Cheap Auto Insurance in South Carolina for 2025 (Save With These 10 Companies)
The best providers of cheap auto insurance in South Carolina are USAA, Geico, and State Farm, with USAA’s rates from $32/month. USAA provides top savings for military families, Geico has affordable rates with discounts, and State Farm excels in customer service. Making them the best affordable car insurance in South Carolina.
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Chris Abrams
Licensed Insurance Agent
Chris is the founder of Abrams Insurance Solutions and Marcan Insurance, which provide personal financial analysis and planning services for families and small businesses across the U.S. His companies represent nearly 100 of the top-rated insurance companies. Chris has been a licensed insurance agent since 2009 and has active insurance licenses in all 50 U.S. states and D.C. Chris works tireles...
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UPDATED: Mar 4, 2025
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6,589 reviewsCompany Facts
Minimum Coverage in South Carolina
A.M. Best Rating
Complaint Level
Pros & Cons
6,589 reviews
19,116 reviewsCompany Facts
Minimum Coverage in South Carolina
A.M. Best Rating
Complaint Level
Pros & Cons
19,116 reviews
18,154 reviewsCompany Facts
Minimum Coverage in South Carolina
A.M. Best Rating
Complaint Level
Pros & Cons
18,154 reviewsThe best options for cheap auto insurance in South Carolina are USAA, Geico, and State Farm, which offer excellent rates and coverage.
USAA is the best, with $28 monthly premiums, perfect for military auto insurance discounts. Geico offers low premiums with safe driver discounts, making it a good option for frugal drivers. State Farm has excellent customer service and fantastic support throughout the state.
Our Top 10 Company Picks: Cheap Auto Insurance in South Carolina
| Insurance Company | Rank | Monthly Rates | A.M. Best | Best For | Jump to Pros/Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | #1 | $28 | A++ | Military Families | USAA |
 | #2 | $33 | A++ | Good Drivers | Geico |
 | #3 | $36 | B | Customer Service | State Farm |
 | #4 | $43 | A++ | Flexible Policies | Travelers |
 | #5 | $44 | A+ | Competitive Rates | Progressive |
 | #6 | $48 | A+ | Policy Bundling | Nationwide |
 | #7 | $49 | A | Member Benefits | American Family |
 | #8 | $55 | A+ | Local Agent Support | Allstate |
 | #9 | $69 | A | Customizable Discounts | Farmers |
 | #10 | $76 | A | Custom Coverage | Liberty Mutual |
For South Carolina car insurance seekers, these organizations offer the ideal combination of low prices, excellent coverage, good service, and top picks among drivers. Start comparing total coverage auto insurance rates by entering your ZIP code here.
- USAA has the best rates and support for accident-prone drivers
- State Farm offers flexible plans for high-risk West Virginia drivers
- Geico provides discounts to help drivers save after an accident
#1 – USAA: Top Overall Pick
Pros
- Affordable Rates: USAA offers some of the lowest premiums in South Carolina, with a minimum coverage starting at only $28.
- Military Savings: Active-duty members, veterans, and their families are eligible for special policy discounts.
- Outstanding Support: USAA is renowned for its prompt claims service, which makes it a trustworthy option for military-related drivers.
Cons
- Restricted Membership: Only military members and their families can qualify for USAA Auto Insurance Review policies in South Carolina.
- No In-Person Service: Unlike some insurers, USAA lacks local agents, which may be inconvenient for those who prefer face-to-face assistance when searching for cheap auto insurance in South Carolina options.
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#2 – GEICO: Best for Good Drivers
Pros
- Affordable for Safe Drivers: GEICO offers some of the lowest rates in South Carolina, with minimum coverage starting at just $33 per month.
- Wide Range of Discounts: South Carolina drivers can save with multiple discounts, including those for good drivers, multi-vehicle policies, and federal employees.
- Easy Digital Experience: With GEICO’s easy-to-use mobile app, policy management and claims are a breeze. Geico Auto Insurance Review accentuates its intuitive digital features.
Cons
- Limited In-Person Support: Because GEICO primarily exists online, it might not be suitable for individuals who prefer personal interaction.
- Higher Costs for Risky Drivers: Those with accidents or violations might find South Carolina car insurance rates from GEICO less budget-friendly.
#3 – State Farm: Best for Customer Service
Pros
- Good Customer Service: State Farm offers top-quality service from its extensive local agent network, providing South Carolina motorists with quick claims help and policy updates.
- Competitive Full Coverage Rates: State Farm has full coverage options beginning at $88 a month, providing affordable services for drivers seeking auto insurance rates in South Carolina that suit their needs.
- Strong Financial Position: State Farm Auto Insurance Review emphasizes its stability and reliability for South Carolina policyholders as a solidly established insurer.
Cons
- Expensive Minimum Coverage: State Farm’s minimum coverage costs $36 monthly, which is more costly than competitors such as GEICO and USAA.
- Limited High-Risk Coverage Options: Drivers with accidents or DUIs may find more suitable choices elsewhere for auto insurance rates in South Carolina.
#4 – Travelers: Best for Flexible Policies
Pros
- Flexible Policy Options: South Carolina drivers can personalize their coverage with features like accident forgiveness and gap insurance.
- Affordable Comprehensive Protection: At $105 per month, Travelers Auto Insurance Review highlights a good mix of cost and coverage.
- Positive Customer Feedback: Travelers receive fewer complaints than other insurers in South Carolina, reflecting intense customer satisfaction.
Cons
- Higher Minimum Coverage Costs: Starting at $43 per month, Travelers’ basic coverage is costlier than some alternatives.
- Fewer Local Agents: Compared to competitors like State Farm, Travelers have limited in-person support, making it harder to find cheap auto insurance SC through local agents.
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#5 – Progressive: Best for Competitive Rates
Pros
- Affordable Full Coverage: According to the Progressive Auto Insurance Review, drivers in South Carolina can find full coverage starting at $105 per month.
- Suitable for High-Risk Drivers: Progressive is a good choice for drivers with accidents or SR-22 needs, with flexible coverage options.
- Easy-to-Use Tools: The Name Your Price® tool enables drivers to tailor their policies according to budget and coverage requirements.
Cons
- Customer Service Issues: Some policyholders report claims delays with mixed reviews.
- Higher Minimum Coverage Cost: As noted in the South Carolina auto insurance guide, Progressive’s $44 per month minimum coverage isn’t the lowest-priced option in the state.
#6 – Nationwide: Best for Policy Bundling
Pros
- Multi-Policy Discounts: South Carolina drivers can reduce their premiums by bundling auto insurance with home or renters insurance.
- Vanishing Deductible Program: Safe drivers in South Carolina can gradually decrease their deductible over time.
- Reasonable Credit-Based Pricing: Nationwide Auto Insurance Review highlights that drivers with strong credit may receive lower rates.
Cons
- Higher Starting Rates: The minimum coverage costs $48 monthly, making it costlier than competitors like GEICO and USAA.
- Limited Availability for High-Risk Drivers: Those with multiple violations may have fewer coverage options when seeking cheap car insurance in South Carolina.
#7 – American Family: Best for Member Benefits
Pros
- Exclusive Member Discounts: South Carolina drivers can benefit from perks like accident forgiveness and loyalty rewards.
- Competitive Full Coverage Rates: At $119 per month, its full coverage pricing aligns with the average car insurance cost in South Carolina.
- Reliable Customer Support: Local agents provide personalized assistance, as the American Family Auto Insurance Review notes.
Cons
- Higher Minimum Coverage Cost: A $49 monthly premium is not the cheapest option for drivers looking for lower premiums.
- Limited Availability: American Family is unavailable in all states, which can be a drawback for those who intend to move.
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#8 – Allstate: Best for Local Agent Support
Pros
- Extensive Agent Network: South Carolina drivers seeking car insurance can use Allstate’s sizeable local network of agents to access personalized service easily.
- Diverse Coverage Options: Allstate offers several add-ons, such as accident forgiveness and new car replacement, which make it a versatile choice for individuals looking for Allstate Auto Insurance Review information.
- Drivewise® Savings Opportunity: South Carolina motorists who practice safe driving habits can lower their premiums through Allstate’s usage-based Drivewise® program.
Cons
- Above-Average Premium Costs: With minimum coverage starting at $55 per month, Allstate tends to be a more expensive option for car insurance in South Carolina than some competitors.
- Inconsistent Customer Experience: While many drivers are satisfied, some policyholders mention concerns about claims processing, as noted in Allstate Auto Insurance Review feedback.
#9 – Farmers: Best for Customizable Discounts
Pros
- Diverse Discount Opportunities: South Carolina motorists can lower their premiums with multi-policy savings, good driver incentives, and affinity group discounts.
- Flexible Coverage Options: Farmers provides adaptable policies, including rideshare coverage, making it an excellent choice for those seeking Farmers Auto Insurance Review-backed protection.
- Financially Secure Provider: Rated A by A.M. Best, Farmers is a reliable South Carolina insurer with good financial strength and consistent claims payments.
Cons
- Higher Than Average Premiums: For minimum coverage at $69 per month, farmers policies are more expensive than those of other insurers in the auto insurance edgefield.
- Not Ideal for Risky Drivers: Farmers’ policies may have steep costs for high-risk motorists, especially those with past accidents.
#10 – Liberty Mutual: Best for Custom Coverage
Pros
- Flexible Policy Options: South Carolina motorists can tailor their policies with such options as accident forgiveness, new vehicle replacement, and gap insurance for added protection.
- Smooth Claims Handling: Liberty Mutual’s claims handling is recognized for its effectiveness in providing drivers with timely assistance and payments when involved in post-accident cases.
- Exclusive Savings for Safe Drivers: Policyholders can benefit from Liberty Mutual Auto Insurance Review, which showcases discounts through telematics programs that reward cautious driving habits.
Cons
- Costly Minimum Coverage: With a premium of $76 monthly, Liberty Mutual’s premiums are among the most expensive, thus less favorable for drivers looking for affordable options among South Carolina car insurance rates.
- Fluctuating Premium Costs: Factors like credit score, driving history, and location can cause unpredictable pricing shifts, making it challenging for drivers to determine stable premium rates.
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South Carolina Car Insurance Coverage and Rates
Finding affordable auto insurance in South Carolina drivers can depend on means of comparing rates. Minimum coverage starts as low as $28 per month with USAA, while full coverage can go up to $185 with Liberty Mutual. Comparing SC auto insurance companies ensures you get the best deal.
South Carolina Auto Insurance Monthly Rates by Provider & Coverage Level
| Insurance Company | Minimum Coverage | Full Coverage |
|---|---|---|
| $55 | $133 |
| $49 | $119 |
| $69 | $166 |
| $33 | $79 |
| $76 | $185 |
| $48 | $118 |
| $44 | $105 |
| $36 | $88 |
| $43 | $105 |
| $28 | $69 |
Taking advantage of discounts can help lower costs. Numerous insurers have a safe driver discount, offering cautious drivers lower premiums. Drive Safe & Save programs monitor driving behavior through an app or device, enabling responsible drivers to save more.
Aside from discounts, selecting the proper provider is vital for savings. Geico, State Farm, and Progressive provide competitive rates. Exploring coverage options ensures drivers get both protection and affordability on the road.
Best Car Insurance Companies for Discounts in South Carolina
South Carolina drivers can save on car insurance in SC through discounts for bundling, safe driving, and vehicle safety features. Companies like Allstate, State Farm, and American Family offer great savings.
Auto Insurance Discounts From the Top Provider in South Carolina
| Insurance Company | Available Discounts |
|---|---|
| Responsible Payer, Smart Student, Anti-Theft, Multi-Policy |
| Safe Driver, Low Mileage, Defensive Driving, Loyalty, Multi-Car, Multi-Policy |
| Signal App Usage, Multi-Car, Good Student, Homeowner |
| Multi-Policy, Military, Federal Employee, Good Driver, Defensive Driving, New Vehicle, Good Student |
| Violation-Free, Military, Right-Track Program, Paperless Billing |
| SmartRide, Multi-Policy, Accident-Free, Anti-Theft Device |
| Snapshot Program, Multi-Policy, Continuous Insurance, Homeowner |
| Safe Driver, Accident-Free, Multi-Car, Multi-Policy |
| Good Payer, Hybrid/Electric Car, New Car, Homeownership Discount |
| Military Affiliation, Safe Driver, Loyalty, New Vehicle, Multi-Car, Good Student |
Telematics programs like Snapshot and SmartRide reward safe drivers with lower rates. Military members can access exclusive savings from USAA, Geico, and Liberty Mutual. The good student discount helps young drivers.
The second table highlights provider discounts for bundling, low mileage, and anti-theft devices. Nationwide offers up to 40% off, while Liberty Mutual provides 35% savings for anti-theft features.
Auto Insurance Discounts From Top South Carolina Providers
| Insurance Company | Bundling | Low Mileage | UBI | Anti-Theft | Good Driver |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 25% | 30% | 30% | 10% | 25% |
| 25% | 20% | 30% | 25% | 25% |
| 20% | 10% | 30% | 10% | 30% |
| 25% | 30% | 25% | 25% | 26% |
| 25% | 30% | 30% | 35% | 20% |
| 20% | 20% | 40% | 5% | 40% |
| 10% | 30% | $231/yr | 25% | 30% |
| 17% | 30% | 30% | 15% | 25% |
| 13% | 20% | 30% | 15% | 10% |
| 10% | 20% | 30% | 15% | 30% |
Progressive’s Snapshot can earn good drivers up to 30% in discounts. Discount savings depend on the provider, so comparison shopping is essential. Shopping around for discounts secures the lowest car insurance in SC at the lowest cost.
Driving in South Carolina Insurance Premiums and Accident Claims
South Carolina drivers frequently file weather-related damage claims, accounting for 30% at an average of $4,500. Theft claims, averaging $7,000, highlight the need for auto insurance coverage in Charleston, SC.
5 Most Common Auto Insurance Claims in South Carolina
| Claim Type | Portion of Claims | Cost per Claim |
|---|---|---|
| Weather-Related Damage | 30% | $4,500 |
| Rear-End Collisions | 25% | $3,000 |
| Single-Vehicle Accidents | 20% | $5,000 |
| Theft | 15% | $7,000 |
| Vandalism | 10% | $2,500 |
Charleston sees 5,200 accidents yearly, leading to 4,700 claims. Myrtle Beach also reports high accident rates, proving that traffic congestion impacts claims. Extra coverage helps protect against costly repairs.
South Carolina Accidents & Claims per Year by City
| City | Accidents per Year | Claims per Year |
|---|---|---|
| Anderson | 1,500 | 1,400 |
| Charleston | 5,200 | 4,700 |
| Columbia | 3,800 | 3,400 |
| Florence | 1,700 | 1,600 |
| Greenville | 3,200 | 2,900 |
| Hilton Head | 1,000 | 950 |
| Myrtle Beach | 2,700 | 2,500 |
| Rock Hill | 1,800 | 1,600 |
| Spartanburg | 2,400 | 2,100 |
| Sumter | 1,200 | 1,100 |
South Carolina’s theft rate is above average, increasing risks. Many insurers offer an anti-theft device discount, assisting drivers to cut costs while preventing theft-related losses with better security measures.
South Carolina Report Card: Auto Insurance Premiums
| Category | Grade | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| Average Claim Size | B | Reflects typical claim amounts |
| Traffic Density | B | Indicates moderate traffic congestion |
| Vehicle Theft Rate | C | Higher than national average |
| Weather-Related Risks | C | Prone to frequent weather-related damages |
Storms and theft hazards drive up premiums, making insurance a necessity. Shopping around and negotiating discounts enables drivers to secure affordable, effective coverage while coping with South Carolina’s unique driving challenges.
Core Car Insurance Coverage in South Carolina
South Carolina’s full coverage costs about $45 less than the national average per NAIC. It includes liability, Comprehensive, and Collision Coverage, which protects against accidents, theft, and weather damage. Lenders may require both coverages.
Deciding on comprehensive and collision coverage depends on your car’s value. These coverages give you financial safeguards if you drive a new or expensive vehicle. For older vehicles, weigh their costs against their value. Additional windshield protection may be included in some policies.
USAA offers top-tier comprehensive and collision coverage at unbeatable rates, making it the best choice for military members in South Carolina.
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Comprehensive policies that include extras are available from most South Carolina auto insurance companies. While the state’s rates are affordable, choosing the right coverage helps protect against unexpected costs, ensuring financial security and peace of mind.
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5 Essential Steps to Understanding South Carolina’s Auto Insurance Requirements
Having proper auto insurance is vital to help protect you and others while driving. South Carolina has certain minimum car coverage requirements that all drivers are required to satisfy.
Use these five steps to learn about your insurance options and know if you have the right coverage.
- Know the Required Coverage: South Carolina mandates liability insurance and uninsured motorist coverage to pay for accident expenses. These policies will get you the coverage the state demands and prevent you from paying fines for lack of adequate coverage.
- Know Liability Rules: This protects against injury and property damage if you’re responsible for an accident. The state demands $25,000 per person, $50,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $25,000 for property damage to meet the law.
- Why Uninsured Coverage Matters: If an uninsured driver damages your car or injures you, this coverage covers medical costs and repairs. With most drivers uninsured, it saves you from financial surprises when the accident is not your fault.
- Think about Underinsured Coverage: When the insurance of the at-fault driver doesn’t cover costs, this coverage steps in. Most policies featuring the best auto insurance in SC cover it for covering medical charges, car repair, and other related accident expenditures.
- Select the Optimal Coverage: Minimum car insurance requirements are mandated, but a higher limit is more protective. Most of the best auto insurance in SC offers collision and comprehensive coverage for additional financial protection.
Understanding the state’s insurance laws helps you choose the right policy. Meeting minimum coverage requirements is essential, but upgrading your policy can offer better protection and peace of mind.
How to Find Cheap Auto Insurance in South Carolina and Save Money
Understanding the factors that affect your car insurance premium is key to finding cheap auto insurance in South Carolina. Your rates depend on things like driving history, vehicle type, and coverage level. Minimum coverage is cheaper but may not provide enough protection.
Knowing the average South Carolina car insurance costs helps you budget wisely. Full coverage offers better protection but costs more. Discounts, such as bundling policies or safe driver rewards, can help lower your premium and make insurance more affordable. Get fast and cheap auto insurance coverage today with our quote comparison tool.
Frequently Asked Questions
What influences auto insurance rates in South Carolina?
Your rates depend on factors like driving history, the type of vehicle you own, coverage level, and whether you qualify for any discounts. Look at our these factors affect your auto insurance rates for expanded insights.
Is it worth purchasing full coverage auto insurance in South Carolina?
Full coverage offers extra protection against accidents, theft, and weather damage, making it a good choice for newer or more valuable vehicles. Find your cheapest auto insurance quotes by entering your ZIP code into our free comparison tool.
How do I reduce my auto insurance premium in South Carolina?
You can lower premiums by bundling policies, having a clean driving record, or being eligible for discounts like a safe driver or anti-theft device savings.
What are the required auto insurance coverages in South Carolina?
South Carolina law mandates liability insurance and uninsured motorist coverage to protect against injury, property damage, and accidents caused by uninsured drivers. Dive into our types of auto insurance coverage to gain a deeper insight.
Are there discounts for safe driving in South Carolina?
Yes, many insurers offer safe driver discounts, which reward drivers with clean records or those who participate in telematics programs that track driving habits.
Can I get discounts for multiple vehicles on my policy?
Yes, many insurers offer multi-vehicle discounts, allowing you to save on premiums when insuring more than one car with the same company.
How do I know if I need additional coverage beyond the minimum?
If your vehicle is new and expensive, or you want added protection from accidents, weather damage, or theft, opting for full coverage is highly recommended. Explore how to lower your auto insurance premiums for more insights.
What should I do if I get into an accident in South Carolina?
Reach out to your insurance company immediately, give proper information regarding the incident, and follow their procedure for filing a claim and obtaining assistance.
How does my credit score affect my car insurance rates in South Carolina?
Insurance companies frequently base your rates on your credit score, with drivers with better credit usually getting lower premiums. Use our free comparison tool to see what auto insurance quotes look like in your area.
Are there options for high-risk drivers in South Carolina?
Yes, insurers like Progressive and State Farm offer coverage options for high-risk drivers, including those with accidents or violations on their records. Read more about our cheap high-risk auto insurance.