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Missouri Earthquake Coverage Rates Have Declined

As premiums climb in high-risk zones, many Missouri households are opting out of essential earthquake protection.

Updated on Oct. 13, 2026 in Insurance

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Missouri residents are increasingly choosing to forgo earthquake insurance as premiums in the New Madrid region rise due to increased reinsurance costs. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Is now a good time for your household to purchase earthquake insurance despite rising living costs?

The Missouri Department of Commerce and Insurance is urging residents to review their policies as earthquake insurance coverage in the New Madrid region dropped significantly between 2015 and 2025. Standard homeowners and renters insurance typically excludes damage caused by seismic events.

Why it matters

Rising reinsurance costs and construction expenses have pushed premiums up by as much as 5.6% in high-risk areas like St. Louis. Many households have dropped this coverage due to broader budget pressures, leaving them financially vulnerable if an earthquake occurs.

Coverage in the New Madrid region fell to 10.4% in 2025, down from 18.3% in 2015. While statewide premiums decreased by 1.5% from 2024 to 2025, high-risk areas saw increases of up to 5.6%.

The players

Missouri Department of Commerce and Insurance

The state agency responsible for regulating insurance providers and maintaining consumer protection resources for Missouri residents.

The details

Because standard policies exclude earthquake damage, residents must purchase separate coverage or endorsements. Insurers currently offer adjustable deductibles ranging from 5% to 15% to help manage premium costs. Homeowners can shop across different carriers and prioritize structural dwelling coverage to find more affordable protection options.

Timeline

  1. 2015: New Madrid region insurance coverage stood at 18.3%.

  2. 2024 to 2025: Statewide average annual premiums decreased by 1.5%.

  3. 2025: New Madrid region insurance coverage fell to 10.4%.

  4. October 2026: The Great ShakeOut drill occurs.

Money Landscape

This trend of dropping coverage follows the pattern set by the Great ShakeOut drill in highlighting regional disaster preparedness. It marks a departure from historical coverage levels as rising construction costs and risk modeling reshape the affordability of protection.

Review your existing homeowners policy today to verify if earthquake damage is excluded. If you live in a high-risk area, discuss potential deductible adjustments with a licensed insurance professional to see if you can lower your annual premiums.

The takeaway

The gap between seismic risk and insurance protection is widening across the state. Contact the DCI consumer hotline at 800-726-7390 to verify your current coverage status and discuss whether a high-deductible policy aligns with your household budget.

What happens next

The Great ShakeOut drill is scheduled to occur in October 2026.

Further reading

For more information on managing your policy options, visit Missouri Insurance.

More information

For detailed guidance on coverage or to speak with a representative, visit the DCI consumer insurance resources and information portal.

Live Poll

Is now a good time for your household to purchase earthquake insurance despite rising living costs?