Farmers Auto Insurance Review 2025: Is It Worth Your Money? (Honest Expert Analysis)

Introduction

Paying too much for car insurance? You’re not alone. The average American driver overpays by hundreds annually, often sticking with the same insurer out of habit rather than value. If you’re considering Farmers Insurance or wondering if your current policy measures up, you’re in the right place.

Farmers ranks as the seventh-largest auto insurer in the country, serving over 50 million policies nationwide. But size doesn’t always equal savings. This comprehensive review examines what Farmers actually costs, how it performs when you need it most, and whether it’s the right fit for your situation.

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The Bottom Line: Our Farmers Insurance Verdict

Overall Rating: 4.1/5 Stars

Farmers excels in one critical area that sets it apart from competitors: coverage options, where it ties for first place nationally. If you want extensive customization and specialized add-ons, Farmers delivers.

However, affordability isn’t its strong suit. Farmers ranks 15th for both full coverage and minimum liability coverage affordability, with monthly rates averaging $166 and $87, respectively, significantly above national averages.

Best For:

• Drivers wanting comprehensive coverage options
• Those needing specialized coverage (rideshare, custom equipment)
• Customers who value local agent relationships

Not Ideal For:

• Budget-conscious young drivers
• High-risk drivers seeking affordable rates
• Those preferring fully digital insurance experiences

How Much Does Farmers Auto Insurance Actually Cost?

Let’s cut through the marketing and examine real numbers. Insurance costs vary dramatically based on your profile, but here’s what most Americans can expect:

National Average Rates

Farmers’ costs range from $82 to $2,686 monthly depending on your profile and coverage choices, making it essential to get personalized quotes.

Cost by Driver Category

Farmers ranks among the more expensive options for most driver categories. Here’s the breakdown:

Young Drivers (Under 25):

• Average monthly premium: $409
• National rank: 16th (least affordable)
• 40% above national average

Adult Drivers (26-64):

• Average monthly premium: $152
• National rank: 13th
• 26% above national average

Senior Drivers (65+):

• Average monthly premium: $183
• National rank: 12th
• 23% above national average

High-Risk Drivers:

• After DUI: $286/month (13th nationally)
• After accident: $236/month (14th nationally)
• With speeding ticket: $199/month (14th nationally)

State-by-State Pricing

Farmers’ rates vary from $26 to $336 monthly across states. The company performs best in:

Most Affordable States:

• Hawaii: $72/month average
• Wyoming: $85/month average
• Idaho: $88/month average

Most Expensive States:

• Florida: $336/month average
• Pennsylvania: $268/month average
• South Carolina: $305/month average

Important Note: Farmers isn’t available in Alaska, Delaware, Florida, Hawaii, Maine, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Vermont, or West Virginia.

Coverage Options: Where Farmers Truly Shines

Farmers ties for first place in coverage options due to specialized add-ons like rideshare coverage and signal device discounts. This extensive menu lets you build precisely the protection you need.

Standard Coverage (Available Everywhere)

• Liability (bodily injury and property damage)
• Comprehensive
• Collision
• Uninsured/underinsured motorist
• Medical payments (MedPay)
• Personal injury protection (PIP)

Standout Add-Ons That Set Farmers Apart

1. Vehicle Replacement Plus For new cars under 2 years/24,000 miles, replaces with a new vehicle; for older cars, replaces with a newer model with 20,000 fewer miles. This coverage includes gap protection, a valuable combination not commonly offered together.

2. Customized Equipment Coverage Covers aftermarket modifications like custom stereos, wheels, spoilers, and other non-factory equipment critical for car enthusiasts who’ve invested in upgrades.

3. Rideshare Coverage Extends personal auto policy to cover gaps when driving for Uber, Lyft, or food delivery services, covering the period when the app is on but no passenger is assigned.

4. Accident Forgiveness Prevents rate increases after the first at-fault accident every three years for qualified drivers, available free after 36 months as a Farmers Flex customer.

5. Declining Deductible Reduces collision deductible by $50 (6-month policy) or $100 (annual policy) for each claim-free renewal period, a reward for safe driving that compounds over time.

6. Loss of Use Coverage Provides a flat payment for alternative transportation (rental cars, rideshares, public transit, taxis) while your car is being repaired, with a maximum of 30 days coverage. More flexible than standard rental reimbursement.

7. OEM Parts Coverage Ensures factory-original parts are used in covered repairs instead of aftermarket alternatives and is available for cars up to 10 years old.

Customer Experience: Mixed Reviews Tell the Real Story

Farmers ranks 12th nationwide for customer experience, placing it in the middle tier for overall satisfaction. Here’s what that actually means for you:

The Good: What Customers Appreciate

Local Agent Network Farmers primarily sells through captive agents who focus exclusively on Farmers’ products, providing personalized service and local expertise. Many customers value this face-to-face relationship.

Real customer feedback: “My Farmers agent is fantastic; she reviews my policy annually, explains changes clearly and actually saved me money by adjusting my coverage.”

Financial Strength Farmers receives excellent ratings for financial strength from all industry rating agencies, including an A rating from AM Best, meaning the company can reliably pay claims.

Claims Satisfaction Farmers scores 706 out of 1,000 in J.D. Power Auto Claims Satisfaction, above the industry average of 697.

The Challenges: What Frustrates Customers

Inconsistent Claim Experiences Claims processing generates more complaints than other areas, with customers citing delays and communication issues during the claims journey.

Higher-Than-Average Complaint Rate Farmers’ NAIC rating is 3.01, meaning it has a much higher number of complaints than expected relative to its size.

Outdated Digital Tools The Farmers app feels outdated compared to competitors, missing features that other companies have had for years, though basic functions like payments and policy viewing work fine.

Variable Quality by Location Real customer insight: “Had a great claim experience with Farmers; the adjuster was professional, the settlement was fair and everything moved quickly. But I’ve heard horror stories from friends in other states.”

How Farmers Compares to Top Competitors

Understanding where Farmers stands against major insurers helps you make informed decisions:

*USAA available to military members and families only

GEICO beats Farmers primarily on affordability, despite Farmers’ superior coverage options. Meanwhile, State Farm is the better option overall, despite having a lower coverage score than Farmers.

The verdict? Farmers trade affordability for flexibility. If you need basic coverage at rock-bottom prices, competitors win. If you want extensive customization, Farmers delivers.

23 Ways to Save: Farmers Discount Guide

Farmers offers 23 car insurance discounts, with average savings of up to 35%. Here are the most valuable:

Top Money-Saving Discounts

1. Signal Telematics Program: Save up to 30-35% by downloading the mobile app to track driving behavior, including speed, braking, acceleration, and distracted driving. Available in select states.

2. Multi-Policy Bundle: Save up to 10% when you bundle auto with home, renters, life, or umbrella insurance.

3. Safe Driver: Save up to 25% with a clean driving record for at least 3 years with no accidents or violations.

4. Good Student: Full-time students with a 3.0+ GPA, Dean’s List, Honor Roll, or top 20% of class/test scores qualify.

5. Mature Driver: Save up to 10% at age 55+ after completing an approved defensive driving course in the past 3 years.

Additional Discounts Worth Claiming

• Multi-car discount
• Homeowner discount
• Military discount
• Pay-in-full discount
• Electronic payment/paperless discount
• Low-mileage/distant student discount
• Anti-theft device discount
• Alternative fuel vehicle discount (California only)

Pro Tip: Always ask your agent about available discounts Some aren’t automatically applied and require verification.

Filing a Claim: What to Actually Expect

When accidents happen, claim handling becomes your primary concern. Here’s Farmers’ process:

How to File

Farmers offers 24/7 claims reporting through phone or mobile app, with the option to work directly with your local agent throughout the process.

Filing Methods:

• Call: 1-800-435-7764 (24/7)
• Mobile app: Signal app with CrashAssist feature
• Online: Through your account portal
• Local agent: Direct contact

What to Prepare

• Policy number
• Date, time, and location of incident
• Photos of damage
• Other driver’s information (if applicable)
• Police report number
• Witness contact information

Timeline Expectations

Farmers don’t provide specific timelines because complexity varies. Some policyholders appreciate having their agent advocate during the claims process, while others report frustration with slower response times and more complex approval procedures for certain repairs.

Speed factors:

• Claim complexity
• Documentation completeness
• Repair shop availability
• Adjuster workload in your area

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing Farmers

Based on customer experiences and expert analysis, avoid these pitfalls:

1. Not Comparing Multiple Quotes

Farmers rank 13th-16th for affordability across most categories. Always compare at least three insurers before committing.

2. Overlooking Coverage Verification

Customer complaint: “I had liability coverage and changed to full coverage. They charged me for full coverage for more than 6 months. When someone hit my car and ran away, they told me I was not under full coverage”.

Action: Request written confirmation of coverage changes.

3. Assuming Lowest Price Equals Best Value

If you need rideshare coverage, custom equipment protection, or OEM parts, Farmers’ higher cost might deliver better value than cheaper competitors lacking these options.

4. Ignoring Agent Quality Variations

Quality varies by individual agent, with some providing excellent annual reviews while others are more sales-focused. Read local agent reviews before committing.

5. Not Understanding Cancellation Policies

Customer warning: “We canceled over a month in advance to make sure we had nothing else owed. We received a letter from a debt collector for a refund check we never received”.

Action: Get written confirmation of cancellation and follow up to verify.

Is Farmers Right for You? Decision Framework

Use this framework to determine if Farmers matches your needs:

Choose Farmers If You:

✅ Need specialized coverage like rideshare insurance or custom equipment protection 

✅ Value local agent relationships and prefer face-to-face service 

✅ Drive a newer vehicle and want new car replacement coverage 

✅ Can afford mid-range premiums for comprehensive protection 

✅ Want accident forgiveness and declining deductibles 

✅ Live in a state where Farmers ranks in the top 5 for value

Look Elsewhere If You:

❌ Need the absolute lowest rates (especially young or high-risk drivers) 

❌ Prefer fully digital experiences without agent interaction 

❌ Have a simple coverage situation needing only basic liability 

❌ Live in a non-serviceable state (Alaska, Delaware, Hawaii, etc.) 

❌ Want industry-leading customer satisfaction scores

How to Get the Best Farmer’s Rate (Action Steps)

If Farmers seems right for you, follow these steps to secure the best possible rate:

Step 1: Gather Your Information

• Driver’s license numbers for all household drivers
• Vehicle identification numbers (VINs)
• Current insurance declarations page
• Driving record for past 5 years

Step 2: Get Multiple Quotes

Contact at least 3-5 insurers, including Farmers. Use the same coverage levels for accurate comparison.

Farmers Quote Options:

• Call: 888-327-6335
• Online: Visit farmers.com
• Local agent: Find at farmers.com/find-an-agent

Step 3: Ask About All Discounts

Reference the 23 discounts listed earlier. Specifically inquire about:

• Signal telematics program enrollment
• Multi-policy bundling opportunities
• Safe driver discounts
• Professional/affinity group memberships

Step 4: Customize Your Coverage Wisely

Don’t over-insure or under-insure. Consider:

• Actual cash value vs. replacement cost
• Deductible levels (higher = lower premiums)
• Coverage limits matching your assets
• Specialized needs (rideshare, custom equipment)

Step 5: Review Annually

Farmers and other insurers regularly increase rates due to inflation, rising claim costs, and updated risk assessments. Review your policy every year and requote with competitors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Farmers a good insurance company?

Farmers ranks 11th nationally, making it a moderately strong choice among the best car insurance companies, excelling for comprehensive coverage options and customer service quality. It’s good but not industry-leading.

How much does Farmers car insurance cost?

Average monthly costs are approximately $182 for full coverage and $108 for liability-only coverage, which comes in slightly below the national average in some analyses, though other studies show higher rates.

Does Farmers offer accident forgiveness?

Yes. Farmers will forgive one at-fault accident for every three years you go without an accident, so your premium won’t increase after your first accident. The benefit resets every three years.

What is the Farmers Signal discount?

The Signal app tracks your driving behavior and offers both enrollment discounts and additional savings for safe driving, with enhanced towing up to 100 miles and mobile battery testing.

Can I bundle insurance with Farmers?

Yes. Farmers sells auto, home, renters, life, motorcycle, boat, RV, umbrella, and business insurance, making it easy to bundle multiple policies for discounts.

Does Farmers cover Uber and Lyft drivers?

Yes. Farmers offers rideshare and delivery coverage that fills the coverage gap between personal and company insurance when the app is on but no passenger is assigned.

How long does Farmers take to pay claims?

Farmers don’t give a specific range, as it depends on complexity and documentation speed. Payment method (direct deposit, check, or direct to contractor) also affects timing.

Is Farmers cheaper than GEICO?

No. GEICO beats Farmers primarily on affordability, despite Farmers’ superior coverage options. GEICO typically costs 20-30% less but offers fewer specialized coverage options.

Does Farmers Insurance use credit scores?

Yes, in most states. California, Hawaii, and Massachusetts don’t allow insurers to use credit when determining car insurance rates.

What happens if I cancel Farmers insurance early?

You can cancel anytime by contacting your agent or calling 1-888-327-6335. Most states allow prorated refunds for unused coverage. Get written cancellation confirmation to avoid billing issues.

Final Verdict: Should You Choose Farmers?

Farmers Insurance occupies a unique position in the market: premium pricing for premium options. If you value extensive coverage customization, local agent relationships, and specialized protection like rideshare coverage or custom equipment protection, Farmers delivers excellent value despite higher costs.

However, if you’re a price-sensitive shopper, particularly a young driver, high-risk driver, or someone needing only basic coverage, you’ll likely find better rates elsewhere with GEICO, State Farm, or Progressive.

The smart approach: Get quotes from Farmers and 2-3 competitors using identical coverage levels. Compare not just price,  

• Available coverage options for your situation
• Discount eligibility
• Local agent reviews
• Claims satisfaction in your state

Insurance rates change daily, and the best company for your neighbor might not be best for you. The only way to know if Farmers offers your best value is to compare personalized quotes.

Ready to see what you qualify for? Get quotes from Farmers and top competitors today, it takes just 10 minutes and could save you hundreds annually.

In another related article, American Family Auto Insurance: Complete Review and Savings Guide