Car insurance 'age tax' could impact two generations, study finds

Baby Boomers and Gen Zers pay a higher – and possibly unjustified – average monthly car insurance premium, in part because of supposed "age tax," according to a study conducted by car insurance shopping app Jerry. 

The study found that Gen Z drivers in 17 states across the U.S. pay higher auto insurance rates than millennials, despite having equal or fewer driving violations.

"The car insurance premiums defy common sense," Jerry data analyst Lakshmi Iyengar said. "When reviewing violations, one of the most important factors in insurance premiums, the data shows that two generations are often being priced higher regardless of violations – Gen Z and Boomers."

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Where do drivers pay the highest age tax?

Baby Boomers reportedly have higher insurance costs than Gen X drivers in 11 states, but have lower traffic violations rates. Boomers are statistically the safest drivers of any age group, with a national average violation rate of just 10%. 

The Jerry study states that Boomers primarily reside in the eastern United States, and that another study of theirs found that "on average, East Coast drivers pay about 45% more in monthly premiums than drivers on the West Coast. Although this doesn’t account for Boomers being charged more than Gen X drivers, it does begin to explain their higher premiums in eastern states."

On average, Gen Z drivers paid higher rates on their car insurance policy despite having fewer speeding tickets, at-fault accidents, and other violations in Iowa, Indiana, Missouri, North Carolina, Nebraska, New Jersey, Ohio, Rhode Island, Tennessee, Virginia and Wisconsin.

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Although Gen Z and millennials drivers have close violation rates – at 25% and 24%, respectively – the average car insurance premium is $54 higher for Gen Z drivers, at $314 per month.

According to the study, Gen Z drivers have the highest average insurance premium across all age groups nationally – ultimately paying $54 more per month than millennials, $105 more than Gen X and $104 more than Boomers. 

If you are paying too much for your auto insurance policy, consider exploring discounts options other car insurance companies have to offer. Visit Credible to compare multiple insurance quotes at once and choose the one that best fits you.

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