The Hartford vs Hiscox: Which Is Better for Small Business?
Both The Hartford 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 | The Hartford | Hiscox |
|---|---|---|
| Best for | Businesses with employees needing comprehensive coverage including workers' comp | Small businesses in low-risk industries needing fast online quotes |
| Founded | 1810 | 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 |
The Hartford overview
The Hartford
Founded: 1810
HQ: Hartford, CT
Best for: Businesses with employees needing comprehensive coverage including workers' comp
Coverage types: General Liability, BOP, Workers' Comp, Commercial Auto, Cyber
Notable: One of the largest US commercial carriers — strong for workers' comp and multi-state operations
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 The Hartford if...
you want businesses with employees needing comprehensive coverage including workers' comp or need one of the largest us commercial carriers — strong for workers' comp and multi-state operations
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 The Hartford or Hiscox cheaper for small business insurance?
The Hartford and Hiscox are similar in pricing. The Hartford 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, The Hartford or Hiscox?
Both The Hartford and Hiscox offer general liability. The Hartford is best for businesses with employees needing comprehensive coverage including workers' comp. Hiscox is best for small businesses in low-risk industries needing fast online quotes.
Does The Hartford or Hiscox offer workers' comp?
The Hartford offers workers' comp. Hiscox does not write workers' comp directly — you would need a different carrier for that coverage.
Can I switch from The Hartford 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.