Get FREE
Insurance Quotes
Fast auto insurance quote comparison.
See rates instantly.
Last Updated on January 2, 2026
Car insurance rates have climbed nationwide, and Arkansas drivers aren’t immune. Recent rate analysis estimates Arkansas averages about $502 per year for state-minimum coverage and $2,432 per year for full coverage (liability + comprehensive + collision). National averages are about $820 per year for minimum coverage and $2,697 per year for full coverage.
Those are just averages—your actual quote depends on your ZIP code, driving record, credit-based insurance score (where allowed), vehicle, and the coverages/deductibles you choose. The best way to find the best car insurance in Arkansas is to compare multiple quotes and make sure you’re buying the right coverage for your situation (not just the cheapest price).
Arkansas drivers have lots of solid choices—from large national insurers with strong apps and broad discounts to regional carriers that compete hard on service. The “best” company is the one that offers the best mix of price, coverage, claims handling, and customer experience for your driver profile.
| Company | Best For | Why It’s Worth a Quote |
|---|---|---|
| USAA | Military families | Often top-tier value and satisfaction (eligibility required) |
| State Farm | Drivers who want a local agent | Huge footprint, strong bundling, broad discounts |
| Southern Farm Bureau Casualty | Drivers who like regional service | Strong presence in Arkansas and nearby states |
| GEICO | Online-first shoppers | Fast quoting, competitive pricing for many drivers |
| Progressive | Drivers with changing needs | Flexible underwriting and strong online tools |
| Farmers | Discount seekers | Agent network + telematics-based savings options |
| Nationwide | Bundlers | Good multi-policy options and solid coverage add-ons |
| Shelter | Service-focused drivers | Regional mutual known for customer experience |
| Allstate | Households with multiple policies | Good bundling options and multiple discount paths |
| Auto-Owners | Independent-agent shoppers | Strong coverage options, often competitive pricing |
If you qualify for membership in USAA, it’s often one of the best values in Arkansas. USAA is generally known for strong customer satisfaction and competitive pricing, but eligibility is limited to military members, veterans, and eligible family members.
State Farm is a top pick for drivers who want in-person help from a local agent and a well-established claims network. It’s also a strong option for multi-car and home-and-auto bundles, and the company offers a variety of auto insurance discounts that can reduce your premium if you qualify.
Southern Farm Bureau Casualty is a popular choice across Arkansas for drivers who prefer a more regional carrier with a strong local presence. It can be a good fit if you value agent support and want a company that’s familiar with the area.
GEICO is a go-to option for many Arkansas drivers who want an easy online experience and competitive pricing. While GEICO isn’t always the single cheapest for every driver profile, it’s often worth comparing—especially if you’re a safe driver and don’t need a lot of add-ons.
Progressive is a strong option if you want flexible coverage choices, easy online tools, and competitive rates for a wide range of drivers—including some who may have a less-than-perfect driving history. It’s also a good company to compare if you like telematics/usage-based programs.
Farmers can be a good fit for drivers who want an agent relationship and multiple discount paths. If you’re open to telematics, the Farmers Signal program may help lower rates for safer driving behaviors (discount eligibility varies by state and driver profile).
Nationwide is worth a look if you’re bundling multiple policies or want a balanced mix of coverage options and discounts. It’s widely available and tends to be competitive for many “average” driver profiles—especially when you stack discounts.
Shelter is a regional mutual insurer that’s well-known in Arkansas and surrounding states. It’s often a great fit for drivers who prioritize customer service and want to work with an agent—even if the rock-bottom “online-only” price isn’t always the goal.
Allstate is a good company to compare if you want bundling (auto + home/renters), a mix of agent support and digital tools, and multiple discount opportunities. Pricing varies significantly by ZIP code and driver profile, so it’s best evaluated with a real quote.
If you prefer working with independent agents and want a company known for coverage add-ons (like gap insurance and other endorsements), Auto-Owners Insurance is worth considering. Availability can vary by location and agent network.
Also worth comparing: Depending on your ZIP code and driver profile, you may find competitive quotes from other large insurers and regional carriers not listed above. The best approach is to compare at least 3–5 quotes using the same coverage limits and deductibles.
Insurance companies calculate rates using risk factors tied to you, your car, and your location. In Arkansas, the biggest pricing factors usually include:
This is how Arkansas’s rates compare to the rest of the country:
| Coverage Level | Typical Arkansas Average | Typical U.S. Average |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum Coverage (State Minimum) | $502/year (≈ $42/month) | $820/year (≈ $68/month) |
| Full Coverage (Liability + Comprehensive + Collision) | $2,432/year (≈ $203/month) | $2,697/year (≈ $225/month) |
Arkansas has car insurance requirements similar to other states. To legally drive, you must carry liability insurance at or above the state minimums.
Arkansas requires minimum liability limits of 25/50/25:
Arkansas law also allows you to show proof of insurance in electronic form (like an insurance ID card on your phone), and it outlines how insurance is verified during a traffic stop. You can read the current requirements in Arkansas Code § 27-22-104.
Recommended coverage for most drivers: The state minimum may not go far after a serious crash. Many drivers choose to carry higher liability limits and add coverage like collision, comprehensive, and uninsured/underinsured motorist for better financial protection. If you want help deciding what to add, review these additional coverage options.
Tip: If you have a car loan or lease, your lender typically requires “full coverage” (usually meaning comprehensive and collision in addition to liability) until the vehicle is paid off.
Driving without insurance in Arkansas is illegal, and it can get expensive fast—especially if you have a lapse and then need coverage again. Even with the penalties, some drivers go without car insurance, which increases the risk for everyone on the road.
Arkansas penalties can include fines, registration suspension, and more. The penalty amounts and enforcement details are outlined in Arkansas Code § 27-22-103.
If you’re ticketed because you didn’t have your insurance card on you, the outcome can depend on whether coverage was actually active. Here’s what to know about tickets for no proof of insurance.
And if you’re involved in a crash while uninsured, costs can multiply quickly—repairs, injuries, lawsuits, and possible license/registration consequences. Read more about what happens after an accident without insurance.
If you want cheaper car insurance in Arkansas, focus on the things you can control. Here are the strategies that tend to move the needle the most:
If you have serious violations or multiple incidents, insurers may classify you as higher risk. You might still find affordable coverage, but you’ll usually need to shop more aggressively. Start here if you’re looking for high-risk auto insurance.
DUI convictions are one of the fastest ways to increase your premium. Many drivers see major jumps in pricing and fewer company options. If you’re trying to estimate the impact, this guide explains how much insurance can go up after a DUI.
How to save after a DUI: Compare more quotes than usual, keep limits consistent while shopping, ask about defensive driving courses (if accepted), and avoid coverage lapses—some insurers penalize lapses heavily for high-risk drivers.
At-fault accidents usually raise rates, sometimes for 3–5 years depending on the company and the severity of the claim. If you have accident forgiveness, it may help (but it varies by insurer and only applies if it was in force before the accident).
One minor speeding ticket may not be catastrophic, but it can still push your rate up at renewal—especially if you have more than one ticket or the violation is for excessive speed. This breakdown explains how a single speeding ticket can increase your rates.
Young drivers typically pay much more than experienced drivers because insurers see new drivers as higher risk. If you’re shopping for a teen or a first-time driver, it helps to understand what car insurance rates look like for new drivers and which discounts (good student, driver training, telematics) can help offset the cost.
In many cases, Arkansas insurers use credit-based insurance scores when pricing policies. If you’re seeing surprisingly high quotes with a clean driving record, your insurance score may be part of the reason. Here’s a breakdown of what an insurance score is, plus how credit scores can affect your car insurance rates.
How to save with poor credit: Shop multiple insurers (pricing formulas differ), consider higher deductibles, keep coverage continuous, and ask whether paying in full or bundling can offset part of the increase.
Some drivers must file an SR-22 to prove they meet Arkansas’s minimum coverage requirements. An SR-22 is not a special “type” of insurance—it’s a certificate filed by your insurer confirming you carry the required liability coverage.
If you’re unsure how long you’ll need it, start here: how long an SR-22 lasts. Requirements often run for multiple years and can restart if you have a lapse in coverage.
If your license is currently suspended, you may still be able to get coverage filed properly so you can work toward reinstatement. See: getting SR-22 insurance with a suspended license.
Since SR-22 drivers are usually considered high-risk, the biggest savings come from shopping around. Compare SR-22 insurance quotes to find the most competitive option for your situation.
The best car insurance in Arkansas depends on your driver profile, your vehicle, and how much protection you want. Start by choosing sensible coverage limits, then compare quotes across several insurers (including regional companies), and stack every discount you qualify for.
Shop at least once per year (and whenever your life changes—new car, new address, new driver, or a ticket) to make sure you’re still getting a competitive rate.
