Ontario has the most expensive auto insurance in Canada — roughly $2,100–$2,650 per year on average in 2026 depending on the data source (about $175–$220/month), versus a national average near $1,321 and Quebec at about $1,006. Your postal code matters enormously: Brampton averages $3,848 while Ottawa averages $2,071.
July 1, 2026 also brought the SABS reform: several previously mandatory accident benefits (income replacement, caregiver, housekeeping) became optional add-ons, with only medical, rehabilitation and attendant care remaining mandatory by default. Figures below reflect 2026 market data.
What drivers pay by city (2026)
| City | Avg. annual premium | Vs. provincial avg |
|---|---|---|
| Brampton | $3,848 | +78% |
| Vaughan | $3,317 | +53% |
| Toronto | $2,952 | +25% |
| London / Windsor | $2,641 | +18% |
| Mississauga | $2,424 | +10% |
| Kitchener | $2,310 | +4% |
| Ottawa | $2,071 | −4% |
City figures from Onlia 2026 data (provincial reference ~$2,164); provincial averages vary by source: ThinkInsure $2,461, Rates.ca $2,653, FSRAO $2,146.
What moves your premium most
- Driving record: one ticket adds ~15%; one at-fault accident adds 30%+. Clean records are the biggest discount there is.
- Age and experience: under-25 drivers pay ~12% above average; 50+ drivers pay ~17% below.
- Vehicle: expensive-to-repair brands (Tesla ~$3,200, luxury EVs higher) cost far more to insure than a Civic or Corolla.
- Postal code: dense GTA codes with high claim rates price dramatically above rural and Ottawa-area codes.
- Usage: low annual kilometres, winter tires (some insurers discount with proof), and usage-based telematics programs all cut premiums.
The July 2026 SABS reform
As of July 1, 2026, income replacement, caregiver and housekeeping benefits shifted from mandatory to optional — only medical, rehabilitation and attendant care remain mandatory by default. Default premiums should reflect the slimmer mandatory package, but drivers who want the old protection must now actively add it back. Review your renewal carefully: the reform can lower your bill or leave you under-covered, depending on what you choose.
The $934 rule: comparison data suggests Ontario drivers who shop their renewal save on average $934/year. Get three quotes every renewal — loyalty is the most expensive coverage.
Frequently asked questions
What is the average car insurance cost in Ontario in 2026?
Roughly $2,100–$2,650 per year depending on the data source (about $175–$220/month) — the highest provincial average in Canada.
Why is car insurance so expensive in Brampton?
High claim frequency and severity in dense GTA postal codes. Brampton averages $3,848/year — 78% above the provincial average.
What changed with Ontario auto insurance in July 2026?
The SABS reform made income replacement, caregiver and housekeeping benefits optional add-ons instead of mandatory. Review your policy to keep the coverage you want.
How can I lower my car insurance in Ontario?
Compare 3+ quotes at every renewal, keep a clean record, bundle home + auto, consider telematics/usage-based programs, and ask about winter-tire and low-mileage discounts.
Sources and methodology
- ThinkInsure: Ontario Car Insurance Rate Data 2026
- iSure: Average Car Insurance Rates in Ontario (2026)
- Onlia: Car Insurance in Toronto (Ontario 2026 averages)
This article provides general information for planning purposes, not professional advice or a quote. Cost figures are NorthPeak planning estimates unless a source is named; confirm current prices with licensed local contractors and professionals before making decisions.