How to figure out the average cost of home insurance

by Debbie Goldberg 01/08/2023

If you’re budgeting for a new home, it’s important to incorporate the average cost of home insurance. Insurance rates are composed of many factors, and knowing these factors can help you estimate the potential expense.

Here is a quick guide to the variables determining the average cost of homeowners insurance:

Home location & age

Homeowners insurance cost is partially determined by certain aspects of the home itself. The biggest factors include location, age and condition. If your home is located in an area prone to extreme weather or other potentially damaging conditions, it’s considered a higher risk to the insurer and may incur a higher premium.

Older homes are more likely to need repairs, and those repairs can cost more. Similarly, if your home’s condition is less than ideal, your insurance premium may be higher as a result.

Coverage details

There are several variables in your policy that go into the average homeowners insurance cost. The most important variables are:

Deductible amount - Deductible amount affects how much you pay monthly and how much you may need to pay out of pocket for a claim. A higher deductible means a lower premium cost, but a higher out-of-pocket cost if you need to file a claim.
Dwelling coverage amount - The portion of your policy that protects the physical structure of your home can vary based on size, condition and age of your home.
Personal property coverage amount - Also included in your average insurance cost is protection for the value of your personal belongings, such as clothing, furniture and appliances.

Other factors

There may be other factors that impact the cost of homeowners insurance. Some of these are related to your home and lifestyle, like whether you have a pool, trampoline or aggressive pets. Others might concern your financial history, including credit score and past insurance coverage.

If you want more details about what goes into the average cost of home insurance, consult your insurance provider.

Personal Property Coverage

About the Author

Debbie Goldberg

I'm a full time Realtor with over 30 years of experience yet young enough to embrace today's ever-changing scope of marketing and technology. Having grown up in Connecticut and moved many times (too many to count!) I can empathize with today's buyers and sellers. Strictly maintaining ethical standards and being a fierce advocate on behalf of my clients are things I take very seriously. As a buyer, you can expect me to listen to and evaluate your real estate wants and needs. I can assist in explaining relevant forms, agreements, and closing procedures. I will guide you through the process of finding the right home, negotiating your offer, adhering to all contract dates and terms as well as final walk through and closing procedures. As a seller, I will listen to and evaluate your goals, needs, and timing in order to properly price your home to get the maximum exposure needed to attract the right buyers. In addition to negotiating on your behalf, I will make sure we communicate throughout the entire process as we navigate the contract terms, finance and inspection contingencies, as well as all closing procedures. I was born in Japan, grew up in Hamden and lived in New York, Ohio and Southern California before settling down in New Haven county to raise two kids, two dogs and a cat. I'm passionate about good food and love to bake. Some of my free time has been spent volunteering at Temple Beth Sholom, a synagogue where my family has been members for over 40 years. I also spend time at Tower One/Tower East, an assisted living center in New Haven where my mother-in-law now resides. 30 years of helping buyers and sellers achieve their goals has given me the peace of mind to know that what I do everyday matters. If you are thinking of buying or selling please keep me in mind.