Jamie is a meticulous researcher who has published 2,000+ personal finance articles. Her expertise is trusted by major brands like Bankrate and Rocket Mortgage.
Sara Getman is an Associate Editor at Insurify and has been with the company since 2022. Prior to joining Insurify, Sara completed her undergraduate degree in English Literature at Simmons University in Boston. At Simmons, she was the Editor-in-Chief for Sidelines Magazine (a literary and art publication), and wrote creative non-fiction.
Outside of work, Sara is an avid reader, and loves rock climbing, yoga and crocheting.
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The average cost of homeowners insurance for Washington, D.C., residents is $1,203 per year, which is below the national average of $2,377.
As a historic area, the District of Columbia has a high concentration of older homes, with many built in the 1920s and earlier. Older homes tend to need more maintenance than new homes and may have roof, wiring, plumbing, or structural problems.
Comparing multiple quotes, researching coverage limits, and deciding on a lower deductible are the easiest ways to find the cheapest homeowners insurance. Keep reading to learn more about home insurance in Washington, D.C.
Quick Facts
USAA, Allstate, and Ace American are the cheapest home insurers in the D.C. area.
D.C.’s high population density can affect your home insurance rates.
Older homes in D.C. are only slightly more expensive to insure, at an average annual rate of $1,207.
Best home insurance companies in Washington, D.C.
If you’re looking for the best homeowners insurance in Washington, D.C., you have many high-quality companies to pick from. While the best home insurer for you will vary depending on your specific needs, here are some great homeowners insurance companies to consider in D.C.
Insurance Company
▲▼
IQ Score
The Insurify Quality (IQ) Score uses more than 15 criteria to objectively rate insurance companies on a one-to-ten scale. The Insurify editorial team researches insurer data to determine the final scores.
▲▼
Average Annual Premium
▲▼
Best For
▲▼
Allstate
8.2
$999
Cheapest rates
USAA
8
$994
Veterans
Nationwide
8.4
$1,171
Theft protection
State Farm
8.2
$1,270
Personalized coverage
Our editorial team spent more than 350 hours developing the Insurify Quality (IQ) Score and scoring insurance companies. The IQ Score objectively analyzes and calculates a score for insurers using more than 15 crucial criteria. The team weighted criteria by importance to the consumer — factors such as customer reviews and affordability influence the score more than availability and third-party ratings.
We rate each company on a 1 to 10 scale based on five categories: financial ratings, customer satisfaction, affordability, customer support and transparency, and availability. Insurify updates ratings once a year or as more recent information becomes available.
Third-party financial ratings: Insurify uses data from AM Best, S&P, Moody’s, and more to compare insurance companies’ credit and ability to pay out future claims.
Customer satisfaction: To calculate this score, Insurify analyzed more than 28,000 customer reviews across 155 car insurance companies. We also consider third-party ratings from J.D. Power, the National Association of Insurance Commissioners, and Trustpilot.
Affordability: Our data scientists analyzed more than 90 million real-time auto insurance rates from our partners across the U.S., as well as available discounts, to calculate an affordability score.
Customer support and transparency: This measures coverage options, ease of claims filing, and the insurer's transparency surrounding discounts, coverages, and claims process.
Availability and reach: Insurify scores availability and reach by identifying the number of states in which insurers offer coverage and company size by market share.
The Insurify Quality (IQ) Score uses more than 15 criteria to objectively rate insurance companies on a one-to-ten scale. The Insurify editorial team researches insurer data to determine the final scores.
8.9/10
JD Power
J.D. Power data measures overall customer satisfaction and claims satisfaction based on a 1,000-point scale.
833
$300,000 Dwelling
A standard HO-3 home insurance policy typically includes dwelling, personal property, and liability coverage. The average rate displayed here reflects a policy with the following coverage limits: $300,000 dwelling; $25,000 personal property; $300,000 personal liability; $30,000 loss of use; and a $1,000 deductible for medical payments to others.
$83/mo
$500,000 Dwelling
A standard HO-3 home insurance policy typically includes dwelling, personal property, and liability coverage. The average rate displayed here reflects a policy with the following coverage limits: $500,000 dwelling; $25,000 personal property; $300,000 personal liability; $30,000 loss of use; and a $1,000 deductible for medical payments to others.
$110/mo
Allstate is the cheapest option for D.C. homeowners, with an average annual rate of $999. This may be largely due to the wide variety of discounts Allstate offers; you could earn a discount for bundling your policies, maintaining a good payment history, or staying claims-free. Allstate also offers discounts and plans for bundling home and auto policies.
Pros
Coverage for home-sharing hosts available
Renters, landlord, and condo insurance available
Cons
Below-average score in the J.D. Power 2023 U.S. Home Insurance Study
High number of customer complaints on the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) consumer complaint index
The Insurify Quality (IQ) Score uses more than 15 criteria to objectively rate insurance companies on a one-to-ten scale. The Insurify editorial team researches insurer data to determine the final scores.
9.4/10
JD Power
J.D. Power data measures overall customer satisfaction and claims satisfaction based on a 1,000-point scale.
880
$300,000 Dwelling
A standard HO-3 home insurance policy typically includes dwelling, personal property, and liability coverage. The average rate displayed here reflects a policy with the following coverage limits: $300,000 dwelling; $25,000 personal property; $300,000 personal liability; $30,000 loss of use; and a $1,000 deductible for medical payments to others.
$80/mo
$500,000 Dwelling
A standard HO-3 home insurance policy typically includes dwelling, personal property, and liability coverage. The average rate displayed here reflects a policy with the following coverage limits: $500,000 dwelling; $25,000 personal property; $300,000 personal liability; $30,000 loss of use; and a $1,000 deductible for medical payments to others.
$120/mo
Roughly 4% of D.C. residents are veterans who can benefit from choosing USAA as their home insurance company.[1] USAA offers several unique benefits to military families, including uniforms and equipment coverage. If your personal property is lost or damaged in war, the insurer will waive your deductible.
Pros
High rating in the J.D. Power 2023 U.S. Home Insurance Study
Lower-than-average number of customer complaints with the NAIC
Cons
Only available to veterans, military members, and their families
The Insurify Quality (IQ) Score uses more than 15 criteria to objectively rate insurance companies on a one-to-ten scale. The Insurify editorial team researches insurer data to determine the final scores.
8.7/10
JD Power
J.D. Power data measures overall customer satisfaction and claims satisfaction based on a 1,000-point scale.
815
$300,000 Dwelling
A standard HO-3 home insurance policy typically includes dwelling, personal property, and liability coverage. The average rate displayed here reflects a policy with the following coverage limits: $300,000 dwelling; $25,000 personal property; $300,000 personal liability; $30,000 loss of use; and a $1,000 deductible for medical payments to others.
$98/mo
$500,000 Dwelling
A standard HO-3 home insurance policy typically includes dwelling, personal property, and liability coverage. The average rate displayed here reflects a policy with the following coverage limits: $500,000 dwelling; $25,000 personal property; $300,000 personal liability; $30,000 loss of use; and a $1,000 deductible for medical payments to others.
$147/mo
D.C. residents have a 1-in-28 chance of being victims of a property crime, so it’s important to take steps to protect your property.[2] Nationwide customers could receive a discount for installing certain safety features, like a home security system. You’ll also receive a discount for living in a gated community that’s under protection at all times. You can purchase additional coverage for high-value items, like jewelry or antiques.
Pros
Additional flood insurance available
Discounts for multiple policies, claims-free homes, and smart technology
Cons
AM Best recently downgraded the company’s financial strength rating
Policies only available through an insurance agent
Best insurer for personalized coverage: State Farm
The Insurify Quality (IQ) Score uses more than 15 criteria to objectively rate insurance companies on a one-to-ten scale. The Insurify editorial team researches insurer data to determine the final scores.
9.3/10
JD Power
J.D. Power data measures overall customer satisfaction and claims satisfaction based on a 1,000-point scale.
842
$300,000 Dwelling
A standard HO-3 home insurance policy typically includes dwelling, personal property, and liability coverage. The average rate displayed here reflects a policy with the following coverage limits: $300,000 dwelling; $25,000 personal property; $300,000 personal liability; $30,000 loss of use; and a $1,000 deductible for medical payments to others.
$106/mo
$500,000 Dwelling
A standard HO-3 home insurance policy typically includes dwelling, personal property, and liability coverage. The average rate displayed here reflects a policy with the following coverage limits: $500,000 dwelling; $25,000 personal property; $300,000 personal liability; $30,000 loss of use; and a $1,000 deductible for medical payments to others.
$157/mo
State Farm offers the standard homeowners coverage you’d expect to see, like dwelling, loss of use coverage, property, and liability coverage. But the optional coverage add-ons are where State Farm really stands out. For example, you can purchase water backup coverage to protect you in the event of a sump pump backup. A sewer line warranty will protect you if your underground water and sewer piping accidentally breaks.
Pros
Above-average J.D. Power customer satisfaction rating
Bundling, home security, and roofing discounts available
Cons
AM Best recently downgraded the company’s financial strength rating
Not as many available discounts as other home insurers
Cheapest home insurance in Washington, D.C.
Homeowners nationwide are seeing their insurance costs rise, and the average premiums in D.C. could increase by 6% by the end of the year. One of the best ways to save is by shopping around and comparing quotes from different insurers.
USAA is the cheapest overall home insurance company, with an average annual premium of $994. But if you don’t meet the membership requirements, Allstate comes in at a close second, with an annual premium of $999.
The table below shows the average annual rates for insurers in Washington, D.C.
Insurance Company
▲▼
Average Annual Premium
▲▼
USAA
$994
Allstate
$999
Ace American
$1,001
Nationwide
$1,171
State Farm
$1,270
Travelers
$1,385
Chubb
$1,660
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Cost of homeowners insurance in Washington, D.C.
If you take out a $300,000 home insurance policy in D.C., the average homeowners insurance rates are $1,203. This is well below the national average of $2,377 for the same policy type. But the exact cost of your home insurance can vary depending on the following factors:
Construction: The construction of your home can affect how much you pay for insurance. For example, frame houses typically cost more to insure than brick homes.
Age of home: Older homes cost more to insure than newer houses since they’re more likely to need repairs.
Coverage: The more coverage you purchase, the more you’ll pay for homeowners insurance.
Deductible: Choosing a higher deductible will lead to lower insurance premiums and vice versa.
Location: Your ZIP code plays a big role in how much you pay for home insurance. For example, you’ll pay more if you live in an area with high crime rates or a high likelihood of weather-related disasters.
Protective devices: Certain safety features, like a fire alarm, sprinkler system, or security system, can lower the cost of homeowners insurance.
Cost of homeowners insurance by dwelling coverage amount
Dwelling coverage pays to repair or replace the structure of your home in the event of a covered peril. It may also cover other structures on your property, like a detached garage or gazebo.
The higher your dwelling coverage is, the more you’ll pay for homeowners insurance. The table below shows what D.C. homeowners pay for different amounts of coverage for policies with a $1,000 deductible.
Coverage Limit
▲▼
Average Annual Premium
▲▼
$100,000
$568
$200,000
$887
$300,000
$1,203
$400,000
$1,545
$500,000
$1,874
Cost of homeowners insurance by deductible
A deductible is an out-of-pocket expense you pay before your insurance coverage kicks in. If you choose a high deductible, your monthly insurance premiums will be lower since your insurer has to pay less money to cover the claim. If you choose a smaller deductible, your monthly premiums will be more expensive.
Here’s what D.C. homeowners pay for different deductible amounts for policies with $300,000 in dwelling coverage.
Deductible Amount
▲▼
Average Annual Premium
▲▼
$500
$1,262
$1,000
$1,203
How to get cheap homeowners insurance in Washington, D.C.
Homeowners insurance is an important expense. Here are the best ways for D.C. residents to find cheap homeowners insurance:[3]
Raise your deductible. One of the easiest ways to lower your insurance costs is by raising your deductible. Just make sure you can afford to pay that deductible if you ever have to file a claim.
Bundle your policies. Most insurance companies will give you a discount for purchasing multiple policies. For example, you could receive a discount for bundling your home, life insurance, and auto insurance policies.
Install a security system. Many insurance companies will offer you a discount if you install a home security system. If you can’t afford a security system, your insurer may offer you a discount for other safety features, like a fire alarm or sprinkler system.
Stay with the same insurer. Once you’ve stayed with the same insurance company for several years, it may offer you a loyalty discount.
Improve your credit. Homeowners insurance companies may look at information on your credit report to help determine your premiums. Improving your credit could help you lower your home insurance costs.
Shop around. When you’re shopping around for homeowners insurance, get quotes from at least three different insurers. Comparing your options will help you find the best price and coverage for your situation.
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How much homeowners insurance do you need in Washington, D.C.?
Unlike car insurance, there’s no legal requirement to purchase homeowners insurance. But if you take out a mortgage on your home, your mortgage lender will require you to purchase a home insurance policy.
Your lender will likely require you to purchase enough home insurance to cover the cost of the mortgage. But depending on your circumstances, that may not be enough coverage.
Start by figuring out how much it would cost to rebuild your home — that’s the amount of dwelling coverage you’ll need to purchase. It’s also a good idea to figure out how much you’d need to pay for additional living expenses if your home became uninhabitable.
Finally, do an audit of your personal possessions to determine how much personal property coverage you need. This inventory will also be helpful if you ever have to file a home insurance claim. Before buying a policy, make sure you understand exactly what it covers so you know if you’re fully protected.
What are some of the biggest risks when owning a home in Washington, D.C.?
Washington, D.C., has hot, muggy summers and cold, snowy winters. Homeowners should prepare for all kinds of inclement weather in the city. Here are the biggest weather-related threats facing Washington, D.C., homeowners:
Winter storms
Winter storms are common in Washington, D.C., and often include high winds, freezing rain, and heavy snowfall.[4] These storms can lead to power outages, water damage, and possible structural damage to your home. Fortunately, a standard homeowners insurance policy covers these damages.
Floods
Flooding is common in certain parts of D.C. due to its proximity to streams and rivers.[5] Unfortunately, homeowners insurance doesn’t cover flooding, so if you live in a flood zone, you’ll have to purchase a separate policy. You can either purchase this as an endorsement from your insurance company or buy a policy through the National Flood Insurance Program.
Extreme heat
Extreme heat is also common in Washington, D.C. — especially during the summer months.[6] Once temperatures reach 95 degrees and above, it can strain your HVAC system and eventually lead to foundation problems or roof damage. Fortunately, your homeowners insurance policy should cover these claims.
Washington, D.C., homeowners insurance FAQs
Purchasing homeowners insurance is an important financial decision. Here’s some additional information that may help as you research your coverage options.
How much is home insurance in Washington, D.C.?
Home insurance in Washington, D.C., costs $1,203 annually for a $300,000 policy with a $1,000 deductible, according to Insurify data. Your rates will depend on your many factors, including your dwelling coverage, deducible, location, ZIP code, and credit history.
Which company has the cheapest homeowners insurance in Washington, D.C.?
D.C. homeowners can find the cheapest insurance from USAA, at an average annual rate of $994. Other affordable options include Allstate, at $999 per year, and Ace American Pool, at $1,001 per year.
Does Washington, D.C., require homeowners insurance?
No. Washington, D.C., doesn’t require homeowners to have home insurance. But if you have a mortgage, your lender likely will require you to have a policy.
Even if you don’t have a mortgage, it’s important to cover your home and personal property. In the event of damage to your home, insurance can help you pay for it.
Which company has the most expensive home insurance in Washington, D.C.?
Insuritech Chubb offers the most expensive insurance in Washington, D.C., at an average annual rate of $1,660.
Jamie Johnson is a Kansas City-based personal finance writer whose work has been featured on several of the top finance and business sites in the country, including Insider, Credit Karma, Bankrate, Rocket Mortgage, Fox Business, Quicken Loans, and The Balance. For the past six years, she's dedicated more than 10,000 hours of research and writing to more than 2,000 articles about personal finance topics.
Sara Getman is an Associate Editor at Insurify and has been with the company since 2022. Prior to joining Insurify, Sara completed her undergraduate degree in English Literature at Simmons University in Boston. At Simmons, she was the Editor-in-Chief for Sidelines Magazine (a literary and art publication), and wrote creative non-fiction.
Outside of work, Sara is an avid reader, and loves rock climbing, yoga and crocheting.