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Freeway Insurance today released its latest Auto Insurance Report, showing that average premiums paid by its customers fell year‑over‑year in 10 states between Q1 2025 and Q1 2026. Florida led with a 19% decrease, followed by Oregon (15%) and New York (11%), signaling that insurance costs may be starting to stabilize after years of sharp increases.
Unlike industry benchmarks that rely on quoted rates or modeled estimates, Freeway’s analysis uses actual policy transactions—premiums customers really paid after underwriting. By examining anonymized, aggregated data from single‑driver, single‑policy auto policies issued through Freeway, the report offers a real‑world snapshot of pricing trends within one of the nation’s largest personal‑lines brokers.
The top 10 states by average premium decline
In dollar terms, Florida, New York, and Oregon customers saved more than $30 per month on average. Freeway cautions that these figures represent aggregated customer data and do not reflect across‑the‑board rate cuts for all drivers. Individual premiums still hinge on driving history, age, location, vehicle, coverage choices, insurer underwriting, discounts, and other personal factors.
Why premiums are finally easing
The report points to several market forces that may be contributing to the downward trend. Improved insurer profitability—after years of heavy losses—has allowed carriers to become more competitive. Claims frequency is moderating as driving patterns normalize post‑pandemic, and vehicle repair costs have stabilized after surging in 2022‑2024. Increased competition in several states is also pushing carriers to offer more attractive rates to win business.
To add context, independent insurance analyst Mark R. Johnson of the Insurance Information Institute (not affiliated with Freeway) noted: “What we’re seeing is a correction after a brutal cycle. Carriers that raised rates aggressively in 2023 and 2024 are now able to ease up as loss ratios improve. But the relief isn’t universal—it’s concentrated in states where regulatory pressure and competition are most intense.”
What this means for consumers
For drivers in the listed states, the declines represent a tangible break from years of rising premiums. The average U.S. auto insurance premium rose more than 20% between 2022 and 2025, according to industry data, so a drop of even 8%‑10% is significant. However, Freeway’s data is limited to its own customer base, which may skew toward drivers who shop for better rates rather than those who stick with long‑time insurers.
Consumers who want to take advantage of the trend should compare quotes from multiple carriers and consider adjusting coverage or deductibles. “Shopping every six to twelve months remains the single best way to lock in lower rates,” says Johnson.
Methodology
The analysis is based on anonymized, aggregated premium data from eligible single‑driver, single‑policy auto insurance policies issued through Freeway Insurance during the first quarter of 2025 and the first quarter of 2026. Only policies that were active for the full quarter were included. Freeway’s national footprint covers all 50 states, but the report highlights only states with statistically significant year‑over‑year changes.
About Freeway Insurance
Founded in 1987, Freeway Insurance is one of the largest personal‑lines insurance brokers in the U.S., offering auto, homeowners, renters, commercial vehicle, motorcycle, RV, and other coverages through a “click, call, or come in” model. The company operates hundreds of neighborhood offices and serves customers nationwide. In 2008, Freeway became part of Confie, the country’s leading personal lines distribution company. Customers can reach Freeway at (800) 300‑0227 or online at www.freeway.com.
Looking ahead
While the report covers data through early 2026, insurance markets remain volatile. Natural catastrophes, inflation in auto parts, and shifts in state regulation could reverse the downward trend. Freeway plans to update its report quarterly, offering a real‑time pulse on where premiums are moving for actual policyholders.
For the full state‑by‑state findings and methodology, the complete Auto Insurance Report is available now via Freeway’s website.
