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The Best and Cheapest Renters Insurance in North Carolina for 2024
We compared rates from companies across the state to find North Carolina’s cheapest renters insurance.
Many, or all, of the products featured on this page are from our advertising partners who compensate us when you take certain actions on our website or click to take an action on their website. However, this does not influence our evaluations. Our opinions are our own. Here is a list of our partners and here's how we make money.
Sarah Schlichter Lead Writer | Home insurance, renters insurance, pet insurance
Sarah Schlichter is a NerdWallet authority on homeowners, renters and pet insurance. Prior to joining NerdWallet, she spent more than 15 years in digital media as a writer, editor and spokesperson. Sarah enjoys delving into complicated topics and helping readers understand the ins and outs of their insurance coverage. She lives in the Washington, D.C., metro area.
Caitlin Constantine Assistant Assigning Editor | Home insurance, renters insurance, pet insurance
Caitlin Constantine is an assigning editor at NerdWallet, focusing on homeowners, renters and pet insurance. She has more than 15 years of experience in digital media, including as the deputy managing editor at The Penny Hoarder and as a digital producer for a 24/7 news station based in the Tampa Bay area. Caitlin enjoys exploring the ways technology can help people become better informed about the world. She currently lives outside Asheville, North Carolina.
The cheapest renters insurance company in North Carolina is North Carolina Farm Bureau, according to NerdWallet’s rate analysis.
USAA and Erie are the two best renters insurance companies in North Carolina.
The average cost of renters insurance in North Carolina is $162 per year.
North Carolina sees its share of natural disasters, especially hurricanes and tropical storms. That’s why you might want to buy renters insurance to cover your belongings.
The average North Carolina renters insurance policy costs $162 per year, according to NerdWallet’s rate analysis. For comparison, the national average is $148. But you may be able to find more affordable options. NerdWallet compared rates from companies across the state to find the cheapest renters insurance in North Carolina.
Note: Some insurance companies included in this article may have made changes in their underwriting practices and no longer issue new policies in your state.
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NerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula incorporates discounts, coverage options, website transparency, financial strength, complaint data and more.
NerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula incorporates discounts, coverage options, website transparency, financial strength, complaint data and more.
NerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula incorporates discounts, coverage options, website transparency, financial strength, complaint data and more.
NerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula incorporates discounts, coverage options, website transparency, financial strength, complaint data and more.
$108
*USAA renters policies are available only to active military, veterans and their families.
NerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula incorporates discounts, coverage options, website transparency, financial strength, complaint data and more.
NerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula incorporates discounts, coverage options, website transparency, financial strength, complaint data and more.
NerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula incorporates discounts, coverage options, website transparency, financial strength, complaint data and more.
NerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula incorporates discounts, coverage options, website transparency, financial strength, complaint data and more.
NerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula incorporates discounts, coverage options, website transparency, financial strength, complaint data and more.
NerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula incorporates discounts, coverage options, website transparency, financial strength, complaint data and more.
NerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula incorporates discounts, coverage options, website transparency, financial strength, complaint data and more.
$108
*USAA renters policies are available only to active military, veterans and their families.
More about the best renters insurance companies in North Carolina
See more details about each company to help you decide which one is best for you.
Coverage optionsRatings are based on the number of coverage options a company offers in comparison to other insurers.
More than average
DiscountsRatings are based on the number of discounts a company offers in comparison to other insurers.
Great set of discounts
NAIC complaintsRatings are based on complaints to state regulators relative to a company’s size, according to three years’ worth of data from the National Association of Insurance Commissioners. NerdWallet conducts its data analysis and reaches conclusions independently and without the endorsement of the NAIC.
Far fewer than expected
Pros
Plenty of coverage options.
Far fewer consumer complaints than expected for a company of its size.
Cons
No online quotes or claim filing.
Includes some types of coverage that would cost extra from other companies.
NerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula takes into account consumer complaint and customer satisfaction data.
Solid coverage and good service, but you’ll need to speak with an agent to get a policy.
Coverage optionsRatings are based on the number of coverage options a company offers in comparison to other insurers.
More than average
DiscountsRatings are based on the number of discounts a company offers in comparison to other insurers.
Great set of discounts
NAIC complaintsRatings are based on complaints to state regulators relative to a company’s size, according to three years’ worth of data from the National Association of Insurance Commissioners. NerdWallet conducts its data analysis and reaches conclusions independently and without the endorsement of the NAIC.
Far fewer than expected
Pros
Plenty of coverage options.
Far fewer consumer complaints than expected for a company of its size.
Cons
No online quotes or claim filing.
Includes some types of coverage that would cost extra from other companies.
You may be able to save money on Erie insurance by bundling renters and auto policies, getting an advance quote or having safety devices in your home. The personal property coverage on your policy offers financial protection if your stuff is stolen or damaged anywhere in the world. In North Carolina, you can add extra coverage for identity theft, backed-up drains or valuables such as jewelry.
Coverage optionsRatings are based on the number of coverage options a company offers in comparison to other insurers.
About average
DiscountsRatings are based on the number of discounts a company offers in comparison to other insurers.
Great set of discounts
NAIC complaintsRatings are based on complaints to state regulators relative to a company’s size, according to three years’ worth of data from the National Association of Insurance Commissioners. NerdWallet conducts its data analysis and reaches conclusions independently and without the endorsement of the NAIC.
Far fewer than expected
Pros
Many discounts available.
Far fewer consumer complaints than expected for a company of its size.
Cons
No option to get quotes or file claims online.
Renters who feel comfortable working with an independent agent to customize their coverage may want to consider Auto-Owners.
NerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula takes into account consumer complaint and customer satisfaction data.
Auto-Owners offers multiple discounts for renters but sells insurance through independent agents only.
Coverage optionsRatings are based on the number of coverage options a company offers in comparison to other insurers.
About average
DiscountsRatings are based on the number of discounts a company offers in comparison to other insurers.
Great set of discounts
NAIC complaintsRatings are based on complaints to state regulators relative to a company’s size, according to three years’ worth of data from the National Association of Insurance Commissioners. NerdWallet conducts its data analysis and reaches conclusions independently and without the endorsement of the NAIC.
Far fewer than expected
Pros
Many discounts available.
Far fewer consumer complaints than expected for a company of its size.
Cons
No option to get quotes or file claims online.
Renters who feel comfortable working with an independent agent to customize their coverage may want to consider Auto-Owners.
You may be able to save on your Auto-Owners renters policy if you haven’t filed any recent claims, buy more than one type of insurance through the company or pay your premium in full each year. If you want more than just the basics, ask about the Renters Plus option. This endorsement includes extra coverage for things like damage from backed-up drains and refrigerated food spoiled in a power outage. Auto-Owners sells policies through independent agents.
Coverage optionsRatings are based on the number of coverage options a company offers in comparison to other insurers.
More than average
DiscountsRatings are based on the number of discounts a company offers in comparison to other insurers.
Average set of discounts
NAIC complaintsRatings are based on complaints to state regulators relative to a company’s size, according to three years’ worth of data from the National Association of Insurance Commissioners. NerdWallet conducts its data analysis and reaches conclusions independently and without the endorsement of the NAIC.
Fewer than expected
Pros
Offers inflation coverage.
Few customer complaints for a company of its size.
NerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula takes into account consumer complaint and customer satisfaction data.
The country’s biggest home insurer offers solid renters insurance with lots of ways to manage your policy online.
Coverage optionsRatings are based on the number of coverage options a company offers in comparison to other insurers.
More than average
DiscountsRatings are based on the number of discounts a company offers in comparison to other insurers.
Average set of discounts
NAIC complaintsRatings are based on complaints to state regulators relative to a company’s size, according to three years’ worth of data from the National Association of Insurance Commissioners. NerdWallet conducts its data analysis and reaches conclusions independently and without the endorsement of the NAIC.
Fewer than expected
Pros
Offers inflation coverage.
Few customer complaints for a company of its size.
Many coverage options to choose from.
Cons
Policies unavailable in a handful of states.
Long list of add-ons to customize your policy.
State Farm renters insurance stands out for including replacement cost coverage for personal belongings, which means you’ll get enough to buy brand-new items if your stuff is stolen or destroyed. Many companies cover your things on an actual cash value basis, paying only what your belongings are worth at the time of your claim. The company has drawn fewer consumer complaints than expected for an insurer of its size, according to the National Association of Insurance Commissioners.
Coverage optionsRatings are based on the number of coverage options a company offers in comparison to other insurers.
About average
DiscountsRatings are based on the number of discounts a company offers in comparison to other insurers.
Great set of discounts
NAIC complaintsRatings are based on complaints to state regulators relative to a company’s size, according to three years’ worth of data from the National Association of Insurance Commissioners. NerdWallet conducts its data analysis and reaches conclusions independently and without the endorsement of the NAIC.
Fewer than expected
Pros
User-friendly mobile app.
Several additional coverage options.
Fewer consumer complaints than expected for a company of its size.
Cons
Rates are higher than average in North Carolina.
Offers many ways to customize and save on your policy.
NerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula takes into account consumer complaint and customer satisfaction data.
Renters insurance coverage with a few useful add-ons.
Coverage optionsRatings are based on the number of coverage options a company offers in comparison to other insurers.
About average
DiscountsRatings are based on the number of discounts a company offers in comparison to other insurers.
Great set of discounts
NAIC complaintsRatings are based on complaints to state regulators relative to a company’s size, according to three years’ worth of data from the National Association of Insurance Commissioners. NerdWallet conducts its data analysis and reaches conclusions independently and without the endorsement of the NAIC.
Fewer than expected
Pros
User-friendly mobile app.
Several additional coverage options.
Fewer consumer complaints than expected for a company of its size.
Cons
Rates are higher than average in North Carolina.
Offers many ways to customize and save on your policy.
One of the largest home insurers in the U.S., Nationwide sells renters policies with a variety of potential add-ons. You may be able to add “Brand New Belongings” coverage, which pays enough to replace stolen or damaged items with new replacements. If you have valuable items such as jewelry or fine art, you may also be able to add special coverage for those items.
Coverage optionsRatings are based on the number of coverage options a company offers in comparison to other insurers.
About average
DiscountsRatings are based on the number of discounts a company offers in comparison to other insurers.
Great set of discounts
NAIC complaintsRatings are based on complaints to state regulators relative to a company’s size, according to three years’ worth of data from the National Association of Insurance Commissioners. NerdWallet conducts its data analysis and reaches conclusions independently and without the endorsement of the NAIC.
Fewer than expected
Pros
Useful website features.
Various coverage and discount options available.
Cons
Ranks below average for consumer satisfaction in the latest J.D. Power home insurance study.
NerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula takes into account consumer complaint and customer satisfaction data.
Renters insurance coverage from a large, tech-friendly company.
Coverage optionsRatings are based on the number of coverage options a company offers in comparison to other insurers.
About average
DiscountsRatings are based on the number of discounts a company offers in comparison to other insurers.
Great set of discounts
NAIC complaintsRatings are based on complaints to state regulators relative to a company’s size, according to three years’ worth of data from the National Association of Insurance Commissioners. NerdWallet conducts its data analysis and reaches conclusions independently and without the endorsement of the NAIC.
Fewer than expected
Pros
Useful website features.
Various coverage and discount options available.
Cons
Ranks below average for consumer satisfaction in the latest J.D. Power home insurance study.
User-friendly website and solid coverage options.
Does your home have smart-home technology, a burglar alarm or an interior sprinkler system? If so, you might be able to save with Travelers renters insurance. You may also be eligible for a bundle or claims-free discount. Extra coverage may be available for expensive items such as jewelry or computers.
Coverage optionsRatings are based on the number of coverage options a company offers in comparison to other insurers.
About average
DiscountsRatings are based on the number of discounts a company offers in comparison to other insurers.
Great set of discounts
NAIC complaintsRatings are based on complaints to state regulators relative to a company’s size, according to three years’ worth of data from the National Association of Insurance Commissioners. NerdWallet conducts its data analysis and reaches conclusions independently and without the endorsement of the NAIC.
Fewer than expected
Pros
Many discounts available.
Users can manage their policies online or through the app.
Fewer consumer complaints than expected for a company of its size.
Cons
Rates higher than the national average in NerdWallet's analysis.
NerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula takes into account consumer complaint and customer satisfaction data.
Strong coverage plus a user-friendly app to manage your policy.
Coverage optionsRatings are based on the number of coverage options a company offers in comparison to other insurers.
About average
DiscountsRatings are based on the number of discounts a company offers in comparison to other insurers.
Great set of discounts
NAIC complaintsRatings are based on complaints to state regulators relative to a company’s size, according to three years’ worth of data from the National Association of Insurance Commissioners. NerdWallet conducts its data analysis and reaches conclusions independently and without the endorsement of the NAIC.
Fewer than expected
Pros
Many discounts available.
Users can manage their policies online or through the app.
Fewer consumer complaints than expected for a company of its size.
Cons
Rates higher than the national average in NerdWallet's analysis.
Good customer service and lots of discounts.
Farmers offers a variety of ways to save on your renters insurance policy, including potential discounts for bundling multiple policies, having a security system or being a nonsmoker. Teachers, doctors, nurses and police may also be eligible for savings. If you have expensive belongings, such as an engagement ring or fine art, ask about extra coverage to make sure those items are properly insured.
Coverage optionsRatings are based on the number of coverage options a company offers in comparison to other insurers.
More than average
DiscountsRatings are based on the number of discounts a company offers in comparison to other insurers.
Great set of discounts
NAIC complaintsRatings are based on complaints to state regulators relative to a company’s size, according to three years’ worth of data from the National Association of Insurance Commissioners. NerdWallet conducts its data analysis and reaches conclusions independently and without the endorsement of the NAIC.
Far fewer than expected
Pros
No extra charge for flood or earthquake coverage.
Far fewer consumer complaints than expected for a company of its size.
Has options tailored for active-duty military.
Cons
Available only to veterans, active members of the military and their families.
Standard policies include coverage for flood and earthquake damage.
NerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula takes into account consumer complaint and customer satisfaction data.
Strong coverage for active military, veterans and their families.
Coverage optionsRatings are based on the number of coverage options a company offers in comparison to other insurers.
More than average
DiscountsRatings are based on the number of discounts a company offers in comparison to other insurers.
Great set of discounts
NAIC complaintsRatings are based on complaints to state regulators relative to a company’s size, according to three years’ worth of data from the National Association of Insurance Commissioners. NerdWallet conducts its data analysis and reaches conclusions independently and without the endorsement of the NAIC.
Far fewer than expected
Pros
No extra charge for flood or earthquake coverage.
Far fewer consumer complaints than expected for a company of its size.
Has options tailored for active-duty military.
Cons
Available only to veterans, active members of the military and their families.
Standard policies include coverage for flood and earthquake damage.
Only active-duty military, veterans and their families can buy USAA renters insurance, but it’s worth considering if you’re eligible. Unlike most insurance companies, USAA includes flood and earthquake coverage in its standard renters insurance policies. Active military members living on a base may be eligible to save up to 28% on their renters policy. And there’s no deductible if your uniform or other military equipment is damaged while you’re on active or reserve duty.
The average cost of renters insurance in North Carolina is $162 a year, or about $14 a month, according to NerdWallet’s rate analysis. For comparison, the national average is $148.
In most U.S. states, including North Carolina, many insurers use your credit-based insurance score to help set rates. Your insurance score is similar but not identical to your traditional credit score.
In North Carolina, those with poor credit pay an average of $231 per year for renters insurance, according to NerdWallet’s rate analysis. That’s about 43% more than those with good credit.
Average cost of renters insurance in North Carolina by city
Your renters insurance rates will vary depending on where you live within the state. For example, the average cost of renters insurance in Charlotte is $163 per year, while renters in Raleigh pay $159 and those in Fayetteville pay $244, on average. Find your city below.
What to know about North Carolina renters insurance
Due to its coastal location, North Carolina often finds itself in the path of hurricanes and tropical storms. If such a storm destroys your belongings, renters insurance may be able to help.
A standard renters policy generally covers damage from wind but not flooding. For example, say hurricane winds blew part of the roof off your apartment building and rain got in through the gap, ruining your furniture. In most cases, your renters insurance policy would cover the cost of replacing your lost items, minus your deductible.
But if the same hurricane caused a flash flood on your street, sending water into your unit, you likely wouldn’t have coverage for any damage unless you had flood insurance. Learn more about flood insurance for renters.
Note that your insurance company may charge you a separate, higher deductible for windstorm damage if you live along the coast.
Other disasters
Here’s how renters insurance might help when dealing with other potential disasters in North Carolina.
Fires. Most standard renters insurance policies cover damage due to fire or smoke.
Tornadoes. As noted above, your renters policy will likely cover wind damage unless you live in a coastal area at risk for hurricanes and tropical storms.
Earthquakes. Most renters insurance will not cover earthquake damage, though you may be able to add it to your policy for an extra cost. Learn more about earthquake insurance.
Ice storms. Burst pipes could cause water damage to your belongings, which renters insurance would likely cover.
Some policies may also offer coverage for food lost in your refrigerator during a power outage due to a covered disaster.
What determines North Carolina renters insurance rates?
Your rates may differ from the averages listed above based on the following factors:
Where you live
Insurers may charge more for renters insurance if they think your location makes you more likely to file a claim. So if you live in a neighborhood with a high crime rate or in a hurricane-prone area along the coast, prepare to pay a little more.
Your credit history
As explained above, many companies charge more for renters insurance if you have poor credit. Learn how to rebuild your credit.
The coverage you need
The higher your coverage limits, the more you’ll pay for a policy. So if you’ve got lots of stuff to cover, expect a higher premium.
Your deductible
Raising your deductible — the amount of a claim you pay out of pocket — can lower your renters insurance premium. Just be sure it’s an amount you’d feel comfortable covering in a pinch.
Your claims history
If you’ve filed a renters claim in the past few years, insurance companies may consider you a higher risk for filing another one. In North Carolina, renters who’ve filed a recent claim pay 14% more on average than those with no claims history, according to NerdWallet’s rate analysis.
Your other policies
Bundling your renters insurance with another policy from the same insurer is an easy way to get a discount from many companies.
Your home’s features
Insurers often offer discounts if your home has a burglar alarm, smoke detectors, deadbolt locks or other protective devices.
Your dog
Some companies will charge you more for renters insurance if you have a dog they consider an aggressive breed, such as a pit bull or Rottweiler. That’s because dog bites are a common source of renters liability claims. Learn more about personal liability insurance for renters.
North Carolina Department of Insurance
On the state agency’s website, you can learn about insurance coverage, request help or file a complaint about your carrier. There’s also a toll-free customer assistance line at 855-408-1212.
There’s no law requiring you to buy renters insurance in North Carolina, but some landlords may ask for proof of insurance before you sign your lease. Either way, you might want a policy to protect yourself financially in case of a disaster. See six reasons not to skip renters insurance.
How can I save money on North Carolina renters insurance?
Shopping around with at least three companies can help you make sure you’re paying the lowest possible price. (For a fair comparison, get quotes for the same deductible and coverage limits from each insurer.) You can also try bundling renters and auto insurance with the same company, raising your deductible or signing up for automatic premium payments.
What does renters insurance cover in North Carolina?
Renters insurance typically covers your belongings for events such as fire, smoke, windstorms, vandalism and theft. However, most renters policies don’t pay for flood damage. Learn more about renters insurance coverage.
Is renters insurance required in North Carolina?
There’s no law requiring you to buy renters insurance in North Carolina, but some landlords may ask for proof of insurance before you sign your lease. Either way, you might want a policy to protect yourself financially in case of a disaster. See
How can I save money on North Carolina renters insurance?
Shopping around with at least three companies can help you make sure you’re paying the lowest possible price. (For a fair comparison, get quotes for the same deductible and coverage limits from each insurer.) You can also try bundling renters and auto insurance with the same company, raising your deductible or signing up for automatic premium payments.
What does renters insurance cover in North Carolina?
Renters insurance typically covers your belongings for events such as fire, smoke, windstorms, vandalism and theft. However, most renters policies don’t pay for flood damage. Learn more about
NerdWallet’s renters insurance ratings reward companies for customer-first features and practices. Ratings are based on weighted averages of scores in several categories, including financial strength, consumer complaints, coverage options, discounts and online experience. These ratings are a guide, but we encourage you to shop around and compare several insurance quotes to find the best rate for you. NerdWallet does not receive compensation for any reviews. Read our full renters insurance rating methodology.
Insurer complaints methodology
NerdWallet examined complaints received by state insurance regulators and reported to the National Association of Insurance Commissioners in 2020-2022. To assess how insurers compare with one another, the NAIC calculates a complaint index each year for each subsidiary, measuring its share of total complaints relative to its size, or share of total premiums in the industry. To evaluate a company’s complaint history, NerdWallet calculated a similar index for each insurer, weighted by market shares of each subsidiary, over the three-year period. NerdWallet conducts its data analysis and reaches conclusions independently and without the endorsement of the NAIC. Ratios are determined separately for auto, home (including renters and condo) and life insurance.
Renters insurance rates methodology
To find the national cost of renters insurance, NerdWallet calculated the median rate for 30-year-old tenants from multiple insurance companies in every ZIP code across all 50 states and Washington, D.C. To find the average cost of renters insurance by state and city, we calculated the median rates from all insurance companies where coverage and rates were available. To find the average cost of renters insurance for each company, we calculated the mean for that company’s rates in all ZIP codes across the state.
Sample tenants were nonsmokers with good credit and no recent claims, living in a two-bedroom apartment. They had a $500 deductible and the following coverage limits:
$30,000 in personal property coverage.
$100,000 in liability coverage.
$10,000 in additional living expenses coverage.
$1,000 in medical payments coverage.
To see rates for renters with poor credit, we changed the credit tier from “good” to “poor” as reported to the insurer.
These are sample rates generated through Quadrant Information Services. Your own rates will be different.
