The average renters insurance policy in Cincinnati costs $13.76 per month for coverage, according to data from Quadrant Information Services, but one provider on our list charges less than $10. Read on to learn more about the top six renters insurance coverage providers in Cincinnati.
Top 6 Renters Insurance Providers in Cincinnati
After reviewing dozens of Ohio renters insurance providers, we’ve named the following six companies as the top options in Cincinnati.
- Lemonade: Our top pick
- Toggle: Best for custom pricing
- State Farm: Best for localized support
- Nationwide: Best for customizable coverage
- Erie: Best for local coverage
- USAA: Best for military families
Lemonade renters insurance is our top choice in Cincinnati. The company combines low prices with a quick, digital application process that offers coverage in as few as five minutes. Lemonade allows Cincinnati renters to customize five areas of coverage, including a personal property limit for electronics. Lemonade can offer a good choice for tech-savvy renters looking to prioritize lower prices and quick signups.
Although it doesn’t offer as many discounts as some competitors, Lemonade’s digital interface and enhanced customization options place the company at the top of our list for renters looking for basic insurance.
Received a high customer satisfaction score in the most recent J.D. Power study
Allows policyholders to customize coverage limits for five areas of protection, including electronics
Offers water backup and water damage add-ons
May charge higher premiums than some other companies on our list
Has few discounts available
Lemonade offers only a couple of discounts:
- Burglary alarm
- Smoke detector
- Multi-policy bundling
Lemonade’s policies allow you to customize protection levels on five standard coverages: personal property, electronics, medical payments to others, liability protection and loss of use coverage. You can also add the following policy endorsements for new plan issuances in Cincinnati:
- Bicycle
- Camera
- Earthquake coverage
- Equipment breakdown
- Fine art
- Interested party landlord coverage
- Jewelry
- Musical instrument
- Personal injury protections
- Significant other coverage
- Tenant pet damage
- Tenant water damage
- Water backup coverage
In our team’s February 2024 survey of 1,000 renters with insurance nationwide, 92% of Lemonade customers said they were satisfied with the company, with affordability and ease of use being users’ favorite features. About half of Lemonade customers also said they were satisfied with their coverage.
Lemonade’s online customer reviews are generally more positive than competing renters insurance providers. Positive reviews often complimented the company’s application process. Policyholders who were not satisfied with Lemonade commonly cited a lack of endorsement options and unsatisfactory claims resolutions.
Our team reached out to Lemonade for comment on its negative reviews but the company did not provide a response.
We named Toggle the best renters insurance company for custom pricing. Although renters insurance providers generally allow you to adjust limits on personal property and liability coverage, Toggle lets you get more specific, naming individual limits for jewelry, collectibles, creative equipment and more. Renters can choose policy limits and extra coverages with just a few clicks, making it an ideal choice for customers who know exactly what they want covered. We also like Toggle’s affordability, with plans in Ohio available from $5 per month.
Offers affordable plans for Cincinnati renters
Allows customization of personal property coverage for items such as electronics and jewelry
Offers unique side hustle and pet insurance endorsements
Doesn’t offer water backup or extended theft endorsements, a potential drawback for some renters
Not included in the most recent J.D. Power study, which ranks companies based on customer service
The only renters insurance policy discount that Toggle offers to Cincinnati residents is a declining deductible program. After enrolling, you’ll see your deductible fall each year you remain claim-free until it reaches a minimum amount.
Toggle also offers the following endorsements in Ohio:
- Identity theft benefits
- Pet damage and veterinary cost reimbursements
- Replacement cost coverage
- Side hustle coverage
- Spousal protection
- Temporary living expenses
According to our survey, 75% of Toggle policyholders said they would recommend the company’s renter’s insurance to friends or family members. Customers most often complained of denied claims and poor customer service.
Our team could not find any reviews for Toggle on Trustpilot or the Better Business Bureau (BBB).
We reached out to Toggle for comment on the negative feedback in our consumer survey but did not receive a response.
A large, nationwide renters insurance provider, State Farm can offer an ideal choice for renters seeking localized support on a budget. State Farm maintains a vast network of local agents in Cincinnati, a benefit for those who value an in-person connection and support. Plus, with an average premium of less than $10 per month, State Farm renters insurance is the most affordable choice we’ve found for Ohio residents.
Offers the most affordable premiums in Cincinnati of the companies we reviewed
Has a vast network of local agents for in-person support
Allows customers to select coverage amounts for four standard categories
Offers few discounts compared to other Cincinnati renters insurance providers
Requires contacting a representative to access a full range of deductible options
State Farm offers a couple of discounts on its renters insurance policies:
- Bundling
- Home protection
If you need more than the standard included coverage, you can also add extended protection:
- Earthquake endorsement
- Identity restoration
- Personal umbrella coverage
Our survey of Ohio renters suggests different experiences, however. State Farm was one of the most popular renters insurance coverage providers among Ohio residents, and 92% of residents who chose State Farm said they were satisfied with their coverage. About 80% of State Farm customers across the country indicated they were happy with their plan pricing, which was consistently more affordable than competitors in multiple states.
However, State Farm maintains a C- rating with the BBB, indicating that the company isn’t always responsive to customer complaints.
We reached out to State Farm for comment on its BBB rating and negative reviews and received the following response from company spokesperson Roszell Gadson:
“We are pleased to see that your survey indicates almost 100% of our customers are satisfied with State Farm. When it comes to customer service, as an organization, we take pride in our customer service and are committed to paying what we owe, promptly, courteously and efficiently.”
We named Nationwide the best insurance provider for customizable coverage. The company lets you add extended theft umbrella coverage, which can benefit those with high-value tech equipment or furniture. Its water backup endorsement and umbrella policy options also make Nationwide a good choice for policyholders living along one of Cincinnati’s rivers.
With more than 100 years of experience offering insurance policies, Nationwide is one of Ohio’s longest-standing options for renters coverage. If you already have coverage from Nationwide, you can save even more by adding renters insurance and claiming a bundling discount.
Offers an extended theft rider for Cincinnati renters with high-value items
Has a long history of above-average financial strength ratings
Holds a high J.D. Power score, which indicates solid customer satisfaction
Does not offer online quotes for Cincinnati residences
Has limited discount opportunities
Nationwide offers a few discount opportunities to Cincinnati residents:
- Bundling
- Claims-free
- Protective device installation
Nationwide also has a standard range of endorsement options similar to those offered by competing insurance providers, including:
- Extended valuables rider
- Water backup coverage
- Earthquake coverage
- Theft extension
Our survey of renters indicates that Nationwide customers are largely happy with their choice of renters insurance provider. Ninety-two percent of survey respondents said they were happy with their coverage from Nationwide. Most customers also took advantage of a loyalty discount, indicating that many customers bundle their Nationwide renters insurance with auto insurance or another type of coverage.
Despite holding an A+ rating and BBB accreditation, Nationwide customers complain regularly about the customer service team and claims process. Another common complaint is denied claims, with multiple customers saying they were told conflicting information by representatives.
We requested comment from Nationwide about the issues mentioned above but did not receive a response.
Erie is our choice for localized renters insurance coverage in Cincinnati. With high customer reviews online and a team of local agents ready to help you learn more about coverage, Erie can assist renters with selecting and understanding their plans. However, it may not offer the best option for those looking for quick coverage as you cannot get online renters insurance quotes.
The annual J.D. Power home and renters insurance study is a nationwide evaluation of companies based on service quality and customer satisfaction. Erie Insurance took the top spot in the 2023 study — a testament to its customer service and team of local agents.
Ranked No. 1 in J.D. Power’s most recent renters insurance study, indicating high-quality customer service
Has lower-than-average premiums in Cincinnati
Offers a wide selection of discounts and weather-related endorsements
Received mixed results regarding customer service in our survey of Ohio renters
Doesn’t let you buy a policy online, requiring customers meet with a local representative to get coverage
Erie Insurance offers a competitive range of discount opportunities compared to other coverage providers, including the following opportunities to save:
- Advanced quote
- Bundling
- Safety device
Erie also offers a number of endorsements:
- Earthquake coverage
- Extended coverage limits
- Flood coverage
- Home sharing coverage
- Sewer and water backup coverage
Although Erie ranked highest in J.D. Power’s 2023 customer satisfaction survey, our survey results indicate that service quality may vary by local team. Of Erie customers, about 72% said they were satisfied with their insurer. Unsatisfied Erie customers most commonly cited poor customer service as the reason for their disgruntlement.
Erie has an A+ rating with the BBB but limited reviews on the platform.
We requested comment from Erie regarding our survey results and received a response from Matthew Cummings, the company’s director of strategic communications:
“We have a dedicated team that researches and responds to all actionable customer reviews and helps resolve them on behalf of policyholders. Erie Insurance consistently ranks highest in customer satisfaction and maintains one of the strongest retention rates in the industry — from year to year, more than 91% of policyholders stay with Erie. Our consistent policy growth and industry leading retention are the most reliable and accurate indicators of Erie’s commitment to customer service.”
We named USAA the best renters insurance option for military families, as the company tailors its renters insurance product to the needs of military members and their families. Only military members and their families can qualify for coverage, accessing a range of benefits not found with competing providers. For example, the company offers a 45% discount on renters insurance policies for those enrolled in a military service academy. All policies also include flooding, earthquake and replacement cost coverage — benefits sometimes offered as add-ons with competitors.
Has high customer satisfaction ratings based on J.D. Power studies
Offers competitive discounts
Includes replacement cost coverage, which pays to replace your lost property without depreciation
Only available for USAA members or military members and their families
Has fewer endorsement options compared to competitors
USAA offers a competitive number of savings opportunities, including:
- Bundling
- Claims-free
- Living-on-base
- Military college
- Protective devices
- Service academy
USAA offers a few endorsements, too:
- Collectibles
- Personal cyber insurance
- Umbrella coverage
- Valuable personal property
In our survey of renters, more than 94% of USAA customers polled said they were satisfied with their coverage. Of those who would recommend USAA to others, 75% of customers said affordable pricing was one of the top reasons why. Also, 71% of respondents said that USAA’s customer service was top-notch.
Although it did not meet the criteria to officially rank, USAA earned the highest score in J.D. Power’s most recent customer satisfaction study. It maintains an A+ rating with the BBB, but a lower customer review score. Common complaints include denied claims and adjusters who did not sufficiently communicate with policyholders.
Our team reached out to USAA for comment about its negative customer reviews but did not receive a response.
Average Cost of Renters Insurance in Cincinnati
The average cost of renters insurance in Cincinnati is $13.76 per month, according to data from Quadrant Information Services. The individual price you’ll pay for coverage will vary depending on your personal property, chosen deductible, add-ons, claims history and other personal factors.
Your rental’s location within Cincinnati also plays a major role in your insurance price. For example, if you live in a part of the city with comparatively higher rates of property crime — such as North Fairmount — an insurer may see you as a higher risk of filing a claim. It is best practice to get a quote using your address for the most accurate pricing.
Cheapest Renters Insurance in Cincinnati
Based on our cost data, State Farm offers the most affordable average renters insurance premium in Cincinnati, with the average policy costing $9.52 per month — lower than the city average of $13.34.
How To Save on Renters Insurance
You can save money on renters insurance costs by accounting for specific risks you might face as a Cincinnati resident.
- Install anti-theft devices: With a property crime rate of 3,751 out of 100,000 residents, Cincinnati sees a high rate of break-ins and theft. Installing and reporting anti-theft devices such as a Ring doorbell can score you a discount with many insurance companies.
- Report fire alarms and check batteries regularly: Cincinnati passed legislation in 2013 that requires all rental units to be outfitted with photoelectric smoke detectors directly outside sleeping quarters. Make sure to report the fire alarms in your rental unit when applying for coverage to save on your premiums. Check your device’s batteries and test its functionality once a month to make the most of this security device.
- Carefully determine personal property coverage: The amount of personal property you own will largely determine how much renters insurance coverage you need, which impacts your cost. For example, if you’re a college student, you might not have much furniture to protect. Shoppers with fewer items may consider Toggle, which allows you to save by cutting coverage in areas you don’t really need.
- Research local resources: The City of Cincinnati may also help you in covering rent and insurance costs following a disaster. You can apply for assistance through Hamilton County and explore options with your local city’s resources.
What Factors Affect Renters Insurance Rates in Cincinnati?
As a renter in Cincinnati, your insurance cost and coverage options vary by local risks. Some of the most influential factors on renters insurance rates in Cincinnati include:
- Neighborhood crime rates: Rates of property crime in Cincinnati are higher than both the Ohio state average and the national average. For this reason, you can expect to pay more for coverage when compared to someone living in a city with lower crime rates.
- Proximity to water: The Ohio river weaves through the city of Cincinnati, providing many residents with waterfront views. However, proximity to the water may also increase the likelihood of suffering water damage in your unit, leading to higher insurance prices.
- Personal information and policy selections: Insurers also consider your personal information when determining insurance rates, including your credit score and claims history. Your coverage selections will also influence your price, including your chosen coverage limits, endorsements and if you qualify for discounts.
Common Causes of Renters Insurance Claims in Cincinnati
Based on our research into risk factors in the city, Cincinnati residents may file renters insurance claims for the following reasons.
- Water damage: In our survey of Ohio renters, nearly half of those who filed claims reported water damage from plumbing leaks or storms as the reason — making it the most common claim reported. If you live closer to one of the city’s waterways, we recommend making sure your plan covers water damage to your personal belongings.
- Theft: When compared to other parts of Ohio, Cincinnati residents face significantly more property crime. Data analyzed by NeighborhoodScout shows that one out of every 26 residents will become a victim of a property crime in Cincinnati — higher than both the state and national averages. Pay special attention to the covered peril section of your policy, and customize your personal property coverage to ensure you’re fully protected.
- Fire and smoke damage: Homes and rental units in historic cities such as Cincinnati can become prone to fire hazards due to older electrical systems in residential buildings. Local fire hydrant failures have compounded this fear. If you live in an older building, consider adding extra personal property and reimbursement for living expenses if you experience a fire.
Recommended Renters Insurance Coverage in Cincinnati
Renters insurance is formally known as HO-4 coverage, which includes three basic areas of covered losses:
- Personal property coverage: The basic component of most renters insurance policies, personal property coverage pays to repair or replace belongings that get damaged or lost due to a covered peril. For example, if your furniture is destroyed in an apartment fire, personal property coverage can help pay to replace it.
- Liability protection: Liability coverage helps you pay for the cost of court-ordered judgments and legal fees if a guest sues you. Imagine a friend visits your apartment and gets bitten by your dog. The friend could potentially sue you for the cost of their medical expenses — which personal liability coverage could help you pay for.
- Additional living expenses: If your rental is damaged by a major event, such as a fire or storm, you may need to vacate the space while management rectifies the issue. While your landlord's insurance will usually cover the cost of your temporary living space, additional living expenses coverage can help you pay for day-to-day expenses you’d normally pay out of pocket, such as takeout food.
In addition to these basic protections, Cincinnati renters may want to consider purchasing extended coverage for the following risk factors:
- Water damage
- Valuables, vandalism and theft
Frequently Asked Questions About Cincinnati Renters Insurance
Based on a survey we conducted of Ohio renters, we found the most common renters insurance provider in Ohio is State Farm. About one out of every four policyholders we surveyed from Ohio use State Farm for renters insurance.
Renters insurance policies have three types of coverage. Personal property coverage pays the value of your belongings if lost, stolen or damaged by a covered peril. Liability protections can help cover the cost of medical bills incurred if a guest is injured in your rental. Additional living expenses can help you pay for daily living costs if you’re forced to move out of your rental for a covered reason.
The amount of renters insurance you need depends on the value of your personal belongings and your potential liability. To figure out a coverage amount, estimate the value of your personal belongings and choose a policy that covers at least that amount. Experts generally recommend at least $100,000 in liability coverage, but higher amounts may provide better protection.
