Nationwide vs Hiscox: Which Is Better for Small Business?
Both Nationwide and Hiscox are top-rated commercial insurance carriers for small business. The right choice depends on your industry, revenue, and how you prefer to buy coverage. Here's a side-by-side comparison to help you decide.
Quick comparison
| Factor | Nationwide | Hiscox |
|---|---|---|
| Best for | Businesses wanting bundled business + personal insurance | Small businesses in low-risk industries needing fast online quotes |
| Founded | 1926 | 1901 |
| AM Best Rating | A+ (Superior) | A (Excellent) |
| General Liability | $60–$150/month | $40–$100/month |
| BOP | $80–$250/month | $60–$180/month |
| Revenue minimum | No minimum | No minimum |
Nationwide overview
Nationwide
Founded: 1926
HQ: Columbus, OH
Best for: Businesses wanting bundled business + personal insurance
Coverage types: General Liability, BOP, Workers' Comp, Commercial Auto, Cyber
Notable: Strong bundle discounts if you also have personal insurance (auto, home) with Nationwide
Typical GL cost: $60–$150/month
Typical BOP cost: $80–$250/month
Hiscox overview
Hiscox
Founded: 1901
HQ: Hamilton, Bermuda (US operations in Atlanta, GA)
Best for: Small businesses in low-risk industries needing fast online quotes
Coverage types: General Liability, Professional Liability / E&O, BOP, Cyber Liability
Notable: Known for fast online quoting (as little as 5 minutes) and low minimum premiums
Typical GL cost: $40–$100/month
Typical BOP cost: $60–$180/month
Which should you choose?
Choose Nationwide if...
you want businesses wanting bundled business + personal insurance or need strong bundle discounts if you also have personal insurance (auto, home) with nationwide
Choose Hiscox if...
you want small businesses in low-risk industries needing fast online quotes or need known for fast online quoting (as little as 5 minutes) and low minimum premiums
The honest answer: both carriers are solid. Rates for identical coverage vary 20–30% between carriers, so the cheapest option depends on your specific class code, revenue, and state. Get quotes from both before deciding.
Estimate your cost first
Before you compare quotes, know what you should expect to pay. Use these free calculators to see benchmarks for your industry and revenue:
Frequently asked questions
Is Nationwide or Hiscox cheaper for small business insurance?
Nationwide and Hiscox are similar in pricing. Nationwide runs $60–$150/month, while Hiscox runs $40–$100/month. For identical coverage, rates vary 20–30% depending on your class code, revenue, and state — so the cheapest option depends on your specific business.
Which is better for general liability insurance, Nationwide or Hiscox?
Both Nationwide and Hiscox offer general liability. Nationwide is best for businesses wanting bundled business + personal insurance. Hiscox is best for small businesses in low-risk industries needing fast online quotes.
Does Nationwide or Hiscox offer workers' comp?
Nationwide offers workers' comp. Hiscox does not write workers' comp directly — you would need a different carrier for that coverage.
Can I switch from Nationwide to Hiscox mid-year?
Yes. Commercial insurance policies can be cancelled and replaced at any time. If you paid annually, the old carrier refunds unused premium (pro-rata or short-rate). The main caution is workers' comp — mid-year changes can complicate your experience modification calculation because the policy period does not align with the standard experience period.