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Compare & Find the Cheapest Car Insurance in South Carolina (Jan 2025)
Compare & Find the Cheapest Car Insurance in South Carolina (Jan 2025)
Compare 50+ top insurance companies including Progressive, Travelers, AAA, Nationwide (and more!) to find the best and cheapest car insurance in South Carolina.
Find Insurance Savings
No long forms
No spam or unwanted calls
Quotes from top insurance companies
R.E. Fulton
Expert Insurance Writer and Editor
Reviewed by Josh Damico, Head of Insurance Operations
Edited by Lina Zhang, Lisenced Insurance Agent
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 High-Risk South Carolina Drivers
- Car Insurance for South Carolina Drivers With DUI
- Car Insurance for South Carolina Drivers With a Coverage Lapse
- Car Insurance for South Carolina Drivers With a Low Credit Score
- South Carolina Car Insurance Cost by Age
- Cheapest car insurance for popular cars
- South Carolina cheapest car insurance by location
- How to lower car insurance costs in South Carolina
- FAQs
- Methodology
- Meet our Experts
Load full table of contents
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.| Date | Insurance Company | Premium (monthly) | Customer | Car | Insurance Coverage |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
January 29, 2025 | Progressive | $212 | Max, 38 | Chevrolet Cruze LS | • 50,000/100,000 Liability • Comp / Collision |
January 23, 2025 | Allstate | $239 | Luis, 46 | BMW 430i | • 100,000/300,000 Liability • Comp / Collision |
January 22, 2025 | Travelers | $78 | Connor, 50 | Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Sahara | • 50,000/100,000 Liability • Comp / Collision |
January 18, 2025 | Nationwide | $130 | Jeanette, 26 | Honda Civic EX | • State Minimum Liability • Comp / Collision |
January 15, 2025 | Safeco | $138 | Fannie, 39 | Toyota 4runner Sport ED | • State Minimum Liability |
Last Updated Jan 29, 2025Cheapest 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 | City | Cost rating (out of 5) | What our customer said: |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Progressive | January 29, 2025 | Piedmont, SC | 5 | "Progressive has good rates and we have had to use their app to request tow service and they were very helpful." -Bernard |
| Allstate | January 23, 2025 | Gaston, SC | 5 | "We’ve loved working with Allstate. Great customer service and prices " -Shawn |
| Nationwide | January 23, 2025 | Myrtle Beach, SC | 3 | "The only issue has been the length of time for towing service and was told no provider in my area and was looking out...(read more)" -Lina |
| Nationwide | January 20, 2025 | Lake City, SC | 4 | "They’re great and very helpful with everything " -Emily |
| Nationwide | January 17, 2025 | North Charleston, SC | 5 | "Nationwide has been good to me, offering me a competitive insurance payment!" -Maggie |
Last Updated Jan 29, 2025
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.
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.
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.
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 | Allstate | $150 | Scott, 47 | Honda Accord Sport |
• 50,000/100,000 Liability • Comp / Collision | Travelers | $78 | Connor, 50 | Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Sahara |
• 100,000/300,000 Liability • Comp / Collision | Nationwide | $61 | Jesus, 75 | Honda CR-V LX |
• 15,000/30,000 Liability • Comp / Collision | AAA | $145 | Shawn, 39 | GMC Canyon AT4 |
• 50,000/100,000 Liability • Comp / Collision | State Auto | $156 | Don, 34 | Nissan Pathfinder LE |
Last Updated Jan 27, 2025Average 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 $ per month or $ per year. The average cost of full coverage insurance in South Carolina is $ per month or $ per year.
| Insurance coverage | Average insurance cost (monthly) | Average insurance cost (yearly) |
|---|---|---|
State minimum coverage | $136 | $1,630 |
Full coverage | $151 | $1,813 |
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. In South Carolina, insurance premiums for minimum liability and uninsured motorist coverage start at around $ per month, while full coverage policies cost around $ per month. These prices can go up by hundreds of dollars depending on your customer profile.
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:
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.
How Do Different Factors Impact Your Car Insurance Costs in South Carolina?
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 about 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 | Allen, 39 | • State Minimum Liability • Comp / Collision |
Speeding 6-10 | Safeco | $135 | Dominic, 30 | • State Minimum Liability • Comp / Collision |
Speeding 11-15 | Nationwide | $150 | Cora, 34 | • 50,000/100,000 Liability • Comp / Collision |
Speeding 16-20 | Allstate | $282 | Blake, 35 | • State Minimum Liability • Comp / Collision |
Speeding 21+ | Gainsco | $225 | Paul, 60 | • State Minimum Liability |
Last Updated Jan 28, 2025Over 4,000,000 customers and counting
We love saving our customers money. Turns out, they love it too! Here's what they have to say about their switch with Jerry:
Know problem with them, Great Company.
Dorothy
Good company
April
Good
Shalyn
They always are very responsive when I have any questions and are reasonably priced
Austin
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.
Isaac (25 years old)
DUI
Coverage50,000 per person
100,000 per accident bodily injury
Comp / Collision
$171
per month
Luella (33 years old)
DUI
Coverage100,000 per person
300,000 per accident bodily injury
Comp / Collision
$162
per month
Bristol West
Mae (31 years old)
$635
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.
Check out the table below for a closer look at car insurance rates for South Carolina drivers after car accidents.
| Accident Type | Insurance Company | Premium (monthly) | Customer | Insurance Coverage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
At Fault With Injury | Progressive | $364 | Charlie, 28 | • 50,000/100,000 Liability • Comp / Collision |
At Fault With No Injury | Allstate | $243 | Lillie, 32 Chappells, SC | • 50,000/100,000 Liability • Comp / Collision |
Not At Fault | Allstate | $161 | Myra, 40 | • State Minimum Liability |
At Fault With No Injury | Nationwide | $61 | Cynthia, 74 | • 100,000/300,000 Liability • Comp / Collision |
At Fault With Injury | State Auto | $80 | Travis, 48 Liberty, SC | • State Minimum Liability |
Last Updated Jan 25, 2025FAQ
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 | Estelle, 29 | GMC Yukon | • State Minimum Liability • Comp / Collision |
Defective Equipment | Safeco | $103 | Lucille, 27 Allendale, SC | Honda Accord LX | • State Minimum Liability |
Driving on Sus. License | Nationwide | $114 | Dale, 38 | Dodge RAM 1500 | • 50,000/100,000 Liability • Comp / Collision |
DUI | Travelers | $141 | Elmer, 27 | Ford Fusion Titanium | • 50,000/100,000 Liability • Comp / Collision |
Eluding Police | National General | $436 | Bess, 34 | Ford Mustang | • State Minimum Liability • Comp / Collision |
Failure to Yield | Gainsco | $345 | Fred, 25 | Dodge Charger SXT | • State Minimum Liability |
Illegal Turn | Allstate | $462 | Annie, 25 | RAM 1500 Laramie | • 50,000/100,000 Liability • Comp / Collision |
Improper Passing | National General | $134 | Harold, 26 | Chevrolet Colorado | • State Minimum Liability |
Leaving scene of an Accident/Hit and Run | Progressive | $93 | Lucile, 45 | Toyota Corolla | • State Minimum Liability |
Open Container | Gainsco | $546 | Louisa, 25 Awendaw, SC | Ford Fusion SE | • State Minimum Liability |
Reckless Driving | State Auto | $78 | Hattie, 34 | Pontiac G6 | • State Minimum Liability |
Seat Belt | Bristol West | $206 | Elva, 30 | Nissan Versa S | • State Minimum Liability |
Speeding 16-20 | Nationwide | $150 | Clifford, 34 | Hyundai Sonata SE | • 50,000/100,000 Liability • Comp / Collision |
Speeding 6-10 | Safeco | $135 | Mamie, 30 | GMC Sierra K1500 AT4 | • State Minimum Liability • Comp / Collision |
Suspension | Plymouth Rock | $230 | Lily, 31 | Nissan Juke S | • 100,000/300,000 Liability • Comp / Collision |
Other Minor | Travelers | $196 | Logan, 40 | KIA Forte FE | • 50,000/100,000 Liability • Comp / Collision |
Last Updated Jan 30, 2025Cheapest 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.
Walter (28 years old)
$364
per month
Travelers
Chase (31 years old)
Not Currently Insured
Coverage100,000 per person
300,000 per accident bodily injury
Comp / Collision
$207
per month
Travelers
Mollie (27 years old)
Currently Insured
Coverage50,000 per person
100,000 per accident bodily injury
Comp / Collision
$117
per month
Travelers
Chris (45 years old)
$194
per month
Mercury
Rachel (35 years old)
Currently Insured
Coverage50,000 per person
100,000 per accident bodily injury
Comp / Collision
$116
per month
State Auto
Annie (34 years old)
Not Currently Insured
Coverage100,000 per person
300,000 per accident bodily injury
Comp / Collision
$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).
The table below highlights car insurance rates for South Carolina drivers with different credit scores.
| Credit Range | Insurance Company | Premium (monthly) | Customer | Car | Insurance Coverage |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
> 750 | Progressive | $120 | Victoria, 62 | Ford F450 Super Duty | • 50,000/100,000 Liability • Comp / Collision |
660 - 750 | Safeco | $76 | Francisco, 30 | Honda CR-V EX | • State Minimum Liability |
550 - 659 | Allstate | $243 | Nina, 32 Chappells, SC | Chevrolet Malibu 1LT | • 50,000/100,000 Liability • Comp / Collision |
< 550 | Allstate | $156 | Alma, 27 | Ford Focus ZX4 | • State Minimum Liability |
Last Updated Jan 25, 2025Cheapest 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.
Travelers
Agnes (23 years old)
Coverage50,000 per person
100,000 per accident bodily injury
Comp / Collision
$257
per month
Safeco
Adele (24 years old)
Coverage100,000 per person
300,000 per accident bodily injury
Comp / Collision
$192
per month
National General
Calvin (23 years old)
Coverage50,000 per person
100,000 per accident bodily injury
Comp / Collision
$504
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.Emilie (65 years old)
Coverage50,000 per person
100,000 per accident bodily injury
Comp / Collision
$77
per month
Safeco
Lula (69 years old)
Coverage100,000 per person
300,000 per accident bodily injury
Comp / Collision
$132
per month
Travelers
Victor (75 years old)
Coverage100,000 per person
300,000 per accident bodily injury
Comp / Collision
$125
per month
State Auto
Maggie (68 years old)
$75
per month
Plymouth Rock
Travis (77 years old)
Coverage15,000 per person
30,000 per accident bodily injury
Comp / Collision
$80
per month
Over 4,000,000 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
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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 Silverad
| Popular Car | Insurance Company | Premium (monthly) | Customer | Insurance Coverage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Toyota RAV4 Limited | Progressive | $89 | Gerald, 60 | • 50,000/100,000 Liability • Comp / Collision |
Last Updated Jan 26, 2025Car 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 $2,668 per year to insure in South Carolina.
Mattie (26 years old)
2005 Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited
Coverage50,000 per person
100,000 per accident bodily injury
Comp / Collision
$222
per month
Lina (75 years old)
2002 Honda CR-V LX
Coverage100,000 per person
300,000 per accident bodily injury
Comp / Collision
$61
per month
Travelers
Daniel (44 years old)
$180
per month
National General
Benjamin (35 years old)
2005 Honda CR-V EX
Coverage50,000 per person
100,000 per accident bodily injury
Comp / Collision
$213
per month
State Auto
Millie (25 years old)
Coverage100,000 per person
300,000 per accident bodily injury
$150
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hilton Head Island, SC | Victoria, 43 | Progressive | $70 | Nissan Altima 2.5 | • 250,000/500,000 Liability • Comp / Collision |
| Greenville, SC | Landon, 39 | Safeco | $138 | Toyota 4runner Sport ED | • State Minimum Liability |
| Charleston, SC | Johnny, 32 | Allstate | $233 | Audi S4 Premium Plus | • 50,000/100,000 Liability • Comp / Collision |
| Summerville, SC | Beulah, 39 | AAA | $145 | GMC Canyon AT4 | • 15,000/30,000 Liability • Comp / Collision |
| Lexington, SC | Bruce, 38 | National General | $232 | KIA Optima EX | • State Minimum Liability |
| Spartanburg, SC | Sam, 23 | Bristol West | $627 | Jeep Compass Limited | • State Minimum Liability • Comp / Collision |
| Columbia, SC | Jesus, 35 | Gainsco | $677 | Chevrolet Equinox LT | • State Minimum Liability • Comp / Collision |
| Greenwood, SC | Bertie, 39 | Assurance America | $154 | Nissan Sentra S | • State Minimum Liability • Comp / Collision |
| Charleston, SC | Elizabeth, 29 | Dairyland | $430 | Chevrolet Cruze LS | • 50,000/100,000 Liability • Comp / Collision |
Last Updated Jan 30, 2025How 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 insurancediscounts, 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.
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.
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 $216 per month and $2,590 per year. The average cost for full coverage insurance in South Carolina is $371 per month and $4,451 per year.
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
Expert Insurance Writer and Editor
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
15 Years Working in Insurance
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 Jerry’s rapid growth.
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. Before founding YourMechanic, Lina served as an intellectual property attorney at Morrison & Foerster LLP and a postdoctoral biomedical researcher at Stanford University.
Lina is a member of the State Bar of California, and a licensed property and casualty insurance broker in all 50 states and Washington, D.C.
Josh Damico
Head Of Insurance Operations
18+ Years Experience in Insurance
Josh Damico is Jerry’s Vice President Insurance Operations and a licensed insurance professional with 18 years of experience in the industry. Previously, Josh worked for 14 years at GEICO, most recently as Director of Insurance Sales, Service, and Underwriting in the Buffalo, New York region, where he doubled the size of the team to 950+ licensed associates. Josh Damico is a licensed insurance agent in 48 states. Josh has appeared on news channels like 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.
*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.