Root vs Progressive: Auto Insurance Comparison

Root vs Progressive is one of the most common auto insurance comparisons drivers search for today. These two companies represent very different approaches to car insurance. Root is a tech-first startup that prices policies based on driving behavior. Progressive is one of the largest and oldest auto insurers in the country. Both companies offer competitive rates, but they serve different types of drivers. In this root vs progressive guide, we break down coverage options, average rates, discounts, financial strength ratings, and customer satisfaction scores. Whether you are a safe driver looking for the cheapest rate or a high-risk driver who needs reliable coverage, this comparison will help you decide which insurer fits your needs best.

Root vs Progressive: Company Overview

Root Insurance launched in 2015 as a mobile-first, telematics-based insurer. It tracks your driving habits through a smartphone app during a test period. Your driving score then determines whether you qualify for a policy and what rate you receive. Root does not carry an AM Best financial strength rating. Its NAIC complaint index of 2.61 means it receives more than twice the expected complaints for a company its size. However, safe drivers can find some of the lowest rates in the market.

Progressive has been in business since 1937 and is the third-largest auto insurer in the United States. It holds an A+ (Superior) rating from AM Best. Its NAIC complaint index of 0.97 is slightly below average, which is a positive sign. However, Progressive’s JD Power claims satisfaction score of 673 out of 1,000 falls below the industry average of 700. In most cases, Progressive offers broader coverage options and nationwide availability that Root cannot match.

Root Vs Progressive: Coverage Comparison

Both companies offer the standard coverage types most drivers need. Liability, collision, comprehensive, and uninsured motorist coverage are available from both Root and Progressive. However, the root vs progressive coverage gap becomes clear with specialty products. Progressive offers gap insurance, rideshare coverage, custom parts coverage, and pet injury protection. Root does not offer these add-ons. For example, if you drive for Uber or Lyft, Progressive is the only choice between these two.

Root’s roadside assistance is capped at $100 per incident with a maximum of three service calls per six-month term. Progressive’s roadside assistance program is more flexible and includes towing, lockout service, and flat tire changes. As a result, drivers who want extensive add-on coverage will find Progressive significantly more versatile.

Root keeps its coverage options intentionally simple. This appeals to drivers who want a basic, straightforward policy. Typically, Root works best for people who only need standard auto coverage without the extras. Progressive, on the other hand, can serve as a one-stop shop for multiple insurance needs including auto, home, renters, and motorcycle coverage.

Root vs Progressive: Rates and Pricing

The root vs progressive pricing comparison reveals interesting patterns. Root’s average full coverage rate of $1,719 per year is roughly $338 cheaper than Progressive’s $2,057 annual average. For safe drivers with clean records, Root often delivers significant savings. Root’s telematics-based model rewards drivers who brake smoothly, avoid phone use, and drive during safe hours. However, these rates only apply if you pass the driving test period.

Progressive wins on minimum coverage pricing at just $616 per year compared to Root’s $1,056. This makes Progressive the better choice for drivers who only need state-minimum liability. For example, if you drive an older car and want the cheapest legal coverage, Progressive typically costs less. Progressive also serves drivers that Root turns away entirely.

The root vs progressive rate gap is most dramatic for high-risk drivers. Root may decline coverage after a DUI or serious accident. Progressive, in contrast, specializes in high-risk drivers and offers rates around $2,850 per year after a DUI. The DUI surcharge at Progressive adds roughly $36 per month. As a result, Progressive is one of the few major insurers that actively welcomes high-risk customers.

Root vs Progressive: Discounts Available

Root’s discount structure centers on driving behavior. Safe drivers can save up to $900 per year through the telematics program. The focused driving discount offers an additional 10% off for avoiding phone use while driving. Root also provides multi-car, homeowner, pay-in-full, good student, low mileage, and bundle discounts. However, Root’s referral program lets you earn cash when someone signs up using your link. Root’s discount list is shorter than most major insurers.

Progressive offers a much wider range of discounts. The Snapshot telematics program saves customers an average of $145 at renewal. Defensive driving courses can save up to 31%. Anti-theft device discounts reach 25%. The good student discount saves about 10% for full-time students under 23 with a B average. Progressive also offers a distant student discount, online quote discount of 7%, sign online discount of 9%, homeowner discount of 10%, and continuous insurance discount. In most cases, Progressive’s discount portfolio is significantly more extensive.

When comparing root vs progressive discounts, Progressive clearly offers more ways to save. However, Root’s single biggest discount — up to $900 for safe driving — can outweigh several smaller Progressive discounts combined. Typically, the best approach is to get quotes from both companies and see which discounts you actually qualify for.

Root vs Progressive: Pros and Cons

Root Pros:

• Among the cheapest full coverage rates for safe drivers at $1,719 per year
• Driving behavior matters more than credit score or demographics
• Mobile-first experience with easy policy management
• Safe driving discount saves up to $900 annually

Root Cons:

• No AM Best rating and NAIC complaint index of 2.61 raises concerns
• Not available in all 50 states and may decline high-risk drivers

Progressive Pros:

• A+ (Superior) AM Best financial strength rating
• Available in all 50 states with the widest coverage options
• Accepts high-risk drivers including those with DUI records
• Cheapest minimum coverage at $616 per year

Progressive Cons:

• JD Power claims score of 673 is below the industry average of 700
• Full coverage rates average $2,057 per year, higher than many competitors

Root vs Progressive: Customer Experience

Root was built as an app-first company. Its mobile app earns a 4.7-star rating on the Apple App Store and 3.5 stars on Google Play. You can get a quote, manage your policy, file claims, and request roadside assistance entirely through the app. However, Root lacks a traditional agent network. If you prefer speaking with a local agent, Root is not the right fit. The app does experience occasional glitches according to user reviews.

Progressive’s mobile app also performs well with 4.5 stars on the App Store and 4.1 stars on Google Play. Progressive offers a Photo Estimate feature that lets you snap pictures of vehicle damage through the app. The Accident Response feature automatically detects major collisions and offers immediate assistance. For example, it can dispatch towing and help you open a claim without making a phone call. Progressive also has a large network of local agents for drivers who prefer in-person service.

In the root vs progressive customer experience comparison, both companies invest heavily in digital tools. However, Progressive’s claims satisfaction score of 673 out of 1,000 is below average. Some customers report slow response times and disputes over repair estimates. Root does not appear in JD Power rankings at all, making it harder to benchmark. Typically, drivers who value a fully digital experience prefer Root. Those who want multiple service channels lean toward Progressive.

Which Should You Choose: Root or Progressive?

Choose Root if: You are a safe driver with a clean record and want the lowest possible rate. Root works best for tech-savvy drivers who are comfortable managing everything through a mobile app. If you live in one of the 37 states where Root operates and you drive safely, you could save hundreds compared to Progressive.

Choose Progressive if: You need coverage in any state, have a DUI or accident on your record, or want specialty coverage like gap insurance or rideshare protection. Progressive is also the better choice if you want the financial security of an A+ rated insurer. Drivers who prefer working with a local agent should also choose Progressive.

The root vs progressive decision ultimately depends on your driving record and coverage needs. Root offers potentially lower rates but with limited availability and fewer coverage options. Progressive costs more on average but provides nationwide access, broader coverage, and financial stability. For most drivers, getting quotes from both companies is the smartest move. In most cases, safe drivers save more with Root while high-risk drivers and those needing comprehensive coverage benefit from Progressive. Both companies have strengths that serve different customer profiles well.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Root cheaper than Progressive?

Root is typically cheaper for full coverage policies. Root averages $1,719 per year compared to Progressive’s $2,057. However, Progressive offers cheaper minimum coverage at $616 per year versus Root’s $1,056. Your actual rate depends on your driving score and location.

Which has better customer service, Root or Progressive?

Progressive has a more established customer service infrastructure with local agents and phone support. However, its JD Power claims score of 673 is below the industry average. Root’s NAIC complaint index of 2.61 is more than double the expected rate. As a result, neither company is a standout for customer satisfaction in the root vs progressive comparison.

Can I switch from Root to Progressive mid-policy?

Yes, you can switch at any time. Contact Root to cancel your current policy and start a new one with Progressive. Make sure your new Progressive policy starts before your Root policy ends to avoid a coverage gap. Root does not charge early cancellation fees in most states.

Do Root and Progressive offer the same discounts?

No. Both offer telematics-based safe driving discounts, but Progressive has a much wider discount list. Progressive offers unique discounts for online quotes, signing documents online, continuous insurance, and distant students. Root’s biggest advantage is its safe driving discount of up to $900 per year. Comparing root vs progressive discounts side by side helps you find which savings apply to your situation.

Get Your Quotes

Ready to see which company offers you a better rate? Get quotes from both Root and Progressive to compare real prices for your specific situation.

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Official Sources & Resources

For verified information on auto insurance companies and consumer protection:

• NAIC (National Association of Insurance Commissioners): naic.org
• Insurance Information Institute: iii.org
• National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA): nhtsa.gov
• AM Best — Insurer Financial Strength: ambest.com

Content last reviewed April 2026. If you notice any outdated information, please contact us.

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