Root vs USAA
Last updated July 2026
Root Insurance
Fair rates based on how you drive
Advantages
- Rates primarily based on how you actually drive
- Consistently safe drivers get very low rates
- App-first quoting and claims, no agents to deal with
- Available to anyone (no eligibility gate)
- Roadside assistance available as an affordable add-on
Drawbacks
- Not available in every state
- Requires 2-3 week driving test before quoting
- Limited bundling options
USAA
Serving those who serve
Advantages
- Consistently the lowest average auto rates in the U.S. for eligible members
- Top-tier claims satisfaction and customer service scores
- SafePilot telematics program can shave 30% off premiums
- Deep discounts for storing vehicles on base or during deployments
- Full-line offerings across auto, home, life, and banking
Drawbacks
- Membership limited to military members, veterans, and their families
- No local agent network
- New drivers on the policy can push rates higher
Root and USAA both consistently price below the industry average for auto insurance, but they get there very differently. Root uses a two-week driving test to prove you deserve a low rate, while USAA gives eligible members low rates as a matter of policy. USAA eligibility almost always decides this before you quote.
Feature Comparison
| Feature | Root Insurance | USAA |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Monthly Cost | Varies by driving score; avg $80-$140/mo | Avg $85-$130/mo for eligible members |
| Quote Process | App-based driving test over 2-3 weeks | Online, app, or phone (member verification required) |
| Available Discounts | Safe driving, multi-policy, homeowner | SafePilot, garaging discount, multi-vehicle, storage |
| Claims Experience | In-app filing, digital estimates | In-app filing, digital estimates, 24/7 phone |
| Customer Support | In-app chat, phone, email | Phone, chat, app, secure messaging |
| Coverage Options | Liability, comprehensive, collision, roadside | Liability, collision, comprehensive, rideshare, umbrella |
| Mobile App Quality | Excellent, core product is app-first | Excellent, one of the best-rated in insurance |
| Bundling Options | Renters only | Auto, home, renters, life, banking |
USAA Wins
USAA wins if you qualify. Root is the best behavior-based alternative for safe drivers without a military connection.
USAA's rates are hard to beat and it doesn't ask you to complete a driving test to unlock them. If you or your immediate family served, start there. If you don't qualify, Root delivers the closest experience to USAA's pricing model, low rates for demonstrably safe drivers, without the demographic-heavy pricing traditional carriers use.
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