Car insurance costs often differ between men and women. In 2025, men generally pay more for car insurance than women, especially younger male drivers. Insurance companies set premiums based on risk, and statistics show men are more likely to take risks behind the wheel. These risky behaviors include speeding, not wearing seatbelts, and driving under the influence (DUI).
But gender is only one piece of the puzzle. Insurance rates also depend on other factors such as age, driving record, credit score, the type of vehicle, where you live, and how often you drive. Sometimes, a woman might pay more than a man if she drives a sports car or has a poor driving history.
Why Does Gender Affect Auto Insurance Rates?
Insurance companies calculate premiums mainly based on risk. The higher the risk of accidents or claims, the higher the cost of insurance. Studies by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) show men engage more often in dangerous driving habits than women. Men are also more likely to be involved in serious crashes or die in accidents. For example, in 2022, 14,062 men died in car crashes compared to 5,489 women.
Younger men especially have more accidents and higher claims, which means insurance companies pay more for repairs and medical bills. These costs then raise their insurance premiums.
State Rules on Using Gender for Insurance Rates
Most states allow insurance companies to use gender when setting rates. However, six states — California, Hawaii, Massachusetts, Michigan, North Carolina, and Pennsylvania — have banned gender-based pricing. These states also restrict insurers from using other personal factors like age, education, or credit score. Instead, insurers must rely more on driving history, claims, and location to set premiums.
Opponents of gender-based pricing say drivers with the same record should pay the same rate, regardless of gender.
Who Pays More: Men or Women?
Overall, men usually pay more for car insurance. Data from The Zebra shows men pay about 1% to 4% more nationwide. This gap is wider for teenagers and drivers under 25. However, in some states such as Florida, New York, Oklahoma, Oregon, and Washington, D.C., women sometimes pay more than men. This reflects that many factors beyond gender influence insurance costs.
Both men and women tend to see their premiums rise once they reach their 70s.
Other Factors That Influence Car Insurance Rates
Besides gender, many other things affect how much you pay:
Driving history: Tickets, accidents, and DUIs can raise rates regardless of gender.
Age: Young and inexperienced drivers pay more; premiums tend to drop with age but rise again after 70.
Marital status: Married drivers often get lower rates.
Location: City dwellers may pay more due to traffic and theft risks.
Vehicle type: Sports cars and luxury vehicles usually cost more to insure.
Credit score: Higher credit scores can reduce premiums in states where this factor is allowed.
Vehicle use: More miles driven means higher chances of accidents, increasing premiums.
Coverage levels: More coverage or lower deductibles lead to higher costs.
How to Save on Car Insurance — Tips for Everyone
Here are some ways to lower your car insurance, no matter your gender:
Try usage-based insurance: Some insurers track your driving habits. Safe drivers may get discounts, but risky behavior could increase your rates.
Use available discounts: These include bundling policies, loyalty, good student status, defensive driving courses, paying in full, and having safety features on your car.
Shop around: Compare quotes from different companies regularly to find better deals.
Adjust deductibles and coverage: Higher deductibles and lower coverage limits can reduce premiums but increase your out-of-pocket risk.
Think carefully before dropping full coverage: If you still owe money on your car, full coverage is often required. Even if not, it may be wise to keep it unless your car’s value is very low.
Drive safely: Avoid tickets, accidents, and claims to keep premiums down.
Improve your credit score: In states that use credit for pricing, a better score can lower your rates.
FAQs
Which gender usually pays more for car insurance?
Men, especially teens and young adults, generally pay more because they take more risks and file costlier claims. Some states, however, ban gender-based pricing.
Why might women pay more sometimes?
If a woman drives a high-risk or expensive-to-repair vehicle, she may face higher premiums than a man with a safer car and record.
Why do insurers charge men more?
Because men statistically take more risks like speeding and DUI, and suffer more fatal crashes, insurers charge them more to cover higher costs.
Final Thoughts
Gender can influence your car insurance rates, but it is just one of many factors. Your driving habits, age, location, vehicle type, credit score, and marital status all matter. On average, men pay more due to higher risk, but the difference varies by state and individual profile.
To find the best deal, always compare quotes from several insurers and consider discounts. Safe driving and good financial habits are your best tools to keep premiums low—no matter your gender.
