Root vs Allstate
Last updated September 2026
Root Insurance
Fair rates based on how you drive
Advantages
- Rates primarily based on how you actually drive
- App-based quoting and claims
- Consistently safe drivers get some of the lowest rates on the market
- No demographic penalties for age or credit in most markets
- Roadside assistance available as an affordable add-on
- Behavior-based rate access is also available through partner platforms such as Jerry
- The Zebra integration can deliver personalized quotes and let eligible shoppers bind in as little as three minutes
- Hugo partnership offers flexible payments to eligible drivers in 16 states
- Florida rates are down an average of 15%, saving about $21 million annually for more than 52,000 policyholders
Drawbacks
- Available in 37 states, including New Jersey, covering more than 80% of the U.S. population
- Requires 2-3 week driving test before quoting
- No agent network for in-person support
Allstate
You're in good hands
Advantages
- Huge agent network for in-person quotes and service
- Drivewise telematics with cash-back rewards
- Deep multi-policy discounts across auto, home, life, and umbrella
- Accident forgiveness and new-car replacement available as add-ons
- Strong financial strength and consistent claim outcomes
Drawbacks
- Base rates skew higher than direct-sold competitors
- Some coverages require premium tier
- App experience trails Progressive and Geico
Root and Allstate sit on nearly opposite ends of the auto insurance market. Root's rate is your driving score, delivered through an app in a couple of weeks. Allstate is a traditional carrier with a huge agent network and rich bundling menus. Whether you want an app-only insurer or a full-service agent relationship decides it.
Feature Comparison
| Feature | Root Insurance | Allstate |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Monthly Cost | Varies by driving score; avg $80-$140/mo | Avg $155-$210/mo before discounts |
| Quote Process | The Zebra comparison search can bind eligible policies in as little as 3 minutes; the app remains the path for behavior-based pricing | Local agent, online, or phone |
| Available Discounts | Safe driving, multi-policy, homeowner | Drivewise, safe driver, early signing, multi-policy |
| Claims Experience | In-app filing, digital estimates | Agent-assisted, QuickFoto, 24/7 phone |
| Customer Support | In-app chat, phone, email | Local agents, phone, app, online |
| Coverage Options | Liability, comprehensive, collision, roadside | Liability, collision, comprehensive, umbrella, rideshare |
| Mobile App Quality | Excellent, core product is app-first | Good, claims, ID cards, Drivewise |
| Bundling Options | Renters only | Auto, home, renters, life, umbrella, motorcycle |
| Current Availability | Available in 37 states, including New Jersey, covering more than 80% of the U.S. population | -- |
| Partner Distribution | Jerry behavior-based rates; The Zebra personalized quote integration | -- |
| Flexible Payment Option | Hugo partnership for eligible drivers in 16 states | -- |
| Florida Rate Update | Average rate reduction of 15%; about $21M annualized savings for 52,000+ policyholders | -- |
Allstate Wins
Allstate wins for most households. Root only makes sense for safe drivers with no home to bundle and a strong preference for app-only insurance.
Root's driving-score pricing is genuinely compelling if you clear its test with a high score, but its lack of bundling and thin coverage menu make it a hard sell for anyone with a home, life insurance needs, or a family with multiple drivers. Allstate is the more complete option for the average household, and its bundling savings can bring the effective auto premium below Root's for homeowners. Root now operates in 37 states, including New Jersey, reaching more than 80% of the U.S. population.
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