In South Carolina, full coverage car insurance averages $1,884 annually, while minimum coverage costs around $953 annually.
Your premium depends on age, coverage level, location, driving record, and credit history.
How Much Is Car Insurance in South Carolina? (December 2024)
Updated: December 19, 2024
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Key Takeaways
In South Carolina, the average annual cost of full coverage car insurance is $1,884, significantly higher than the national average of $1,370, making it essential for residents to shop around and compare quotes to find more affordable options in this pricier market.
In South Carolina, the average annual cost for minimum car insurance coverage is $953, which is lower than the national average, despite generally higher premiums in the state due to factors like weather risks and traffic density.
In South Carolina, American National P&C offers the most affordable full coverage car insurance at $701 annually, while Dairyland is the most expensive at $4,555 per year.
Why Trust MoneyGeek? We analyzed South Carolina auto insurance rates using data and information from the South Carolina Department of Insurance and Quadrant Information Services.
These rates reflect the average cost of car insurance in South Carolina as of December 2024.
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Average Car Insurance Costs in South Carolina
Full coverage auto insurance costs an average of $1,884 annually or roughly $157 monthly in South Carolina. Knowing these averages helps you gauge whether you're getting a good deal. Compare car insurance quotes to find the best rate for your needs.
The figures below are the potential costs for minimum and full coverage policies.
| 100/300/100 Full Cov. w/$1,000 Ded. | $1,884 | $157 |
| 100/300/100 Liability Only | $1,361 | $113 |
| State Minimum Liability Only | $953 | $79 |
Why Are Car Insurance Rates Moderate in South Carolina?
South Carolina's premiums are generally more expensive than the national average cost of car insurance. The average annual premium for full coverage with a $1,000 deductible is approximately $1,884, compared to the national average of $1,370 annually.
Higher rates in South Carolina are influenced by the state's coastal location, which increases the risk of natural disasters like hurricanes, the density of traffic, the rate of uninsured drivers, state-specific insurance laws, and the cost of medical care within the state.
Average Car Insurance Costs in South Carolina by Company
Car insurance premiums in South Carolina can vary widely between companies, even within the state. American National P&C offers an annual premium of $701 for drivers seeking the most affordable full coverage, while Dairyland is the most expensive at $4,555.
Compare car insurance quotes from various providers to find the cheapest car insurance in South Carolina for the best coverage based on your budget.
Data filtered by:Results filtered by:
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Coverage:Full Coverage
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Age Group:30-59
| American National P&C | $701 | $58 |
| South Carolina Farm Bureau | $890 | $74 |
| Auto-Owners Insurance Co | $1,006 | $84 |
| GEICO | $1,244 | $104 |
| Allstate | $1,479 | $123 |
| Progressive | $1,495 | $125 |
| American Family | $1,548 | $129 |
| State Farm | $1,769 | $147 |
| Travelers | $2,341 | $195 |
| Bristol West | $3,700 | $308 |
| Dairyland | $4,555 | $380 |
Average Car Insurance Costs in South Carolina by Coverage Level
The cost of car insurance in South Carolina is also influenced by the level of coverage selected. Minimum coverage costs around $79 monthly, while full coverage averages at $157 monthly. Although more expensive, full coverage is recommended as it provides comprehensive protection for various incidents.
Full coverage insurance not only includes state-required liability but also encompasses comprehensive and collision coverages, which, despite raising premiums, can be more affordable with higher deductibles.
Selecting higher deductibles may lower your premium as it means you agree to pay more out of pocket in the event of a claim. The deductible is specific to each comprehensive and collision coverage under your policy.
| State Minimum Liability Only | $953 | $79 |
| 100/300/100 Liability Only | $1,361 | $113 |
| State Minimum Liability w/ Full Cov. w/$500 Ded. | $1,594 | $133 |
| State Minimum Liability w/ Full Cov. w/$1,000 Ded. | $1,600 | $133 |
| 300/500/300 Liability Only | $1,645 | $137 |
| State Minimum Liability w/ Full Cov. w/$1,500 Ded. | $1,661 | $138 |
| 100/300/1000,000 - 500 comp_coll | $1,878 | $157 |
| 100/300/100 Full Cov. w/$1,000 Ded. | $1,884 | $157 |
| 100/300/100 Full Cov. w/$1,500 Ded. | $1,946 | $162 |
| 300/500/300 Full Cov. w/$500 Ded. | $2,030 | $169 |
| 300/500/300 Full Cov. w/$1,000 Ded | $2,036 | $170 |
| 300/500/300 Full Cov. w/$1,500 Ded. | $2,097 | $175 |
Minimum Car Insurance Requirements in South Carolina
In South Carolina, the minimum car insurance requirements are $25,000 for bodily injury per person, $50,000 for bodily injury per accident, $25,000 for property damage per accident and uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage matching the bodily injury liability limits.
$25,000 for bodily injury liability per person
In South Carolina, each driver must carry at least $25,000 coverage for bodily injury per person.
$50,000 for bodily injury liability per accident
State minimum car insurance requires $50,000 for all persons injured in one accident.
$25,000 for property damage liability per accident
Drivers are required to have a minimum of $25,000 for property damage per accident.
$25,000 uninsured motorist bodily injury per person
South Carolina law mandates $25,000 coverage for bodily injury per person caused by an uninsured motorist.
$50,000 uninsured motorist bodily injury per accident
A minimum of $50,000 is required for all persons injured by an uninsured motorist in a single accident.
$25,000 uninsured/underinsured property damage coverage
State minimum coverage includes $25,000 for property damage by an uninsured or underinsured driver.
Average Car Insurance Costs in South Carolina by City
Car insurance costs vary by location. In South Carolina, full coverage in Columbia averages $1,465 per year, whereas in North Charleston, it can reach $1,658 annually. Driving history, vehicle type, credit score, traffic volume and weather risks affect these rates.
| Charleston | $1,552 | $861 |
| Columbia | $1,465 | $801 |
| North Charleston | $1,658 | $894 |
Average Car Insurance Costs in South Carolina by Age
In South Carolina, drivers aged 22 to 29 pay the highest premiums at around $2,172 annually. Rates decrease to about $1,699 for those aged 60 and older. This trend reflects the insurers' risk assessment based on age and driving experience.
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Coverage:100/300/100 Full Cov. w/$1,000 Ded.
| 22-29 | $2,277 | $190 |
| 30-59 | $1,884 | $157 |
| 60 + | $1,792 | $149 |
Average Car Insurance Costs in South Carolina for Teens
Age and gender affect car insurance rates in South Carolina. Adding a boy to a family policy costs about $3,899 annually. Teens under 18 usually cannot buy insurance on their own, and if they do, their annual premiums can reach $6,524.
Average Car Insurance Costs in South Carolina for New Cars
Full coverage for a 2012 car costs about $1,651 annually, while for a 2022 model, it averages $1,905. Newer cars have higher actual cash values, repair costs and theft risks, leading to higher premiums.
Drivers with newer models should consider comprehensive and collision coverages for broader protection against theft, vandalism and accidents.
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Coverage:Full Coverage
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Age Group:30-59
| 2012 Vehicle | $1,651 | $138 |
| 2022 Vehicle | $1,905 | $159 |
ACTUAL CASH VALUE
Your vehicle's actual cash value (ACV) is the amount your insurance company uses to determine the payout for a comprehensive or collision claim. ACV accounts for depreciation and wear, reflecting the car's current market value. The insurance payment will be based on the ACV if your vehicle is totaled or stolen.
Average Car Insurance Costs in South Carolina by Driving Record
Car insurance costs in South Carolina vary based on your driving record:
- With a ticket: $2,418 per year; $201 per month
- With a DUI: $2,625 per year; $219 per month
- With an at-fault accident: $2,725 per year; $227 per month
The severity of driving violations impacts premiums, with DUIs generally causing a high increase. Violations can affect your insurance rates for several years, such as a DUI, which can remain on your record for years in South Carolina.
The table below shows the average costs for different driving records.
Data filtered by:Results filtered by:
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Coverage:100/300/100 Full Cov. w/$1,000 Ded.
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Age Group:30-59
| Clean | $1,884 | $157 |
| Ticket | $2,418 | $201 |
| DUI | $2,625 | $219 |
| At-fault Accident | $2,725 | $227 |
Average Car Insurance Costs in South Carolina by Credit Score
Car insurance premiums in South Carolina vary based on credit score, ranging from $1,034 annually for excellent credit to $2,174 for poor credit. A good credit score (670–739) generally results in lower premiums, while scores below 580 can increase costs.
Data filtered by:Results filtered by:
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Coverage:100/300/100 w/ $1000 Deductible
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Age Group:30-59
| Excellent | $1,034 | $86 |
| Good | $1,264 | $105 |
| Fair | $1,525 | $127 |
| Below Fair | $1,819 | $152 |
| Poor | $2,174 | $181 |
Factors Affecting Car Insurance Rates in South Carolina
Understanding these key factors impacting your car insurance rates in South Carolina will help you find the most affordable plan for your needs:
- Driving Record: A clean driving record can lower insurance costs. Tickets, accidents or DUIs can significantly increase premiums.
- Age: Young drivers often face higher premiums due to inexperience, which statistically leads to more accidents and claims.
- Credit Score: Insurers in South Carolina consider credit scores when setting rates. A higher credit score can lead to lower car insurance costs.
- Vehicle Type: Your vehicle's make, model and year affect rates. Newer, more expensive cars generally cost more to insure due to higher repair costs.
- Location: Urban areas with higher crime and accident rates may have higher insurance costs than rural regions.
- Coverage Level: Opting for collision insurance or comprehensive insurance will increase premiums compared to minimum coverage, but they offer better protection.
- Deductible: A higher deductible can lower your monthly premium, but you'll pay more out of pocket in case of a claim.
- Gender and Marital Status: Statistics show that gender and marital status can influence risk assessment, potentially impacting insurance rates.
- Annual Mileage: Less time on the road means fewer accidents — drivers with lower annual mileage can enjoy cheaper insurance rates.
Since each insurer weighs factors differently, shop around to find the best rate for your situation in South Carolina.
How to Save Money on Car Insurance in South Carolina
To get affordable car insurance in South Carolina, compare quotes, raise your deductible and use all possible discounts to lower premiums for minimum coverage or comprehensive policies.
Shop Around for Insurance Rates
Review multiple insurance providers to find the cheapest car insurance in South Carolina, as rates can vary significantly.
Maintain a Clean Driving Record
Avoiding traffic violations and accidents helps lower premiums, as insurers consider safe drivers less risky to insure.
Increase Your Deductibles
Opting for a higher deductible can reduce monthly payments, but ensure you can afford the out-of-pocket cost if needed.
Bundle Insurance Policies
Purchasing auto and home insurance from the same company often leads to discounts on both policies.
Take Advantage of Discounts
Ask about discounts for good students, military service or having safety features in your vehicle to reduce costs.
Consider the Vehicle You Drive
Some cars are cheaper to insure. Research which models carry lower insurance premiums in South Carolina.
Consider Usage-Based Insurance
If you drive less, consider usage-based insurance programs that offer savings for low-mileage drivers.
FAQ: Car Insurance Costs in South Carolina
Get answers about factors that impact the average cost of car insurance in South Carolina and how you can find affordable rates.
What are the minimum car insurance requirements in South Carolina?
Drivers in South Carolina must carry a minimum of $25,000 in bodily injury liability per person and $50,000 per accident. Additionally, $25,000 is required for property damage per accident. Uninsured motorist coverage is also compulsory, with limits of $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident. For more details, see the minimum car insurance requirements in South Carolina.
What is the average cost of full coverage and minimum coverage auto insurance in South Carolina?
In South Carolina, full coverage auto insurance typically costs around $1,884 annually, which breaks down to about $157 each month. Minimum coverage is more budget-friendly, costing roughly $953 per year or $79 per month.
What is the average cost of car insurance for a 22-year-old in South Carolina?
A 22-year-old driver in South Carolina generally spends about $1,166 annually, or $97 monthly, on minimum coverage. Choosing full coverage with a $1,000 deductible can raise the annual cost to approximately $2,277, or $190 per month.
What are the cheapest car insurance companies in South Carolina?
For minimum coverage in South Carolina, American National P&C offers rates starting at $391 per year, while South Carolina Farm Bureau provides rates at $483 annually.
About Mark Fitzpatrick
Mark Fitzpatrick is a Licensed Property and Casualty Insurance Producer and MoneyGeek's Head of Insurance. He has analyzed the insurance market for over five years, conducting original research and creating personalized content for every kind of buyer. He has been quoted in several insurance-related publications, including CNBC, NBC News and Mashable.
Fitzpatrick earned a master’s degree in economics and international relations from Johns Hopkins University and a bachelor’s degree from Boston College. He is passionate about using his knowledge of economics and insurance to bring transparency around financial topics and help others feel confident in their money moves.