Life Insurance costs, by state and province

Typical costs for life insurance per month for term policy. Age, health, coverage amount, and term length are the key drivers. Open a market below for a local estimate.

Life insurance premiums depend on age, health, coverage amount, and policy type. A healthy 35‑year‑old can pay $25 to $50 per month for a 20‑year $500,000 term policy. Whole life insurance costs $100 to $300 monthly for the same coverage.

What Drives the Price

Age is the biggest factor—premiums increase roughly 8–10% per year of age for term policies. Health ratings (preferred, standard, substandard) can swing cost by 50% or more. For a $500k term policy, a smoker pays $70–$120 vs. a nonsmoker’s $25–$50.

Term vs. Whole Life Costs

A 20‑year $500,000 term policy for a 40‑year‑old nonsmoker costs $35–$60 monthly. Whole life for the same face value runs $200–$400 monthly because it builds cash value. Universal life falls between, at $100–$250.

How to Compare Quotes

Request quotes from at least three insurers for the same coverage amount and term length. Use an independent agent who can compare multiple carriers. A $500,000 term policy can vary by $10–$20 per month between companies.

Typical Life Insurance prices
ItemTypical range
Term Life (Age 35, $500k, 20 yr)$25 – $50 per month
Whole Life (Age 40, $500k)$200 – $400 per month
Smoker Surcharge (vs. Nonsmoker)+50% – +100%
Average Policy Face Value$250,000 – $1,000,000

Every market for life insurance costs

383 markets have a page, each with a typical range where we have one and plain guidance on what moves the price.

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