Drivers around New Jersey are typically on the lookout for the best deals available when it comes to used cars for sale. However, the cost of ownership of these vehicles goes far beyond the sticker price. Examining potential auto loans, monthly payments, fuel expenses and other costs is par for the course, but many also have to take a serious look at the average cost of auto insurance in a given location. 

NerdWallet conducted a study to determine which cities and states had the highest car insurance rates. While these figures vary greatly from region to region, there are certain areas where the rates could put a significant dent in a wallet. Detroit edged out New Orleans for the title of most expensive city, but one of the inclusions in the top five might hit a little closer to home: Newark, N.J. 

The largest city in New Jersey was found to have an average annual premium of more than $3,525, which placed it fourth on the list of most expensive areas for insurance. NerdWallet predicted that the expenses were largely due to a number of qualities, including the proximity to New York City, the dangerous snowy winters of the area and the state's policy on no-fault insurance. 

These insurance rates are an important factor to consider when searching for a used car. Drivers will be pleased to know, however, that they can find some financial relief with the help of places like New Jersey State Auto Auction. That lot is home to hundreds of Carfax-certified vehicles at relatively low prices. It also boasts a financing department that can help motorists figure out the best course of action regarding loans and car payments.