Workers Comp Rates by State 2026
Average workers compensation insurance rates per $100 of payroll for all 50 states. Includes state system type and rate comparison.
Workers Compensation Rates — All 50 States
Rates per $100 payroll* Average rates across all job classes. Actual rates vary significantly by class code, insurer, and underwriting factors. Monopolistic states require employers to purchase coverage from the state fund only.
Understanding Workers Comp Rates by State
Workers compensation insurance rates vary significantly by state due to differences in state laws, medical costs, benefit levels, and claims experience. Rates are expressed as a dollar amount per $100 of covered payroll.
Competitive vs. Monopolistic States
Most states have competitive insurance markets where employers can buy coverage from any licensed insurer. Five states — North Dakota, Ohio, Washington, West Virginia, and Wyoming — plus Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands operate monopolistic state funds where employers must buy coverage from the state.
Why Rates Differ
- State benefit levels and maximum weekly compensation amounts
- Medical cost environments (healthcare costs vary widely by state)
- Industry mix (more construction/agriculture = higher average rates)
- State regulatory framework and loss cost filings
- Historical claims experience in the state
Highest vs. Lowest Rate States
States like California, New York, Washington, and Alaska tend to have higher workers comp costs due to higher wages, medical costs, and benefit levels. States like Wyoming, North Dakota, Idaho, and South Dakota typically have lower rates.
Calculate Your Premium
Use our calculator to estimate your exact premium based on payroll, class code, and state.
Open Calculator →Monopolistic States
These states require coverage from the state fund only: