Quick verdict
MEEMIC comes out clearly ahead Root in our overall scoring — but each carrier wins on different dimensions. See the breakdown below before deciding.
Head-to-head
Overall scores, key facts, and what each is known for.
| MEEMIC | Root | |
|---|---|---|
| Overall score | 3.95 /5 ★★★★★ Highest overall | 3.60 /5 ★★★★★ |
| Best for | MEEMIC started as the Michigan Education Employees Mutual Insurance Company and still leans heavily into that origin — many policies trace back to educators | Root is a digital-native carrier built around a test-drive model — you install the app, drive for ~3 weeks, and Root prices your policy based on actual driving behavior |
| Read full review | MEEMIC review → | Root review → |
Rating breakdown
How each carrier scores on the dimensions we weight.
| Category | MEEMIC | Root |
|---|---|---|
| Customer experience | 4.30 | 3.50 |
| Coverage breadth | 3.90 | 3.50 |
| Affordability | 3.70 | 3.80 |
Pros and cons, side by side
What each carrier wins on, and where each one falls short.
MEEMIC
Full review →Pros
- Strong customer satisfaction reputation, particularly among education professionals
- Backed by Auto-Owners — solid financial strength and claims infrastructure
- Competitive group discounts for school employees, administrators, and retirees
- Local Michigan agent presence with deep state-specific expertise
Cons
- Michigan-only — not available anywhere else in the U.S.
- Eligibility tilts toward education-affiliated drivers (though now open more broadly)
- Less digital self-service than national pure-plays
Root
Full review →Pros
- Low-mileage drivers
- Drivers who do everything to keep themselves safe on the road
- Prospective customers want to save on renters and vehicle insurance.
Cons
- high-risk drivers in the high-risk categories.
- Insurance agents who prioritize work
- drivers who seek a comprehensive insurance plan
Coverage at a glance
What each carrier offers in standard policies.
MEEMIC
Root
The bottom line
MEEMIC
If you're in Michigan with any connection to education — current employee, retired, family member — MEEMIC deserves a quote. Outside Michigan it isn't an option.
Read the full MEEMIC reviewRoot
Root is worth trying if you're a genuinely safe driver who's comfortable with a 3-week test and digital-only service. If you need immediate coverage or prefer human agents, look elsewhere.
Read the full Root reviewBefore you decide
Rankings are a starting point — your profile decides the rest.
These scores reflect our editorial research across cost, coverage, and customer experience. The right carrier for you still depends on your record, location, and vehicle, so read the full reviews before you commit.