Nationwide vs Progressive

Verdict

Progressive and Nationwide both sell through independent agents as well as online and by phone, and both are known for telematics. Progressive, publicly traded and the second-largest U.S. auto insurer, wrote $69.01 billion of private passenger auto premium in 2025 (18.57%) in all 50 states and D.C. Nationwide, a policyholder-owned mutual, wrote $4.07 billion (1.09%). Its state pages don't include Alaska, Hawaii, Louisiana, Massachusetts or D.C.

Progressive has the higher AM Best rating, A+ (Superior), affirmed May 2026, and record 2025 profits. Nationwide is rated A (Excellent), affirmed November 2025, with AM Best calling its operating performance marginal. Service scores point the other way. Nationwide scored 729 (4th of 20) in the J.D. Power 2025 claims study, against Progressive's 673 (18th). In the 2026 U.S. Auto Insurance Study Nationwide ranked second in three regions and highest for usage-based insurance. Progressive beat the regional average only in California.

Progressive accepts a wider range of drivers, including those with tickets or a lapse. Nationwide suits drivers who want stronger service and a pay-per-mile option. Both are often sold by the same independent agents, so get quotes from both.

Choose Nationwide if

• Claims service matters most. Nationwide was 4th of 20 in 2025; Progressive was 18th.
• You drive little and want pay-per-mile coverage (SmartMiles).
• You want SmartRide, rated highest for usage-based insurance by J.D. Power in 2026, with up to 40% off at renewal.
• You want a Vanishing Deductible that builds credit for safe years.
• You live in the North Central, Southeast or Texas regions, where Nationwide ranked second in 2026.

Choose Progressive if

• You live in Alaska, Hawaii, Louisiana, Massachusetts or D.C.
• You have tickets, an accident or a coverage lapse. Progressive writes nonstandard drivers.
• You want accident forgiveness built in for claims under $500, and for most claims after five years.
• You want to buy entirely online and compare options with tools like Name Your Price.
• You want the higher AM Best rating (A+ vs. A).

Key differences

Snapshot can raise your rate for high-risk driving; SmartRide's discount can drop to zero (see telematics programs from the major insurers compared). Progressive's prices can differ between its direct channel and agents, so check both. An independent agent who represents both can run them side by side; bring the car insurance quote comparison worksheet to keep coverage identical.