

An A.M. Best rating offers a clear view of a company’s financial health, much like how a loss ratio indicates its financial stability.

Largest Companies' Financial Rating in Montana

A higher rating indicates better financial health, which is important when selecting the best car insurance companies. J.D. Power conducted a study comparing customer satisfaction ratings across all regions in the nation and ranked them by region.

J.D. Power Car Insurance Study

Montana is in the northwest region. Some top-rated Montana insurers also have high complaint counts; here are the companies with the most grievances.

Auto Insurance Complaint Ratios by Company

If you’re unhappy with your insurer, our car insurance guide can help you find a better option.

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Largest Car Insurance Companies in Montana

Discover the best and cheapest car insurance companies in Montana by market share, recognized for their reliable coverage and quality service. Find out which insurers dominate the state’s market and stand out among the top providers.

Car Insurance Companies in Montana by Market Share

Compare Montana’s largest car insurance companies by market share. These top providers offer reliable coverage and strong service across the state.

Number of Insurers by State

Insurance companies fall into two categories: domestic and foreign. Knowing the difference can help you choose the right coverage, especially when negotiating a car accident settlement and filing a claim.

• Domestic Provider: An insurer operating only within the state where it offers coverage, often smaller or local.
• Foreign Provider: An insurer operating in multiple states, such as Allstate or Geico.

The table below shows the number of domestic and foreign insurers in Montana.

The best car insurance in Montana varies depending on the provider, individual coverage needs, and state regulations.

Shopping With the Best Car Insurance Companies in Montana

Choosing the best Montana auto insurance company requires balancing affordability with quality coverage. Three companies lead the market: Farmers is known for excellent claims handling, providing reliable support when you need it most.

Allstate offers accident forgiveness, helping drivers avoid premium increases after their first accident. Progressive stands out with competitive rates and an A+++ A.M. Best rating, reflecting its strong financial stability and reliability.

Montana’s challenging conditions—from harsh winters to remote highways—demand comprehensive protection. By comparing quotes from these top providers, you can get cheap full coverage car insurance while ensuring adequate protection for Big Sky State risks. Enter your ZIP code into our free comparison tool to see how much car insurance costs in your area.