Understanding insurance costs is critical for handyman businesses to budget effectively and identify opportunities for significant savings. Our comprehensive analysis of over 850 handyman insurance quotes from leading carriers reveals substantial pricing variations across states and business sizes that can impact your bottom line by thousands of dollars annually.
This guide presents actual general liability and workers’ compensation insurance costs for handyman businesses across all 50 states, based on quotes from major insurance providers. The data reflects specific business profiles we’ve analyzed: single-operator businesses earning $150,000 annually with approximately 10% subcontractor costs and 5+ years of claims-free operation, established businesses with owners plus 3 employees generating $500,000 in revenue, and larger operations with owners plus 5 employees reaching $1 million in annual revenue. All profiles assume approximately 10% subcontractor costs and at least 5 years of claims-free operation.
The pricing variations between states and even between carriers within the same state demonstrate why comparing quotes is essential. Our data shows that handymen who actively shop for insurance can achieve savings ranging from 2% to 71% by securing favorable rates versus accepting higher-end quotes. These differences translate to thousands in annual savings that directly impact profitability.
Before diving into state-specific costs, understanding the fundamentals of handyman insurance can help you make more informed coverage decisions.
Jump to State
Alabama
Alabama handymen face general liability insurance premiums that typically range from 1.1% to 3.3% of annual revenue for standard $1M/$2M coverage limits, as shown in the detailed breakdown below.
| Revenue Level | Average Premium | Favorable Premium | Higher-End Premium | Potential Savings |
| $150,000 | $3,300 | $1,700 | $4,900 | 48% |
| $500,000 | $8,900 | $6,100 | $11,600 | 31% |
| $1,000,000 | $18,500 | $11,400 | $26,700 | 38% |
Workers’ compensation insurance for Alabama handymen costs $14.07 per $100 of payroll, placing the state in the mid-range nationally for WC rates.
Alaska
The Last Frontier offers relatively competitive general liability rates for handymen, with premiums typically representing 0.9% to 1.6% of revenue for comprehensive $1M/$2M coverage.
| Revenue Level | Average Premium | Favorable Premium | Higher-End Premium | Potential Savings |
| $150,000 | $1,900 | $1,400 | $2,450 | 26% |
| $500,000 | $4,700 | $4,600 | $6,900 | 2% |
| $1,000,000 | $10,200 | $9,100 | $11,830 | 11% |
Alaska’s workers’ compensation rate sits at $9.78 per $100 of payroll, reflecting the state’s unique risk factors and market conditions.
Arizona
Arizona’s handyman insurance market shows significant variation, with general liability premiums ranging from 0.9% to 2.3% of revenue depending on carrier selection and risk profile.
| Revenue Level | Average Premium | Favorable Premium | Higher-End Premium | Potential Savings |
| $150,000 | $2,400 | $1,300 | $3,500 | 46% |
| $500,000 | $6,900 | $4,200 | $8,700 | 39% |
| $1,000,000 | $14,700 | $9,000 | $18,400 | 39% |
For workers’ compensation coverage, Arizona handymen pay $10.17 per $100 of payroll, aligning closely with the national average.
Arkansas
Arkansas stands out as one of the most affordable states for handyman insurance, with general liability rates potentially as low as 0.5% of revenue for businesses with strong risk profiles.
| Revenue Level | Average Premium | Favorable Premium | Higher-End Premium | Potential Savings |
| $150,000 | $2,200 | $800 | $2,900 | 64% |
| $500,000 | $6,100 | $2,100 | $9,800 | 66% |
| $1,000,000 | $12,300 | $4,900 | $19,600 | 60% |
The state’s workers’ compensation rates are equally competitive at $6.33 per $100 of payroll, among the lowest nationwide.
California
California’s diverse market conditions result in general liability premiums that span from 1.4% to 4.2% of revenue, reflecting the state’s varied risk landscape and regulatory environment.
| Revenue Level | Average Premium | Favorable Premium | Higher-End Premium | Potential Savings |
| $150,000 | $4,300 | $2,200 | $6,300 | 49% |
| $500,000 | $8,800 | $6,200 | $10,200 | 30% |
| $1,000,000 | $18,700 | $13,600 | $22,400 | 27% |
California handymen encounter workers’ compensation costs of $8.46 per $100 of payroll, surprisingly moderate given the state’s regulatory reputation.
Colorado
The Centennial State presents handymen with general liability insurance costs ranging from 1.0% to 2.9% of annual revenue, with substantial opportunities for savings through competitive shopping.
| Revenue Level | Average Premium | Favorable Premium | Higher-End Premium | Potential Savings |
| $150,000 | $3,300 | $1,600 | $4,400 | 52% |
| $500,000 | $8,100 | $5,300 | $10,600 | 35% |
| $1,000,000 | $16,500 | $9,500 | $24,300 | 42% |
Colorado’s workers’ compensation system charges $7.40 per $100 of payroll, positioning it favorably compared to neighboring states.
Connecticut
Connecticut handymen face higher insurance costs reflective of the Northeast market, with general liability premiums typically consuming 2.0% to 4.3% of gross revenue.
| Revenue Level | Average Premium | Favorable Premium | Higher-End Premium | Potential Savings |
| $150,000 | $4,900 | $3,000 | $6,500 | 39% |
| $500,000 | $13,900 | $10,700 | $16,050 | 23% |
| $1,000,000 | $28,700 | $20,000 | $36,500 | 30% |
The state’s workers’ compensation premiums of $17.17 per $100 of payroll rank among the highest nationally, significantly impacting total insurance costs.
Delaware
Delaware’s insurance market shows wide variability in general liability pricing, with rates spanning from 1.2% to 4.4% of revenue based on carrier and coverage selection.
| Revenue Level | Average Premium | Favorable Premium | Higher-End Premium | Potential Savings |
| $150,000 | $4,800 | $2,000 | $6,600 | 58% |
| $500,000 | $11,500 | $6,500 | $14,300 | 43% |
| $1,000,000 | $24,400 | $12,000 | $33,800 | 51% |
Delaware handymen pay $9.06 per $100 of payroll for workers’ compensation coverage, placing it in the moderate range nationally.
District of Columbia
While specific general liability premium data for District of Columbia was not available in our dataset, handymen in DC should expect rates similar to neighboring Maryland and Virginia markets. The district’s workers’ compensation rate of $7.06 per $100 of payroll offers relatively affordable coverage for employee injuries.
Florida
The Sunshine State’s competitive insurance market offers handymen general liability coverage with rates typically between 1.1% and 2.9% of revenue, though hurricane exposure can influence pricing.
| Revenue Level | Average Premium | Favorable Premium | Higher-End Premium | Potential Savings |
| $150,000 | $3,400 | $2,600 | $4,400 | 24% |
| $500,000 | $8,700 | $5,300 | $14,500 | 39% |
| $1,000,000 | $18,200 | $11,200 | $29,000 | 38% |
Florida’s workers’ compensation system requires handymen to budget $12.61 per $100 of payroll, reflecting the state’s unique risk factors.
Georgia
Georgia presents significant cost variations for handyman insurance, with general liability premiums ranging from an attractive 0.8% to 3.1% of annual revenue.
| Revenue Level | Average Premium | Favorable Premium | Higher-End Premium | Potential Savings |
| $150,000 | $2,500 | $1,300 | $4,700 | 48% |
| $500,000 | $6,900 | $3,900 | $10,300 | 43% |
| $1,000,000 | $14,300 | $8,800 | $23,000 | 38% |
Georgia’s workers’ compensation costs stand out at $43.42 per $100 of payroll—the second-highest rate nationally, substantially impacting total insurance expenses.
Hawaii
Hawaii’s island economy influences insurance pricing, with general liability costs for handymen ranging from 1.0% to 2.1% of revenue for standard coverage limits.
| Revenue Level | Average Premium | Favorable Premium | Higher-End Premium | Potential Savings |
| $150,000 | $2,600 | $1,700 | $3,200 | 35% |
| $500,000 | $7,300 | $4,100 | $10,600 | 44% |
| $1,000,000 | $15,400 | $9,700 | $21,100 | 37% |
Workers’ compensation in Hawaii costs $10.60 per $100 of payroll, moderately priced considering the state’s remote location and higher operating costs.
Idaho
Idaho offers favorable conditions for handyman businesses, with general liability insurance premiums typically falling between 0.9% and 2.2% of gross revenue.
| Revenue Level | Average Premium | Favorable Premium | Higher-End Premium | Potential Savings |
| $150,000 | $2,300 | $1,400 | $3,300 | 39% |
| $500,000 | $6,300 | $4,300 | $7,700 | 32% |
| $1,000,000 | $13,100 | $9,200 | $18,000 | 30% |
Idaho handymen face workers’ compensation rates of $12.93 per $100 of payroll, slightly above the national median but reasonable for the region.
Illinois
Illinois demonstrates some of the widest premium variations nationwide, with general liability costs ranging dramatically from 1.5% to 7.1% of revenue depending on location and carrier.
| Revenue Level | Average Premium | Favorable Premium | Higher-End Premium | Potential Savings |
| $150,000 | $5,700 | $2,500 | $10,700 | 56% |
| $500,000 | $15,000 | $8,200 | $17,300 | 45% |
| $1,000,000 | $30,600 | $14,900 | $39,700 | 51% |
The state’s workers’ compensation premium of $19.23 per $100 of payroll ranks third-highest nationally, significantly affecting overall insurance budgets.
Indiana
The Hoosier State provides a relatively affordable insurance environment, with general liability premiums typically consuming 0.9% to 2.1% of handyman business revenue.
| Revenue Level | Average Premium | Favorable Premium | Higher-End Premium | Potential Savings |
| $150,000 | $2,600 | $1,600 | $3,200 | 38% |
| $500,000 | $7,700 | $3,800 | $10,000 | 51% |
| $1,000,000 | $15,200 | $8,800 | $19,800 | 42% |
Indiana boasts one of the nation’s lowest workers’ compensation rates at $5.56 per $100 of payroll, enhancing its business-friendly reputation.
Iowa
Iowa’s stable insurance market offers handymen predictable general liability costs, typically ranging from 1.1% to 2.2% of annual revenue with moderate savings potential.
| Revenue Level | Average Premium | Favorable Premium | Higher-End Premium | Potential Savings |
| $150,000 | $2,200 | $1,900 | $3,325 | 14% |
| $500,000 | $6,600 | $6,000 | $9,000 | 9% |
| $1,000,000 | $13,400 | $11,000 | $16,400 | 18% |
The state’s workers’ compensation rate of $9.65 per $100 of payroll aligns closely with regional averages.
Kansas
Kansas presents handymen with general liability insurance options spanning 1.3% to 2.5% of revenue, with notable variations between rural and urban markets.
| Revenue Level | Average Premium | Favorable Premium | Higher-End Premium | Potential Savings |
| $150,000 | $2,700 | $1,900 | $3,700 | 30% |
| $500,000 | $7,900 | $7,100 | $10,650 | 10% |
| $1,000,000 | $16,600 | $13,400 | $20,500 | 19% |
Kansas handymen pay $10.53 per $100 of payroll for workers’ compensation insurance, slightly above the national average.
Kentucky
The Bluegrass State offers competitive insurance rates for handymen, with general liability premiums typically ranging from 0.9% to 2.1% of gross revenue.
| Revenue Level | Average Premium | Favorable Premium | Higher-End Premium | Potential Savings |
| $150,000 | $2,500 | $1,500 | $3,200 | 40% |
| $500,000 | $7,100 | $3,600 | $9,100 | 49% |
| $1,000,000 | $14,200 | $8,600 | $18,200 | 39% |
Kentucky’s workers’ compensation costs of $9.81 per $100 of payroll remain reasonable, supporting the state’s growing contractor community.
Louisiana
Louisiana’s unique risk profile results in some of the highest insurance costs nationally, with general liability premiums ranging from 2.1% to 7.5% of revenue.
| Revenue Level | Average Premium | Favorable Premium | Higher-End Premium | Potential Savings |
| $150,000 | $7,100 | $3,200 | $9,200 | 55% |
| $500,000 | $17,400 | $9,800 | $27,200 | 44% |
| $1,000,000 | $47,000 | $21,400 | $75,400 | 54% |
Workers’ compensation premiums in Louisiana reach $17.76 per $100 of payroll, among the highest nationwide due to litigation trends and risk factors.
Maine
Maine’s insurance market offers handymen moderate pricing, with general liability costs typically falling between 1.1% and 2.4% of annual revenue.
| Revenue Level | Average Premium | Favorable Premium | Higher-End Premium | Potential Savings |
| $150,000 | $2,800 | $1,700 | $3,600 | 39% |
| $500,000 | $7,600 | $5,700 | $8,600 | 25% |
| $1,000,000 | $16,000 | $10,600 | $20,200 | 34% |
Maine handymen encounter workers’ compensation rates of $10.58 per $100 of payroll, reflecting the state’s balanced approach to workplace safety.
Maryland
Maryland stands out for affordable general liability coverage, with rates potentially as low as 0.7% of revenue for well-qualified handyman businesses.
| Revenue Level | Average Premium | Favorable Premium | Higher-End Premium | Potential Savings |
| $150,000 | $2,100 | $1,100 | $3,100 | 48% |
| $500,000 | $5,600 | $3,000 | $8,000 | 46% |
| $1,000,000 | $11,700 | $6,600 | $16,800 | 44% |
The state’s workers’ compensation rate of $7.23 per $100 of payroll ranks among the more affordable options in the Mid-Atlantic region.
Massachusetts
Massachusetts shows significant premium variations, with general liability costs ranging from 0.8% to 3.2% of revenue, offering substantial savings opportunities for savvy shoppers.
| Revenue Level | Average Premium | Favorable Premium | Higher-End Premium | Potential Savings |
| $150,000 | $3,200 | $1,400 | $4,800 | 56% |
| $500,000 | $9,000 | $4,400 | $11,900 | 51% |
| $1,000,000 | $18,400 | $8,000 | $24,600 | 57% |
Massachusetts handymen benefit from a workers’ compensation rate of $6.93 per $100 of payroll, surprisingly competitive for a Northeast state.
Michigan
The Great Lakes State provides handymen with general liability insurance options typically priced between 1.1% and 2.7% of annual business revenue.
| Revenue Level | Average Premium | Favorable Premium | Higher-End Premium | Potential Savings |
| $150,000 | $2,800 | $1,900 | $4,000 | 32% |
| $500,000 | $7,300 | $6,000 | $8,300 | 18% |
| $1,000,000 | $14,800 | $11,000 | $18,300 | 26% |
Michigan’s workers’ compensation system charges $10.27 per $100 of payroll, aligning with regional expectations for the Midwest.
Minnesota
Minnesota’s well-regulated insurance market results in general liability premiums ranging from 1.5% to 2.7% of revenue, with relatively modest savings potential between carriers.
| Revenue Level | Average Premium | Favorable Premium | Higher-End Premium | Potential Savings |
| $150,000 | $2,700 | $2,300 | $4,025 | 15% |
| $500,000 | $8,800 | $7,700 | $11,550 | 13% |
| $1,000,000 | $17,900 | $15,800 | $20,540 | 12% |
The state’s workers’ compensation rate of $11.44 per $100 of payroll reflects Minnesota’s strong workplace safety regulations.
Mississippi
Mississippi handymen face general liability insurance costs that typically span from 1.5% to 3.5% of revenue, with meaningful differences between carriers.
| Revenue Level | Average Premium | Favorable Premium | Higher-End Premium | Potential Savings |
| $150,000 | $3,800 | $2,300 | $5,300 | 39% |
| $500,000 | $11,300 | $7,900 | $12,500 | 30% |
| $1,000,000 | $22,600 | $14,600 | $28,800 | 35% |
Mississippi’s workers’ compensation costs of $9.19 per $100 of payroll remain moderate despite the state’s challenging economic conditions.
Missouri
The Show-Me State demonstrates variable insurance pricing, with general liability premiums ranging from 0.9% to 2.7% of revenue and significant savings available at higher revenue levels.
| Revenue Level | Average Premium | Favorable Premium | Higher-End Premium | Potential Savings |
| $150,000 | $2,700 | $2,300 | $4,025 | 15% |
| $500,000 | $7,400 | $6,500 | $9,750 | 12% |
| $1,000,000 | $15,000 | $8,700 | $18,700 | 42% |
Missouri handymen pay $12.48 per $100 of payroll for workers’ compensation coverage, above average but manageable for most businesses.
Montana
Montana showcases some of the widest insurance pricing variations, with general liability costs potentially as low as 0.5% or as high as 2.8% of revenue.
| Revenue Level | Average Premium | Favorable Premium | Higher-End Premium | Potential Savings |
| $150,000 | $3,200 | $1,700 | $4,200 | 47% |
| $500,000 | $7,600 | $3,900 | $11,600 | 49% |
| $1,000,000 | $15,300 | $5,400 | $23,200 | 65% |
Workers’ compensation in Montana costs $9.85 per $100 of payroll, reasonable given the state’s rural nature and associated risks.
Nebraska
Nebraska provides stable insurance pricing for handymen, with general liability premiums typically consuming 1.2% to 2.1% of annual revenue.
| Revenue Level | Average Premium | Favorable Premium | Higher-End Premium | Potential Savings |
| $150,000 | $2,400 | $1,800 | $3,150 | 25% |
| $500,000 | $7,700 | $5,900 | $10,400 | 23% |
| $1,000,000 | $15,500 | $11,800 | $19,200 | 24% |
The Cornhusker State’s workers’ compensation rate of $9.15 per $100 of payroll supports its business-friendly environment.
Nevada
Nevada’s dynamic market results in higher general liability costs, typically ranging from 2.1% to 4.5% of revenue, influenced by the state’s construction boom.
| Revenue Level | Average Premium | Favorable Premium | Higher-End Premium | Potential Savings |
| $150,000 | $5,000 | $3,400 | $6,800 | 32% |
| $500,000 | $13,400 | $9,500 | $16,500 | 29% |
| $1,000,000 | $27,600 | $20,500 | $32,500 | 26% |
Nevada handymen benefit from a competitive workers’ compensation rate of $7.89 per $100 of payroll, helping offset higher liability costs.
New Hampshire
The Granite State shows considerable insurance pricing variation, with general liability premiums spanning from 1.2% to 4.4% of revenue based on carrier selection.
| Revenue Level | Average Premium | Favorable Premium | Higher-End Premium | Potential Savings |
| $150,000 | $3,600 | $2,000 | $6,600 | 44% |
| $500,000 | $10,000 | $5,700 | $16,300 | 43% |
| $1,000,000 | $19,800 | $12,100 | $31,100 | 39% |
New Hampshire’s workers’ compensation system requires $9.54 per $100 of payroll, positioned competitively within New England.
New Jersey
New Jersey’s high-cost environment extends to handyman insurance, with general liability premiums typically ranging from 2.9% to 5.5% of gross revenue.
| Revenue Level | Average Premium | Favorable Premium | Higher-End Premium | Potential Savings |
| $150,000 | $5,700 | $4,400 | $8,300 | 23% |
| $500,000 | $16,200 | $13,400 | $21,000 | 17% |
| $1,000,000 | $33,900 | $29,400 | $39,500 | 13% |
The Garden State’s workers’ compensation rate of $17.09 per $100 of payroll ranks among the nation’s highest, impacting overall business costs.
New Mexico
New Mexico offers moderate insurance pricing for handymen, with general liability costs typically falling between 1.4% and 3.1% of annual revenue.
| Revenue Level | Average Premium | Favorable Premium | Higher-End Premium | Potential Savings |
| $150,000 | $3,500 | $2,400 | $4,700 | 31% |
| $500,000 | $10,400 | $7,800 | $15,000 | 25% |
| $1,000,000 | $19,300 | $14,300 | $26,000 | 26% |
Workers’ compensation in New Mexico costs $12.78 per $100 of payroll, reflecting the state’s unique geographic and economic factors.
New York
The Empire State’s complex regulatory environment results in general liability premiums ranging from 2.4% to 5.1% of revenue, among the highest nationally.
| Revenue Level | Average Premium | Favorable Premium | Higher-End Premium | Potential Savings |
| $150,000 | $5,200 | $4,000 | $7,700 | 23% |
| $500,000 | $14,900 | $12,300 | $19,300 | 17% |
| $1,000,000 | $31,300 | $27,100 | $36,400 | 13% |
New York handymen pay $11.47 per $100 of payroll for workers’ compensation, surprisingly moderate given the state’s overall cost structure.
North Carolina
North Carolina presents excellent savings opportunities for handymen, with general liability rates potentially as low as 0.6% of revenue for favorable risks.
| Revenue Level | Average Premium | Favorable Premium | Higher-End Premium | Potential Savings |
| $150,000 | $2,100 | $900 | $3,600 | 57% |
| $500,000 | $5,600 | $2,700 | $7,100 | 52% |
| $1,000,000 | $11,500 | $5,600 | $15,200 | 51% |
However, the state’s workers’ compensation rate of $16.73 per $100 of payroll ranks among the highest nationally, offsetting liability savings.
North Dakota
North Dakota’s stable economy supports consistent insurance pricing, with general liability premiums typically ranging from 1.5% to 2.7% of revenue.
| Revenue Level | Average Premium | Favorable Premium | Higher-End Premium | Potential Savings |
| $150,000 | $2,900 | $2,300 | $4,025 | 21% |
| $500,000 | $8,800 | $7,700 | $11,550 | 13% |
| $1,000,000 | $18,200 | $15,300 | $21,900 | 16% |
North Dakota boasts the nation’s lowest workers’ compensation rate at just $3.51 per $100 of payroll, significantly reducing total insurance costs.
Ohio
Ohio provides a balanced insurance environment for handymen, with general liability costs spanning 1.0% to 2.7% of revenue across different carriers.
| Revenue Level | Average Premium | Favorable Premium | Higher-End Premium | Potential Savings |
| $150,000 | $2,400 | $1,700 | $4,100 | 29% |
| $500,000 | $7,300 | $5,800 | $8,400 | 21% |
| $1,000,000 | $14,400 | $10,400 | $18,400 | 28% |
The Buckeye State’s monopolistic workers’ compensation system charges $4.59 per $100 of payroll, among the nation’s most affordable rates.
Oklahoma
Oklahoma’s insurance market offers handymen general liability coverage typically priced between 1.2% and 2.1% of annual revenue, with modest carrier variations.
| Revenue Level | Average Premium | Favorable Premium | Higher-End Premium | Potential Savings |
| $150,000 | $2,300 | $1,800 | $3,150 | 22% |
| $500,000 | $7,000 | $6,200 | $9,300 | 11% |
| $1,000,000 | $14,200 | $11,500 | $16,600 | 19% |
Oklahoma handymen face workers’ compensation costs of $13.80 per $100 of payroll, elevated due to the state’s energy sector influences.
Oregon
Oregon demonstrates dramatic insurance pricing variations, with general liability costs ranging from an impressive 0.7% to 2.9% of revenue.
| Revenue Level | Average Premium | Favorable Premium | Higher-End Premium | Potential Savings |
| $150,000 | $2,700 | $1,100 | $4,300 | 59% |
| $500,000 | $7,100 | $3,300 | $10,700 | 54% |
| $1,000,000 | $15,400 | $6,900 | $25,100 | 55% |
The state’s workers’ compensation rate of $6.70 per $100 of payroll ranks favorably, supporting Oregon’s competitive business climate.
Pennsylvania
The Keystone State’s mature insurance market results in higher costs, with general liability premiums typically consuming 2.3% to 6.3% of handyman revenue.
| Revenue Level | Average Premium | Favorable Premium | Higher-End Premium | Potential Savings |
| $150,000 | $6,400 | $3,400 | $9,400 | 47% |
| $500,000 | $16,600 | $10,500 | $21,500 | 37% |
| $1,000,000 | $36,200 | $23,000 | $50,000 | 36% |
Pennsylvania’s workers’ compensation costs of $9.50 per $100 of payroll remain reasonable despite the state’s industrial heritage.
Rhode Island
Rhode Island’s compact market shows general liability premiums ranging from 1.5% to 3.7% of revenue, with meaningful savings available through comparison shopping.
| Revenue Level | Average Premium | Favorable Premium | Higher-End Premium | Potential Savings |
| $150,000 | $4,200 | $2,400 | $5,600 | 43% |
| $500,000 | $11,300 | $8,100 | $12,800 | 28% |
| $1,000,000 | $23,000 | $14,800 | $30,400 | 36% |
The Ocean State’s workers’ compensation rate of $9.03 per $100 of payroll aligns with regional New England averages.
South Carolina
South Carolina exhibits the nation’s widest insurance pricing gaps, with general liability costs ranging from 1.0% to an extraordinary 10.7% of revenue.
| Revenue Level | Average Premium | Favorable Premium | Higher-End Premium | Potential Savings |
| $150,000 | $5,500 | $1,600 | $16,100 | 71% |
| $500,000 | $13,800 | $4,900 | $33,500 | 64% |
| $1,000,000 | $29,400 | $9,600 | $79,700 | 67% |
The state’s workers’ compensation premium of $21.48 per $100 of payroll leads the nation, significantly impacting total insurance expenses.
South Dakota
South Dakota’s insurance market shows limited flexibility, with general liability premiums clustering between 1.9% and 3.5% of revenue across carriers.
| Revenue Level | Average Premium | Favorable Premium | Higher-End Premium | Potential Savings |
| $150,000 | $3,800 | $3,000 | $5,250 | 21% |
| $500,000 | $11,000 | $10,200 | $15,300 | 7% |
| $1,000,000 | $22,300 | $18,900 | $26,000 | 15% |
South Dakota handymen pay $10.29 per $100 of payroll for workers’ compensation, moderate for the Great Plains region.
Tennessee
Tennessee offers attractive insurance opportunities for handymen, with general liability rates potentially as low as 0.8% of revenue for qualified businesses.
| Revenue Level | Average Premium | Favorable Premium | Higher-End Premium | Potential Savings |
| $150,000 | $2,900 | $1,400 | $4,700 | 52% |
| $500,000 | $7,600 | $3,800 | $11,200 | 50% |
| $1,000,000 | $16,100 | $8,300 | $25,600 | 48% |
The Volunteer State’s workers’ compensation rate of $12.84 per $100 of payroll remains competitive for the Southeast region.
Texas
The Lone Star State’s deregulated market creates general liability pricing that spans from 1.1% to 3.5% of revenue, offering choices for every business profile.
| Revenue Level | Average Premium | Favorable Premium | Higher-End Premium | Potential Savings |
| $150,000 | $2,800 | $2,100 | $5,300 | 25% |
| $500,000 | $7,800 | $5,100 | $12,600 | 35% |
| $1,000,000 | $15,900 | $10,700 | $26,000 | 33% |
Texas handymen enjoy one of the nation’s lowest workers’ compensation rates at $4.39 per $100 of payroll, enhancing business profitability.
Utah
Utah’s growing construction market influences general liability rates, which typically range from 1.1% to 2.3% of handyman business revenue.
| Revenue Level | Average Premium | Favorable Premium | Higher-End Premium | Potential Savings |
| $150,000 | $2,700 | $1,800 | $3,500 | 33% |
| $500,000 | $7,800 | $5,800 | $8,800 | 26% |
| $1,000,000 | $16,200 | $10,500 | $20,100 | 35% |
Workers’ compensation in Utah costs $9.90 per $100 of payroll, reflecting the state’s balanced approach to workplace safety.
Vermont
Vermont’s small market results in tighter pricing bands, with general liability premiums typically ranging from 1.3% to 2.2% of annual revenue.
| Revenue Level | Average Premium | Favorable Premium | Higher-End Premium | Potential Savings |
| $150,000 | $2,300 | $1,900 | $3,325 | 17% |
| $500,000 | $6,900 | $6,300 | $9,450 | 9% |
| $1,000,000 | $14,700 | $12,600 | $16,900 | 14% |
The Green Mountain State’s workers’ compensation rate of $11.50 per $100 of payroll reflects its strong worker protection standards.
Virginia
Virginia stands out as one of the most affordable states for handyman insurance, with general liability rates potentially as low as 0.6% of revenue.
| Revenue Level | Average Premium | Favorable Premium | Higher-End Premium | Potential Savings |
| $150,000 | $1,700 | $1,100 | $2,500 | 35% |
| $500,000 | $4,300 | $2,800 | $7,000 | 35% |
| $1,000,000 | $8,900 | $6,000 | $13,400 | 33% |
Virginia handymen pay $9.73 per $100 of payroll for workers’ compensation coverage, competitive for the Mid-Atlantic region.
Washington
Washington State’s robust economy influences insurance pricing, with general liability costs typically ranging from 1.3% to 2.9% of revenue.
| Revenue Level | Average Premium | Favorable Premium | Higher-End Premium | Potential Savings |
| $150,000 | $3,500 | $2,300 | $4,300 | 34% |
| $500,000 | $9,200 | $6,400 | $13,200 | 30% |
| $1,000,000 | $18,800 | $15,000 | $26,400 | 20% |
The state’s monopolistic workers’ compensation system charges $8.20 per $100 of payroll, reasonable given Washington’s progressive labor policies.
West Virginia
West Virginia shows notable insurance pricing variations, with general liability premiums spanning from 1.4% to 4.0% of handyman business revenue.
| Revenue Level | Average Premium | Favorable Premium | Higher-End Premium | Potential Savings |
| $150,000 | $4,000 | $2,100 | $5,100 | 48% |
| $500,000 | $10,700 | $6,900 | $12,300 | 36% |
| $1,000,000 | $26,800 | $16,200 | $40,200 | 40% |
Mountain State handymen benefit from a workers’ compensation rate of just $5.72 per $100 of payroll, among the nation’s most affordable.
Wisconsin
Wisconsin’s mature insurance market offers handymen general liability coverage typically priced between 1.4% and 2.8% of annual revenue.
| Revenue Level | Average Premium | Favorable Premium | Higher-End Premium | Potential Savings |
| $150,000 | $2,800 | $2,100 | $4,200 | 25% |
| $500,000 | $8,800 | $7,400 | $11,100 | 16% |
| $1,000,000 | $18,600 | $17,600 | $22,880 | 5% |
Wisconsin’s workers’ compensation system requires $13.07 per $100 of payroll, elevated but manageable for most businesses.
Wyoming
Wyoming rounds out our analysis with some of the nation’s most competitive rates, with general liability costs ranging from just 0.9% to 1.8% of revenue.
| Revenue Level | Average Premium | Favorable Premium | Higher-End Premium | Potential Savings |
| $150,000 | $1,900 | $1,300 | $2,700 | 32% |
| $500,000 | $5,800 | $4,400 | $6,600 | 24% |
| $1,000,000 | $12,400 | $9,400 | $15,100 | 24% |
The Cowboy State’s workers’ compensation rate of $4.31 per $100 of payroll ranks among the lowest nationally, supporting business growth.
Take Control of Your Insurance Costs Today
Understanding insurance costs across different states empowers handyman businesses to make informed decisions about coverage and negotiate better rates with carriers. The data clearly demonstrates that shopping for insurance and working with knowledgeable brokers can yield savings ranging from 2% to 71% between favorable and higher-end rates—potentially saving thousands of dollars annually that can be reinvested in business growth.
The wide variations in both general liability and workers’ compensation rates highlight the importance of obtaining multiple quotes and understanding your state’s specific market conditions. Whether you operate in a high-cost state like South Carolina, Louisiana, or Pennsylvania, or in more affordable markets like Virginia, Wyoming, or North Dakota, knowing the benchmarks helps ensure you’re not overpaying for essential coverage.
Ready to see how much you could save on your handyman insurance? Get personalized quotes tailored specifically for your business today on the ContractorNerd platform. Our network of handyman-friendly insurers compete for your business, ensuring you receive competitive rates and comprehensive coverage options. Don’t leave money on the table—discover your savings potential and secure the protection your handyman business needs to thrive.