Ottawa Car Insurance: Cheap Auto Insurance Quotes

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We've got Ottawa's best car insurance rates

Car insurance in Ottawa may be less than other parts of Ontario but that doesn't mean you can't save even more. At ThinkInsure, it's our goal to help Ottawa drivers find the cheapest car insurance possible. We are partners with the leading insurance companies in Ontario so you can quickly find the best rates.

Comparing car insurance quotes is really easy and it just takes a couple of minutes to find the lowest price in Ottawa for your policy. Our advisors will make sure you have proper coverage for your driving needs and help you save more.

No matter where you live in Ottawa, ThinkInsure can help you get affordable car insurance. Start with an online quote or give us a call to find out more about your Ottawa car insurance savings options.

Keep reading to learn all about auto insurance in the capital city of Ottawa and find out some great ways to lower your premiums.

5 star reviews for Ottawa car insurance

Average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 1201 Google reviews

We've helped thousands of Ottawa drivers get more affordable car insurance.

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Jay Stewart

2022-03-30 19:49:47

I started at 11 and was done and insured on my car before 3pm today March 30th Wednesday! I’m so excited and ecstatic that I’m back on the road, all thanks to the best man on the team Daryl Fardy! He was even willing to work with me a little extra long, if I needed which we did not. The service was absolutely amazing, I highly recommend Daryl Fardy.

Robert Raymond

2022-03-28 17:29:22

Was provided excellent help from Kimberly Laidis, all my questions and help I needed were provided by her fast and friendly!

jeremy severin

2022-03-24 22:58:07

I called and spoke to Ryan Arcuri To get insurance he went above and beyond because I was going to lose my insurance and in an hour he got me what I needed thanks again

Jay McCulligh

2022-03-23 21:59:36

Great place, quick, easy to deal with, I dealt with Darryl Fardy, very professional!

Russel Baskin

2022-03-23 13:38:02

I was helping my mother insure her car and home with ThinkInsure. Ryan Arcuri was patient and very helpful. He made took us through the steps to get coverage and cancel our existing policy. I would go back to Ryan with any future insurance needs.

Dylan Nash

2022-03-18 02:03:37

Darryl was awesome. Quick easy gave me the best price in town.

Aaliya

2022-03-15 22:24:31

Darryl Fardy made my experience with think insure amazing. He's friendly, informative and dependable. Would definitely recommend him to others.

Stephanie Lewis

2022-03-08 18:12:28

Great service from the get go. Dave answered all of my questions and even found a few mistakes that I made in my initial quote request, which ended up lowering the initial price. He found the best price and I recieved all documents in a timely manner. I would recommend, especially if you are a "high risk" situation, which I was.

How to get the lowest car insurance quotes in Ottawa

It's really easy to compare quotes and save on Ottawa car insurance with ThinkInsure.

1) Start your quote

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2) Enter your driving details

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3) Compare lowest quotes

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How does car insurance work in Ottawa?

Ottawa car insurance rules are the same as the rest of the province. They are set by the provincial government. All drivers are required to carry a minimum amount of car insurance in Ontario. This includes liability, accident benefits, and direct compensation property damage. A no-fault system applies and you obtain insurance through private insurers.

Mandatory Ottawa auto insurance

Here is the minimum amount of mandatory auto insurance coverage Ottawa drivers must have :

Third-party liability : You must have $200,000 in third-party liability coverage. But most typically have more. You can get up to $2 million in coverage.
Direct compensation property damage (DCPD) : This covers you in accidents where you are not the at-fault party.
Statutory accident benefits : This ensures you will receive medical care that is above and beyond what is covered by OHIP. It will cover rehab, attendant care, and even lost income.
Uninsured motorist : This protects you if you were in an accident with an uninsured automobile or a victim of a hit and run.

The above will be included when you compare Ottawa car insurance quotes. However, you do have the option to add additional coverage to personalize your plan.

Optional auto insurance in Ottawa

You have a lot of options to customize your auto insurance in Ottawa. Drivers can adjust their policy based on their vehicle, driving habits, and other factors. Note that each change will affect your insurance rate.

Collision insurance : This covers you if you are in a car accident or hit a stationary object (for example, a tree).
Comprehensive : Protection for damage to your vehicle from vandalism, theft, and weather-related damage.
All perils : This brings collision and comprehensive together under a single policy.
Specified perils : You will be covered for the specific threats that are outlined in your plan.

Other types of optional coverage include :

Emergency roadside assistance
Rental car coverage (OPCF 27)
Accident forgiveness (OPCF 39)
Waiver of depreciation (OPCF 43)
Other riders and endorsements

Optional coverage varies based on your insurance provider. Make sure you are clear about what is being offered by an insurer before you purchase your policy. If you have any questions about how auto insurance works in Ottawa we'll be happy to help you.

Recent Ottawa auto insurance quotes

2021/11/30

Car insurance shopper in OTTAWA, ON
Vehicle: MINI COOPER COUNTRYMAN S ALL4 4DR 2020
Pembridge	$1,266
Economical	$1,280
Travelers	$1,725
Facility	$2,100
Savings from the top 4 lowest quotes	$834

2021/11/22

Car insurance shopper in OTTAWA, ON
Vehicle: mazda MAZDA3 GT SKY 4DR 2016
Intact	$1,329
Economical	$1,333
Travelers	$1,370
SGI Canada	$1,403
Savings from the top 4 lowest quotes	$74

2021/11/22

Car insurance shopper in OTTAWA, ON
Vehicle: CHEVROLET CAMARO LS 2DR 2011
Economical	$1,111
Pembridge	$1,459
Intact	$2,448
Coachman	$2,480
Savings from the top 4 lowest quotes	$1,369

2021/12/16

Car insurance shopper in OTTAWA, ON
Vehicle: HONDA CIVIC EX-L 4DR 2011
Travelers	$1,596
Economical	$1,675
Echelon	$2,002
Coachman	$2,094
Savings from the top 4 lowest quotes	$498

2021/11/24

Car insurance shopper in OTTAWA, ON
Vehicle: NISSAN TRUCK/VAN QASHQAI SV 4DR AWD 2021
Economical	$2,915
Facility	$3,534
Echelon	$3,943
Pafco	$4,469
Savings from the top 4 lowest quotes	$1,554

Tips to get cheaper auto insurance in Ottawa

What are the best ways for you to save on car insurance in Ottawa? Here is advice on when you should get a quote and how you can lower your rates.

When changing vehicles : If you are buying an additional vehicle or upgrading the primary vehicle you drive, searching for quotes allows you to pay less. The vehicle you drive has a direct impact on your insurance.
Shop at renewal time : Renewal time is your opportunity to lower your rates. A lot can change since your last renewal
When there is a change in personal or driving information : Your personal information can affect your insurance premiums. Changing your address, passing an age threshold, and updating other personal information can impact how much you pay.
When making a policy change : Your policy type, coverage limits, number of vehicles and drivers insured affect your price. When making a change, always explore your options to ensure you are getting a good price.
Combine policies : Why have separate policies for your car and home insurance when you can combine them with the same insurer. Then you get a discount. Combine your policies and save up to 20%.
Install anti-theft devices : Automobile theft and vehicle break-ins increase the cost of insurance. Installing an anti-theft device will reduce the odds of your vehicle being stolen. It will also qualify you for a discount with most providers.
Increase your deductible : Increasing your car insurance deductible will help lower your costs. The more you increase your deductible, the less your premium will be.
Take advantage of discounts : There are many different types of insurance discounts to help lower your premium. Speak with our advisors to help you find the most discounts for your situation.
Use an independent provider : An independent company provides you with more unbiased options. ThinkInsure is independently owned and our experts work for you. We are focused on finding you the lowest rates from our large selection of partners.
Check rates annually : The most effective way to find a better rate is to shop around. Reviewing quotes from multiple insurers annually ensures you are maximizing savings. Driving habits, your driving record and other things change that can affect your payments.

What is the average Ottawa car insurance cost?

The costs for car insurance in Ottawa are lower than in other larger cities in the province. Many drivers pay less than the provincial average of $1,634. Some pay between $900 and $1,100 annually. The average car insurance premium in Ottawa is $1,150.

Ottawa auto insurance rates vs. other Ontario cities

Ottawa is known for its safe roads and car insurance rates reflect this fact. Insurance premiums are generally less than in other regions in the province. In some instances, you will pay hundreds of dollars less per year than in the GTA, for example.

Average Ottawa car insurance rate compared to other Ontario cities info graphic

What are the cheapest areas in Ottawa ON for auto insurance?

Car insurance premiums typically are more if you live in Napean and the surrounding area. This includes Blossom Park, Greenboro, Leitrim and Findlay Creek.

Drivers in Ottawa could be paying as much as $1,000 more than others depending on where they live in the city.

The most affordable neighbourhood is the Gloucester area (Blackburn Hamlet, Pine View and Sheffield Glen). Drivers in this area commonly see premiums a few hundred dollars less annually.

Average premiums by neighbourhood

Ottawa

Orleans

Napean

Stittsville

Gloucester

Kanata

Barrhaven

Ottawa postal codes with lower car insurance premiums

See what postal codes are below the city's average rate of $1,151/yr.

Area	Postal codes	Average rate
Ottawa	K1A, K1R, K2P, K2C, K2B, K2A, K1Z, K1V, K1S, K1P, K1M, K1N, K1L, K1K, K1H, K1G	➜ Below
Orleans	K1C	➜ Below
Napean	K0A	➜ Below
Stittsville	K2S	➜ Below
Gloucester	K1B	➜ Below
Kanata	K2K	➜ Below
Barrhaven	K2J	➜ Below

Ottawa auto insurance rates differ for each neighbourhood

Where you live in Ottawa matters for how insurers calculate your auto insurance. Prices can vary significantly based on which neighbourhood you reside in.

That's where we can help you. With our large selection of partners, we'll search for the lowest rate for your neighbourhood.

Gloucester
Nepean
Vanier
Rockcliffe Park
Blackburn Hamlet
Orleans
Barrhaven
Kanata
Stittsville
Manotick
Riverside South
Greely
Burritts Rapids
Ashton
Fallowfield
Kars
Fitzroy Harbour
Munster
Carp
North Gower
Metcalfe
Constance Bay
Osgoode
Richmond

What factors affect car insurance in Ottawa?

There are many factors that can affect the cost of your auto insurance in Ottawa. The main things to consider are :

Vehicle type : The type of car you drive will impact your rates. Having a vehicle with a good safety rating will help keep your insurance costs down.
Your age : Once you turn 25 you will see premiums drop. Mature and more experienced drivers are favoured by insurers and rewarded with savings.
Driving history : Your driving record is one of the main factors used by insurers to determine rates. Staying tickets and claim free will get you a better quote.
Location : The postal code where you live is used when calculating your policy costs. Premiums can vary based on accidents and theft rates for different areas of the city.
How you use your vehicle : How you use your vehicle is an important consideration for insurers. If you use your vehicle for commuting or work you will pay more for your insurance.
Limits and coverage : Deductible limits and types of coverage included in your policy affect the total cost.

Ottawa car insurance companies

You may be inclined to choose a local Ottawa insurance company for your car insurance. But the best car insurance companies for you could be located anywhere in the province. ThinkInsure can help you compare car insurance quotes from all the top companies whether they are in Ottawa or not.

Here are some of companies we can get Ottawa drivers insured with :

Speak with our Ottawa insurance brokers about your options today.

Ottawa car insurance FAQs

Why are auto insurance rates lower in Ottawa compared to other cities?

Ottawa has lower auto insurance rates because companies consider it to be less risky. This means claims costs are lower versus other areas in the province. There are fewer instances of fraud and theft.

Can you get cheap Ottawa auto insurance with ThinkInsure?

Yes, you can get cheap car insurance in Ottawa with ThinkInsure. We are partners with the leading insurance companies in Canada. Our professionals will quickly search for the lowest quotes for you. You'll receive additional advice to make sure you save as much as possible.

Get started by comparing quotes online or call us to find a lower rate.

Do Ottawa car insurance rates change frequently?

Yes. Car insurance prices in Ottawa change frequently. Rate increases can happen multiple times per year. This is why it’s important to get a quote each time your insurance is up for renewal. A lot can happen in a year including how much you pay for insurance.

What is the cheapest car insurance company in Ottawa?

There isn’t a single company that has the cheapest car insurance rate in Ottawa. This will vary from provider to provider. Depending on your needs, one provider may offer better options. The best way to find who is the cheapest is by comparing quotes.

Who sets auto insurance rates in Ottawa?

Auto insurance rates in Ottawa and the rest of the province are set by the Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario (FSRAO). All requests for rate changes by insurers must be approved by the FSRA.

Why are auto insurance prices in Ottawa increasing?

Ottawa, much like other regions, has seen auto insurance continue to go up. There is an upward trend in the province. In general, they are increasing because of higher repair claim costs, accident stats, and fraud.

About auto insurance and driving in Ottawa

The home of Parliament Hill has more than 920,000 residents. There are more than half a million licensed drivers. This bilingual city is located on the banks of the Ottawa River in the Eastern part of Ontario. Its roads are bustling with commuters and travellers.

Set on a large portion of land, long commutes are the norm. This is especially the case during the cold and snowy winter months. Therefore, Ottawa drivers need car insurance that will protect them against all threats and risks.

You’re bound to get caught up in traffic, experience delays, and see accidents. Let’s just hope you are not part of one. It's important to be protected with a good car insurance policy in Ottawa. Get a quote today and pay less by exploring your options and finding more affordable insurance rates.

Check out this useful information about Canada’s capital and driving in the city :

Highways

417 (Queensway)
Highway 416 (Veterans' Memorial Parkway)
174, 7, 16, 31

Public transit

OC Transpo (Light rail, bus)
Société de transport de l'Outaouais (STO)
GO Transit

Parkways

Colonel By Drive
Queen Elizabeth Driveway
Rockcliffe Parkway
Aviation Parkway

Ride-sharing

Uber
Lyft

Attractions

Parliament Hill
Rideau Canal
Canadian War Museum
National Gallery of Canada
National War Memorial

Road trips

Montreal
Thousand Islands and Kingston
Prince Edward County
Montebello
Mont Tremblant

Parking

City of Ottawa Parking
Green P
Impark

Airports

Ottawa MacDonald-Cartier International Airport
Gatineau-Ottawa Executive Airport
Carp Airport

Busiest intersections

Queen Street and Bank Street
Huntclub Road And Riverside Dr.
Riverside Dr. and Industrial Avenue
Wellington Street West and Holland Avenue
Prince of Wales and Huntclub Road

Make sure you have proper auto insurance for Ottawa's driving conditions

Driving conditions can change at a moment’s notice, especially during the winter months. You can expect everything from high winds to rain, sleet, snow, or a combination of all. The roads can get downright nasty at times. Having proper auto insurance in Ottawa will give you peace of mind in knowing you’re protected should something happen.

96 mins

Avg. daily commute time

714 mm

Avg. annual rainfall

121 cm

Avg. annual snowfall

114

Rainy days per year

Snow days per year

Traffic stats and car insurance in Ottawa

Ottawa is known for its great communities, large highways, and traffic congestion. But it is actually one of the safest to drive in all of Canada. In fact, fatalities and injuries as a result of collisions have dropped by more than 50% over the past 3 decades. This is even with an increase in the number of drivers in the region.

It’s one of the reasons why car insurance rates in Ottawa are less than in other large cities. Here are some other important and interesting facts that impact driving and insurance in the city :

Accidents : Collisions are on the rise. There were 16,399 reported collisions in 2019. This is up by almost 2,000 from the previous year. 27 were fatal collisions.
Road safety is improving : According to the Ottawa Police 2014 Annual Report, criminal code traffic offences are down by 66%. Traffic notice offences are down by 14.6% and fatalities are down by 7.4%.
5,400 km of roads : The main freeways is Highway 417 (known as The Queensway) running through the middle of the city. There is also Highway 174 to Orleans, and Highway 416 connecting the city to Highway 401. It has 5,400 kms of roadways, 1,580 km of sidewalks, and 60 km of Transitway.
Busy intersections : Among the top 10 signalized intersection collision locations, Hunt Club Road and Riverside Drive topped the list. In 2019 it had 58 collisions. This is followed by Catherine St and Kent St with 43. The remaining had between 30-40 crashes.

Tips for safe driving in Ottawa

Like any other city in the province, Ottawa offers a unique driving experience. With a combination of driving in residential areas, busy intersections, and along major roads, you should stay alert. One mistake could cause a spike in your auto insurance premiums.

Here are some ways to ensure you don’t have to file a claim and help you drive safely :

Wildlife : When driving on the outskirts or one lane roads, watch out for deer and other wildlife. It’s estimated there are more than 1,000 collisions with wildlife annually.
Winter tires : Installing winter tires will immediately qualify you for car insurance savings. Plus, you have improved traction and it makes it safer during wintery weather.
Slow down : Speeding is a leading cause of accidents and speeding tickets can negatively impact car insurance rates. It’s particularly important to slow down during the winter. Be careful of snowbanks and slick roads.
Tourists : Watch out for drivers and pedestrians visiting. There are lots of them, especially near popular attractions. Tourists can be less predictable than locals in how they drive.
Intersections : Intersections are a common location for collisions in the city. Slow down, be aware of your surroundings and be ready to make a sudden stop.

Want to save more on Ottawa car insurance?

We know you want to save on car insurance in Ottawa. Let us help you find the best deal by comparing the lowest car insurance quotes from the top providers in Ottawa. You’ll find the coverage you need at the most affordable price. Get started today with an online quote or give us a call.