Cheapest Auto Insurance Companies in South Carolina
We analyzed rates from major insurers to find the most affordable options for South Carolina drivers. Rates shown are average annual premiums for a 35-year-old driver with a clean record and good credit.
Full Coverage Rates
| Rank | Company | Annual Premium | Monthly Premium | vs. State Avg |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | USAA* | $1,380 | $115 | -33% |
| 2 | GEICO | $1,520 | $127 | -26% |
| 3 | State Farm | $1,740 | $145 | -16% |
| 4 | Progressive | $1,860 | $155 | -10% |
| 5 | Nationwide | $1,980 | $165 | -4% |
| 6 | Farmers | $2,100 | $175 | +2% |
| 7 | Allstate | $2,340 | $195 | +14% |
| 8 | Liberty Mutual | $2,520 | $210 | +22% |
| 9 | Travelers | $2,640 | $220 | +28% |
| 10 | The Hartford | $2,760 | $230 | +34% |
*USAA is available only to military members, veterans, and their families. Rates are approximate averages and may vary by location and individual factors.
Liability-Only (Minimum Coverage) Rates
| Rank | Company | Annual Premium | Monthly Premium |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | USAA* | $396 | $33 |
| 2 | GEICO | $444 | $37 |
| 3 | State Farm | $504 | $42 |
| 4 | Progressive | $540 | $45 |
| 5 | Nationwide | $576 | $48 |
*Liability-only coverage meets South Carolina's minimum 25/50/25 requirements but does not cover damage to your own vehicle.
Average Auto Insurance Rates by South Carolina City
Car insurance rates in South Carolina vary significantly by location. Coastal areas face hurricane risks, while urban centers like Charleston and Columbia have higher traffic density and accident rates.
| City | Annual Premium | Monthly Premium | vs. State Avg | Key Factors |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Charleston | $2,480 | $207 | +20% | Hurricane risk, tourism traffic, high theft |
| Columbia | $2,360 | $197 | +15% | State capital, high traffic density |
| North Charleston | $2,420 | $202 | +17% | Urban density, industrial area |
| Myrtle Beach | $2,300 | $192 | +12% | Tourist destination, coastal storms |
| Greenville | $2,020 | $168 | -2% | Upstate location, less severe weather |
| Spartanburg | $1,960 | $163 | -5% | Inland location, moderate traffic |
| Rock Hill | $2,140 | $178 | +4% | Charlotte metro influence |
| Summerville | $2,180 | $182 | +6% | Charleston suburb, growing population |
| Florence | $1,920 | $160 | -7% | Smaller city, lower traffic |
| Anderson | $1,800 | $150 | -13% | Upstate, low crime, rural surroundings |
*Rates shown are for full coverage. Your actual rate depends on your specific ZIP code, driving record, and other factors.
South Carolina Auto Insurance Rates by Age
Age is one of the biggest factors affecting car insurance rates. Teen drivers pay the most, while rates typically drop significantly after age 25 and reach their lowest point around age 50-60.
| Driver Profile | Annual Premium | Monthly Premium | vs. State Avg |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Teen Driver (16-17)
Added to parent's policy
|
$5,560 | $463 | +170% |
|
Teen Driver (18-19)
Own policy
|
$4,940 | $412 | +140% |
|
Young Adult (20-24)
Clean record
|
$3,090 | $258 | +50% |
|
Adult (25-34)
Clean record
|
$2,160 | $180 | +5% |
|
Adult (35-44)
Clean record
|
$2,000 | $167 | -3% |
|
Middle-Aged (45-54)
Clean record
|
$1,850 | $154 | -10% |
|
Older Adult (55-64)
Clean record
|
$1,750 | $146 | -15% |
|
Senior (65-74)
Clean record
|
$1,900 | $158 | -8% |
|
Senior (75+)
Clean record
|
$2,120 | $177 | +3% |
Tip for Young Drivers
If you're under 25, staying on a parent's policy is usually the cheapest option. South Carolina also offers good student discounts for maintaining a B average, and completing an approved driver education course can further reduce your rates. Building a clean driving record early pays dividends for years.
How Driving Violations Affect Your South Carolina Rate
Traffic violations and accidents can significantly increase your insurance premiums. As a traditional tort state, South Carolina allows insurers to surcharge based on driving history.
Speeding Ticket
| Before ticket: | $2,060/yr |
| After ticket: | $2,554/yr |
| Extra cost: | +$494/yr |
At-Fault Accident
| Before accident: | $2,060/yr |
| After accident: | $3,049/yr |
| Extra cost: | +$989/yr |
DUI Conviction
| Before DUI: | $2,060/yr |
| After DUI: | $3,955/yr |
| Extra cost: | +$1,895/yr |
How Long Do Violations Affect Your Rate?
South Carolina Auto Insurance Requirements
South Carolina law requires all drivers to carry minimum liability coverage. As a traditional tort state, you can sue for damages after an accident. Here are the legal requirements and recommended coverage levels.
South Carolina Minimum Coverage (25/50/25)
Per Person
Per Accident
Per Accident
| Coverage Type | State Minimum | Recommended | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bodily Injury Liability | $25,000/$50,000 | $100,000/$300,000 | Medical costs easily exceed $25K. Higher limits protect your assets in lawsuits. |
| Property Damage | $25,000 | $50,000+ | Average new car costs $48K. $25K may not cover damage to luxury vehicles. |
| Uninsured Motorist | $25,000/$50,000 | $100,000/$300,000 | SC has ~9% uninsured rate. Protects you if hit by uninsured driver. |
| Collision | Not required | $500 deductible | Covers your car regardless of fault. Essential for newer vehicles. |
| Comprehensive | Not required | $500 deductible | Covers hurricane damage, flooding, theft. Critical for coastal areas. |
South Carolina is a Tort State
As a traditional tort state, South Carolina allows the at-fault driver to be sued for damages exceeding insurance limits. If you cause a serious accident and your liability limits are insufficient, you could face a lawsuit and wage garnishment. With higher medical costs and expensive vehicles on the road, experts recommend at least 100/300/50 coverage to adequately protect your assets.
Understanding Your Coverage Options
South Carolina offers various types of auto insurance coverage. Understanding what each covers helps you make informed decisions about protecting yourself and your vehicle.
Liability Coverage
RequiredWhat it covers: Bodily injury and property damage you cause to others in an accident where you're at fault.
South Carolina minimum: 25/50/25 (higher than many states, but still may be insufficient for serious accidents)
Who needs it: Every driver in South Carolina—it's the law. As a tort state, you can be sued if your coverage doesn't fully compensate the other party's damages.
Cost impact: Liability-only coverage costs around $35-55/month. Higher limits add $15-35/month but provide significantly better protection.
Collision Coverage
RecommendedWhat it covers: Damage to your own vehicle from collisions with other cars, objects, or rollovers, regardless of fault.
Deductible options: Typically $250, $500, or $1,000. Higher deductible = lower premium.
Who needs it: Anyone with a car loan or lease (usually required by lender), or anyone who couldn't afford to replace their car out of pocket.
Cost impact: Adds $25-70/month depending on your vehicle value and deductible choice.
Comprehensive Coverage
RecommendedWhat it covers: Non-collision damage including theft, vandalism, fire, floods, falling objects, animal strikes, and weather damage.
Why it matters in South Carolina: Coastal areas face significant hurricane and flooding risks. Comprehensive coverage pays for storm damage, which is common during hurricane season from June through November.
Who needs it: Highly recommended for all SC drivers, especially those in Charleston, Myrtle Beach, and other coastal areas. Critical if you live in a flood-prone zone.
Cost impact: Adds $15-45/month. Often required along with collision if you have a car loan.
Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM)
RecommendedWhat it covers: Your injuries and damages when the at-fault driver has no insurance or insufficient coverage to pay for your losses.
South Carolina requirement: UM/UIM coverage is required in SC at the same limits as your liability coverage (minimum 25/50/25). You can reject this coverage in writing, but it's not recommended.
Who needs it: All South Carolina drivers. Despite the requirement, approximately 9% of SC drivers are still uninsured. Don't waive this coverage—it protects you from financial hardship if hit by an uninsured driver.
Cost impact: Adds $10-25/month and is one of the most valuable coverages available.
Medical Payments (MedPay)
OptionalWhat it covers: Medical expenses for you and your passengers after an accident, regardless of who's at fault.
Coverage amounts: Typically $1,000 to $10,000 per person.
Who needs it: Useful if you have limited health insurance, high deductibles, or want coverage for passengers. It pays immediately without waiting to determine fault.
Cost impact: Very affordable at $2-8/month for $5,000 in coverage.
Gap Insurance
OptionalWhat it covers: The difference between what you owe on your car loan and what your car is worth if it's totaled.
Example: You owe $22,000 on your loan, but your car is only worth $18,000. If totaled, gap insurance covers the $4,000 difference.
Who needs it: Anyone who put less than 20% down, has a loan longer than 4 years, or leases their vehicle. Especially important in SC where flood damage can total vehicles quickly.
Cost impact: Usually $20-40/year when added to your policy (much cheaper than dealer-sold gap insurance).
How to Save on South Carolina Auto Insurance
South Carolina drivers have several ways to lower their premiums. Here are proven strategies to reduce your rates while maintaining adequate coverage.
Improve Your Credit Score
Unlike some states, South Carolina allows insurers to use credit scores in rate calculations. Drivers with excellent credit can pay up to 40% less than those with poor credit. Pay bills on time and reduce debt to improve your score and save on insurance.
Low Mileage Discounts
If you drive fewer than 7,500 miles per year, you may qualify for low-mileage discounts of 5-15%. Work from home or retired? Ask about pay-per-mile insurance options that charge based on actual driving.
Good Student Discount
Students under 25 with a B average (3.0 GPA) or better typically save 10-25% on their premium. Provide a report card, transcript, or dean's list documentation when getting your quote.
Defensive Driving Course
Completing a state-approved defensive driving course can earn you a discount of 5-10%. Courses are available online for around $25-50 and may also help dismiss a traffic ticket in some cases.
Bundle Your Policies
Combining auto with home or renters insurance typically saves 10-25%. This can mean $200-500 in annual savings while simplifying your coverage under one provider.
Hurricane Preparedness
Living inland can significantly reduce comprehensive coverage costs compared to coastal areas. If you're in a hurricane zone, parking in a garage and having a documented storm plan may qualify you for additional discounts.
Military Discounts in South Carolina
South Carolina is home to major military installations including Fort Jackson, Joint Base Charleston, Shaw Air Force Base, and Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort. Active duty military, veterans, and their families should check eligibility for USAA, which consistently offers the lowest rates in the state.
Other insurers with military discounts: GEICO (up to 15%), Liberty Mutual, and AMICA also offer discounts for service members.
Best Auto Insurance Companies in South Carolina
Based on rates, customer satisfaction, and coverage options, these are the top insurers for South Carolina drivers.
Best for Military
USAA
The lowest rates in South Carolina, available exclusively to military members, veterans, and their families. Exceptional customer service and claims handling, especially for those stationed at SC's military bases.
Best for Price
GEICO
Consistently offers the lowest rates for non-military drivers in South Carolina. Best for those who prefer managing everything online or through their mobile app with minimal agent interaction.
Best for Service
State Farm
Large network of local agents throughout South Carolina. Ideal for those who prefer in-person service, bundling options, and want a company with strong claims response during hurricane season.
Best for High-Risk
Progressive
Great option for drivers with accidents or violations on their record. Offers Snapshot usage-based insurance for safe drivers and the Name Your Price tool for budget-conscious shoppers.
What South Carolina Drivers Are Saying
"Living in Charleston, I was paying nearly $220 a month for auto insurance. After comparing quotes through Credit Haven, I found a policy with the same coverage for $165. I also learned how important comprehensive coverage is here during hurricane season—something my previous agent never explained properly."
"As a recent college grad with student loans, my credit isn't great. I was shocked when my first insurance quote came back at over $200 a month. Comparing multiple companies helped me find one that didn't penalize my credit as heavily. Now I'm paying $145 with full coverage."
"My husband is stationed at Fort Jackson, so we qualified for USAA. The savings compared to our old policy were incredible—over $900 a year. If you have any military connection, definitely check if you're eligible. Credit Haven made it easy to see the difference."
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does car insurance cost in South Carolina?
The average cost of full coverage car insurance in South Carolina is approximately $2,060 per year ($172/month), which is about 3% higher than the national average. However, rates vary significantly based on your city, age, driving record, credit score, and the coverage you choose. Liability-only coverage averages around $500/year.
Why is South Carolina auto insurance relatively expensive?
Several factors contribute to South Carolina's insurance costs: high uninsured driver rates (around 9%), coastal hurricane and flood risks, rural road hazards including deer strikes, and the state's tort system which allows lawsuits for accident damages. Additionally, Charleston and Columbia metro areas have elevated rates due to traffic congestion and higher theft rates.
Can insurers in South Carolina use my credit score?
Yes. South Carolina allows auto insurers to use credit-based insurance scores when determining rates. This means your credit history can significantly impact your premium. Drivers with excellent credit typically pay 30-40% less than those with poor credit. Improving your credit score is one of the most effective ways to lower your South Carolina auto insurance rates.
What is South Carolina's minimum car insurance requirement?
South Carolina requires 25/50/25 liability coverage: $25,000 for bodily injury per person, $50,000 for bodily injury per accident, and $25,000 for property damage. Uninsured motorist coverage is also required at these same limits unless you specifically reject it in writing. While SC's minimums are higher than some states, experts still recommend at least 100/300/50 for adequate protection.
What happens if I drive without insurance in South Carolina?
Driving without insurance in South Carolina results in serious penalties: first offense includes fines up to $550, license and registration suspension, and potential vehicle impoundment. Repeat offenses carry fines up to $1,000 and longer suspensions. To reinstate your license, you must pay reinstatement fees, provide proof of insurance, and may need to maintain SR-22 filing for up to 3 years.
How can I lower my South Carolina car insurance rate?
Key strategies include: improving your credit score (major factor in SC), comparing quotes from multiple insurers, bundling auto with home/renters insurance for 10-25% savings, taking advantage of safe driver and low-mileage discounts, completing a defensive driving course, maintaining a clean driving record, and asking about all available discounts (good student, multi-car, military, anti-theft).
Is South Carolina a no-fault or tort state?
South Carolina is a traditional tort (at-fault) state. This means the driver who causes an accident is responsible for paying the damages. You can file a claim against the at-fault driver's insurance or sue them directly if their coverage is insufficient. Because of this, having adequate liability limits is crucial to protect yourself from lawsuits.
Do I need comprehensive coverage for hurricane damage?
Yes, comprehensive coverage is essential if you want protection from hurricane damage. It covers wind damage, flooding, falling debris, and other storm-related damage to your vehicle. If you live in coastal areas like Charleston, Myrtle Beach, or Hilton Head, comprehensive coverage is strongly recommended. Standard liability and collision coverage do NOT cover weather-related damage.
How does my ZIP code affect my South Carolina insurance rate?
Your ZIP code significantly impacts your rate. Coastal areas (Charleston, Myrtle Beach) have higher rates due to hurricane risk and tourism traffic. Urban areas (Columbia, Charleston metro) have elevated rates due to traffic density and theft. Upstate areas (Greenville, Anderson, Spartanburg) typically have lower rates. Two ZIP codes just miles apart can differ by 15-25% in premium cost.
Should I reject uninsured motorist coverage in South Carolina?
No, rejecting UM/UIM coverage is not recommended. While South Carolina law allows you to reject this coverage in writing, approximately 9% of SC drivers are uninsured. If you're hit by an uninsured driver and don't have UM coverage, you'll be responsible for your own medical bills and vehicle repairs. The cost of UM coverage (typically $10-25/month) is minimal compared to the protection it provides.
Is it free to compare quotes on Credit Haven?
Yes, comparing quotes through Credit Haven is 100% free with no obligation. We help you see your options from multiple South Carolina insurers so you can make an informed decision about your coverage. We don't sell insurance directly—we connect you with licensed providers who can offer you personalized quotes based on your specific situation.
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