Consumer Reports’ Best Home & Auto Insurance Picks

Finding the right insurance shouldn’t feel like guesswork. The truth is, the best policy for you depends entirely on your personal priorities. Are you looking for the absolute lowest price, exceptional customer service that makes you feel valued, or the convenience of a top-notch mobile app? Some insurers are known for their budget-friendly rates, while others have built a reputation on white-glove service. To help you find your perfect match, we’re taking a closer look at what makes the top providers different. We’ll use trusted insights to examine the consumer reports best home and auto insurance companies, giving you a clear picture of your options so you can choose with confidence.

Key Takeaways

Define Your Priorities Before You Shop: The right insurer for you depends on what you value most. Decide if your top priority is the lowest price, exceptional customer service, or the guidance of a local agent to narrow down your options and find the perfect match.
Evaluate a Company’s True Value, Not Just Its Price: A low premium means little if the company fails you during a claim. Look into a provider’s reputation for claims handling and customer support to ensure you’re choosing a reliable partner who will be there when it matters.
Compare Apples to Apples for the Best Coverage: To find the best deal, compare quotes with the same coverage limits and deductibles. Understanding key details, like insuring for your home’s replacement cost instead of its market value, ensures you get the protection you actually need.

Who Has the Best Home and Auto Insurance? A Look at the Top-Rated Companies

Finding the “best” home and auto insurance isn’t about picking one name off a list. The right company for you depends entirely on your priorities. Are you looking for the lowest possible price, white-glove customer service, or the convenience of a great mobile app? Some insurers excel in one area, while others offer a more balanced approach. To help you get started, we’ve put together a look at some of the most highly-rated companies, each known for excelling in different ways. This will give you a clear picture of your options, from trusted local experts to national powerhouses.

Feld Insurance: Your Trusted Local Choice

While the big national brands have massive advertising budgets, there’s something invaluable about working with a local agent who knows your community. At Feld Insurance, we pride ourselves on providing personalized insurance solutions tailored to the specific needs of our neighbors in Springfield and East Peoria. Instead of navigating a call center, you get a direct line to an expert who understands local risks, from Illinois weather patterns to neighborhood-specific concerns. We take the time to get to know you, answer your questions clearly, and build a policy that truly protects what matters most. It’s a different kind of insurance experience—one built on trust and community.

USAA: For Military Members and Their Families

If you or a close family member has served in the military, USAA should be at the top of your list. The company consistently receives some of the highest marks in the industry for customer satisfaction and claims handling. USAA is known for its exceptional service and competitive rates, but its biggest differentiator is its unwavering focus on the military community. This shared connection often translates into a level of understanding and support that’s hard to find elsewhere. Keep in mind that USAA has strict eligibility rules, so you’ll need to confirm you qualify before getting a quote.

Amica: Known for Premium Service

If you believe you get what you pay for and prioritize outstanding customer service above all else, Amica is a fantastic choice. While its rates may not always be the absolute lowest, Amica has built a stellar reputation for its attentive and hassle-free claims process. Customers frequently praise the company for its professionalism and empathy, especially during stressful situations. According to J.D. Power’s annual studies, Amica consistently ranks among the best for customer satisfaction, making it a go-to for anyone who wants peace of mind knowing they’ll be well taken care of when they need it most.

State Farm: A Reliable Nationwide Provider

As one of the largest insurance providers in the country, State Farm offers a powerful combination of nationwide reach and local agent availability. This makes it a reliable and accessible option for almost anyone. State Farm is particularly well-regarded for its bundling discounts, often providing significant savings when you combine home and auto policies. Their extensive network of agents means you can still get personal, face-to-face service if you prefer it over managing your policy online. For many, State Farm represents a dependable, one-stop shop for their primary insurance needs.

Geico: For Competitive Rates and Digital Ease

Geico has built its brand around two things: saving you money and making insurance simple. The company is known for its competitive rates, often coming in as one of the most affordable options for both home and auto coverage. Beyond price, Geico excels with its user-friendly digital platform. Their website and mobile app make it incredibly easy to get a quote, pay your bill, and even file a claim without ever needing to speak to someone on the phone. If you’re comfortable managing your accounts online and are focused on finding a great deal, Geico is a strong contender.

Progressive: Focused on Innovation and Flexibility

Progressive has a reputation for being an innovator in the insurance industry. The company is always testing new ways to give customers more control over their policies and pricing. Features like the Snapshot program, which rewards safe driving habits with discounts, and the “Name Your Price” tool show their commitment to flexibility. Progressive also offers a wide range of coverage options and discounts, making it easier to customize a policy that fits your specific lifestyle and budget. If you appreciate a modern approach and want tools that can help you save, Progressive is definitely worth a look.

How Does Consumer Reports Rate Insurance Companies?

When you’re looking for the right home or auto insurance, it’s smart to see what the experts have to say. Consumer Reports is one of the most trusted, unbiased sources out there because they don’t accept outside advertising. They buy all the products they test and base their ratings on rigorous research and feedback from thousands of real customers. So, when they rate an insurance company, it’s a big deal.

Their process isn’t just about finding the cheapest price. They look at the entire customer experience to determine which companies truly deliver on their promises. They focus on what matters most to you as a policyholder: how you’re treated when you need help, how clearly your policy is explained, and whether you’re getting good value for your money. Understanding their criteria can help you see why certain companies consistently make their top lists and what you should look for when choosing your own provider. At Feld Insurance, we believe an informed customer is an empowered one, so let’s break down exactly what goes into these influential ratings.

How They Handle Claims

Filing a claim is the moment of truth for your insurance policy. It’s often a stressful time, and the last thing you need is a difficult or slow process. Consumer Reports puts a huge emphasis on the claims experience in their ratings. They survey members about how satisfied they were with the outcome of their most recent claim, how quickly it was processed, and how efficient the company was from start to finish. A smooth claims process is a critical factor for both homeowners and auto insurance customers, and a high rating here shows a company is there for you when it counts.

The Quality of Their Customer Service

Beyond claims, your day-to-day interactions with an insurance company matter, too. Consumer Reports digs into the quality of customer service by asking members about their experiences. They want to know how easy it is to reach an agent, how helpful the staff is, and what the overall satisfaction level is with the service provided. The best car insurance companies, according to their research, are the ones that make you feel heard and valued. This rating is a strong indicator of an insurer’s commitment to its policyholders, not just as numbers on a spreadsheet, but as real people.

How Clear and Honest Are Their Policies?

Insurance policies can feel like they’re written in another language, but they don’t have to be. Transparency is a key factor in Consumer Reports’ evaluations. They analyze how well insurers communicate the terms and conditions of their coverage, making sure customers can easily understand what’s included and—just as importantly—what’s excluded. This kind of clarity is essential for building trust. You should never have to guess about what your policy covers. A company that prioritizes clear, honest communication is one that respects its customers and wants them to be confident in their coverage.

Fair Pricing and Overall Value

While price isn’t everything, it’s definitely a major consideration. Consumer Reports looks at pricing not just in terms of who is cheapest, but who provides the best overall value. They encourage everyone to shop around and compare quotes, but they also highlight that the top-tier insurance companies are those that balance competitive rates with excellent service and comprehensive coverage options. It’s about making sure you receive real, tangible value for your money. After all, a cheap policy isn’t a good deal if it doesn’t come through for you when you need it most.

What Makes These Top Insurance Companies Different?

When you’re shopping for insurance, it can feel like every company offers the same thing. But the best insurers stand out by delivering more than just a standard policy. They focus on making your life easier, supporting you when you need it most, and providing real value for your money. It’s these key differences that separate an average insurance provider from a great one. From flexible policies that fit your life to rewards for sticking around, here’s what sets the top companies apart.

Flexible Coverage Options

The best insurance companies understand that your needs are unique. They offer flexible options that let you build a policy that makes sense for you, rather than fitting you into a one-size-fits-all box. One of the most popular features is the ability to bundle your home and auto insurance. This simplifies everything by putting your policies under one roof with a single provider. Not only does it mean less paperwork and fewer accounts to manage, but it almost always comes with a significant discount. This kind of flexibility shows a company is focused on providing practical solutions that save you time and money.

Excellent Customer and Claims Support

A great price is important, but the true test of an insurance company is how they respond when you need to file a claim. Top-rated companies like USAA and Amica consistently earn high marks for their claims process and customer service. They are known for being responsive, attentive, and fair, which makes a stressful situation much more manageable. This is where having a trusted partner makes all the difference. You want an insurer who will be in your corner, ready to provide the trusted guidance you need to get back on your feet without unnecessary delays or complications.

Helpful Digital Tools and Apps

In a world where you can manage almost everything from your phone, insurance shouldn’t be an exception. Leading companies provide user-friendly apps and online portals that give you control over your policy. These digital tools let you pay your bill, view your policy documents, access digital ID cards, and even start a claim right from your smartphone. This convenience is a game-changer, giving you 24/7 access to your information without having to wait on hold. It’s a clear sign that a company respects your time and is invested in making your experience as smooth as possible.

Rewards for Loyalty

Feeling valued as a long-term customer is a great perk, and the best insurance companies make a point to reward loyalty. Some providers, like Amica, offer dividend policies that can return a portion of your premium back to you each year. This isn’t just a discount; it’s a share in the company’s success, creating a true partnership between you and your insurer. These programs show that a company is committed to building lasting relationships with its clients. When you’re looking for an insurer, ask about their loyalty programs—it’s a good indicator of how much they value their long-term customers.

Do Top-Rated Insurance Companies Have Eligibility Rules?

It can be frustrating to hear about a fantastic insurance company, only to find out you can’t even get a quote from them. The short answer is yes, many of the best-rated insurance companies have specific eligibility rules. These aren’t just about your driving record or the kind of house you own; they can be based on your profession, where you live, or even your family’s military history.

Think of these companies like exclusive clubs. They often maintain their high satisfaction ratings and competitive prices by insuring a very specific, lower-risk group of people. This allows them to offer great service and rates, but it also means their doors aren’t open to everyone. For example, some insurers only serve certain states, while others are built around specific professions or associations. This is one of the biggest reasons why working with an independent agent is so valuable. Instead of you having to research every company’s fine print, we can quickly identify which top-tier carriers you actually qualify for. It saves you time and helps you find the best possible coverage for your needs.

USAA’s Military Service Requirement

USAA consistently earns top marks for its customer service and claims handling, but its coverage is not available to the general public. As Consumer Reports notes, “USAA is exclusively available to military members, veterans, and their eligible family members.” This focus allows them to tailor their products and services specifically to the needs of the military community. If you or a direct family member has served in the armed forces, USAA is definitely a carrier to consider. Their reputation for outstanding service is well-deserved, making them a leading choice for those who qualify.

How Your Credit and Driving Record Matter

Beyond your profession or location, your personal history plays a huge role in determining your eligibility with certain insurers. Companies like Amica, another top-rated provider, are known for being selective. According to Consumer Reports, “Amica looks for homeowners and drivers with high credit scores and a clean record for the past three years.” This means no violations, accidents, or homeowners claims. Insurers use this information to assess risk—a clean record suggests you’re less likely to file a claim. While this can feel restrictive, it’s how these companies maintain their low rates. If your record isn’t perfect, don’t worry; there are still plenty of great options available.

Where You Live Can Limit Your Options

Sometimes, your eligibility simply comes down to your zip code. Many excellent insurance companies are regional, meaning they only operate in a handful of states. For instance, NJM is a highly-rated carrier, but as Consumer Reports points out, it “is only available to employees of qualifying member organizations in New Jersey or Pennsylvania.” This is common in the insurance world. Here in Illinois, we have our own set of regional carriers that might offer fantastic rates and service, but you wouldn’t know about them unless you were looking locally. This is where having a local agent who understands the Illinois market really pays off.

Restrictions Based on Your Job or Memberships

Your career or membership in certain organizations can also open doors to specific insurance providers. The most well-known example is USAA’s military requirement, but the rule has some flexibility. Some non-military federal employees, like those working for the FBI or DEA, can also apply for USAA coverage. Other companies offer special discounts or dedicated programs for teachers, first responders, or members of alumni associations and professional groups. It’s always worth checking if your employer or an organization you belong to has a partnership with an insurance carrier, as it could lead to better rates or specialized coverage.

How Can You Compare Quotes to Find the Best Deal?

Finding the right insurance policy can feel like a huge task, but a little preparation goes a long way. The key is to compare your options thoughtfully so you can find a plan that fits your life and your budget. Think of it less as a chore and more as a smart financial move. By looking at different quotes, you put yourself in control and ensure you’re not overpaying for the coverage you need. Let’s walk through a few simple steps to make the process easier and help you find the best possible deal for your home and auto insurance.

Get Your Information Ready Before You Shop

Before you start looking for quotes, take a few minutes to gather all the necessary information. This includes details like your driver’s license number, the vehicle identification number (VIN) for each car, and basic information about your home, such as its square footage and year built. Having everything in one place makes the process much smoother. As Consumer Reports points out, the best way to find the right coverage and price is to shop around and compare quotes. Being prepared helps you get accurate numbers from different companies, allowing for a true side-by-side comparison so you can make a confident decision.

Use Comparison Tools to Get Multiple Quotes

Online comparison tools can be a great starting point for your search. Websites like thezebra.com let you quickly get quotes from many different insurers at once, which saves a lot of time. While these tools are helpful for getting a general idea of costs, working with an independent agent can provide a more personalized experience. An agent can shop around on your behalf, explain the nuances between different policies, and help you find coverage that truly fits your specific needs in the Springfield or East Peoria area.

Understand Your Coverage Limits and Deductibles

It’s easy to focus only on the monthly premium, but it’s just as important to understand your coverage limits and deductibles. Your coverage limit is the maximum amount the insurance company will pay for a covered claim, while your deductible is the amount you pay out of pocket before your insurance kicks in. When it comes to homeowners insurance, Consumer Reports offers a key piece of advice: your policy should cover the cost to repair or rebuild your home, not its market value. Understanding this distinction is vital for making sure you have the right amount of homeowners insurance protection.

Find Every Discount and Bundling Opportunity

Don’t leave money on the table. Always ask about available discounts for things like being a safe driver, a good student, or having safety features in your home or car. One of the most effective ways to save is by bundling your policies. According to CNBC, buying both home and auto insurance from the same company can lead to significant discounts. This strategy doesn’t just save you money; it also simplifies your life by letting you manage your policies with a single provider. As Acrisure notes, bundling home and auto insurance is a smart financial move that offers both savings and convenience.

What Should You Expect from Customer Service and Claims?

Choosing an insurance company isn’t just about finding the lowest price; it’s about finding a partner who will be there for you when you actually need them. After all, a policy is just a promise. The real test comes when you file a claim. A great insurance provider makes this process as painless as possible, turning a stressful situation into a manageable one. According to Consumer Reports, most companies do a decent job, with about 91% of customers reporting satisfaction with their claims experience. But you deserve more than just “decent.” You should expect clear communication, a straightforward process, and dedicated support. Whether you prefer managing things through an app or talking to a real person, the best companies offer options that fit your life.

Quick and Clear Communication

When your car is damaged or your basement is flooded, the last thing you want is to be left in the dark. You should expect prompt and clear updates from your insurance company. This means someone should be available to answer your initial call, explain the next steps, and keep you informed as your claim progresses. You shouldn’t have to chase down your agent for information. A good provider will proactively reach out with updates, so you always know where things stand. This level of communication builds trust and gives you peace of mind, allowing you to focus on getting things back to normal instead of worrying about your claim.

A Smooth and Honest Claims Process

The claims process itself should feel straightforward, not like you’re trying to solve a puzzle. From the moment you file, the steps should be clearly laid out for you. Honesty is also non-negotiable. Your insurer should be transparent about what your policy covers and how your settlement is calculated. This is a key factor in how Consumer Reports rates insurance companies. A trustworthy provider won’t hide behind confusing jargon or complicated clauses. They will walk you through your coverage and ensure you receive a fair and timely resolution. The goal is to get you back on your feet, and a smooth, honest process is the quickest way to do that.

Easy-to-Use Apps and Online Support

In a world where you can manage almost everything from your phone, your insurance should be no different. Top insurance companies offer user-friendly apps and online portals that let you access your policy information, pay your bill, and even start a claim with just a few taps. These digital tools should be intuitive and genuinely helpful, making it simple to handle routine tasks on your own schedule. This convenience can also help you manage your policy more effectively, whether it’s updating your coverage or reviewing your deductibles. While technology can’t replace human connection, it can certainly make managing your insurance much simpler.

Access to a Local, Personal Agent

While digital tools are great for convenience, sometimes you just need to talk to a person. This is where having a local agent makes all the difference. Consumer Reports even recommends working with a local, independent agent to get the best service. A local agent understands the specific challenges and needs of your community. They’re not just a voice in a call center; they’re a trusted advisor who can offer personalized guidance and advocate for you during a claim. When you have a complex question or a difficult situation, having a direct line to someone you know and trust is invaluable.

What Are the Biggest Myths About Home and Auto Insurance?

Navigating the world of insurance can feel tricky, especially with so much conflicting advice out there. It’s easy to fall for common myths that sound true but could leave you without the protection you need. Let’s clear up some of the biggest misconceptions about home and auto insurance so you can make confident decisions. Understanding the truth behind these myths is the first step toward ensuring your policy truly has your back when you need it most. At Feld Insurance, we believe in empowering you with clear, honest information, so let’s separate fact from fiction.

Myth: Bundling always saves you money.

You’ve probably heard this one a thousand times: bundle your home and auto policies to save money. While it’s true that bundling often comes with a discount, it’s not a universal rule that it’s the cheapest option. Sometimes, two separate policies from different carriers can offer better coverage at a lower price. The insurance market is competitive, and what works for one person might not be the best fit for another. That’s why it’s so important to compare quotes from various companies instead of assuming a bundle is automatically the best deal. Taking a few extra minutes to shop around ensures you’re getting the right coverage at the best possible price.

Myth: A standard policy covers everything.

It’s a comforting thought—believing your standard homeowners policy is a catch-all for any disaster that comes your way. Unfortunately, this is a dangerous assumption. Most standard policies have specific exclusions for certain events. For example, damage from floods and earthquakes almost always requires a separate, specialized policy. Many people don’t realize this until it’s too late. It’s crucial to read your policy documents carefully and talk with your agent to understand exactly what is and isn’t covered. This helps you avoid gaps in coverage and add endorsements or separate policies where needed.

Myth: Your home’s market value is its replacement cost.

This is one of the most common and costly points of confusion for homeowners. The market value of your home is the price it would sell for, which includes the land it sits on. The replacement cost, however, is the estimated cost to rebuild your home from the ground up using similar materials if it were destroyed. Your insurance should cover the replacement cost, not the market value. Insuring for market value could leave you underinsured and unable to fully rebuild after a total loss. A homeowners insurance buying guide can help you understand this distinction and ensure your dwelling coverage is adequate.

Myth: Filing small claims won’t affect your rates.

It might seem harmless to file a claim for a minor repair, but it can have long-term consequences. Insurance companies track your claims history, and a pattern of frequent, small claims can signal to them that you are a higher-risk client. As a result, they might increase your premiums at renewal time or, in some cases, even choose not to renew your policy at all. Before filing a small claim, it’s a good idea to weigh the payout against the potential for a future rate hike. Sometimes, it makes more financial sense to handle minor repairs out of pocket to protect your rates down the road.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why should I consider a local agent when I can get a quote online in minutes? Getting an online quote is fast, but it’s based on an algorithm that can’t understand your unique situation. A local agent provides personalized advice and understands the specific risks in your community, from local weather patterns to neighborhood trends. They can answer your questions in plain English and act as your advocate if you ever need to file a claim. It’s the difference between a simple transaction and a lasting relationship with an expert who is truly in your corner.

Is the cheapest insurance policy always the best choice? While a low price is tempting, it’s only one part of the equation. The cheapest policies often come with higher deductibles, lower coverage limits, or a customer service team that’s hard to reach. The real value of your insurance is tested during a claim. Paying a little more for a policy from a company with a stellar reputation for service and claims handling can save you a significant amount of money and stress when you need support the most.

How do I know if I have enough coverage for my home? This is a critical question, and the answer lies in understanding “replacement cost.” You should insure your home for the amount it would cost to completely rebuild it from the ground up, not its market value or the price you paid for it. An experienced agent can help you calculate an accurate replacement cost by considering local construction prices and your home’s unique features, ensuring you won’t be left underinsured after a major loss.

If I have a perfect driving record, am I guaranteed the lowest rate? A clean driving record is a huge advantage, but it’s not the only thing insurers look at. Companies also consider factors like your credit history, the type of car you drive, your zip code, and even how long you’ve been with your previous carrier. Each insurer weighs these elements differently, which is why your quote can vary so much from one company to the next. A perfect record will certainly help you get a great rate, but it doesn’t guarantee it will be the absolute lowest with every provider.

What’s the single most important factor when choosing an insurer? The most important factor is the one that matters most to you. There isn’t one “best” company that fits everyone’s needs perfectly. If your priority is a seamless digital experience and a low price, a provider like Geico might be your top choice. If you value white-glove customer service and want peace of mind during a claim, you might prefer a company like Amica. The key is to first identify what you value most, which will make it much easier to find the insurer that aligns with your priorities.