Compare 50+ top insurance companies including Progressive, Travelers, AAA, Nationwide (and more!) to find the best and cheapest car insurance in South Carolina.

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Updated on Sep 19, 2024

R.E. Fulton

Licensed Insurance Agent —Senior Content Writer

Reviewed by Josh Damico, Vice President Insurance Operations

Edited by Lina Zhang, Licensed Insurance Agent, VP of Operations

Learn more about our insurance review board

What's on this page?

How to find the cheapest car insurance quotes in South Carolina
Cheapest Car Insurance Companies in South Carolina
South Carolina Car Insurance Coverage Requirements
South Carolina Car Insurance Rating Factors
How Do Different Factors Impact Your Car Insurance Costs in South Carolina?
Car Insurance for South Carolina Drivers With a Low Credit Score
How to lower car insurance costs in South Carolina
FAQs
Methodology
Meet our Experts

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How to find the cheapest car insurance quotes in South Carolina

To find the best

car insurance

rate for your unique driving profile and vehicle, it's best to

shop around

and compare quotes from multiple different carriers.

Jerry

Insurance Agency takes pride in providing thousands of South Carolina drivers with a fast and seamless insurance shopping experience—including cross-company quote comparisons.

Insurance Company	Premium (monthly)	Customer	Car	Insurance Coverage
Progressive	$294	Sadie, 26 Saint Helena Island, SC	Chevrolet Traverse L	• 50,000/100,000 Liability • Comp / Collision
Nationwide	$130	Kyle, 26 Wellford, SC	Honda Civic EX	• State Minimum Liability • Comp / Collision
Travelers	$78	Rosetta, 50 Hilton Head Island, SC	Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Sahara	• 50,000/100,000 Liability • Comp / Collision
Allstate	$239	Julia, 46 Moncks Corner, SC	BMW 430i	• 100,000/300,000 Liability • Comp / Collision
Bristol West	$268	Earl, 51 Orangeburg, SC	Hyundai Sonata ECO	• State Minimum Liability • Comp / Collision

Last Updated Sep 18, 2024

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Cheapest Car Insurance Companies in South Carolina

Looking for the most affordable

car insurance rates

in South Carolina? To uncover the truth about insurance shopping in the Palmetto State—and the nation—Jerry administered the largest insurance shopping survey in the United States.

Our survey shows that there isn’t a single car insurance provider that consistently offers the most affordable rates to every driver. Each policyholder gains a different experience with unique rates from each carrier.

___ is commonly considered to be the cheapest car insurance company in South Carolina—but customers in our survey rated it _ out of 5 for prices. Some customers found their rates affordable and fair, while others claimed their premiums were expensive and constantly on the rise.

State Farm, GEICO, Progressive, Allstate, USAA, and Liberty Mutual have the largest market shares in South Carolina. Take a look at what drivers had to say about these insurance providers.

Insurance company	Date	Cost rating (out of 5)	What our customer said:
AAA	September 10, 2024	5	"Outstanding Company to be with. Very courteous and always pleased to help you when an accident takes place. They make...(read more)" -Jayden
Allstate	September 9, 2024	3	"I've had this company for almost a year. Needed towing and twice and both times it was going to take 2 hours for a to...(read more)" -Alfred
Dairyland	September 8, 2024	5	"I believe that Dairyland has done the best they could with my insurance with the company that they are at the level t...(read more)" -Tony
Commonwealth Insurance	September 6, 2024	4	"Their rates at the time I thought were pretty high for liability but now 9 months later rates have literally doubled ...(read more)" -Earl
Bristol West	August 31, 2024	4	"They gave me an affordable rate, and it saved me $60/ month vs what I was paying before!" -Winifred

Last Updated Sep 19, 2024

How'd we get these scores?
Jerry's experts conducted one of the largest car insurance surveys in the United States. We surveyed 15,000 policyholders, in all 50 states, over the span of 18 months. These policyholders hold insurance policies with 87 different insurance companies. We surveyed policyholders to gauge their satisfaction with their insurance carriers in: policy cost, customer service, buying and renewal experience, as well as claim experience. These scores were all reported by real customers of the insurance companies.

While you could call each company or fill out lengthy online forms, the simplest way to compare car insurance quotes is through a comparison app or website.

As a top insurance agency backed by hundreds of licensed insurance agents,

Jerry

offers a free app that compares car insurance quotes for you and provides real-time interactive service to customers.

Minimum liability and full coverage

Under

South Carolina’s car insurance laws

, drivers are required to carry the state’s minimum car insurance requirements. These requirements include liability coverage and uninsured motorist coverage—but drivers should consider full coverage for protection against damage to their vehicles.

Cheapest minimum liability coverage car insurance quotes in South Carolina

To legally drive in South Carolina, drivers must have a car insurance policy with the state’s minimum liability and

uninsured motorist coverage

South Carolina has a 25/50/25 rule for minimum liability coverage. Drivers in South Carolina must have the state-required minimum of:

$25,000 per person for bodily injury liability

$50,000 of bodily injury liability per accident

$25,000 of property damage liability per accident

Uninsured motorist coverage at equal rates.

Here are some examples where Jerry recently assisted South Carolina drivers with fulfilling the state’s minimum car insurance requirements.

Progressive

Frank (41 years old)

Coverage

State Minimum

Florence, SC

Dodge RAM 1500 ST

$129

per month

Allstate

Melvin (47 years old)

Coverage

State Minimum

Aiken, SC

Honda Accord Sport

$150

per month

Safeco

Eunice (36 years old)

Coverage

State Minimum

Simpsonville, SC

Nissan Altima 2.5

$226

per month

Nationwide

Kyle (26 years old)

Coverage

State Minimum

Wellford, SC

Honda Civic EX

$130

per month

National General

Chase (37 years old)

Coverage

State Minimum

Clinton, SC

Hyundai Sonata ECO

$225

per month

Bristol West

Sue (51 years old)

Coverage

State Minimum

Orangeburg, SC

Hyundai Sonata ECO

$268

per month

Do you need more than minimum coverage in South Carolina?

South Carolina’s 25/50/25 minimum car insurance requirements are fairly low. Whether you opt for higher liability limits or purchase full coverage insurance, most drivers require extra protection.

South Carolina is an at-fault state, so in the event of an at-fault accident, you could be responsible for vehicle repairs and medical expenses well beyond your minimum coverage. Serious injuries to another person or extreme vehicle damage can incur costs of $50,000 or more.

The bottom line: Better financial protection is the way to go. Look into full coverage or opt for 50/100/50 or 100/300/100 liability coverage.

"Jerry is the new benchmark in app usefulness. Period. It is SO EASY and the results are SO GOOD, and they specifically point out that no one is going to start calling and emailing me all the time. I gave very little info, it pulled up all my existing insurance info, and showed me how to get the same insurance for less, lesser coverage for huge savings, or better coverage for about the same I currently pay. I am personally saving around $1,400/year with my new insurance, and the entire process (including follow ups to sign the docs from the insurance companies) took less than an hour. If you make over $1,400/hour, this may not be worth your time. Otherwise, get the app and use it now!"

Sean S.

| Verified Jerry Customer

Lower my car insurance too!

Cheapest full coverage car insurance quotes in South Carolina

When it comes to repairing or replacing your vehicle post-accident, full coverage car insurance is the only way to ensure financial protection.

Comprehensive

and

collision coverage

are the main markers of full coverage. Collision coverage takes care of the repair or replacement expenses if your vehicle is damaged from an accident, while comprehensive coverage provides coverage if your car is stolen or damaged due to non-collision incidents.

Leased and financed vehicles are typically required to have collision or comprehensive by the lender's request. Displayed in the table below are recent instances of the most affordable full coverage policies obtained by customers with the assistance of Jerry's agents.

Insurance Coverage	Insurance Company	Premium (monthly)	Customer	Car
• State Minimum Liability • Comp / Collision	Progressive	$129	Margaret, 41 Florence, SC	Dodge RAM 1500 ST
• State Minimum Liability • Comp / Collision	AAA	$330	Augusta, 27 Myrtle Beach, SC	Nissan Frontier S
• 50,000/100,000 Liability • Comp / Collision	Travelers	$78	Rosetta, 50 Hilton Head Island, SC	Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Sahara
• 100,000/300,000 Liability • Comp / Collision	Allstate	$239	Julia, 46 Moncks Corner, SC	BMW 430i
• 50,000/100,000 Liability • Comp / Collision	Bristol West	$221	Ann, 26 Columbia, SC	Chrysler 200 C

Last Updated Sep 19, 2024

Average rates for state minimum liability coverage and full coverage

Our insights show us that the average cost of minimum liability coverage in South Carolina is $183 per month or $2,194 per year. The average cost of full coverage insurance in South Carolina is $234 per month or $2,810 per year.

Average car insurance costs can give you an idea of how high or low your rates might be, but keep in mind that insurance premiums vary from driver to driver. Insurance providers calculate rates for each policyholder using multiple factors, including the type of car you drive, your

driving record

and insurance history, and your demographics.

South Carolina car insurance: Additional coverages

Collision and comprehensive coverage can offer added protection, but other important types of car insurance in South Carolina include:

Medical payments

(MedPay)

Towing and labor

Rental reimbursement coverage

Gap insurance

Roadside assistance

If you recently leased a car: Look into gap insurance. Gap insurance will cover the remainder of your lease if you owe more than the car’s value following a total loss or if you’re a victim of theft.

If you don’t own a car but rent or borrow one instead: Consider non-owner car insurance in South Carolina. Non-owner insurance offers liability insurance for bodily injury and property damage. If you’re found liable in an accident, it’ll cover the liability expenses for the other party. Keep in mind it won’t cover damage to the vehicle you’re driving or personal medical bills.

Not in South Carolina?

Georgia car insurance

North Carolina car insurance

Virginia car insurance

Kentucky car insurance

Tennessee car insurance

West Virginia car insurance

Alabama car insurance

Florida car insurance

Car insurance premium by rating factors

In South Carolina, auto insurance companies consider numerous factors when determining your car insurance rate:

Your driving record and claims history: Tickets, accidents, and claims on your insurance history can impact your rates.

Where you keep your car: Rates are typically higher for people who live and drive in populous cities. Within the same city, rates can vary based on ZIP codes.

The kind of car you have: On average, collision and comprehensive coverage are more expensive for luxury vehicles, sports cars, and high-performance vehicles.

How you use your car: If you drive your car to and from work or use it for work activities, your rates will likely be higher than someone who uses their vehicle leisurely.

Your credit score: Drivers with higher credit scores usually pay less for both minimum coverage and full coverage.

How Do Different Factors Impact Your Car Insurance Costs in South Carolina?

Allowed (with applicable limitations): Gender, age, driving experience, credit history, education, occupation, employment status, marital status, zip code, insurance history

Prohibited (or effectively prohibited): South Carolina currently does not disallow any common insurance rating factors when calculating insurance premiums.

Learn more abut the car insurance rating factors in South Carolina:

Cheapest South Carolina car Insurance after a driving violation

Your driving history plays a huge part in your insurance rate. Insurance providers use your history of violations and accidents to depict your level of riskiness. High-risk drivers with greater infractions typically face the highest rates.

Cheapest car insurance for South Carolina drivers with a speeding ticket

There are different levels to speeding. You’ll find that most law enforcers classify speeding by the following degrees:

1-5 MPH over limit

6-10 MPH over limit

11-15 MPH over limit

16-20 MPH over limit

21+ MPH over limit.

A speeding ticket will typically impact your car insurance rate, and the higher your speed was over the limit, the worse it appears on your driving history. Jerry has assisted drivers with finding savings on car insurance even after they’ve received a citation for speeding.

Speeding Type	Insurance Company	Premium (monthly)	Customer	Insurance Coverage
Speeding 1-5	Progressive	$249	Dennis, 39 Little River, SC	• State Minimum Liability • Comp / Collision
Speeding 6-10	Safeco	$310	Alex, 49 Manning, SC	• 100,000/300,000 Liability • Comp / Collision
Speeding 11-15	Nationwide	$150	Eula, 34 Laurens, SC	• 50,000/100,000 Liability • Comp / Collision
Speeding 16-20	Safeco	$176	Abbie, 44 Spartanburg, SC	• 50,000/100,000 Liability • Comp / Collision

Last Updated Sep 16, 2024

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Cheapest auto insurance in South Carolina after a DUI

DUIs are one of the most serious moving violations in South Carolina. If your driving record includes a

DUI violation

, you’ll surely face higher than average car insurance premiums from most companies. To find the most affordable rates after a DUI, you’ll need to compare quotes from several providers.

Following a DUI, Jerry has helped many drivers find affordable auto insurance rates with our handy car insurance rate comparison tool.

Progressive

Eric (25 years old)

DUI

Coverage

50,000 per person

100,000 per accident bodily injury

Comp / Collision

Easley, SC

Toyota Camry

$171

per month

Travelers

Mable (34 years old)

DUI

Coverage

State Minimum

Rock Hill, SC

Honda Civic LX

$107

per month

Nationwide

Jeremy (39 years old)

DUI

Coverage

50,000 per person

100,000 per accident bodily injury

Comp / Collision

Summerville, SC

Dodge RAM 1500

$114

per month

Safeco

Virginia (34 years old)

DUI

Coverage

100,000 per person

300,000 per accident bodily injury

Comp / Collision

Charleston, SC

Hyundai Sonata GLS

$186

per month

Bristol West

Ollie (47 years old)

DUI

Coverage

State Minimum

Latta, SC

Chevrolet Tahoe K1500

$290

per month

State Auto

Charlotte (32 years old)

DUI

Coverage

State Minimum

Abbeville, SC

Dodge Durango ST

$129

per month

South Carolina SR-22 insurance

High risk drivers with DUIs and other serious violations are typically required to fulfill a legal requirement known as an SR-22 filing. An SR-22 is a certificate of financial responsibility, confirming that you’ve purchased the appropriate coverage levels required by South Carolina law.

If you’ve had numerous at-fault accidents, were caught driving without insurance, or if you have a history of

reckless driving

, you may be required to file an SR-22 in South Carolina.

Cheapest South Carolina auto Insurance after an at-fault accident

Your

car accident

or claims history can impact your car insurance rates, and it typically takes a while for your premiums to return to normal after a violation.

Insurance providers assess your history of accident with special focus on your at-fault collisions to determine your level of risk. High risk drivers with more than one at-fault accident will generally see the sharpest increase in their rates.

Accident Type	Insurance Company	Premium (monthly)	Customer	Insurance Coverage
At Fault With Injury	Progressive	$364	Lela, 28 Ladson, SC	• 50,000/100,000 Liability • Comp / Collision
At Fault With No Injury	Allstate	$243	Eula, 32 Chappells, SC	• 50,000/100,000 Liability • Comp / Collision
Not At Fault	Allstate	$161	Antonio, 40 North Charleston, SC	• State Minimum Liability
At Fault With No Injury	Allstate	$190	Calvin, 34 Greenville, SC	• 100,000/300,000 Liability • Comp / Collision
At Fault With Injury	Gainsco	$137	Christine, 31 Easley, SC	• State Minimum Liability

Last Updated Sep 18, 2024

FAQ

Is South Carolina an at-fault state?

Yes, South Carolina is an at-fault state.

While drivers are legally required to purchase liability coverage and uninsured motorist coverage, other forms of coverage like medical payments coverage (MedPay) and collision coverage are not required. This is because the at-fault driver’s insurance will pay for the not-at-fault party’s injuries and property damage.

Although MedPay and collision coverage are not mandatory, they’re still a good idea. MedPay can pay for things that liability insurance can’t, like personal medical expenses. Additionally, collision coverage will cover repairs even if you’re found at-fault.

The bottom line: Opt for MedPay and collision coverage for added protection—they’ll come in handy if you’re ever found at fault for an accident.

Cheapest auto insurance after other violations in South Carolina

Reckless driving, driving on a suspended license, and

driving without insurance

can all lead to higher insurance rates in South Carolina.

Here’s a list of various driving violations and how we’ve helped drivers save on their car insurance, even with these infractions on their driver profiles.

Violation	Insurance Company	Premium (monthly)	Customer	Car	Insurance Coverage
Careless Driving	Progressive	$137	Harry, 29 Florence, SC	GMC Yukon	• State Minimum Liability • Comp / Collision
Defective Equipment	Safeco	$103	Joel, 27 Allendale, SC	Honda Accord LX	• State Minimum Liability
Driving on Sus. License	Nationwide	$114	Jackson, 38 Summerville, SC	Dodge RAM 1500	• 50,000/100,000 Liability • Comp / Collision
DUI	Travelers	$141	Robert, 27 Cayce, SC	Ford Fusion Titanium	• 50,000/100,000 Liability • Comp / Collision
Eluding Police	National General	$436	Iva, 34 North Charleston, SC	Ford Mustang	• State Minimum Liability • Comp / Collision
Failure to Obey Signal	Infinity	$265	Claudia, 27 Mount Pleasant, SC	Mercedes-Benz GLC 300	• 10,000/20,000 Liability
Illegal Turn	Allstate	$462	Georgie, 25 Travelers Rest, SC	RAM 1500 Laramie	• 50,000/100,000 Liability • Comp / Collision
Improper Passing	National General	$134	Ollie, 26 Spartanburg, SC	Chevrolet Colorado	• State Minimum Liability
Leaving scene of an Accident/Hit and Run	Progressive	$93	Madge, 45 Charleston, SC	Toyota Corolla	• State Minimum Liability
Open Container	State Auto	$114	Florence, 54 Columbia, SC	Mazda 3 i	• State Minimum Liability • Comp / Collision
Passing School Bus	Assurance America	$260	Emilie, 35 Piedmont, SC	Cadillac SRX Luxury Collection	• State Minimum Liability • Comp / Collision
Reckless Driving	Bristol West	$376	Roy, 47 Blenheim, SC	Buick Rainier CXL	• State Minimum Liability
Seat Belt	Gainsco	$260	Wesley, 28 Kingstree, SC	Dodge Durango SXT	• State Minimum Liability
Speeding 16-20	Nationwide	$150	Douglas, 34 Laurens, SC	Hyundai Sonata SE	• 50,000/100,000 Liability • Comp / Collision
Speeding Violation-Minor	Mercury	$150	Barry, 28 Florence, SC	GMC Yukon	• State Minimum Liability
Suspension	Travelers	$113	Agnes, 51 Mullins, SC	Hyundai Santa FE GLS	• 50,000/100,000 Liability • Comp / Collision
Unsafe Operation of a Motor Vehicle	AAA	$351	Edwin, 59 Columbia, SC	Lincoln MKS	• State Minimum Liability • Comp / Collision

Last Updated Sep 18, 2024

Cheapest South Carolina auto insurance based on insurance history

Your insurance history refers to whether you’ve maintained insurance coverage over time. If providers notice a period in which you were not insured, your risk level increases. For this reason, any

lapse in your insurance coverage

can lead to higher car insurance rates.

Jerry sends helpful payment reminders to eligible customers to help them avoid late payments and coverage lapses. With the help of Jerry, you can be sure that your insurance provider views you as a low-risk policyholder.

Jerry has also helped uninsured customers or drivers with coverage lapses find savings on their new policies.

Progressive

Warren (28 years old)

Currently Insured

Coverage

State Minimum

Sumter, SC

Chevrolet Colorado

$364

per month

Travelers

Shawn (31 years old)

Not Currently Insured

Coverage

100,000 per person

300,000 per accident bodily injury

Comp / Collision

Fort Mill, SC

Honda Civic Sport

$207

per month

Travelers

Lida (27 years old)

Currently Insured

Coverage

50,000 per person

100,000 per accident bodily injury

Comp / Collision

Greenville, SC

Toyota Camry L

$117

per month

Travelers

Clifford (45 years old)

Not Currently Insured

Coverage

State Minimum

North Charleston, SC

KIA Optima LX

$194

per month

Bristol West

Terry (58 years old)

Currently Insured

Coverage

50,000 per person

100,000 per accident bodily injury

Myrtle Beach, SC

Buick Regal LS

$155

per month

State Auto

Jorge (34 years old)

Not Currently Insured

Coverage

100,000 per person

300,000 per accident bodily injury

Comp / Collision

Greenville, SC

Nissan Altima 2.5

$272

per month

Cheapest car insurance for drivers with poor credit

Most auto insurance companies use credit scores as an indicator of riskiness. Drivers with poor credit scores are typically quoted higher than those with good credit scores. This is because drivers with low credit scores are more likely to file claims.

Jerry’s data shows that average car insurance rates are 20% lower for individuals with a high credit score (over 750) than for drivers with lower credit scores (under 550).

Credit Range	Insurance Company	Premium (monthly)	Customer	Car	Insurance Coverage
> 750	Progressive	$120	Gertrude, 62 Spartanburg, SC	Ford F450 Super Duty	• 50,000/100,000 Liability • Comp / Collision
660 - 750	Safeco	$170	Derek, 46 Hanahan, SC	Ford Edge Titanium	• 100,000/300,000 Liability • Comp / Collision
550 - 659	Allstate	$243	Bernard, 32 Chappells, SC	Chevrolet Malibu 1LT	• 50,000/100,000 Liability • Comp / Collision
< 550	Safeco	$67	Max, 64 Seneca, SC	Ford Escape XLT	• State Minimum Liability • Comp / Collision

Last Updated Sep 19, 2024

Cheapest South Carolina car insurance by age

Your driving experience impacts the level of risk you pose to your insurance provider. Typically, young people or

new drivers

with limited driving experience pay more for insurance until they’re approximately 25. Car insurance rates remain steady for experienced drivers over 25 with clean records, but premiums can begin to rise again for seniors in their mid-70s.

Cheapest South Carolina car insurance for young drivers

Young drivers between the ages of 16 to 24 can expect the highest insurance rates out of all age groups in South Carolina. Teen drivers are considered especially risky and typically pay the highest for minimum liability coverage.

Since they are more likely to get into accidents, teen drivers should opt for full coverage insurance, especially if they drive a newer vehicle. The added financial protection will offer peace of mind.

Nationwide

Melvin (23 years old)

Coverage

State Minimum

West Columbia, SC

Ford Mustang

$421

per month

Travelers

David (23 years old)

Coverage

50,000 per person

100,000 per accident bodily injury

Comp / Collision

Columbia, SC

Chevrolet Sonic Premier

$257

per month

Safeco

Harriet (24 years old)

Coverage

100,000 per person

300,000 per accident bodily injury

Comp / Collision

Myrtle Beach, SC

Honda Civic EX

$192

per month

Allstate

Kathryn (22 years old)

Coverage

50,000 per person

100,000 per accident bodily injury

Comp / Collision

Anderson, SC

KIA RIO LX

$242

per month

Bristol West

Josie (23 years old)

Coverage

50,000 per person

100,000 per accident bodily injury

Comp / Collision

Goose Creek, SC

Nissan Altima 2.5

$656

per month

State Auto

Eugenia (23 years old)

Coverage

State Minimum

Duncan, SC

Honda Civic LX

$151

per month

Cheapest South Carolina car insurance for senior drivers

Senior drivers

are at a higher risk of accidents that result in serious injuries with hefty medical bills. Due to the added risk of financial liability, drivers tend to face higher insurance rates once they reach their mid-70s.

Travelers

Alma (68 years old)

Coverage

50,000 per person

100,000 per accident bodily injury

Comp / Collision

Liberty, SC

Chevrolet Spark 1LT

$96

per month

Nationwide

Betty (75 years old)

Coverage

100,000 per person

300,000 per accident bodily injury

Comp / Collision

Bluffton, SC

Honda CR-V LX

$61

per month

Safeco

Catherine (69 years old)

Coverage

State Minimum

Murrells Inlet, SC

GMC Sierra K1500 SLT

$175

per month

Allstate

Dominic (66 years old)

Coverage

250,000 per person

500,000 per accident bodily injury

Comp / Collision

Elgin, SC

Lexus RX 350

$149

per month

Gainsco

Cory (70 years old)

Coverage

State Minimum

Waterloo, SC

KIA RIO LX

$407

per month

State Auto

Bernard (68 years old)

Coverage

50,000 per person

100,000 per accident bodily injury

Columbia, SC

Cadillac DTS

$75

per month

Over 3,500,000 customers and counting

We’ve earned an App Store rating of 4.7 stars for all we do to make car ownership easier.

I had an excellent experience with my agent Stephanie Saverance.

Shanika

So far everything is good

George

Amazing

Natasha

The cheapest I have found

Amy

Cheapest car insurance for popular cars

Your car insurance premiums are based on the type of car you drive as well as your personal demographics. There are different expenses associated with each vehicle, and the cost of repairs or replacement, the chances of theft, and your vehicle’s safety features will all play a part in your car insurance rate.

Popular car models for South Carolinians include:

Honda CR-V

Toyota RAV4

Ford F-Series

Ram 1500/2500/3500

Chevrolet Silverado

Popular Car	Insurance Company	Premium (monthly)	Customer	Insurance Coverage
Toyota RAV4 Limited	Progressive	$89	Franklin, 60 Goose Creek, SC	• 50,000/100,000 Liability • Comp / Collision
RAM 1500 BIG Horn/lone Star	Allstate	$441	Abbie, 29 Summerville, SC	• 50,000/100,000 Liability • Comp / Collision

Last Updated Sep 19, 2024

Car insurance cost for new vs. old car

No matter where you live, newer vehicles generally cost more to insure than older vehicles. On average, vehicles older than 10 years cost around $2,094 per year to insure in South Carolina.

Progressive

Robert (53 years old)

2003 Ford Taurus SEL

Coverage

State Minimum

Hemingway, SC

$79

per month

Safeco

Henrietta (45 years old)

2004 Toyota Tundra Double Cab SR5

Coverage

50,000 per person

100,000 per accident bodily injury

Fort Mill, SC

$61

per month

Nationwide

Mina (75 years old)

2002 Honda CR-V LX

Coverage

100,000 per person

300,000 per accident bodily injury

Comp / Collision

Bluffton, SC

$61

per month

National General

Wesley (35 years old)

2005 Honda CR-V EX

Coverage

50,000 per person

100,000 per accident bodily injury

Comp / Collision

Florence, SC

$213

per month

State Auto

Harry (25 years old)

2004 Chevrolet Tahoe K1500

Coverage

100,000 per person

300,000 per accident bodily injury

North Charleston, SC

$150

per month

Gainsco

Edward (29 years old)

2004 Honda Accord LX

Coverage

State Minimum

Pageland, SC

$289

per month

South Carolina cheapest car insurance by location

Amongst the other important factors that influence your car insurance rate, insurance providers also consider where you keep your car.

If you live in a high-population city, your rates will likely be higher than someone who lives in a rural neighborhood. The traffic frequency, accident rates, crime rates, and weather patterns of your city or town can all affect your insurance costs. Even different ZIP codes within the same city can have an impact.

Browse the table below to see how Jerry has helped drivers in different South Carolina cities with their insurance rates.

City	Customer	Insurance Company	Premium (monthly)	Car	Insurance coverage
Florence, SC	Frank, 41	Progressive	$129	Dodge RAM 1500 ST	• State Minimum Liability • Comp / Collision
Rock Hill, SC	Ora, 54	Allstate	$148	Honda Pilot LX	• 50,000/100,000 Liability • Comp / Collision
Fort Mill, SC	Kathryn, 48	Travelers	$84	Toyota Highlander SE	• 100,000/300,000 Liability • Comp / Collision
Simpsonville, SC	Eunice, 36	Safeco	$226	Nissan Altima 2.5	• State Minimum Liability • Comp / Collision
Beaufort, SC	Floyd, 39	Nationwide	$77	Honda CR-V EXL	• 50,000/100,000 Liability • Comp / Collision
Clinton, SC	Chase, 37	National General	$225	Hyundai Sonata ECO	• State Minimum Liability • Comp / Collision
Orangeburg, SC	Sue, 51	Bristol West	$268	Hyundai Sonata ECO	• State Minimum Liability • Comp / Collision
Aiken, SC	Sue, 49	Gainsco	$211	KIA Forte	• State Minimum Liability
West Columbia, SC	Blanche, 37	Dairyland	$413	Hyundai Santa FE Sport	• State Minimum Liability • Comp / Collision
Ladson, SC	Eva, 28	Assurance America	$193	Ford Escape Limited	• State Minimum Liability
Florence, SC	Louis, 36	The General	$189	Honda Accord EX	• State Minimum Liability

Last Updated Sep 17, 2024

How to lower car insurance costs in South Carolina

There are a few common ways to lower your car insurance costs. Here are the top recommendations from Jerry’s team of licensed insurance agents:

Research different providers and compare quotes.

Bundle different insurance products (i.e. car insurance, homeowners insurance, rental insurance) for a multi-policy discount.

Ask your provider about your eligibility for insurance

discounts

, such as good student discounts, good driver discounts, loyalty discounts, defensive driving discounts, low mileage discounts, and discounts for vehicle anti theft devices and safety technology.

Increase your deductible for your comprehensive and collision coverage.

Improve your credit score.

Take a defensive driving course (discounts may apply).

Think about removing collision and comprehensive coverage on older cars.

Why car insurance is so expensive in South Carolina

Car insurance in South Carolina may be expensive due to:

Populous cities, more drivers: South Carolina is made up of over 5 million residents, not to mention hundreds of daily tourists who keep the roads busy.

Uninsured drivers: South Carolina is ranked #28 for uninsured drivers in the country.

High cost of auto parts and repairs: Vehicle repairs, auto parts, and general new car prices are on the rise.

Expensive healthcare: The national costs and state average for health care in South Carolina are steadily increasing.

Highway density: Major highways and state roads remain packed as population increases.

FAQs

How much is car insurance in South Carolina?

Car insurance rates vary from person to person and company to company in South Carolina. Each company uses a specific formula to calculate rates for each driver, so your quote from one company may be drastically different from other companies. To find the best car insurance rate, you should shop around and compare quotes from different providers.

What is the average cost of car insurance In South Carolina?

The average car insurance cost for minimum liability and uninsured motorist coverage in South Carolina is $ per month and $ per year. The average cost for full coverage insurance in South Carolina is $ per month and $ per year.

Why is car insurance so expensive in South Carolina?

Car insurance rates in South Carolina are typically higher than other states since uninsured motorist coverage is mandatory on top of regular liability coverage.

Who has the best cheap car insurance in South Carolina?

After surveying 15,000 car insurance policyholders, Jerry found that there isn’t a specific company that offers the best insurance rates to every driver.

To find cheap car insurance in South Carolina, use a car insurance comparison app or website to compare car insurance quotes from different insurance providers.

What is the minimum car insurance required in South Carolina?

South Carolina has a 25/50/25 rule for minimum liability coverage with equal rates mandated for uninsured motorist coverage. South Carolina’s minimum requirements include $25,000 per person for bodily injury liability, $50,000 of bodily injury liability per accident, and $25,000 of property damage liability per accident.

Do you need car insurance in South Carolina?

Yes, you need car insurance in South Carolina. South Carolina drivers are legally required to carry car insurance including the state’s minimum liability and uninsured motorist coverage.

Do you need insurance to register a car in South Carolina?

Yes, you must provide proof of insurance the first time you register a vehicle in South Carolina and every time you renew. If you do not have insurance, your registration and license may be suspended.

Can your car get towed for no insurance in South Carolina?

Your vehicle likely won’t get towed, but if you’re caught without insurance in South Carolina, your license plates and vehicle registration will be confiscated.

Does insurance follow the car or the driver in South Carolina?

In South Carolina, liability coverage and uninsured motorist coverage follow the car. Collision coverage and comprehensive coverage also follow the vehicle, but medical payments coverage follows the individual.

If you allow someone to borrow your vehicle in South Carolina, the vehicle will be covered by your liability and uninsured motorist coverage. The borrower will not be covered by your medical payments coverage if you have it.

What does full coverage car insurance consist of in South Carolina?

In South Carolina, full coverage car insurance includes the state’s minimum liability and uninsured motorist coverage, which offers 25/50/25 coverage for both, and comprehensive coverage and collision coverage.

Can you have out of state car insurance in South Carolina?

In general, your car insurance policy will cover you when you drive in all 50 states and Canada.

If you are a resident of South Carolina, your car insurance must be administered through an insurance company registered to South Carolina. You will not be able to register your vehicle, renew registration, receive a driver’s license, or renew your driver’s license in South Carolina with out of state insurance.

Is PIP required in South Carolina?

PIP is not required in South Carolina. Residents of South Carolina have the option to add medical payments coverage to their car insurance policy, although this coverage does not pay for lost wages or essential expenses.

Can you have both PIP and MedPay in South Carolina?

Insurance companies do not offer PIP in South Carolina. Instead, they offer medical payments coverage or MedPay. Unlike PIP, MedPay does not cover lost wages or essential expenses. Instead, MedPay exclusively pays for medical expenses directly resulting from an accident.

Why does every driver in South Carolina have to have insurance to drive?

South Carolina law mandates minimum car insurance limits to protect you and other drivers on the road in case of an accident.

How long can you drive without insurance after buying a car in SC?

South Carolina drivers are typically granted a two to 30 day grace period before they must get car insurance for a new vehicle. To be sure of your grace period, contact your insurance provider.

Methodology

The Insurance Research Team analyzes insurance products and services to drive insights and help consumers make informed purchase decisions.

Insurance research: We analyzed over 25 million car insurance quotes; conducted the largest insurance shopping survey (over 15,000 customers surveyed and 85 carriers reviewed in the past 18 months).

We surveyed insurance policyholders for their experience with their insurers in the following areas: (1) insurance cost (2) customer service (3) insurance buying experience (4) insurance renewal experience (5) claim experience. In addition, we asked people what they like about their insurers and what areas in which their insurers could improve. The driver characteristics used in calculating average rates for auto insurance include: single driver, single car, currently insured, clean driving record.

For the quotes and sold policies included in this article, please note that personal information has been hidden. Not all customers find savings.

Team: The team consists of licensed insurance agents, insurance industry veterans, and data scientists.

Meet our Experts

R.E. Fulton

Licensed Insurance Agent —Senior Content Writer

R.E. Fulton is an expert insurance writer specializing in car ownership topics from car shopping and loan advice to insurance and repair guides. R.E.’s mission is to create unique and accessible content that helps readers to become more successful and independent car owners. R.E. has written and edited over 900 high-performing articles for Jerry, with an average of 1 million+ views.

As a senior writer on Jerry’s editorial team, R.E. draws on over 10 years of experience as a professional writer and digital publishing specialist. Prior to joining Jerry’s editorial team in 2021, R.E. worked as a writing coach at Columbia University, the Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT), and the University of Rochester. They serve as a managing editor for peer-reviewed history publication Nursing Clio, where their work has appeared regularly since 2015.

Lina Zhang

Licensed Insurance Agent

Licensed in 50 states and Washington DC

Lina Zhang is Vice President of Operations at Jerry. She helped to found Jerry in order to take the confusion and mystery expenses out of car ownership and help drivers achieve financial success. Leading a global team responsible for operations, talent acquisition, legal, and content, Lina has been a key contributor to the AllCar™ app’s 10x growth in its first year of operation. Prior to Jerry, Lina and her Jerry co-founders, Art Agrawal and Musawir Shah, created YourMechanic, the largest on-demand car repair services provider. In one year, Lina built and scaled YourMechanic operations from just five markets to more than 50. The trio left YourMechanic to incubate Jerry at Y Combinator in 2017. Lina’s previous roles include intellectual property attorney at Morrison & Foerster LLP and a biomedical researcher at Stanford University.

Josh Damico

Head Of Insurance Operations

18+ Years Experience in Insurance

Josh Damico is Jerry’s vice president of insurance operations and a licensed insurance professional with nearly two decades of experience in the industry. Previously, Josh held executive roles at Geico, where he had vast regional oversight and leadership opportunities. He holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration and management from Medaille College, and has appeared on news channels including FOX and CBS to offer insurance expertise and tips to drivers across the country. His work has appeared in Business Insider, Kelley Blue Book, and Digital Insurance and been quoted in The Balance, GOBankingRates, and Inspiring Workplaces.

Learn more

about our editorial standards, and our expert review board

*Illustration only. For all the pricing information presented in this article (including various tables), please note that not all customers find savings and the information is for illustrative purposes only. Savings depend on type of car, location, policy features, driving history and other factors. Drivers who switch through Jerry save over $70/month on average.