© 2026 Western New York Public Broadcasting Association

140 Lower Terrace St.
Buffalo, NY 14202

Toronto Address:
130 Queens Quay E.
Suite 903
Toronto, ON M5A 0P6


Mailing Address:
Horizons Plaza P.O. Box 1263
Buffalo, NY 14240-1263

Buffalo Toronto Public Media | Phone 716-845-7000
BTPM NPR Newsroom | Phone: 716-845-7040
Differing shades of blue wavering throughout the image
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

New study shows different insurance premiums based on education

WBFO News photo

It may pay to shop around before buying or renewing auto insurance. As WBFO's Chris Caya reports a new study shows some companies use discriminatory practices in setting their premiums.

A new study by the Western New York Law Center shows a 15-to-25-percent difference in premiums between people with a high school diploma and those with an advanced degree. The Law Center's Thomas Keily said there appears to be a range of reasons.   

"We know that higher income individuals are more likely to purchase additional products, life insurance or home owners insurance, or they may have more than one car," said Keily. "So that's a much more attractive customer for an insurance company. They can sell various lines of insurance and make a greater profit."  

Some drivers are also paying more because of their sex. The study shows Progressive charges female managers with a masters degree 28-percent more than male with the same job and level of education.

Attempts to reach Progressive for comment were unsuccessful.