First State drivers enjoy lower than average auto repair costs and gas is cheaper here than in most other states, but Delaware still ranks as the 7th most expensive state in the country to operate a motor vehicle.
The national average for the estimated annual cost of car ownership is $2,223. Delawareans pony up an average of $2,391.
Chris Kahn, a research and statistics analyst for Bankrate.com, says one factor in particular accounts for the high price of owning a car in Delaware.
“The primary reason is insurance," said Kahn. "Your gasoline costs are actually not too bad especially for the Northeast, repair costs are actually below average, it's really the insurance costs that push you up to the top.”
But Kahn says Delawareans can do a lot to lower their insurance premiums.
“For example, you can boost your deductible. I know its a risk but some people are paying for more insurance than they actually need," said Kahn. "If you really think about what you have and take a good look at your policy, that might be one way of lowering the amount that you’re paying.”
Kahn adds that using a tracking device to note the distance you travel and maintaining a good credit score as additional ways First State drivers can reduce insurance premiums.
Iowa is the cheapest state in the nation for car ownership while Wyoming is the most expensive.