Progressive vs Safeco: Which company is best for you?
Progressive and Safeco each provide many different types of insurance coverage sufficient for the needs of most customers. However, each company has its strengths and weaknesses. To aid in your search for a new insurance policy, see how these two insurers compare in our in-depth comparison.
Progressive car insurance
Progressive has steadily become one of the most popular options for insurance in recent years. The company's robust coverage offerings, affordable rates, and reasonably strong customer satisfaction ratings have all played a part in their ascent. With their many available lines of insurance, many customers will not only be able to satisfy their auto insurance needs, but may also be able to find solutions to many of their insurance needs.
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Safeco car insurance
Safeco Insurance is a popular choice for many car insurance shoppers. As a subsidiary of Liberty Mutual, Safeco customers can enjoy a wide array of policy options and coverage levels. There are also many additional lines of insurance that may be bundled with auto policies, potentially allowing customers to streamline their insurance needs and even save money. Find out more about Safeco Insurance below.
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Which company comes out on top?
Progressive
While both companies have great coverage options and reasonable rates, Progressive comes out on top due to the company’s higher customer satisfaction ratings. Still, many customers may find that Safeco is a better fit for their particular needs, so the company should not be counted out of your insurance search.
Progressive vs. Safeco:Â car insurance rate comparison
In an effort to simplify the insurance-shopping process, we've collected average insurance rates from Safeco and Progressive. These take into account a number of rating factors, including credit, driving history, and age. Check out the below rates and find an affordable policy today.
Progressive is the cheapest option in most scenarios. However, your unique driving profile could be a better match for one company over another in some situations. Our advice is to get quotes from each company to see which better fits your budget.
Progressive vs. Safeco: pricing by credit score
If you have very poor credit, Progressive could be a better option for you. On average, Progressive offers lower rates than Safeco for drivers with credit scores of 579 or less. Those with exceptional credit — a score of 800-plus — should consider Progressive, which typically beats Safeco by $335 annually. View common insurance rates by credit level for Safeco and Progressive.
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CREDIT SCORE INSURANCE RATE COMPARISON: SAFECO VS. PROGRESSIVE
| Credit level | Progressive avg. annual premium | Safeco avg. annual premium |
| Very Poor (300-579) | $3,602 | $5,308 |
| Fair (580-669) | $2,127 | $2,716 |
| Good (670-739) | $1,708 | $1,967 |
| Very Good (740-799) | $1,453 | $1,871 |
| Exceptional (800-850) | $1,320 | $1,655 |
The Zebra’s auto insurance data methodology
The Zebra’s Dynamic Insurance Rating Tool for home and auto insurance rates utilizes the latest ZIP code-level rate filings from across the U.S., sourced from Quadrant Information Services and S&P Global. These filings, typically updated annually or biennially by insurers, are verified through Quadrant’s QA process and then integrated into The Zebra’s estimator.
The displayed rates are based on a dynamic home and auto profile designed to reflect the content of the page. This profile is tailored to match specific factors such as age, location, and coverage level, which are adjusted based on the page content to show how these variables can impact premiums.
For a comprehensive understanding, see our detailed methodology.
Progressive vs. Safeco: rates for high-risk drivers
If you are saddled with an at-fault collision, ticket, reckless driving violation, or DUI in your rearview mirror, Safeco could be a better choice than Progressive. Every car insurance company has different post-violation pricing structures, so don't be afraid to shop around to figure out which insurance company suits you.
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RATES BY VIOLATION: SAFECO VS. PROGRESSIVE
| Citation | Progressive avg. annual premium | Safeco avg. annual premium |
| At-fault accident (damage < $1,000) | $2,720 | $2,546 |
| At-fault accident (damage > $1,000) | $2,245 | $1,969 |
| DUI/DWI | $2,201 | $2,796 |
| Reckless driving | $2,457 | $2,853 |
| Speeding ticket | $2,091 | $2,512 |
Progressive vs. Safeco: rates by age bracket
Auto insurance companies rely on a driver's age to outline risk potential, assigning rates accordingly. A car insurance policy is typically expensive for drivers younger than 25 — due to their inexperience — and more affordable for older drivers. Because every auto insurance company rates age brackets uniquely, it's worth shopping around and finding the best rate for you.
As a general rule, teen drivers should choose Safeco over Progressive: the former's average annual rates are $483 less.
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COMPARING AUTO INSURANCE RATES BY AGE: SAFECO VS. PROGRESSIVE
| Age | Progressive avg. annual premium | Safeco avg. annual premium |
| Teens | $8,248 | $7,765 |
| 20s | $2,287 | $2,566 |
| 30s | $1,646 | $2,566 |
| 40s | $1,644 | $2,128 |
| 50s | $1,542 | $1,745 |
| 60s | $1,403 | $1,687 |
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Affordability aside, Progressive and Safeco each have pros and cons, including their discounts, perks, customer satisfaction ratings, and financial stability. Be sure to shop around before settling on an option.
Compare rates and start saving today!
Ratings comparison: Progressive vs. Safeco
When comparing car insurance companies, don't just look at rates. You'll want a carrier with a good reputation for customer service that handles claims fairly and efficiently. To aid in your search, we've put together ratings from many trusted third-party sources to help you get a better sense of how customers view both Progressive and Safeco.
| Ratings comparison | Progressive | Safeco |
|---|---|---|
| Financial strength (A.M. Best) | Superior | Excellent |
| JD Power (claims satisfaction) | Below Average | Average |
| JD Power (customer satisfaction) | Below Average | Average |
| NAIC rating | Good | Below Average |
| The Zebra's editorial review score | 4/5 | 3.5/5 |
| The Zebra's Customer Satisfaction Survey | 4.3/5 | N/A |
Which company scores best?
Progressive
While the two companies are reasonably close in many ratings, Progressive has a better rating overall.
The Zebra's Customer Satisfaction Survey
To get a better sense of how customers viewed the level of service they received from their insurance companies, The Zebra conducted a survey covering a wide range of topics. Safeco did not meet the criteria to be included in this survey, but you can see how customers viewed their experiences with Progressive below.
Progressive car insurance placed among the top five companies overall with a score of 4.3, signifying that customers are generally pleased with the level of service they receive from the company. The company place in the top three for online satisfaction, indicating that Progressive's website and app selection are considered quite valuable by its customers.
- Top five overall for auto insurance
- Number three for online satisfaction
- Among the top five companies for bundling home and auto
The Zebra Customer Satisfaction Survey methodology
Findings are based on an online quantitative survey of 4,794 current U.S. auto and home insurance customers, with Census-balanced sampling by age, gender and region. Categories with n=<20 responses are considered insufficient sample size and are not reported. This survey was developed by The Zebra and executed by independent research firm Maru/Blue in 2023.
Progressive vs. Safeco: discount comparison
If you are looking to save money on your premiums, it's important to consider each insurer's auto insurance discount selection. Compare discount options from Progressive and Safeco below.
| Discount comparison | Progressive | Safeco |
|---|---|---|
| Good student | ✓ | ✓ |
| Multiple policies | ✓ | ✓ |
| Multiple vehicles | ✓ | ✓ |
| Anti-theft device(s) | ✓ | |
| Anti-lock brake system | ✓ | |
| Air bags | ||
| Good driver | ||
| Defensive driver | ✓ | |
| Student away at school | ✓ | ✓ |
| Driver training | ✓ | |
| Green vehicles | ||
| Affinity membership alum | ||
| Advanced purchase | ||
| Pay in full | ✓ | ✓ |
| Homeowner | ✓ | ✓ |
| eSign or ePay | ||
| Telematics | ✓ | |
| New Vehicle | ||
| Annual Mileage | ✓ | |
| Military | ||
| Continuous coverage | ✓ |
In general, Safeco offers a wider selection of discounts. The company has a number of discounts aimed at younger drivers, including those for young drivers who become newly independent and continue coverage through Safeco.
Telematics options: Progressive vs. Safeco
Telematics programs offer drivers the chance to get more accurate risk assessments, and potentially cheaper rates, by having their driving habits tracked by their insurer. Both Progressive and Safeco offer telematics options, which you can compare below.
Snapshot is Progressive's telematics option. The app tracks drivers' behavior while behind the wheel (including hard braking, speeding, and more) to give a more accurate level of risk. Good drivers stand to save an average of $145 per year on their premium according to the company.
Safeco RightTrack® allows customers to choose either a plug-in device or an app to monitor your driving for 90 days. The company claims that safe drivers may be eligible for savings between 5 and 30%, though no savings are guaranteed.
Zebra tip: Explore both companies for telematics offerings
If you are a safe driver, the telematics options from both companies could be a great way to find savings. Both Progressive and Safeco offer popular telematics options that are well-reviewed by customers and third-party sources alike.
Roadside assistance: Progressive vs. Safeco
Those who find themselves on the side of the road after a breakdown quickly realize the importance of roadside assistance programs. Take a look at the different options provided by Progressive and Safeco below.
Progressive
Progressive partners with a company called Agero to provide roadside assistance. These services can be used for your car, boat, motorcycle or RV. When added to your policy, Progressive's roadside assistance program offers the following:
- Fuel delivery
- Flat-tire changes
- Battery jump-start
- Battery recharge for EVs
- Lock-out services
- On-scene labor
- Winching services
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Safeco
Safeco offers and optional roadside assistance package that is on par with most other major carriers. Roadside assistance can be requested through the company's mobile app or by calling 1-877-762-3101. Drivers who choose to add roadside assistance from Safeco can expect the following services:
- Towing
- Battery jump start
- Fuel and fluids
- Flat-tire change
- Lock-out services
Progressive vs. Safeco: home insurance
Progressive and Safeco each offer homeowners insurance options that can be paired with your auto insurance or purchased on their own. Neither Progressive nor Safeco offers particularly robust homeowners insurance coverage options — at least not when compared to the top-rated homeowners insurers. Still, most customers will likely find each company's coverage options suitable for most needs. Compare ratings for each company below.
Progressive homeowners insurance review
Progressive offers homeowners insurance in all 50 states plus Washington D.C. While it provides basic coverage options, those looking for more robust policies might find Progressive's options lacking. That, coupled with less than stellar customer satisfaction scores mean that customers looking for an all-around great experience may want to proceed with caution.
- The Zebra Customer Satisfaction Survey – 4.1/5: While a rating above 4 stars is sufficient, Progressive home ranked last overall among the 15 carriers surveyed.
- J.D. Power Rating – Below average: J.D. Power rates Progressive auto insurance as below-average in overall customer satisfaction.Â
- Financial Strength – Superior: A "Superior" financial strength rating from AM Best shows Progressive has a solid ability to pay out claims.
- NAIC Rating– Poor: The National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) received significantly more customer complaints than average regarding Progressive homeowners insurance in 2020.
Safeco homeowners review
In general, Safeco provides good homeowners insurance coverage at relatively affordable rates. The company offers all of the basic coverage types one would expect, plus additional options for valuable items and equipment breakdowns. The company tends to be among the cheapest home insurance providers, which could certainly be appealing for some. However, customer satisfaction scores remain below average, meaning that customers looking for a high level of service may be disappointed.
- The Zebra Customer Satisfaction Survey — N/A: Safeco was not included in The Zebra's homeowners insurance customer survey.Â
- Customer satisfaction (J.D. Power) — Average: Safeco customers expressed average levels of satisfaction, according to J.D. Power's 2021 study.Â
- Financial strength — Excellent: Safeco's excellent financial strength — tracked by AM Best — indicates a strong ability to pay out claims.
- NAIC rating — Poor: The National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) received more complaints than average regarding Safeco in 2019.
Which company comes out on top?
Tie
Neither company ranks among the top homeowners insurers. However, that doesn't mean that they couldn't provide a good option for your needs. We suggest getting quotes from a number of homeowners insurance companies to find suitable coverage at a rate you can afford.
Progressive vs. Safeco: home insurance rate comparison
Homeowners insurance rates can vary widely depending on the location of the home, the claims history of the homeowner and the insurer. Progressive's average yearly home insurance rate is $1,355, coming out to roughly $113 per month. Safeco is marginally cheaper at $108 per month.
Remember that while cost is an important factor when shopping for homeowners insurance, it's most important to have the right policy from a trustworthy insurer.Â
Both companies provide affordable coverage, with Safeco coming in slightly cheaper on average at $108 per month.
The Zebra’s homeowners insurance data methodology
The Zebra’s Dynamic Insurance Rating Tool for home and auto insurance rates utilizes the latest ZIP code-level rate filings from across the U.S., sourced from Quadrant Information Services and S&P Global. These filings, typically updated annually or biennially by insurers, are verified through Quadrant’s QA process and then integrated into The Zebra’s estimator.
The displayed rates are based on a dynamic home and auto profile designed to reflect the content of the page. This profile is tailored to match specific factors such as age, location, and coverage level, which are adjusted based on the page content to show how these variables can impact premiums.
For a comprehensive understanding, see our detailed methodology.
Progressive vs. Safeco: homeowners discount comparison
As with car insurance, home insurance discounts can be a great way for eligible policyholders to enjoy additional savings. While both Progressive and Safeco offer homeowners discounts, neither are particularly wide-ranging. Still, as the companies tend to have more affordable rates in general, this may be less of a drawback than with other insurers. See how these discounts compare below.
| Discount comparison | Progressive | Safeco |
|---|---|---|
| Claims free | ||
| Recent home buyer | ✓ | |
| Multi-policy | ✓ | ✓ |
| Newer/more durable roof | ||
| Protective devices (smoke/burglar alarms, etc...) | ✓ | |
| Paid in full | ✓ | ✓ |
| Auto pay | ||
| New home consturction | ✓ | ✓ |
| Gated community | ||
| Home renovation | ||
| Smart home |
Other insurance products and bundling options
Progressive and Safeco each provide a number of additional insurance lines that customers may couple with their home or auto policies. Bundling such policies can be a great way to streamline your insurance policies and possibly find savings. Have a look at the extra insurance lines provided by each company below.
| Other products | Progressive | Safeco |
|---|---|---|
| Boat insurance | ✓ | ✓ |
| Condo insurance | ✓ | ✓ |
| Life insurance | ✓ | |
| Homeowners insurance | ✓ | ✓ |
| Travel trailer insurance | ✓ | ✓ |
| Renters insurance | ✓ | ✓ |
| RV insurance | ✓ | ✓ |
| Motorcycle insurance | ✓ | ✓ |
| Mobile home insurance | ✓ | |
| Umbrella | ✓ | ✓ |
| ATV insurance | ✓ | ✓ |
| Pet insurance | ✓ | ✓ |
| Commercial insurance | ✓ |
Both Progressive and Safeco also offer a number of additional coverages such as identity theft protection. Progressive is also a major carrier for many types of commercial insurance, including for both automobiles and small businesses. For those who use their vehicles for commercial purposes (delivery or rideshare drivers), this could make them a better option.Â
Find the best insurance policy for your needs.
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About The Zebra
The Zebra is not an insurance company. We publish data-backed, expert-reviewed resources to help consumers make more informed insurance decisions.
- The Zebra’s insurance content is written and reviewed for accuracy by licensed insurance agents.
- The Zebra’s insurance editorial content is not subject to review or alteration by insurance companies or partners.
- The Zebra’s editorial team operates independently of the company’s partnerships and commercialization interests, publishing unbiased information for consumer benefit.
- The auto insurance rates published on The Zebra’s pages are based on a comprehensive analysis of car insurance pricing data, evaluating more than 83 million insurance rates from across the United States.