State Farm® History: A century of helping drivers

State Farm was founded in 1922 by George J. Mecherle, a Midwest farmer who wanted fair car insurance based on actual driving habits. Starting as a mutual company owned by policyholders, State Farm built its foundation on fairness, straightforward service, and the "Good Neighbor" philosophy— treating customers like neighbors with personalized, risk-based pricing.

From a small mutual insurer in Illinois, it grew alongside America's expanding car ownership. Core principles of mutual ownership, risk-based pricing, and local agent service shaped its early years and remain central to its success today.

Why the State Farm customer comes first

State Farm has always put customers first through local agents who provide personalized service for your car, commute, and budget. Insurance can be complex, but agents helps simplify choices about liability, collision, comprehensive coverage, and deductibles.

Combining human knowledge with digital tools, State Farm offers easy online and mobile policy management and claims support. This blend reflects the company's ongoing commitment to making insurance understandable and accessible.

How we have evolved with the changing times

State Farm has adapted continuously as driving and technology evolved:

  • 1920s-1930s: Began with fair risk-based pricing and local agents as car ownership grew.
  • 1940s-1950s: Scaled claims and underwriting after WWII, earning a reputation for dependability.
  • 1960s-1970s: Streamlined claims and expanded insurance types, adding driver education programs.
  • 1980s-1990s: Invested in technology and grew the agent network for nationwide reach.
  • 2000s: Launched online quoting and management; piloted telematics for usage-based discounts.
  • 2010s-Present: Expanded Drive Safe & Save, enhanced app features, and improved digital claims.

State Farm helped found the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, promoting safer vehicles. Coverage options now include roadside assistance, rental, rideshare, classic car policies, and usage-based discounts that adjust with driving behavior.

How we are moving into the future

With advances in vehicle safety and driving habits, a focus on helping protect customers from surprises and adapting coverage options to modern driving lifestyles, State Farm blends technology with personal service:

  • Digital tools: Online quotes, digital ID cards, mobile policy management, and digital claims streamline service.
  • Telematics & Al: Drive Safe & Save monitors driving habits for discounts; Al and data analytics enhance claims and pricing fairness.
  • Emerging tech: Collaborations prepare for automated vehicles and electric cars, while sustainability efforts support resilient communities.
  • Customer support: Local agents and claims teams provide knowledgeable help for complex decisions.

How we help the communities beyond auto insurance

Beyond insurance, State Farm invests in community safety and support to promote safer roads and stronger communities nationwide in the following ways:

  • Driver education: Teen safety, seat belt campaigns, and distracted driving prevention.
  • Community support: Grants, volunteer efforts, and collaborations to strengthen neighborhoods and aid disaster recovery.
  • Emergency preparedness: Support for disaster response and recovery reflects a longstanding commitment to community resilience.

Frequently asked questions about State Farm


State Farm began in 1922, founded by George J. Mecherle as a mutual auto insurer in Illinois. Car insurance has been central to the company's mission from the beginning.


State Farm is owned by its policyholders, not stockholders. This structure aligns decisions with customer needs, supporting fair pricing and service.


Claims can be reported and managed online, via the app, through agents, or by phone. Teams assess damage, coordinate repairs, and work to resolve claims efficiently.


State Farm supports driver education, teen driving safety, seat belt campaigns, and initiatives against distracted driving. The company helped establish the IHS, influencing safer vehicle designs.


Yes. State Farm remains a leading auto insurer in the U.S., continually investing in technology, service, and local agents to meet evolving customer needs while serving 96M+ policies and accounts.

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