Auto Insurance Comparison
Quick verdict
USAA comes out clearly ahead Pekin 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.
| USAA | Pekin | |
|---|---|---|
| Overall score | 4.86 /5 ★★★★★ Highest overall | 3.85 /5 ★★★★★ |
| National rank | #1 | — |
| Best for | USAA is the top-rated auto insurance for qualifying military members and their families, with industry-leading customer satisfaction and the lowest rates for most profiles | Pekin Insurance is an Illinois-headquartered mutual with a five-state Midwest footprint |
| Read full review | USAA review → | Pekin review → |
Rating breakdown
How each carrier scores on the dimensions we weight.
| Category | USAA | Pekin |
|---|---|---|
| Customer experience | 5.00 · #1 | 4.00 |
| Coverage breadth | 5.00 · #1 | 3.80 |
| Affordability | 5.00 · #1 | 3.70 |
Pros and cons, side by side
What each carrier wins on, and where each one falls short.
USAA
Full review →Pros
- Lowest rates nationally for most driver profiles who qualify for membership
- Highest J.D. Power scores for claims and customer satisfaction in the industry
- Dedicated programs for military families, including deployment and storage discounts
- Strong digital tools that complement personalized phone service
- Best-in-class financial strength rating (AM Best A++)
Cons
- Membership restricted to active-duty military, veterans, and immediate family members
- Limited local agent network — service is primarily digital and phone-based
- Less product variety than larger general-market insurers
- Coverage gaps in some specialty areas like rideshare driving
Pekin
Full review →Pros
- Mutual structure — policyholder-aligned ownership
- Strong Illinois market presence with deep state-specific expertise
- Multi-line bundling discounts when combined with home or life
- Solid customer satisfaction in operating states
Cons
- Only available in IL, IN, IA, OH, and WI
- No online quoting — every policy through an agent
- Pricing is mid-market, not a budget choice
Coverage at a glance
What each carrier offers in standard policies.
USAA
USAA offers a comprehensive coverage menu typical of major car insurance carriers, with several add-ons that set it apart from competitors. The table below details the main add-ons available.
Add-on coverage
- Accident Forgiveness — Prevents rate increases after your first at-fault accident
- Roadside Assistance — Towing, jump-starts, lockout service, fuel delivery, and tire changes
- Rental Reimbursement — Rental car costs while your vehicle is being repaired
- Glass Coverage — Windshield and glass repair or replacement
Pekin
The bottom line
USAA
USAA earns an overall score of 4.86/5 in QuoteYeti's car insurance provider rankings. The carrier ranks #1 nationally, with particular strength in affordability.
USAA is best suited for drivers who prioritize the lowest possible rate. Membership restricted to active-duty military, veterans, and immediate family members is the most common drawback to weigh against the strengths.
As always, compare quotes from multiple insurers before committing. The right carrier depends on your specific profile — driving record, claims history, location, and coverage needs all shift the math.
Pekin
Pekin is a fine regional choice in its five operating states, particularly Illinois. Outside that footprint, it isn't an option.
Read the full Pekin 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.