You're onto something there. I've noticed similar patterns myself—my driving record's spotless, yet when I moved closer to the city center, my premiums noticeably increased. Insurers definitely factor in zip codes more than they'd openly admit. Downtown areas generally mean higher risk—more traffic, theft, vandalism—so even a perfect record won't shield you completely. Your brother's experience isn't unusual at all... location seems to be a major hidden player in their calculations.
Have you ever wondered why insurers ask about your parking situation? Street vs. garage, driveway vs. lot...yep, location even counts down to where your car sleeps at night. Your record matters, sure, but zip codes and neighborhoods can tip the scales surprisingly far.
"Your record matters, sure, but zip codes and neighborhoods can tip the scales surprisingly far."
Yeah, it's pretty wild how much location factors into insurance rates. I've always wondered about this myself, especially since I keep my classic Mustang garaged at night. You'd think a spotless driving record would be the main thing insurers care about, but nope—my buddy moved just two towns over here in Mississippi, and his premium jumped noticeably. Same car, same driving habits, just a different zip code.
From what I've gathered, insurers look at crime rates, vandalism reports, and even weather patterns (hail storms, flooding risks) in your area. Makes sense they'd charge more if your neighborhood has higher theft or accident stats. But still...feels a bit unfair sometimes, doesn't it? Like, why should careful drivers pay extra just because of their neighbors' bad luck or poor choices?
Anyway, best advice I've found is to shop around regularly and ask insurers directly how much your parking situation affects your rate. Sometimes just switching from street parking to driveway or garage can save you a decent chunk of change.
I've noticed the same thing here in Mississippi. My driving record is squeaky clean, but when I moved closer to the coast, my rates went up noticeably. Apparently, hurricane risks and flooding concerns factor in heavily around here. Still, it feels a bit like getting punished for someone else's bad luck...or bad weather. Keeping my car in the garage overnight helped a bit, but shopping around every year or two has been the biggest money saver for me.
Had a similar experience when I moved inland from Gulfport. Thought being away from the coast would drop my rates big-time, but nope—barely budged. Seems insurers find new reasons to keep premiums up no matter where ya go. Shopping around def helps though...
