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Could you be receiving a different insurance rate premium on your car just because of your gender? Do men and women actually receive different quotes? And if so, is that even allowed or fair?

Sure, people get different rate quotes based on their age and sometimes even their postal code. And that makes sense: younger people who are more impulsive and have less experience on the road would certainly be considered more of a risk compared to an older individual with a much longer track record of driving responsibility.

But what about gender? Do car insurance providers give women a different rate than men?


Key Points

  • Men tend to pay higher rates on car insurance than women.
  • Gender differences exist in the world of auto insurance due to differences in risk levels between men and women.
  • Regardless of your gender, there are ways to keep your insurance rates low, such as keeping a clean driving record, taking advantage of discounts, choosing a higher deductible, and comparing quotes.

Can Insurance Providers Offer Cheaper Insurance To Women?

Several factors impact car insurance premiums, including gender. Insurers are allowed to charge more for men than women because of certain statistics.

Compared to women, men are more likely to:

  • Drive over the speed limit
  • Get into more accidents
  • Have higher claim amounts
  • Fail to obey traffic signs
  • Fail to wear their seat belts
  • Be involved in minor traffic infractions
  • Fail to drive with proof of insurance

Insurance providers consider these factors when determining insurance premiums. Considering this, women are more likely to be charged lower premiums.

Learn more: Auto Insurance


Male Vs Female Insurance Rates In Canada

In Canada, male drivers typically pay roughly 5% more for car insurance than female drivers. As mentioned, this is due to statistics showing that men are more likely to be involved in riskier behaviour when driving compared to women. 

For illustration purposes, the following chart lists the average annual car insurance premiums in Ontario between men and women, categorized by age group: 

Average Annual Premium For Male DriversAverage Annual Premium For Female Drivers
Age 20-25$2,939$2,634
Age 26-29$2,634$2,395
Age 30-35$2,541$2,299
Age 39-39$2,425$2,196
Age 40-49$2,170$2,054
Age 50-59$1,911$1,747
Age 60-69$1,635$1,412
Age 70+$1,471$1,295
Source: Thinkinsure.ca


Other Factors That Affect The Cost of Car Insurance

Aside from gender, other key factors play a role in auto insurance premium rates, including the following:

  • Age
  • Location
  • Driving history and experience
  • Credit score
  • Type of vehicle
  • Length of commute
  • Insurance history
  • Marital status
  • Claims history
  • Coverage level
  • Type of vehicle
  • Discounts

Different Provider, Different Rates

Insurance premiums may also fluctuate based on the insurance provider. That’s why it’s always smart to shop around and compare different rates to make sure you get the best price.

If you don’t take the time to do some comparison shopping, you could be paying way too much for car insurance without even realizing it. By shopping around, you may be able to find a much lower rate and keep more money in your pocket.


Tips To Keep Your Car Insurance Rates Low 

It’s not fun to have to dish out more money every month to pay for auto insurance in addition to all the other bills you have to pay. Considering this, it makes sense to make an effort to ensure that your rates are as low as they can be. Here are a few tips to help you do just that:

Inquire About Discounts

Insurance providers typically offer different types of discounts for various reasons. For instance, there are discounts for:

  • Anti-theft devices
  • Completed driver training courses
  • Accident-free driving records
  • Early policy renewal
  • Homeowners
  • Military personnel
  • Seniors
  • Students
  • Low mileage
  • Bundled policies

Ask about the types of discounts offered to see if you qualify for any of them.

Opt For A Higher Deductible 

A deductible is what you’ll pay out of pocket before coverage from your policy kicks in. For instance, a $1,000 deductible means you would pay the first $1,000, after which your policy takes effect and covers you for any remaining costs. 

Usually, higher deductibles mean cheaper rates and vice versa. If you feel that you won’t be making many claims, a higher deductible might be worth it to pay lower premiums.

Choose A Less Expensive Vehicle To Insure 

Luxury cars tend to come with higher insurance premiums. If you want to keep your rates low, consider buying a vehicle that isn’t on the list of higher-insured vehicles. 

Improve Your Credit Score

A higher credit score can lead to lower insurance premiums. Insurance providers view those with good credit as less risky. So, if your score is a little on the low side, consider taking steps to give it a boost to lower your rates on car insurance.

Learn more: Do Insurance Companies Check Credit In Canada?

Take A Safe Driving Course

Completing a safety driving course can help you qualify for discounts while helping you improve your safe driving skills.

Maintain A Clean Driving Record

A history of safe driving record with no accidents or traffic infractions can lower your auto insurance rates.

Compare Rates

Do some comparison shopping with different insurers to compare quotes and see where you can get the best deal.


Final Thoughts

You can’t avoid paying car insurance. It’s the law, even though every province can determine the minimum amounts necessary. Even though gender plays a role in the rate you’re offered, there are plenty of things you can do to keep your premiums as low as possible, including keeping a clean driving record and bundling policies with the same provider.


Car Insurance Rate FAQs

Do insurance rates differ for young drivers based on gender?

Yes, young male drivers typically pay higher premiums compared to young female drivers due to higher risk factors.

What other factors can impact car insurance rates besides gender?

Factors such as age, location, driving history, vehicle type, and amount of usage play key roles in insurance premiums for both men and women.

What can men do to reduce their car insurance premiums?

Male drivers can reduce their car insurance rates by keeping a clean driving record, taking a safe driving course, bundling policies, and shopping around for the best rates.
Lisa Rennie avatar on Loans Canada
Lisa Rennie

Lisa has been working as a personal finance writer for more than a decade, creating unique content that helps to educate Canadian consumers in the realms of real estate, mortgages, investing and financial health. For years, she held her real estate license in Toronto, Ontario before giving it up to pursue writing within this realm and related niches. Lisa is very serious about smart money management and helping others do the same.

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