Car Insurance in New Hampshire
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Introduction: Car Insurance in New Hampshire
New Hampshire is unique among U.S. states because car insurance is not legally required for most drivers. However, if you cause an accident, you must be able to cover damages, making car insurance in New Hampshire essential for financial protection. Whether you’re commuting in Manchester, driving along scenic routes in the White Mountains, or navigating rural roads, having car insurance provides peace of mind.
While New Hampshire offers some of the lowest car insurance rates in the country, uninsured drivers remain financially liable for accidents. According to the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC), the average annual cost of full coverage in New Hampshire is $1,275, significantly below the national average of $1,674.
New Hampshire Car Insurance Requirements (State Laws & Minimum Coverage)
New Hampshire’s “No Mandatory Insurance” Law
Unlike other states, New Hampshire does not require all drivers to carry insurance. However, you must be able to cover accident-related costs. If you choose to buy insurance, the minimum recommended coverage is:
✔ $25,000 for bodily injury per person
✔ $50,000 for bodily injury per accident
✔ $25,000 for property damage per accident
✔ Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage (UM/UIM): Minimum $25,000 per person / $50,000 per accident
✔ Medical Payments Coverage (MedPay): Minimum $1,000
Why Carrying Insurance is a Smart Choice:
- If you cause an accident, you are legally responsible for damages.
- Uninsured drivers may face lawsuits and out-of-pocket expenses.
- Many drivers opt for full coverage to protect their assets and vehicles.
Recommended Full Coverage for Better Protection
Many New Hampshire drivers choose full coverage, which includes:
Coverage Type | What It Covers | Recommended For |
---|---|---|
Collision Coverage | Pays for damage to your car in an accident | Drivers with new or financed vehicles |
Comprehensive Coverage | Covers theft, vandalism, and weather damage | Important in New Hampshire’s snowy climate |
Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) | Covers injuries from uninsured drivers | Crucial for financial protection |
Medical Payments Coverage (MedPay) | Covers medical expenses regardless of fault | Beneficial for drivers without health insurance |
Average Cost of Car Insurance in New Hampshire
Car insurance rates in New Hampshire vary based on location, driving history, and vehicle type. Below is an average cost breakdown:
New Hampshire Car Insurance Cost by Coverage Type
Coverage Type | Average Annual Cost |
---|---|
Minimum Liability | $424 |
Full Coverage | $1,275 |
Car Insurance Costs by Major New Hampshire Cities
City | Minimum Coverage | Full Coverage |
---|---|---|
Manchester | $650 | $1,500 |
Nashua | $620 | $1,450 |
Concord | $580 | $1,380 |
Derry | $600 | $1,420 |
Rochester | $570 | $1,350 |
Salem | $590 | $1,400 |
Dover | $580 | $1,370 |
Keene | $560 | $1,320 |
Portsmouth | $620 | $1,460 |
Laconia | $570 | $1,340 |
Car Insurance Costs by Age Group
Age Group | Minimum Coverage | Full Coverage |
---|---|---|
16-19 Years | $4,800 – $6,800 | $8,500 – $10,500 |
20-24 Years | $2,600 – $3,800 | $5,500 – $7,000 |
25-34 Years | $1,500 – $2,200 | $3,500 – $4,800 |
35-44 Years | $1,300 – $2,000 | $3,200 – $4,500 |
45-54 Years | $1,200 – $1,800 | $3,000 – $4,200 |
55+ Years | $1,100 – $1,600 | $2,800 – $3,900 |
✔ Teen Drivers (16-19 Years): Pay the highest premiums due to inexperience and Nevada’s high-risk driving environment.
✔ Young Adults (20-24 Years): Rates decrease as driving experience improves but remain significantly high.
✔ Mid-Age Drivers (25-49 Years): Experience the lowest insurance premiums due to a stable driving history.
✔ Senior Drivers (70+ Years): Rates increase again due to age-related accident risks and medical conditions.
Factors Affecting Car Insurance Rates in New Hampshire
Several factors influence car insurance rates in New Hampshire, including:
- Driving Record: Accidents, DUIs, and traffic violations significantly impact premiums.
- Location: Urban areas like Manchester and Nashua have higher rates due to congestion and theft.
- Credit Score: New Hampshire insurers consider credit history when calculating rates.
- Annual Mileage: More miles driven increases accident risk.
- Vehicle Type: High-performance and luxury vehicles cost more to insure.
- Weather Conditions: Snow, ice, and severe winter storms contribute to accidents.
- Coverage Level: Full coverage is more expensive but offers better protection.

Best Car Insurance Companies in New Hampshire (2025)
Finding the right insurer depends on affordability, coverage, and customer satisfaction. Here are some top options:
Company | Best For | Average Annual Cost (Full Coverage) |
---|---|---|
GEICO | Cheapest Rates | $1,200 |
State Farm | Best for Customer Service | $1,250 |
Progressive | Best for High-Risk Drivers | $1,400 |
Allstate | Best Full Coverage Options | $1,550 |
USAA (Military Families) | Lowest Rates for Military | $1,100 |
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FAQs
No, New Hampshire does not require car insurance for most drivers. However, you must prove financial responsibility if you cause an accident.
The average minimum coverage costs around $35 per month, while full coverage averages $106 per month.
Smaller cities like Keene and Laconia tend to have lower rates compared to Manchester and Nashua.
No, New Hampshire does not mandate uninsured motorist coverage, but it is highly recommended.
Yes, but high-risk drivers may face higher premiums. Defensive driving courses and shopping around can help lower costs.
Sources
About the Author
Alex Huber is a content writer for Atoz Insurances and he is a very experienced and well-rounded freelance content writer who specializes in the insurance and finance niches. His writing is engaging and informative, and he has a strong understanding of the industries he writes about.