Which Is Better for Auto Insurance – USAA or Progressive?

Last Updated on December 21, 2025

Choosing between USAA and Progressive comes down to one big question first: are you eligible for USAA? If yes, USAA is often one of the strongest values in auto insurance for military families. If no, Progressive is one of the most flexible, widely available insurers for shoppers who want strong digital tools, lots of discounts, and broad coverage options.

Below is a practical comparison—rates, coverage, discounts, claims, and who each company is best for—so you can pick the better fit and still feel confident you’re not overpaying.

Key Takeaways

• If you’re eligible for USAA, it’s often one of the best-value auto insurers for military members and qualifying family members.
• Progressive is open to everyone and stands out for strong online tools, flexible coverage choices, and many discount paths.
• Progressive’s price depends heavily on how you build your policy (limits, deductibles, add-ons), so compare apples-to-apples when you shop.
• The smartest approach is to get quotes from USAA (if eligible), Progressive, and at least two other insurers using identical coverage and deductibles.

Quick answer: Which is better—USAA or Progressive?

• If you qualify for USAA: Start there. USAA often offers excellent pricing and customer satisfaction for eligible military members and families.
• If you don’t qualify: Progressive is usually the better option because it’s available to everyone and has strong tools for comparing coverage levels and pricing.
• Either way: Compare at least 3 quotes before you decide (start with the 25 best auto insurance companies in America).

USAA vs. Progressive: side-by-side comparison

What makes USAA stand out?

USAA is built for the military community, and it often shines in the areas that matter most when you actually need your insurer: pricing consistency, service, and claims handling. If you’re eligible, USAA can be hard to beat for overall value.

USAA also offers a strong lineup of core coverages, including comprehensive and collision. Many eligible drivers can also lower premiums further with USAA discounts (availability varies by state and driver profile).

USAA is a strong fit if you’re military (or a qualifying family member)

If you’re active duty, a veteran, or a military family member, USAA is worth checking first. These guides can help you confirm:

• Who is eligible to get car insurance from USAA?
• Best auto insurance options for active duty military members

If you’re not sure about eligibility, it’s worth asking extended family—USAA eligibility can sometimes come through a parent, spouse, or other qualifying connection.

USAA’s weak points

• Not everyone qualifies. Eligibility is the biggest limitation—if you’re not eligible, you can’t buy a policy.
• Not always the cheapest in every scenario. While USAA is often a pricing leader, your vehicle, ZIP code, and coverage choices still matter—so comparing quotes is always smart.

What makes Progressive stand out?

Progressive is one of the most accessible insurers in the country. It’s easy to quote and buy online, adjust coverage, and manage claims. Progressive also does a good job helping shoppers “build” a policy at the price point they want—which is a big reason it’s popular with budget-focused drivers.

A good example is Progressive’s Name Your Price tool, which lets you see coverage options across different price points. Progressive also has many ways to save through Progressive discounts and loyalty-style benefits over time (details vary).

If you’re looking for add-ons beyond the basics, Progressive tends to have strong flexibility with auto insurance add-ons and programs geared toward different driver types.

Progressive is a strong fit if you want tools, flexibility, and options

• You want to shop fast online (and make changes without calling)
• You’re open to usage-based programs that can reward safer driving
• You want coverage choices ranging from minimum coverage to broader “full coverage” (and here’s a reminder: full coverage isn’t the same as comprehensive)

Progressive’s weak points

• Often higher than USAA for eligible drivers. If you qualify for USAA, Progressive may come in higher for similar coverage in many scenarios.
• Value depends on how you build the policy. A very low price might mean lower limits or fewer add-ons. Make sure you understand your liability and deductibles (see: auto liability insurance explained).

Claims experience: what to expect with either company

Both companies offer modern claims reporting and tracking tools, and both are generally considered reputable insurers. No matter who you choose, your experience improves when you document the accident well and follow the right process. Here’s a step-by-step guide on the proper way to file an insurance claim after an accident.

If you’re ever worried about delays, this explains what’s normal and what’s not: how long can an auto insurance claim stay open?

Discounts and perks: where the savings usually come from

USAA often shines on base pricing for eligible drivers, while Progressive is known for giving shoppers many ways to “earn” a better rate through discounts, programs, and time with the company. For example, Progressive commonly promotes loyalty-style benefits (learn how customer loyalty programs can affect your rate over time), and some drivers can qualify for accident forgiveness (eligibility varies by carrier and state).

FAQs on USAA vs. Progressive Auto Insurance

Bottom line: USAA vs. Progressive

If you qualify for USAA, it’s usually one of the best places to start because it often delivers excellent value for eligible military members and families. If you don’t qualify, Progressive is one of the strongest mainstream alternatives thanks to its online tools, discount options, and flexible coverage choices.

Either way, don’t stop at one quote. Use USAA or Progressive as your baseline, then compare at least two more companies to see who truly prices your profile best: the cheapest auto insurance companies.

And if you’re military-affiliated but unsure where you land, this can help you find the right fit: how veterans can find cheap car insurance.