How Much Is Car Insurance in Alberta (2024)

The average cost of car insurance in Alberta is $1,514, making it the third-highest in Canada, after British Columbia and Ontario. The high price is influenced by various factors, including the costs of claims, an increase in weather-related claims, incidents of auto theft, and instances of fraud. 

Notably, car insurance in Alberta is supplied by private carriers, and their rates are regulated by the Automobile Insurance Rate Board (AIRB) in Alberta using the grid rating system.

In this blog post, we will delve into the intricacies of car insurance costs in Alberta, examining the various factors influencing these costs. Additionally, we will offer insights on how and where to secure cheaper car insurance premiums in Alberta.

How Much is Car Insurance in Alberta?

If you’re driving in Alberta, you’ll typically pay around $1,514 every year for your car insurance. That places Alberta at the third spot for Canada’s highest car insurance rates, just behind British Columbia and Ontario.

Now, Alberta’s way of doing car insurance is a bit unique. We have private companies providing the coverage, but the government keeps things in check with something called the Grid rating program. This system is there to make sure that even the basic coverage stays affordable for everyone.

The Alberta Automobile Insurance Rate Board (AIRB) is like the supervisor in charge. They decide whether private insurance companies can raise their rates or not. It’s all based on a grid rate calculator. The lower you are on this grid, the less you’ll pay.

This grid sets the limits for how much insurance companies can charge for the essential stuff like third-party liability, accident benefits, and direct compensation for property damage. But when it comes to extra coverage you might want, like for your fancy stereo or extra protection, the insurance companies get to set those prices.

Understanding this setup can help you make smarter choices when it comes to getting the right car insurance in Alberta for you.

How Much is Car Insurance in Alberta Per Month?

On average, car drivers in Alberta pay around $126 each month for their auto insurance. While this gives you a convenient monthly breakdown, it’s worth considering an annual payment strategy to potentially save some money.

Paying your car insurance annually is a recommended practice, and here’s why: Insurance providers often offer discounts or lower rates for customers who choose the annual payment option. This can translate to a more cost-effective overall insurance package than monthly payments.

How Much is Car Insurance for a New Driver in Alberta?

For new drivers in Alberta, the annual cost of auto insurance can vary widely, ranging from $1,500 to $7,000.

Car insurance tends to be more expensive for new drivers in Alberta, particularly for the younger age group. There is often heightened scrutiny for these drivers compared to those who are older but still newly licensed. Less experienced drivers often face rate limitations imposed by the grid rate calculator. However, as new drivers gain valuable experience and maintain a clean driving record, they can expect a gradual decrease in their insurance premiums over time.

Average Cost of Car Insurance in Alberta By City

Your location within the province plays a crucial role in determining your car insurance costs. Generally, residents of larger cities can expect higher insurance premiums. Specifically, cities like Calgary and Edmonton tend to have elevated rates compared to smaller towns within Alberta.

Factors contributing to these variations include increased traffic density, higher instances of accidents, and a potentially greater frequency of insurance claims in more urbanized areas.

Here are the average car insurance costs for some of the major cities in Alberta.

How Much is Car Insurance in Calgary?

In Calgary, car drivers typically pay around $1,741 for their car insurance. Given that places like Calgary, by Alberta standards, are relatively large and exhibit higher urban density, the frequency of traffic infractions and thefts tends to be elevated. The city’s significant commuter population contributes to increased road activity, ultimately leading to higher insurance claims.

How Much is Car Insurance in Edmonton?

In Edmonton, Alberta’s capital city, drivers pay approximately $1,586 for car insurance. The ongoing increase in population and the number of vehicles on the road contribute to heightened congestion in Edmonton. With more drivers and commuters, there’s an associated rise in traffic delays, increased risks, and a higher likelihood of accidents. Consequently, this scenario may result in elevated car insurance premiums for drivers in Edmonton.

Mandatory Car Insurance Coverage in Alberta

In Alberta, certain types of car insurance are mandatory, forming the baseline for all auto policies across the province. Let’s break down these coverages for a clearer understanding:

1. Third-Party Liability: This type of insurance safeguards you in the event that you cause damage to other individuals or their property while driving. In Alberta, the minimum required coverage is at least $200,000. However, many drivers opt for $1 million for enhanced protection, and for those seeking additional peace of mind, the limit can be further increased to $2 million.
2. Accident Benefits: Accident benefits step in to cover your medical expenses following a crash, regardless of whether you are at fault. This includes services beyond provincial coverage, such as rehabilitation, income replacement, and attendant care. In more unfortunate situations, accident benefits can also cover funeral expenses. Moreover, this type of insurance extends its coverage to injuries sustained by passengers, pedestrians, and cyclists.
3. Direct Compensation for Property Damage (DCPD): If another driver is at fault in an accident, DCPD comes into play, covering the damage to your vehicle and its contents. It also compensates for the loss of use of your vehicle while it’s undergoing repairs. However, you’ll need collision insurance to handle the repair or replacement costs if you are at fault. DCPD insurance is applicable only in provinces where it is mandatory, including Alberta. It comes into effect when two or more insured vehicles are involved in the crash, and both insurers are licensed within that DCPD province.

Optional Car Insurance Coverage in Alberta

Enhancing your auto insurance policy in Alberta with optional coverages can increase your protection and bring added peace of mind. Let’s explore these options in clear detail:

1. Collision Coverage: Collision insurance steps in when you’re at fault in an accident, covering damages to your vehicle. Whether colliding with another car or a stationary object like a guardrail or tree, this coverage assists in paying for repairs or replacements.
2. Comprehensive Coverage: Comprehensive insurance safeguards your vehicle against various losses while parked, including theft, vandalism, attempted burglary, and damage from environmental factors like floods, fallen trees, and hail.
3. Specified Perils: This coverage protects against specific risks you explicitly name in your policy, such as fire, theft, vandalism, weather events, explosions, riots, and falling objects. While a cost-effective option, it leaves you exposed to unspecified risks.
4. All Perils: Combining collision and comprehensive insurance, all perils coverage offers broader protection, covering vehicle damage unless otherwise stated. Notably, it extends coverage even if your vehicle is stolen by a household member, an employee, or someone servicing it.
5. Emergency Roadside Assistance: This service covers roadside emergencies like dead batteries, towing, flat tires, locked keys, and running out of gas. It may be included in your insurance or available as an add-on. Third-party providers like CAA or certain credit cards may also offer this assistance.

How Car Insurance Rates are Calculated in Alberta

Auto insurance companies consider numerous personalized factors when determining your insurance quote. Generally, the level of risk you pose correlates with the cost of your policy. Here are key factors to be mindful of:

• Age: Young drivers typically face higher rates, making the prospect of ageing more appealing as it often accompanies lower premiums.
• Gender: Due to a higher incidence of accidents involving men, they often experience higher insurance rates as insurers aim to manage their risk.
• Location: Residing in bustling cities like Edmonton may adversely impact your insurance rate, given the heightened risk of collisions and theft in such environments.
• Vehicle Type: Cars with higher repair and replacement costs naturally come with increased insurance rates. The same applies to vehicles that are frequently targeted for theft.
• Driving History: Traffic convictions have a negative impact on your insurance rate. Insurers seek to minimize risk, so maintaining a clean driving record is crucial for securing favourable rates.
• Driving Behavior: Spending more time on the road increases the likelihood of filing a claim. Driving less can effectively lower your auto insurance rate.
• License Class: Progressing through the Alberta licensing system and achieving Class 5 status results in cheaper auto insurance rates, reflecting increased driving experience.
• Vehicle Use: If your vehicle serves business purposes, expect to pay a higher insurance premium. Cars used for pleasure typically come at more affordable rates.

Best Car Insurance Companies in Alberta

To assist you in choosing a car insurance provider, here’s a list of the best companies for car insurance in Calgary:

1. Desjardins Insurance

Desjardins Insurance is renowned for its commitment to customer satisfaction and a comprehensive range of insurance products, including car insurance. With a strong presence in Alberta, Desjardins offers personalized coverage options and competitive rates. Their focus on customer service and innovative solutions makes them a top choice for Albertans seeking reliable car insurance.

2. Sharp Insurance

Sharp Insurance stands out for its innovative approach to insurance, leveraging technology to streamline processes and enhance customer experience. Based in Alberta, Sharp Insurance is known for offering tailored coverage solutions to meet the diverse needs of its clients. The company’s commitment to transparency and efficiency has earned it a solid reputation among car insurance providers in the province.

3. Alpine Insurance

Alpine Insurance takes pride in its longstanding presence in Alberta, providing various insurance products, including car insurance. The company is recognized for its commitment to community engagement and customer-centric approach. With a focus on building lasting relationships, Alpine Insurance strives to offer dependable coverage and responsive service to Alberta residents.

4. Westland Insurance

Westland Insurance has established itself as a trusted provider of insurance solutions, including car insurance, in Alberta. The company’s dedication to simplicity, integrity, and personalized service has made it a preferred choice for many residents. Westland Insurance aims to simplify the insurance process while ensuring clients can access comprehensive coverage options tailored to their specific needs.

5. Leibel Insurance

Leibel Insurance is a prominent player in Alberta’s insurance landscape, offering a range of insurance products with a strong emphasis on car insurance. Known for its commitment to client advocacy and competitive rates, Leibel Insurance strives to provide a seamless and customer-friendly experience. The company’s local expertise and personalized service make it one of Alberta’s best car insurance options.

How To Get Cheap Car Insurance in Alberta

Looking to reduce your car insurance premiums in Alberta? Consider the following strategies:

• Pay in Full: Earn a discount by paying your insurance annually rather than paying monthly payments.
• Bundle Home and Auto Insurance: Combine your car and home insurance or insure multiple vehicles under the same household to benefit from savings.
• Inquire about Discounts: Many insurers provide discounted rates for individuals who are university alumni or employees of specific companies.
• Opt for a Higher Deductible: While a $500 deductible may seem more appealing than a $1,000 one, it’s not always the case. Choosing a higher deductible can result in monthly premium savings that quickly offset the difference.
• Maintain a Good Driving Record: Accumulating demerit points, convictions, or at-fault claims can increase your insurance premiums for an extended period. Keeping a clean driving record is crucial.
• Use a Telematics App: Download your insurer’s mobile app to potentially save 10% immediately and more over time. The app monitors your driving habits, such as braking, acceleration, and speed, to determine your premiums.
• Park in a Garage: Parking your car indoors reduces the risk of theft and weather damage, potentially leading to lower premiums.
• Install Approved Security Features: Enhance your vehicle’s security to lower the overall risk, consequently reducing your insurance premiums.

RECOMMENDED READINGS: 

• Life Insurance 101: What It Is, What It Covers, and How It Works
• What Is Auto Insurance Canada and How Does It Work? (2024)
• How Much Is Car Insurance In Canada? (2024)

Final Thoughts on How Much is Car Insurance in Alberta

Unravelling the intricacies of car insurance in Alberta has shed light on the factors that influence its cost. From your driving history to the type of coverage you choose, understanding the unique elements influencing insurance premiums in Alberta empowers you to make informed decisions. 

As you navigate the landscape of car insurance options, remember that rates may vary, but knowledge is your greatest asset in securing the best coverage for your needs. By staying informed and comparing quotes, you can find a policy that fits your budget and provides the protection you deserve on Alberta’s roads.