Shopping for life insurance and don't know how to chose company

[Chris K.]

So I'm shopping for life insurance and it's completely new to me so I'm kind of nervous about who to go with. The difference in the price quotes is why i'm confused. I'm looking for $250k for 30 years.  So, for example, I go on statefarm website and get a quote and it tells me $24.15 a month but when we go into the office they tell us $44 a month for the exact same policy. They say that after the medical exam that it could go down but that's one of the things i'm questioning...is that how it really works? 

Also, one of the things i'm having a challenge with is the trustworthiness of the companies. I've been shopping some of the bigger names because I recognize their names and feel more comfortable becase i can actually walk into a local office. But am i wrong for assuming that?  I've done one of those online sites that gives multiple quotes and  I am considering United of Omaha Life, Prudential, or AIG. I somewhat recognize the names but again since they don't have any offices (that i know of) in my local area i am somewhat hesitant. 

Anyone got any recommendations or advice for someone completely green to life ins? Thanks in advance.