USAA began in the 1920s in San Antonio when 25 US Army officers vouched for each other’s cars. The company expanded by adding comprehensive insurance coverage to sell exclusively to military members and their families. USAA offers life insurance, auto insurance, umbrella insurance and renters insurance, and is considered one of the best renters insurance companies. USAA offers banking, credit cards and retirement plans for service members and veterans.
The company leverages its diversity to offer active military members, veterans and their families great rates and coverage. Many military families find the best value in insurance from USAA, which is why we at MarketWatch Guides choose our top renters insurance for military members. Read on for our USA Renters Insurance review to learn how we made that decision.
Advantages and disadvantages of USA renters insurance
Comparing the pros and cons of renters insurance from USAA can help you decide if the policy is right for you.
USAA renters insurance at a glance
Our level 4
Year of Establishment: In 1922
Jedi power level Not measured
AM best level A++*
State Availability: 50 states and Washington, DC
*AM Best Rate is valid as of June 2023.
USA state availability
USAA renters insurance provides coverage in all 50 states and Washington, D.C. Additionally, USAA coverage includes overseas coverage for deployed or deployed members based on eligibility requirements.
All 50
USA renters insurance rates
The average monthly cost of insurance for a USA renters policy is $13.75, or $165 per year. This is less than the national cost of $180 per year and $15 per month. Like USAA, some members can get renters insurance coverage for as little as $10 a month.
USA renters insurance by state.
USAA discounts
Although eligibility may vary, you can save on renters insurance premiums with USAA. Many of USAA’s biggest insurance deals are available to select members only, such as:
- Package renters and USA car insurance policies
- Claim-free offer
- Protective equipment such as security systems
- Living on base, including barracks and other on-base housing
- Service Academy Enrollment, Discounted for members residing at US Military Academy
USAA renters insurance reviews
We want to get a better understanding of how customers feel about their experience with USAA Renters Insurance. We looked at hundreds of reviews on the Better Business Bureau, Loyalty Pilot and other sites. We’ve taken into account ratings from the 2022 JD Power Home Insurance Survey. Although USAA did not qualify for the rating through JD Power, the insurer’s customer satisfaction was the result 886 out of 1000.
While overall ratings on review sites are low, many reviewers seem surprised by the overall rating. Most of the positive reviews cite excellent customer service and below-average prices. Many positive reviewers are customers for generations.
However, the negative reviews come from long-term customers who are not happy with the recent service. Most of the negative reviews we found mention customer service wait times and prices not being competitive. A number of negative reviewers have no problem with the products but are unhappy with the cyber security on the website and mobile app.
Check out some reviews from real customers to find out how USAA Renters Insurance fares:
“USAA is the single best company I have ever worked with…the customer service and speed is unbelievable. In fact, the reason I started working with them was because my friend lost her house in a fire and they paid full insurance right away. They are a great company to work with. You hope you never need them, but when you do, they won’t fight you for nickels and dimes.– Adeline C via BBB
“I personally carry USA renters and auto insurance, and the rates I get are excellent compared to competing companies. I’ve also called many times for repairs for my prices, so I have first-hand positive experience with customer service representatives. I understand there are regulatory requirements that USAA must adhere to, and they do just that! From talking to their customer service representatives, it is clear that they have no ill feelings towards their customers and work hard to provide the best experience possible. I enjoy being a member of USAA, and I look forward to it!– Alexandria M. via BBB
“I have been a customer for many years, and have never had a problem with customer service, finance or otherwise. My issue is that the security of the site leaves a lot to be desired. Passwords are limited to 12 characters, and the two-factor authentication methods available are either insecure (SMS, email) or on a proprietary app/platform that I only use for this account. I think the USA should be concerned about what is happening in the cyber realm [security].– Steven N. via BBB
“They’ve always made my life easier, but I feel like their prices aren’t any better than the competition.” – Milly N via Trustpilot
Bottom line
USAA is one of the best renters insurance options available to members of the military, veterans and their families. The company offers deep discounts on renters insurance for those who live on base or at a military academy. If you qualify for these discounts, USAA may be one of the most affordable options available.
Even if you don’t live on a base or academy, USAA offers renters insurance to military members at rates that are often comparable to or lower than competitors. Additionally, all USA renters policies include coverage for earthquakes and floods, which are usually excluded from coverage. USAA coverage may be appropriate if you live or are located in an area prone to natural hazards.
Not everyone is eligible for USAA coverage. You cannot get a policy if you are not an eligible service member, veteran or certain family member. Even if you qualify, it’s always a smart move to get insurance quotes from different carriers. If you’re looking for a technology-enabled, efficient service, check out Lemon. For affordable coverage and a human touch, State Farm uses a network of agents to offer renters insurance products.
Tara Seboldt He is a writer specializing in insurance and personal finance. Prior to writing full-time, Tara spent many years in the financial advisory and life insurance industry. She uses her professional background to help readers better understand complex (and sometimes boring) topics. When she’s not writing, you can find Tara walking her dog, horseback riding, or planning her next skiing trip.