Who Pays More for Insurance: Married or Single?

When it comes to insurance premiums, one surprising factor that can influence your rates is marital status. Whether you’re single, married, divorced, or widowed—your relationship status may play a role in how much you pay for coverage.

At Eugene C. Yates Insurance Agency, we’ve helped Sacramento residents navigate these insurance details for nearly 80 years. Here’s what you need to know about how being married or single can impact your homeowners, auto, and life insurance rates.


👫 Do Married People Pay Less for Insurance?

Yes, in most cases, married people do pay less for insurance than singles.

Insurance companies use statistical data to evaluate risk. Studies consistently show that married individuals tend to:

  • File fewer claims
  • Exhibit safer driving behavior
  • Be more financially stable

As a result, insurers often reward these lower-risk characteristics with reduced premiums.


🚗 Auto Insurance: Biggest Savings for Married Couples

Auto insurance is where marital status tends to have the greatest impact. Married drivers—especially those in their 30s and beyond—can often save 10% to 15% on their premiums.

🛑 Why? Married drivers are statistically involved in fewer accidents and DUIs compared to single drivers.

Some insurers even offer “married driver discounts” outright, especially if both spouses are on the same policy and maintain clean driving records.


🏠 Homeowners Insurance: Does It Make a Difference?

Homeowners insurance is less influenced by marital status than auto insurance, but there can still be savings:

  • Married couples often bundle their home and auto policies, qualifying for multi-policy discounts
  • Dual-income households may be viewed as more financially secure, which may lower perceived risk
  • Couples may insure more assets together, making it easier to optimize and consolidate coverage

❤️ Life Insurance: Joint Planning Benefits

While life insurance premiums are primarily based on health and age, being married can simplify the process:

  • Couples often purchase joint life policies or spouse riders to reduce cost
  • Married individuals may have better access to group life insurance through a spouse’s employer
  • Planning together allows for strategic estate and beneficiary decisions

💔 What If You’re Divorced or Widowed?

If you were previously on a joint insurance policy and experience a change in marital status, here’s what to expect:

  • Your premiums may increase when you switch to a solo policy
  • You could lose any multi-policy or loyalty discounts previously applied
  • It’s a good time to review and compare new options with an independent agent

📈 Other Factors That Affect Insurance Rates

While marital status does matter, it’s just one piece of the puzzle. Other factors that impact your premium include:

  • Credit score
  • Location
  • Age
  • Claims history
  • Coverage limits and deductibles

🏡 Final Thoughts

Married individuals often enjoy lower insurance rates, particularly for auto and bundled policies. But whether you’re single, married, or somewhere in between, the best way to save is to shop around and compare.

At Eugene C. Yates Insurance Agency, we make it easy by comparing quotes from top-rated insurers to find the best coverage at the best price—no matter your marital status.


Let’s Find You the Best Rate

📞 Call us today to speak with a local Sacramento insurance expert
💻 Or get your free, no-pressure quote online in minutes


Eugene C. Yates Insurance Agency
Proudly Serving Sacramento Since 1946
Affordable. Trusted. Local.

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