Cedarburg isn't just another Milwaukee suburb. This historic city of about 13,000 residents along Cedar Creek has its own character, with a walkable downtown, wine festivals, and the Cedar Creek Settlement drawing visitors year-round. But living in this charming Ozaukee County community means understanding your insurance needs, especially when it comes to protecting your home and vehicle.
Whether you're new to Cedarburg or you've been here for years, this guide breaks down what you need to know about auto insurance, homeowners coverage, and the local risks that might surprise you. We'll cover the Wisconsin requirements, typical costs, and why working with one of Cedarburg's four local agencies might be your best move.
Auto Insurance Requirements in Wisconsin
Wisconsin law requires you to carry liability coverage of at least $25,000 per person for bodily injury, $50,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $10,000 for property damage. You'll also need uninsured motorist coverage at the same 25/50 limits. Operating without insurance can cost you up to $500 in fines.
Here's the thing about minimum coverage: it's rarely enough. If you cause an accident and seriously injure someone, medical bills can easily exceed $25,000. A newer vehicle totaled in a crash? That $10,000 property damage limit won't come close to covering it. Most insurance experts recommend at least 100/300/100 coverage, especially if you have assets to protect.
The good news? Wisconsin is one of the most affordable states for car insurance. Full coverage averages around $169 to $184 per month statewide, while minimum coverage runs about $36 to $42 monthly. Drivers in smaller cities like Cedarburg typically pay less than Milwaukee residents, where rates can hit $126 per month for full coverage. Your actual rate depends on your age, driving record, and the vehicle you drive. Teen drivers might pay $160 per month, while drivers in their 40s average around $93 monthly.
Homeowners Insurance in Cedarburg
Cedarburg's housing market reflects its desirability. The typical home value sits at $501,429, well above Wisconsin's state average. That means your homeowners insurance will likely cost more than the state average of $1,285 to $1,662 annually. The actual premium depends on your home's age, construction type, coverage amount, and deductible.
Your standard homeowners policy covers damage from fire, wind, hail, theft, and vandalism. It also includes liability protection if someone gets hurt on your property. But here's what catches Cedarburg homeowners off guard: flood damage isn't covered. Not even close.
The Flood Risk You Can't Ignore
In August 2024, Ozaukee County got hammered. Thunderstorms dumped 5 to 10 inches of rain, causing some of the worst flash flooding since 2008. Cedar Creek and the Milwaukee River both have official flood inundation maps for Cedarburg, which tells you everything you need to know about the risk here.
Yet only about 10,000 Wisconsin residents carry flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program. That's roughly 0.17% of the state's population. Why so few? Most people assume flooding won't happen to them, or they think they're safe because they're not in a designated flood zone. But 40% of flood insurance claims come from outside those FEMA flood zones. One inch of water can cause $25,000 in damage. Think about that.
Flood insurance through NFIP typically costs a few hundred dollars per year and has a 30-day waiting period before coverage kicks in. Don't wait until the forecast shows heavy rain. If you're near Cedar Creek, the Milwaukee River, or any low-lying area, talk to your agent about flood coverage. It's a separate policy from your homeowners insurance, but it's worth every penny when that next major storm hits.
Working with Local Cedarburg Agencies
Four insurance agencies serve Cedarburg, and there's something to be said for working with someone local. They understand Ozaukee County's risks, they know about the August flooding, and they're familiar with local property values and construction types. When you call, you're not explaining where Cedarburg is or why Cedar Creek matters.
Local agents can also help with specialty coverage that online quotes don't always address. Own a historic home in downtown Cedarburg? You'll need specific coverage for older construction. Have a wine collection from the local festivals? That's personal property that might need scheduling. Run a small business out of your home? Your homeowners policy probably doesn't cover that without an endorsement.
Other Coverage to Consider
Beyond auto and home insurance, think about umbrella coverage if you have significant assets. An umbrella policy provides liability coverage above your auto and homeowners limits, typically starting at $1 million. It's relatively inexpensive and protects you if you're sued for damages that exceed your standard policy limits.
If you rent in Cedarburg, don't skip renters insurance. It covers your belongings and provides liability protection if someone gets hurt in your apartment. Policies cost around $15 to $30 per month, and many landlords require it. Even if yours doesn't, the liability coverage alone is worth it.
Getting Started with Your Coverage
Start by reviewing your current coverage. When's the last time you looked at your auto policy limits? Does your homeowners coverage reflect your home's current value? Are you protected against flood damage? Most people set up their insurance and forget about it until they need to file a claim, which is exactly when they discover the gaps.
Get quotes from multiple sources. Compare not just the price but the coverage details. What's the deductible? What's actually covered? What are the policy limits? A cheaper premium doesn't mean much if the coverage falls short when you need it.
Ask about discounts. Bundling your auto and home insurance with one carrier often saves 15-25%. Many insurers offer discounts for good driving records, home security systems, or going paperless. Take advantage of them.
Living in Cedarburg means enjoying a unique community with real character. Protecting what you've built here, whether it's your home near the historic downtown or your daily commute to Milwaukee, starts with the right insurance coverage. Don't settle for the bare minimum. Talk to a local agent, understand your risks, and make sure you're covered when it matters most.
