Minnesota Home Insurance Premiums Surge 13% in 2026
Home insurance premiums in Minnesota surged by 13% in the first half of 2026, making the state a national leader in rate hikes, as per data from Insurify.
Minnesota's average annual home insurance premium has climbed to $3,987, reflecting a $457 increase from late 2025. This represents a significant shift from 2023 when Minnesota's rates were below the national average. The current premiums now exceed the national average by over 30%, primarily due to frequent severe weather. Despite the rise, Minnesota's rates remain lower than in states like Florida, where the average annual premium is $8,486.
Weather Events Driving Costs
The National Centers for Environmental Information reported $10.3 million in property damage in Minnesota from severe weather between January and May 2026. A notable portion, $9.7 million, was incurred in mid-April when five tornadoes struck southeastern Minnesota. Although these figures are less severe than in previous years, such weather activities have significantly influenced the state's escalating insurance rates. Threats of increased storm activity caused by climate change may exacerbate future impacts, as researchers from Northern Illinois University predict larger hailstones.
Counties Facing Major Increases
According to Insurify, five Minnesota counties ranked among the top ten nationwide for premium increases in 2026. These include Le Sueur, Watonwan, Martin, Hennepin, and Steele Counties. Every county in the state now reports average home insurance rates above the national average, largely due to the costly impact of severe thunderstorms.
Additional Challenges for Homeowners
As premiums rise, Minnesota homeowners encounter reduced coverage paired with increased repair costs, especially for roofs. This situation is amplified by warnings from the Better Business Bureau about fraudulent contractors known as "storm chasers," who may approach residents following storm damage. The initial projection by Insurify suggested a 4% increase in rates for 2026, but the actual figures in just the first half of the year have far exceeded these expectations. This trend highlights a growing concern among homeowners and insurance professionals alike.