This article compares the two companies. For more information on the individual companies, check out our Allstate Car Insurance Review and Nationwide Car Insurance Review.
Nationwide and Allstate provide common types of car insurance, including liability, collision, comprehensive, personal injury protection, and uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage. Nationwide allows you to customize your policy and it takes pride in being a full-coverage insurer. These types of policies are beneficial to those on a budget as it allows them to customize coverage based on their needs, driving habits, and desired protection.
Allstate has you covered in areas that many providers do not. For example, if you are a music lover with a high-quality sound system in your car, Allstate offers sound system insurance to cover loss from equipment being stolen or damaged. Allstate also provides add-ons for rental car coverage, umbrella insurance, and roadside assistance.
Allstate and Nationwide premiums are at opposite ends of the insurance cost spectrum. An average monthly policy with Allstate costs $170, according to research conducted by The Zebra. Nationwide rates are significantly lower at $90 per month. For those with low credit scores, Allstate’s average annual premium is $3,117, while the average Nationwide premium is $1,593.
Many consumers argue that you get what you pay for and Allstate’s premiums match the company’s service and reputation. Regardless, Allstate offers an array of discounts to offset their higher prices. Remember that with any policy, rates will vary depending on driving records, geographic region, vehicle type, and other factors, including average annual mileage. For personalized quotes, contact Allstate and Nationwide directly.
This table compares average annual premiums between Allstate and Nationwide by age tier.
| Age Group | Nationwide | Allstate |
| Teens | $3,624 | $6,442 |
| 20s | $1,582 | $2,636 |
| 30s | $1,582 | $1,920 |
| 40s | $1,151 | $1,912 |
| 50s | $1,114 | $1,893 |
| 60s | $1,028 | $1,768 |
Source: The Zebra
One of the best ways to save money on any auto insurance policy is by bundling your coverage. Homeowners might benefit the most from this option, but having multiple vehicles on the same policy can also work in your favor. If you are an adventure and outdoors enthusiast, for example, Nationwide and Allstate provide the option to combine your auto insurance with coverage for other types of vehicles:
Like most carriers, Allstate offers savings for certain driver behavior and vehicle equipment:
One of the largest discounts offered by Allstate comes from its Drivewise and Milewise programs, which can produce savings based on your driving habits and statistics.
Drivewise monitors driving behaviors such as braking, speed, and driving hours. Drivers are then rewarded based on how they drive. Participation may benefit those who do not have to deal with stop-and-go traffic during rush hour. Drivers who sign up for the program receive a 10% discount. Allstate claims that certain drivers can potentially save up to 30% by using Drivewise. The system is not available in every state, however.
Milewise monitors vehicle miles traveled. In simple terms, the program is pay-by-mile insurance and might be a good option if you have a short commute, drive infrequently, accumulate less-than-average miles, or need coverage for a weekend toy.
Nationwide also offers a telematics program called SmartRide. Drivers get an initial 10% discount for enrolling. Nationwide claims participants could receive up to 40% off their premium for safe driving. SmartRide requires you to install a small device that plugs into your car.
Customer satisfaction ratings for all auto insurance carriers tend to be mixed. According to the J.D. Power 2021 U.S. Auto Insurance Study, customers’ opinions of and experiences with Nationwide and Allstate look average. The J.D. Power’s 2021 U.S. Auto Claims Satisfaction Study ranked both insurers below the industry average of 880.
It is very important that your auto insurance company has a strong background and financial record. This is crucial following a natural emergency or disaster when more claims are filed. You must be confident that your insurance provider will have the funds to pay for your loss. Both Allstate and Nationwide are ranked very highly in terms of financial strength.
Allstate received an A+ rating from A.M. Best and an A- issuer credit rating from S&P. Nationwide received an A1 rating from Moody’s. These ratings indicate both companies can cover their financial obligations without issues.
If you’re deciding between Allstate and Nationwide, there are many factors for you to consider. Nationwide has lower prices but poorer reviews than Allstate. Some users consider the Drivewise programs by Allstate to be more user-friendly than Nationwide’s similar programs.
The companies are among the oldest auto insurance providers in the U.S. and both offer great policies. Because cost is a significant factor for consumers, it’s crucial that you request a quote from several carriers before signing a new insurance policy.
