icon

Cheap Ontario Car Insurance Quotes

Ontario drivers save $800* on average by comparing car insurance quotes on RATESDOTCA.

Compare car insurance quotes with other top providers in Ontario

CAA
Onlia_new.png
Pembridge_new.png
Economical
Travelers Insurance logo
Icon - Human
Written by Alexandra Bosanac

Car insurance in Ontario

Car owners in Ontario are required by law to have car insurance.

Car insurance helps ensure that you and your vehicle are financially protected in the event of vehicle damage or personal injury.

Ontario operates under a no-fault insurance system, which means drivers always go through their insurance company, no matter who is at fault in an accident.


Ontario car insurance rates and regulations

In Ontario, auto insurance is regulated by the Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario (FSRA), formerly known as the Financial Services Commission of Ontario (FSCO), an agency of the Ministry of Finance. FSRA oversees all insurance regulations in Ontario and has the power to approve or decline car insurance rate change requests. Car insurance providers apply to increase or decrease their rates throughout the year. If a particular insurer experiences an increase in payouts resulting from car accidents, they might apply to have their rates increased to help offset their costs.

Ontario auto insurance is privatized, meaning you purchase your policy from companies rather than a government body. FSRA's approved quarterly changes show how often rates fluctuate, making comparing quotes and finding the lowest rate extremely important.

Last year, Ontario drivers who used RATESDOTCA paid, on average, 30% less than the average market rate.


How to file a car insurance claim in Ontario

An auto insurance claim should be filed as soon as possible. Your claim could be denied if you don't file it within a week.

When filing an auto insurance claim in Ontario, include as many of the following as possible:

  • Your auto insurance policy number
  • Your licence number
  • Your vehicle information, such as make, model and year
  • A description of the event
  • A description of the damage or injury, including photos if possible
  • A list of the passengers present at the time of the incident
  • A list of drivers involved, along with their licence numbers and insurance providers
  • The badge number of the police officer if one is called to the scene

Once your claim is filed, you will be contacted by a claims adjustor to discuss your case and determine your eligibility and the amount you may be entitled to. If an at-fault driver is uninsured, your claim will be processed through the uninsured automobile portion of your policy.


What it means to be 'at fault' in Ontario

Being at fault means you have been deemed responsible for damage or injury by your insurance company. A driving event, like a collision, can have multiple at-fault motorists.

If you are found to be 50% or more at fault for a claim, the event will go on your insurance record. Having an at-fault accident on your record may cause your premiums to increase, though some insurance providers offer accident forgiveness, which permits one accident before premiums are raised.

What's the average cost of car insurance in Ontario?

According to the Insurance Bureau of Canada, Ontario drivers paid an average of $1,655 annually for car insurance or $138 per month in 2020. Ontario drivers paid the highest auto insurance premium in Canada. The Financial Services Regulatory Association of Ontario estimates the average Ontario car insurance premium to be $1,674 annually or $139.50 as of October 2022. RATESDOTCA Auto Insuramap data from December 2021 shows that the average Ontario car insurance premium is $1,555 annually or $129.6 per month.


Factors that determine the cost of your Ontario car insurance premium

Though the average cost of car insurance in Ontario is high, it varies among individual drivers. Numerous factors contribute to the cost of an auto insurance policy. In Ontario, the most influential of these factors are:

  1. The make and model of your vehicle: The cost to repair your vehicle affects your premiums. Your vehicle's safety rating, driving features and the statistical likelihood of being stolen also contribute. You can save big by selecting a vehicle that is cheap to insure.
  2. Your driving record: Your claims history and driving record are major contributors. The number of speeding tickets, driving convictions and at-fault accidents you've had will all influence how much you pay for insurance.
  3. Your driving experience: Your history of driving will determine how much you pay for car insurance. Speeding tickets and at-fault accidents, for instance, will mean you have to pay more for coverage. If you've moved provinces or recently immigrated to Canada, you may be asked to provide a letter of experience that confirms the information you've provided is correct.
  4. Location, location, location: Your city, and even your postal code, affect your premiums. You'll pay more if you live somewhere with a high rate of theft, fraud or accidents. Typically (but not always), car insurance costs more in larger cities.
  5. Vehicle usage: The number of kilometres you drive in a year affects the cost of car insurance in Ontario. The more you drive, the more likely you'll make a claim and the more you'll pay. If you use your vehicle only sparingly, consider a pay-as-you-go policy.
  6. The coverage you have: Ontario has mandatory and optional auto insurance coverages. If you select coverages beyond the minimum requirement, you'll pay more for protection. See the mandatory and optional types of car insurance in Ontario.
  7. Discount eligibility: Ontario car insurance may be expensive, but there are numerous opportunities to save. Your age, occupation and alumni are all potential sources of discounts. Ask your insurance provider what discounts you're eligible for to ensure you don't overpay.
  8. Additional drivers: A policy that includes Secondary drivers will expand your vehicle's coverage, but it also means you'll pay more.
  9. Bundle your insurance: Bundling insurance, such as home and car, is an easy way to save anywhere from 5-15% on your premiums.

More goes into determining the premiums you pay than what's listed above. This list only calls out some of the most influential factors Ontario car insurance providers use.

Mandatory and optional auto insurance in Ontario

Insurance type Mandatory coverage Optional/Additional coverage
Third-Party Liability $200,000 minimum. Provides coverage in the event of a lawsuit resulting from an accident where you are at fault. Coverage can be increased to $500,000, $1 million, or $2 million, with up to $2 million limit.
Direct Compensation-Property Damage (DC-PD) Covers damage to your car, or loss of use of your vehicle, if someone else is at fault. Must involve another insured vehicle. For additional vehicle coverage including for when you are at-fault, consider collision coverage.
Uninsured Automobile Insurance Provides up to $200,000 in coverage if you are injured or killed by an uninsured driver, or if your vehicle is damaged as a result of a hit-and-run by an unidentified, uninsured motorist. Family Protection Coverage is an optional coverage that includes additional coverage of up to $1 million in the case of a hit-and-run by an uninsured motorist.
Statutory Accident Benefits

Provides coverage if you are injured in an accident, regardless of who is at fault. Covers medical expenses that aren’t covered by OHIP.


Income Replacement Benefits: Basic weekly income replacement of 70% of your gross income up to $400/wk.


Medical, Rehabilitation and Attendant Care Benefits: Up to $65,000 for serious injuries, and $1 million for catastrophic injuries.


Caregiver Benefits: Up to $250 per week for the first dependent, and $50 per week for each dependent after that.


Housekeeping and Home Maintenance Expenses: Maximum payout $100 per week.


Death and Funeral Benefits: Up to $25,000 is provided to your spouse, $10,000 for each dependent, and up to $6,000 in funeral costs in the event you are killed in an automobile accident.

Coverage limits can be increased.
Collision Coverage (Also Upset Coverage) Optional Covers the costs of repairing or replacing your vehicle following a collision with another vehicle, an object, or property.
Comprehensive Coverage Optional Covers damages caused by named perils identified under the Specified Perils coverage, as well as losses from other perils like falling or flying objects, theft, fire, hail, windstorms, missiles, and vandalism.
Specified Perils Coverage Optional Covers damages caused by named perils such as theft, attempted theft, explosions, natural disasters like fire, lightning, windstorm, hail, rising water, earthquakes, and also other perils specified in your policy. Specified perils do not cover damages due to vandalism, breakage of glass, etc.
All-Perils Coverage Optional Combines collision/upset and comprehensive coverage. Also provides additional protection if a household member or an employee steals your vehicle.
OPCF 20: Coverage for Transportation Replacement Optional Covers the cost of your transportation replacement and rental car insurance if you were to get into a car accident or if your vehicle is stolen.
OPCF 27: Liability for Damage to Non-Owned Automobile(s) Optional Covers if you damage a borrowed or rental vehicle. The coverage limit is usually around $25,000 to $50,000.
OPCF 39: Accident Waiver/Forgiveness Optional Protect your premium from rising when you have your first at-fault accident.
OPCF 43: Waiver of Depreciation Optional Protects you by removing your insurer's right to deduct depreciation from the value of your vehicle when settling a claim. This coverage is for new vehicles with fewer than 5,000 kilometres.
OPCF 44R: Family Protection Coverage Optional Protects you if you or a family member is injured, regardless of whether you or your family members are in the car when the accident occurs

Recent auto insurance quotes in Ontario

Recent Auto Insurance Quote from WOODSTOCK, ONTARIO
Male, Age 22
2007 PONTIAC G5 4DR
October 02, 2023
Cheapest Quote
$ 222 / month
$2,667 / year
Average Quote
$ 369 / month
$4,433 / year
Savings
$ 147 / month
$1,766 / year
or
39.84 %
Recent Auto Insurance Quote from MARKHAM, ONTARIO
Male, Age 43
2018 HYUNDAI ACCENT GLS 4DR
October 02, 2023
Cheapest Quote
$ 148 / month
$1,777 / year
Average Quote
$ 222 / month
$2,669 / year
Savings
$ 74 / month
$892 / year
or
33.42 %
Recent Auto Insurance Quote from OTTAWA, ONTARIO
Female, Age 42
2023 CHEVROLET TRAILBLAZER LT TURBO 4DR AWD
October 02, 2023
Cheapest Quote
$ 144 / month
$1,732 / year
Average Quote
$ 213 / month
$2,550 / year
Savings
$ 68 / month
$818 / year
or
32.08 %
Auto insurance quotes are compared from CAA, Coachman Insurance Company, Echelon Insurance, Economical Insurance, Gore Mutual, Onlia Insurance, Pafco, Pembridge, SGI, Travelers, Zenith Insurance Company

How to get Ontario car insurance quotes on RATESDOTCA

Ready to compare quotes and save?

Car

Tell us about your vehicle

Answer a few basic questions about your car, your driving & insurance history.

CompareQuotes

Compare your quotes

See quotes from 50+ insurance companies side by side.

ClickHere

Choose the right coverage

Find the right protection for your vehicle.

SecureRate

Secure your rate

Connect with the provider and secure your rate.

What people say about our quotes

Rating stars

Based on 5,776 reviews

 Trustpilot logo

Frequently asked questions about car insurance in Ontario

Got more questions about car insurance? We answer them here.

Why should Ontario drivers compare car insurance rates?

Insurance companies use similar rating factors to determine your quote but evaluate risk differently. This results in different prices for the same coverage. As a result, provincial regulators, like FSRA, recommend shopping around and getting multiple quotes before you purchase a policy. It's the easiest way to ensure you get the best rate available.

Which city in Ontario has the cheapest car insurance?

According to data from RATESDOTCA Insuramap, Cornwall, Elizabethtown, Amherstview, Gananoque, Martintown, Iroquois, Brockville, and Kingston are tied for the cheapest auto insurance in Ontario; they all have the average auto insurance premium of $1,132 per year.

Generally, smaller, more rural locations tend to have lower car insurance rates than big cities with high traffic density. For example, cities like Toronto and Brampton have some of the highest insurance rates in the province, while smaller cities like Belleville are relatively cheap.

Which city has the most expensive car insurance in Ontario?

According to proprietary data from RATESDOTCA Insuramap, Ontario's cities with the most expensive car insurance are all part of the GTA. Vaughan has the most expensive car insurance rates on average of $2,179 per year, followed by Ajax at $2,104 per year, Richmond Hill at $2,025 per year, Brampton at $1,976 per year, Mississauga at $1,971 per year, and Pickering at $1,959 per year.

Which car has the cheapest car insurance in Ontario?

Did you know the make and model of the vehicle you drive significantly impact your rates?

Insurance companies pour a lot of time and money into accurately predicting the likelihood of each car model on the road being stolen and what it would cost to repair it.

So, which models were the cheapest to insure in Ontario in 2022?

To find out, we looked at some of the best-selling cars in Canada and compared quotes for a 35-year-old driver from Toronto without any convictions or tickets who lives in the west-end postal code of M6H.

The top three spots were occupied by pickup trucks. The best-selling 2021 GMC Sierra, a light-duty pickup truck, came first, commanding premiums of $1,779 per year (about $150 a month).

That's 9% less than the average Toronto premium of $1,952 in late 2021.

The Chevrolet Silverado ($1,811) and the Ford F-150 ($1,862) came in second and third, respectively.

According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, pickup trucks are among the safest vehicles on the road, which helps keep their rates low.

No surprise then that when we compared cars by body type, pickups continued to reign supreme.

The Chevrolet Colorado cost $1,542 annually ($128 monthly) to insure in late 2021. Insurance for this car is 21% cheaper than the Toronto average.

The Honda Civic is one of the most stolen vehicles in Canada, which is part of the reason it is more expensive to insure. The Civic costs $2,592 annually ($216 monthly) to insure in Toronto, or 33% more than the average premium.

How does your car compare? Check out our complete rankings of the cars that are cheapest to insure in Ontario in 2022, including an analysis of cars by price, body segment, and overall popularity.

What do statutory accident benefits cover?

Statutory accident benefits provide coverage if you are injured in an automobile accident, regardless of who is at fault. This helps cover the costs of medical expenses, including physiotherapy and rehabilitation costs that OHIP doesn't pay. This coverage is mandatory in Ontario and included in a standard auto insurance policy.

Here is a more detailed breakdown of what statutory accident benefits cover:

  • Income Replacement Benefits: Weekly replacement of 70% of your gross income up to $400 per week.
  • Medical, Rehabilitation and Attendant Care Benefits: Up to $65,000 for serious injuries like sprains and broken bones, and $1 million for catastrophic injuries like loss of limb, paralysis, etc.
  • Caregiver Benefits: Up to $250 per week for the first dependant and $50 per week for each additional dependant for catastrophic injuries.
  • Housekeeping and Home Maintenance Expenses: Maximum of up to $100 payout per week in the case of a catastrophic injury.
  • Death and Funeral Benefits: Up to $25,000 payout to the spouse, $10,000 for each dependent, and a maximum of $6,000 in funeral costs.

Additional protection is available for purchase on top of the minimum Statutory Accident Benefits in a basic policy. This includes:

  • Income Replacement Benefits: Can be extended to $600, $800, or $1000 per week.
  • Medical, Rehabilitation and Attendant Care Benefits: Can be increased up to $1 million for serious injuries and $2 million for catastrophic injuries.
  • Caregiver Benefits Expenses: Can be increased to apply to all injuries, not just catastrophic ones.
  • Housekeeping and Home Maintenance Expenses: Can be increased to apply to injuries, not just catastrophic ones.
  • Death and Funeral Benefits: Can be increased to $50,000 for the spouse, $20,000 for each dependant, and $8,000 for funeral costs.

Why do Ontario car insurance rates change so much?

Insurers in Ontario must go to the Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario (FSRA) to increase (or decrease) rates. FSRA releases a list of these insurance companies, and the approved rate changes shortly after approval is granted.

Why are car insurance rates in Ontario going up?

As of fall 2022, car insurance prices are rising again after a long period of no growth.

Ontario drivers dealt with years of consecutive price increases for car insurance. But 2020 marked the first time in memory when car insurance prices stayed flat, even decreasing for some.

People drove less during the first few waves of the COVID-19 pandemic, and insurance companies issued rebates to policyholders who had decreased their coverage or needed financial relief.

Mass vaccination programs have allowed Ontarians to return to routines that resemble their pre-pandemic ones. With that, the sweet sights and sounds of rush hour traffic have returned.

Predictably, the agency that helps regulate auto insurance prices approved 31 rate changes by October 2022 (compared with one in all of 2021 and zero in 2020).

More cars on the road mean a higher likelihood of people being involved in a collision resulting in a claim, which their insurance company will pay.

But that's not the only reason premium increases are making a comeback.

The cost for insurers to provide coverage has increased due to the pandemic-time economy.

Record-high inflation is putting strain on insurers' business costs.

And essential computer parts, particularly semiconductors, have been in short supply due to China keeping COVID restrictions active longer than the West.

A Canada-wide spike in car thefts is also aggravating the situation as drivers with comprehensive insurance file claims to have their cars replaced. Thefts in Toronto alone were up 45% compared with 2021.

Plus, the issues that predate the pandemic, which insurers said were forcing them to raise prices, still exist.

For example, car repair costs have increased as manufacturers introduce new technologies like sensors and cameras to even entry-model cars.

Distracted driving due to cell phone use has increased on Ontario's roads. The province now reports that accident benefits and third-party liability claims account for more than half of all auto insurance claims.

If you feel like you're paying too much, one of the most effective and immediate ways to lower your car insurance costs is to shop around for quotes, according to the Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario (FSRA). Ontario drivers save $772 on average when comparing car insurance quotes on RATESDOTCA.*

How to get the cheapest car insurance in Ontario

Maintaining a conviction-free driving record is, without a doubt, the best way to keep your premiums down, but there are plenty of other ways to save.

  1. Compare quotes: Of course, the easiest way to save money is to compare auto insurance quotes on RATESDOTCA. If you're looking to buy a new car, compare quotes for the vehicles you're considering to see which one is the cheapest to insure.
  2. Increase your deductible: The deductible is what you must pay out of pocket if you file a claim. The more you agree to pay, the lower your premium will be.
  3. Bundle home and auto insurance: If you bundle your home and auto insurance under the same insurance company, you can save 5 to 15% off both policies. This is also called a multi-line discount.
  4. Change into winter tires: Ontario roads face some harsh winter conditions. Save 5% on your car insurance by installing winter tires for the season.
  5. Know what coverage you need: Review your coverage each year and cancel any add-ons you no longer need. For example, cancelling your collision coverage would make economic sense if you drive an older car and buying a new one would be more cost-effective.
  6. Pay annually: If you can pay your premiums annually rather than monthly, you can often save a bit. Some insurance companies offer a discount on the payment of annual premiums upfront.
  7. Drive less: The less you drive, the more you save. If you commute to work via car, switching to transit can slash your premiums. If you don't drive as much as you used to, call your insurance company and let them know.
  8. Driver's education: Most insurance companies offer discounts for new drivers who complete driver training from a Ministry of Transportation accredited driving school. A defensive driving course can also make you eligible for discounts.
  9. Multi-vehicle discounts: Like multi-product discounts, multi-vehicle discount allows you to insure more than one vehicle under the same insurance company to snag a 5 to 15% discount on your premiums.
  10. Group discounts; If you are part of a professional association, union, or non-profit association, you may be eligible for group discounts.
  11. Safety features: Installing approved anti-theft devices or safety features on your car can lead to discounts. Check device eligibility before you purchase and install it.

Top car insurance companies in Ontario in 2022

Insurance Company Rating
CAA A+
Pembridge A+
Sonnet A
Gore Mutual A
Onlia A
Scottish & York A
Zenith Insurance A
Royal & SunAlliance A-

The above insurance company rankings are based on the number of users who have completed car insurance quotes and asked to be connected with the insurance agent or broker offering the rate. These users were given only the rates but not the names of the car insurance companies.

By concealing the insurance companies, users could focus on the value delivered by each one.

Complete ranking of car insurance premiums by Ontario city

Rank City 2021 premium 2020 premium YoY change
1 VAUGHAN $2,179 $2,334 -6.70%
2 AJAX $2,104 $2,141 -1.70%
3 RICHMOND HILL $2,025 $2,286 -11.40%
4 BRAMPTON $1,976 $2,698 -26.80%
5 MISSISSAUGA $1,971 $2,372 -16.90%
6 PICKERING $1,959 $1,961 -0.10%
7 TORONTO $1,953 $2,201 -11.30%
8 OSHAWA $1,833 $1,636 12.10%
9 WHITBY $1,792 $1,777 0.90%
10 NOBLETON $1,766 $1,547 14.20%
10 SCHOMBERG $1,766 $1,547 14.20%
10 ORANGEVILLE $1,766 $1,547 14.20%
10 KING CITY $1,766 $1,547 14.20%
11 MARKHAM $1,744 $2,222 -21.50%
12 CALEDON $1,717 $1,547 11.00%
13 MULMUR $1,689 $1,568 7.70%
14 ALLISTON $1,636 $1,568 4.30%
14 SHELBURNE $1,636 $1,568 4.30%
14 BRADFORD $1,636 $1,568 4.30%
14 BORDEN $1,636 $1,568 4.30%
15 BARRIE $1,582 $1,568 0.90%
15 STOUFFVILLE $1,582 $1,547 2.30%
15 HOLLAND LANDING $1,582 $1,568 0.90%
15 AURORA $1,582 $1,547 2.30%
15 WASAGA BEACH $1,582 $1,568 0.90%
15 KESWICK $1,582 $1,568 0.90%
15 INNISFIL $1,582 $1,568 0.90%
15 NEWMARKET $1,582 $1,558 1.60%
16 SELKIRK $1,580 $1,432 10.30%
17 HAMILTON $1,564 $1,755 -10.90%
18 GEORGETOWN $1,526 $1,547 -1.40%
18 ACTON $1,526 $1,380 10.60%
19 LONDON $1,505 $1,509 -0.20%
20 MILTON $1,498 $1,380 8.60%
21 WINDSOR $1,491 $1,412 5.50%
22 PRICEVILLE $1,459 $1,568 -7.00%
23 CAMBRIDGE $1,412 $1,318 7.20%
24 OAKVILLE $1,408 $1,380 2.00%
25 FOLEYET $1,398 $1,519 -8.00%
25 THESSALON $1,398 $1,519 -8.00%
25 ELLIOT LAKE $1,398 $1,501 -6.90%
25 SAULT STE. MARIE $1,398 $1,430 -2.20%
25 HEARST $1,398 $1,519 -8.00%
25 SOUTH PORCUPINE $1,398 $1,519 -8.00%
25 IROQUOIS FALLS $1,398 $1,519 -8.00%
25 DUBREUILVILLE $1,398 $1,519 -8.00%
25 MANITOWANING $1,398 $1,519 -8.00%
26 DUNNVILLE $1,394 $1,236 12.80%
27 GUELPH $1,391 $1,302 6.80%
28 LASALLE $1,383 $1,213 14.00%
28 AMHERSTBURG $1,383 $1,213 14.00%
28 WALLACEBURG $1,383 $1,213 14.00%
28 COMBER $1,383 $1,213 14.00%
28 CHATHAM $1,383 $1,213 14.00%
28 KINGSVILLE $1,383 $1,213 14.00%
28 ESSEX $1,383 $1,213 14.00%
28 PELEE ISLAND $1,383 $1,213 14.00%
28 LEAMINGTON $1,383 $1,213 14.00%
29 ESPANOLA $1,378 $1,519 -9.30%
29 TIMMINS $1,378 $1,519 -9.30%
29 COURTICE $1,378 $1,547 -10.90%
29 BOWMANVILLE $1,378 $1,547 -10.90%
29 NEWCASTLE $1,378 $1,547 -10.90%
30 BURLINGTON $1,374 $1,337 2.70%
31 SHUNIAH $1,369 $1,488 -8.00%
31 NEEBING $1,369 $1,488 -8.00%
31 BRANTFORD $1,369 $1,344 1.90%
31 THUNDER BAY $1,369 $1,488 -8.00%
32 ST GEORGE BRANT $1,368 $1,192 14.80%
32 GRIMSBY $1,368 $1,192 14.80%
32 BINBROOK $1,368 $1,192 14.80%
32 CAMPBELLVILLE $1,368 $1,192 14.80%
32 WATERDOWN $1,368 $1,192 14.80%
33 WATERLOO $1,351 $1,276 5.90%
34 BOBCAYGEON $1,351 $1,234 9.50%
34 MIDLAND $1,351 $1,234 9.50%
34 CANNINGTON $1,351 $1,234 9.50%
34 LAKEFIELD $1,351 $1,234 9.50%
34 SUNDERLAND $1,351 $1,234 9.50%
34 NORTH BAY $1,351 $1,234 9.50%
34 COBALT $1,351 $1,234 9.50%
34 ELMVALE $1,351 $1,436 -5.90%
34 LORING $1,351 $1,234 9.50%
34 ORONO $1,351 $1,234 9.50%
34 STURGEON FALLS $1,351 $1,234 9.50%
34 PENETANGUISHENE $1,351 $1,234 9.50%
34 MINESING $1,351 $1,234 9.50%
34 PETERBOROUGH $1,351 $1,234 9.50%
34 UXBRIDGE $1,351 $1,234 9.50%
34 LINDSAY $1,351 $1,234 9.50%
34 CUMBERLAND BEACH $1,351 $1,234 9.50%
34 PORT PERRY $1,351 $1,234 9.50%
34 ORILLIA $1,351 $1,234 9.50%
35 KITCHENER $1,346 $1,341 0.40%
36 WOODSTOCK $1,331 $1,256 6.00%
37 PORT COLBORNE $1,327 $1,236 7.40%
37 ST DAVIDS $1,327 $1,236 7.40%
37 ST CATHARINES $1,327 $1,242 6.90%
37 NIAGARA FALLS $1,327 $1,247 6.40%
37 THOROLD $1,327 $1,247 6.40%
37 FORT ERIE $1,327 $1,247 6.40%
37 WELLAND $1,327 $1,247 6.40%
38 ST MARYS $1,318 $1,211 8.80%
38 FERGUS $1,318 $1,211 8.80%
38 DELHI $1,318 $1,211 8.80%
38 OWEN SOUND $1,318 $1,211 8.80%
38 HURON PARK $1,318 $1,211 8.80%
38 PARIS $1,318 $1,211 8.80%
38 STRATFORD $1,318 $1,211 8.80%
38 HANOVER $1,318 $1,211 8.80%
38 OIL SPRINGS $1,318 $1,211 8.80%
38 ELMIRA $1,318 $1,211 8.80%
38 SIMCOE $1,318 $1,211 8.80%
38 KINCARDINE $1,318 $1,211 8.80%
38 NEW HAMBURG $1,318 $1,211 8.80%
38 PORT ELGIN $1,318 $1,211 8.80%
38 CHESLEY $1,318 $1,211 8.80%
38 COURTLAND $1,318 $1,211 8.80%
38 STRATHROY $1,318 $1,211 8.80%
38 AYLMER $1,318 $1,211 8.80%
38 MEAFORD $1,318 $1,211 8.80%
38 WELLESLEY $1,318 $1,211 8.80%
38 TILLSONBURG $1,318 $1,211 8.80%
38 SHEDDEN $1,318 $1,211 8.80%
38 INGERSOLL $1,318 $1,211 8.80%
38 COLLINGWOOD $1,318 $1,211 8.80%
38 LISTOWEL $1,318 $1,211 8.80%
38 ROSTOCK $1,318 $1,211 8.80%
38 GODERICH $1,318 $1,211 8.80%
39 SUMMER BEAVER $1,310 $1,424 -8.00%
39 INGOLF $1,310 $1,424 -8.00%
40 KIRKLAND LAKE $1,306 $1,470 -11.20%
40 KAPUSKASING $1,306 $1,519 -14.00%
41 FORT FRANCES $1,283 $1,203 6.70%
41 KENORA $1,283 $1,203 6.70%
41 KEEWATIN $1,283 $1,203 6.70%
41 SIOUX LOOKOUT $1,283 $1,203 6.70%
41 DRYDEN $1,283 $1,203 6.70%
41 DEVLIN $1,283 $1,203 6.70%
41 KASABONIKA $1,283 $1,203 6.70%
42 PORT STANLEY $1,278 $1,124 13.70%
42 ST THOMAS $1,278 $1,124 13.70%
43 HANMER $1,258 $1,165 8.00%
43 LIVELY $1,258 $1,165 8.00%
43 GARSON $1,258 $1,165 8.00%
43 VAL CARON $1,258 $1,165 8.00%
43 SUDBURY $1,258 $1,165 8.00%
44 OTTAWA $1,257 $1,213 3.60%
45 SARNIA $1,256 $1,159 8.40%
46 CURRAN $1,255 $1,020 23.00%
47 BARRYS BAY $1,253 $1,234 1.50%
48 HAWKESBURY $1,239 $1,020 21.50%
49 ROCKLAND $1,206 $1,107 8.90%
49 RENFREW $1,206 $1,107 8.90%
49 CARLETON PLACE $1,206 $1,107 8.90%
49 CASSELMAN $1,206 $1,107 8.90%
49 PETAWAWA $1,206 $1,107 8.90%
49 RUSSELL $1,206 $1,107 8.90%
49 ARNPRIOR $1,206 $1,107 8.90%
49 PERTH $1,206 $1,107 8.90%
49 NAVAN $1,206 $1,107 8.90%
49 PEMBROKE $1,206 $1,107 8.90%
50 KILWORTHY $1,187 $1,234 -3.80%
50 NOVAR $1,187 $1,234 -3.80%
50 HUNTSVILLE $1,187 $1,234 -3.80%
50 MCKELLAR $1,187 $1,234 -3.80%
50 UTTERSON $1,187 $1,234 -3.80%
50 GRAVENHURST $1,187 $1,234 -3.80%
50 BRACEBRIDGE $1,187 $1,234 -3.80%
50 ROSSEAU $1,187 $1,234 -3.80%
50 PARRY SOUND $1,187 $1,234 -3.80%
51 CLOYNE $1,185 $1,103 7.40%
51 SMITHS FALLS $1,185 $1,103 7.40%
51 KEMPTVILLE $1,185 $1,103 7.40%
52 COBOURG $1,175 $1,103 6.50%
52 BELLEVILLE $1,175 $1,225 -4.10%
52 NAPANEE $1,175 $1,103 6.50%
52 TRENTON $1,175 $1,225 -4.10%
52 PICTON $1,175 $1,103 6.50%
52 KENDAL $1,175 $1,271 -7.60%
52 PORT HOPE $1,175 $1,103 6.50%
53 AMHERSTVIEW $1,132 $1,103 2.60%
53 BROCKVILLE $1,132 $1,103 2.60%
53 IROQUOIS $1,132 $1,103 2.60%
53 MARTINTOWN $1,132 $1,107 2.30%
53 ELIZABETHTOWN $1,132 $1,103 2.60%
53 CORNWALL $1,132 $1,107 2.30%
53 KINGSTON $1,132 $1,103 2.60%
53 GANANOQUE $1,132 $1,103 2.60%

Generally, car insurance gets cheaper the further away you are from dense urban centres. That’s because there are fewer incidences of theft, fraud, and collisions in rural areas. In fact, more than 80% of car insurance fraud takes place in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), according to the Ontario Auto Insurance Anti-Fraud Task Force.

In Vaughan, drivers pay about $2,179; in Toronto, drivers pay roughly $1,953. That means drivers in these cities pay $624 and $398 more than the provincial average.

It's no surprise that the Ontario towns and cities with the lowest auto insurance premiums are outside of the GTA.

Find the average estimated car insurance rate for your postal code using the RATESDOTCA Auto Insuramap.

Ontario car insurance premiums by age cohort

Age Male premium Female premium
17 $7,824 $5,972
18 $5,323 $5,188
19 $4,954 $4,366
20 $3,772 $3,865
30 $2,069 $2,069
40 $1,363 $1,363
50 $1,096 $1,096
60 $1,096 $1,096

Source: RATESDOTCA

A driver's age and gender are two factors that significantly impact insurance costs. These rating factors hold the most weight for young drivers, especially males. 

We pulled quotes for drivers of different ages to illustrate this. Except for age, each applicant: 

  • Drove a 2022 four-door Honda Civic  
  • Parked in a private driveway  
  • Drove five kilometres daily  
  • Has a clean driving record  
  • Standard insurance with no optional coverages and no discounts applied 
  • No collision and comprehensive coverage  

All things equal, a 17-year-old boy with a G2 licence would pay an eye-watering $8,000 a year for an insurance policy, and a girl of the same age would pay $6,000, according to RATESDOTCA data. 

However, each year they remain claims and are free of traffic convictions, premiums decrease by hundreds of dollars. 

Men and women end up paying equal rates by age 30. Premiums continue to decrease each decade if they remain claims and conviction-free.  

Ontario's average car insurance rate (2012-2022)

Year Average car insurance premium
2022 $1,674 *
2021 $1,651
2020 $1,655
2019 $1,634
2018 $1,505
2017 $1,445
2016 $1,432
2015 $1,455
2014 $1,486
2013 $1,540
2012 $1,549

*As of October 2022, according to FSRA.

Source: Insurance Bureau of Canada, General Insurance Statistical Agency, Financial Services Regulatory of Ontario

At $1,676 per year or $140 per month, Ontario's average auto insurance premium is on the rise and has already surpassed the average rate of other provinces.

Several factors converged to make this possible. For one, Ontario is the country's most populous province, with most people residing in large, urban areas. More people living close to each other equals more claims, which leads to higher car insurance premiums for everyone.

Then there’s the fact a standard auto insurance policy in Ontario has rich benefits, including the following:

  • Direct compensation for property damage (often shortened to DCPD)
  • Third-party liability coverage
  • Uninsured automobile protection
  • Accident benefits

In Ontario, drivers can also sue for damages after a car accident. Depending on your car insurance, your provider may cover all (or a portion) of your legal fees, which can cost insurance companies millions. To cover their costs, insurers need to increase auto insurance rates.

Another factor that can lead to increased premiums is insurance fraud, which is exceptionally high in Ontario. According to the Insurance Bureau of Canada, fraud costs each Ontario driver an estimated $236 a year.

Ontario's insurance market is also under the same economic pressures, which threaten to trigger rate increases in 2023 and beyond:

  • Inflation is driving up the cost of repairs and liability.
  • The frequency of accidents is increasing.
  • Physical damage caused by climate change is on the rise.
  • Car insurance fraud is also on the rise.
  • Vehicle theft is surging across Canada.

When the price of everything is going up, it's essential to keep an eye on how your premium compares to the average and to shop around for a better deal.

Ontario car insurance rate changes by company 2023

In Ontario, car insurance companies must get approval from the province's insurance regulator before changing rates.

Current policyholders will feel the effects of the rate changes when their policy renews, while new policyholders are immediately affected.

Rate increases don't affect policyholders equally. For example, suppose a company raises premiums by 5%. In that case, policyholders with poor driving and insurance histories may see their rate rise by that much. At the same time, long-time customers with good track records may not notice a difference.

The table below outlines the rate changes approved by the Financial Services Regulatory of Ontario (FSRA) in 2023.

Insurer Insurer group Approved rate change % Date effective
Primmum Insurance Company TD 0.00% 1/1/2023
Security National Insurance Company TD 0.00% 1/1/2023
SOMPO Japan Insurance Inc. Sompo 0.00% 1/1/2023
TD General Insurance Company TD 0.00% 1/1/2023
Co-operators General Insurance Company Co-op -0.43% 1/13/2023
Aviva General Insurance Company Aviva 1.17% 2/1/2023
Belair Insurance Company Inc. Intact 0.46% 2/1/2023
Chubb Insurance Company of Canada Chubb 12.60% 2/1/2023
Farm Mutual Reinsurance Plan Inc. (on behalf of Ontario Mutuals) FMRe 0.00% 2/1/2023
S&Y Insurance Company Aviva 0.00% 2/1/2023
Scottish & York Insurance Co. Limited Aviva 3.02% 2/1/2023
S&Y Insurance Company Aviva 0.00% 2/2/2023
Intact Insurance Company Intact 0.62% 2/4/2023
Definity Insurance Company Definity 0.00% 2/8/2023
Security National Insurance Company TD 4.60% 2/12/2023
Aviva Insurance Company of Canada Aviva 0.00% 3/1/2023
Co-operators General Insurance Company Co-op 0.00% 3/1/2023
Gore Mutual Insurance Company Gore -0.80% 3/1/2023
Peel Mutual Insurance Company Peel 4.91% 3/1/2023
Scottish & York Insurance Co. Limited Aviva -0.11% 3/1/2023
Traders General Insurance Company Aviva 0.00% 3/1/2023
Gore Mutual Insurance Company Gore 6.96% 3/10/2023
Unica Insurance Inc. La Capitale 4.92% 3/15/2023
Belair Insurance Company Inc. Intact 0.00% 3/24/2023
Pembridge Insurance Company Allstate 15.00% 4/1/2023
Chubb Insurance Company of Canada Chubb 0.00% 4/2/2023
Coachman Insurance Company SGI 9.71% 4/15/2023
Sonnet Insurance Company Definity 12.28% 4/26/2023
Certas Direct Insurance Company Desjardins 1.63% 4/27/2023
Certas Home and Auto Insurance Company Desjardins 1.54% 4/27/2023
Personal Insurance Company (The) Desjardins 1.46% 4/27/2023
Definity Insurance Company Definity 3.43% 4/29/2023
Verassure Insurance Company Northbridge 4.96% 4/29/2023
Allstate Insurance Company of Canada Allstate 11.72% 5/1/2023
Aviva General Insurance Company Aviva 3.94% 5/1/2023
Facility Association FA 13.08% 5/1/2023
Primmum Insurance Company TD 5.04% 5/1/2023
Security National Insurance Company TD 0.00% 5/1/2023
TD General Insurance Company TD 4.98% 5/1/2023
Aviva Insurance Company of Canada Aviva 0.00% 6/1/2023
CUMIS General Insurance Company Co-op 5.99% 6/1/2023
Scottish & York Insurance Co. Limited Aviva 0.00% 6/1/2023
Traders General Insurance Company Aviva 0.00% 6/1/2023
CAA Insurance Company CAA -10.49% 6/15/2023
CAA Insurance Company CAA 2.17% 6/15/2023

Source: Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario

After seven consecutive quarters of little to no change, Ontario car insurance rates have rebounded with a vengeance in 2023.

Pembridge Insurance was approved to raise rates by 15%, which will take effect on Apr. 1, 2023. 

The most significant decrease came from CAA Insurance, which received permission to decrease rates by a combined 8.32% (effective Jun. 15, 2023). However, the reduction is masking a rate increase. CAA is removing the 15% pandemic discount, so rates are actually increasing by 6.68%.

Ontario car insurance rates were static during 2020 and 2021 as pandemic restrictions changed our collective driving habits. There were fewer collisions, drivers decreased their coverage, and insurance companies issued base rate reductions, pandemic discounts and rebates.

The reversal began in the spring of 2022 and has since gained momentum. It may just be the beginning — insurance prices are still catching up with record inflation.

In Ontario, there’s a delay between when a new rate is approved and when an insurer can start charging it to customers. Insurance rates are considered a 'lagging' economic indicator, a term used to describe metrics that confirm a pattern already in progress.

If your car insurance policy is renewing soon and you're concerned about rising prices, shopping around and comparing quotes from multiple insurance companies can help you save money. Don't just take our word for it: comparing quotes is recommended by Ontario’s regulator of car insurance prices, the Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario (FSRA), and the Financial Consumer Agency of Canada (FCAC), the federal government's consumer watchdog.

Find the best Ontario car insurance on RATESDOTCA

Back in the day, comparing car insurance quotes was a time-consuming chore that involved calling several insurance companies one by one and reciting the same information over and over. Thankfully, technology has made comparing insurance companies much easier.

RATESDOTCA runs your details through a database of quotes from Ontario insurance companies. Then, we bring you a list of quotes from more than 50 insurance companies, allowing you to compare quotes side-by-side easily.

Our service is free, and Ontario drivers who use RATESDOTCA save an average of $800.*

*Shoppers in Ontario who obtained an auto insurance quote on RATESDOTCA and transacted via our contact centre from January to December 2022 saved an average amount of $800. The average savings amount represents the difference between the shoppers’ average lowest quoted premium and the average of the second and third lowest quoted premiums generated by RATESDOTCA.

Latest auto insurance articles

Is rustproofing worth the added cost?
Learn the pros and cons of rustproofing. Do you really need the service?
Learn More
5 mins read
Right-of-way in Canada: road rules explained
Right-of-way determines which driver has the right to proceed first through an intersection. But it isn’t always obvious. Here’s what you need to know.
Learn More
4 mins read
Your car may be worth less after an accident: Learn about diminished value
In Canada, your insurance does not automatically cover you for any loss in value your vehicle incurs after being repaired after an accident. Your only recourse is to ask or to sue.
Learn More
4 mins read

Subscribe to our newsletter

Stay on top of our latest offers, relevant news and tips!

Thanks for joining!

You'll be hearing from us shortly - stay tuned.