Nationwide vs Travelers
An honest side-by-side comparison of two of our top workers comp insurance picks — pricing, strengths, weaknesses, and who each one is really for.
Nationwide
Ranked #3 of 15 in this directory
Flexible workers comp solutions with strong bundling for business owners
Travelers
Ranked #2 of 15 in this directory
Industry leader in workers comp with risk control services and loss prevention
Our pick: Travelers. Our editors rank Travelers higher overall in Workers Comp Insurance — but Nationwide can be the better fit depending on your budget and use case below. How we review
Compare the details
| Nationwide | Travelers | |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing model | Paid | Paid |
| Starting price | See website | See website |
| Category | Small Business | Construction |
| Editorial rank | #3 of 15 | #2 of 15 |
Strengths
Nationwide
- ✓Strong bundling discounts when combining workers comp with business owner policies
- ✓Pay-as-you-go billing option helps manage cash flow
- ✓Regular On Your Side policy reviews ensure adequate coverage
- ✓Competitive rates for low-to-medium risk office and service businesses
- ✓Large independent agent network for local, personalized service
Travelers
- ✓Dedicated risk control consultants provide on-site safety assessments
- ✓One of the largest and most financially stable workers comp carriers
- ✓Specialized programs for high-hazard industries like construction and manufacturing
- ✓Fast and fair claims resolution with experienced claim professionals
- ✓Extensive network of medical providers for injured worker care
Watch out for
Nationwide
- !Not the strongest option for high-hazard industries like construction or roofing
- !Claims handling quality can vary by region
- !Digital policy management tools lag behind digital-native competitors
- !Limited specialty programs compared to industry-focused carriers
Travelers
- !Premiums tend to run higher than regional carriers for small accounts
- !Requires working through an independent agent — not available direct
- !Risk control services may feel intrusive for businesses with existing safety programs
- !Policy terms can be rigid for businesses with seasonal workforce fluctuations
Best use cases
Nationwide
- →Business owner bundling workers comp with general liability and commercial property
- →Service business seeking pay-as-you-go workers comp billing
- →Growing company wanting regular coverage reviews as headcount increases
Travelers
- →Construction company needing workers comp with active safety consulting
- →Mid-sized manufacturer looking for a financially stable, long-term carrier
- →High-hazard employer wanting comprehensive loss prevention support
About each tool
Nationwide
Nationwide offers workers compensation insurance as part of its comprehensive business insurance portfolio, making it an ideal choice for businesses that want to bundle multiple coverages with a single carrier. The company provides pay-as-you-go billing options, strong claims support, and competitive rates for low-to-medium risk businesses. Nationwide's On Your Side promise includes regular policy reviews to ensure coverage keeps pace with business growth. Available through a large network of independent agents nationwide.
Travelers
Travelers is one of the largest workers compensation insurers in the United States, offering comprehensive coverage with a strong emphasis on workplace safety and risk control. The company assigns dedicated risk control consultants to policyholders who conduct on-site assessments and provide tailored safety recommendations. Travelers' Claim Professionals team is known for fast, fair claims resolution. The insurer also offers specialized programs for high-hazard industries including construction, manufacturing, and healthcare, backed by superior AM Best financial strength ratings.
Still deciding? Browse all 15 options with honest pros, cons, and pricing.
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