U.S. Auto Insurance Shopping Growth Slows but Remains Elevated in Q2 2026
Event summary
- U.S. auto insurance shopping growth slowed to 1.4% YoY in Q2 2026, down from 3.2% in Q1 2026 but still in 'warm' territory.
- New policy growth decreased slightly to 3.3% YoY in Q2 2026 from 3.6% in Q1 2026.
- Exclusive agent channel outpaced direct and independent agent channels for the first time since Q2 2022.
- Policyholders aged 66 and older continued to lead shopping growth, with 4.1% YoY growth in Q2 2026.
- Policyholders aged 66 and older with an active home listing have a higher attrition rate (23.2%) than those without (19.7%).
The big picture
The U.S. auto insurance market is experiencing a shift towards more disciplined growth strategies, with precision segmentation becoming critical. Despite moderating growth, shopping volumes remain near record levels, driven by diverse factors such as advertising spend and digital convenience. The exclusive agent channel's resurgence and the significant shopping activity among older policyholders highlight evolving consumer preferences and retention challenges.
What we're watching
- Channel Dynamics
- Whether the exclusive agent channel can sustain its momentum against direct and independent channels.
- Consumer Segmentation
- How insurers leverage data on older shoppers with home listings to improve retention strategies.
- Rate Revisions
- The impact of balanced rate revisions on shopping activity and policyholder behavior.
Related topics