Key Takeaways
- National General, Progressive and Dairyland offer some of the cheapest car insurance in South Carolina.
- The average cost of minimum coverage in South Carolina is around $200 per month.
- Compare quotes from multiple insurers to find cheap car insurance in South Carolina.
If you need cheap auto insurance in South Carolina, check out insurers like National General, Progressive and Dairyland. These companies offer some of the most affordable car insurance quotes in South Carolina, according to Jerry’s data.
To find the best car insurance in South Carolina, compare car insurance quotes from multiple insurers.
You’ll need a policy in South Carolina to drive legally, but also to stay financially protected on the road. According to the South Carolina Department of Public Safety, the state averages two collisions every hour involving distracted drivers .
Here are some of the cheapest quotes in South Carolina for minimum and full coverage, plus rates by age, driving history and credit score.
Cheap minimum coverage in South Carolina
Minimum coverage is the absolute cheapest car insurance policy you can get, but it won’t pay for damage to your car if you’re at fault in an accident. Choosing minimum coverage car insurance in South Carolina allows drivers to stay legally protected while keeping expenses low. They’re typically selected by individuals driving older models or managing tight finances.
These are the cheapest car insurance companies in South Carolina for minimum coverage, according to Jerry’s data. South Carolinians should take time to research quotes to ensure they find the most economical option available.
|
Insurance Company
|
Avg Monthly Quote
|
Avg Annual Quote
|
|---|---|---|
| Trexis | $85 | $1,022 |
| Safeco | $169 | $2,023 |
| Progressive | $186 | $2,228 |
| National General | $236 | $2,829 |
| Dairyland | $257 | $3,089 |
| First Acceptance | $273 | $3,272 |
| The General | $277 | $3,318 |
| Assurance America | $280 | $3,365 |
| Bristol West | $289 | $3,473 |
| Root | $304 | $3,649 |
Minimum car insurance requirements in South Carolina
At minimum, drivers in South Carolina must have these coverages to drive legally:
- $25,000 in bodily injury liability per person.
- $50,000 in bodily injury liability per accident.
- $25,000 in property damage liability.
- $25,000 in uninsured motorist bodily injury per person.
- $50,000 in uninsured motorist bodily injury per accident.
- $25,000 in uninsured motorist property damage per accident.
Cheap full coverage car insurance in South Carolina
Finding cheap full coverage car insurance in South Carolina involves looking for a policy that doesn’t compromise on essential benefits. Full coverage typically includes liability, collision and comprehensive insurance. This covers you from things like accidents, natural disasters or theft.
These are the cheapest car insurance companies in South Carolina for full coverage, according to Jerry’s data.
|
Insurance Company
|
Avg Monthly Quote
|
Avg Annual Quote
|
|---|---|---|
| Trexis | $195 | $2,336 |
| Progressive | $275 | $3,301 |
| Safeco | $276 | $3,312 |
| Assurance America | $379 | $4,554 |
| National General | $381 | $4,568 |
| Root | $487 | $5,842 |
| Electric | $493 | $5,918 |
| Dairyland | $506 | $6,066 |
| First Acceptance | $510 | $6,117 |
| Bristol West | $549 | $6,594 |
Minimum vs. full coverage in South Carolina
Minimum coverage pays only for others’ injuries and property damage if you cause a crash, but won’t cover damage to your own car.
Full coverage pays for damage to your own car, regardless of who caused the accident. Here is what full coverage typically includes, and what it covers:
- Liability insurance: Pays for injuries or property damage you cause in an accident.
- Collision coverage: Pays for damage to your vehicle from an accident, regardless of who is found responsible. This coverage typically has a deductible.
- Comprehensive coverage: Pays for vehicle damage caused by a non-collision event like weather and theft.
If you have a loan or lease on your vehicle, the lender will require
Average car insurance costs for young drivers in South Carolina
In South Carolina, auto insurance rates for young drivers are elevated because of inexperience and the potential for poor judgment under pressure. Even without prior claims, insurers view youth as a premium-boosting factor but prices tend to level out as drivers gain more road time. South Carolina teens should explore good student discounts and policy bundles to manage costs.
Below are the average costs of car insurance in South Carolina for drivers between 18 and 24.
|
Age Group
|
Avg Monthly Quote
|
Avg Annual Quote
|
|---|---|---|
| 18-20 | $549 | $6,583 |
| 21-24 | $475 | $5,697 |
Cheap minimum coverage in South Carolina for a 20-year-old
In South Carolina, a 20-year-old might select liability-only insurance to keep their vehicle legally insured at a manageable price. When a car’s market value is low, paying extra for full coverage might not be worth it. Liability plans offer a lean, budget-conscious solution for young adults.
These are the cheapest car insurance companies in South Carolina for 20-year-olds with minimum coverage, according to Jerry’s data.
|
Insurance Company
|
Avg Monthly Quote
|
Avg Annual Quote
|
|---|---|---|
| Safeco | $301 | $3,609 |
| Progressive | $332 | $3,984 |
| Dairyland | $357 | $4,284 |
| First Acceptance | $375 | $4,498 |
| Root | $397 | $4,768 |
Cheap full coverage in South Carolina for a 20-year-old
In South Carolina, a 20-year-old may go with full coverage to protect against a wide variety of potential issues for both them and others. It’s a practical way to ensure that both minor and major damage is taken care of. It can be a wise investment for those with more to lose if something goes wrong.
These are the cheapest car insurance companies in South Carolina for 20-year-olds with full coverage, according to Jerry’s data.
|
Insurance Company
|
Avg Monthly Quote
|
Avg Annual Quote
|
|---|---|---|
| Safeco | $334 | $4,010 |
| Progressive | $464 | $5,570 |
| Root | $579 | $6,949 |
| Dairyland | $641 | $7,687 |
| Assurance America | $746 | $8,947 |
Average auto insurance costs for mature drivers in South Carolina (25-54)
As drivers age and get more driving experience, the cost of car insurance usually decreases and South Carolina drivers who have built up years of safe driving habits often receive favorable insurance rates. A long, clean history behind the wheel tells insurers they’re less likely to be involved in an accident and that predictability leads to reduced pricing.
Below are the average costs of car insurance for drivers in South Carolina between the ages of 25 to 54.
|
Age Group
|
Avg Monthly Quote
|
Avg Annual Quote
|
|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | $345 | $4,134 |
| 35-44 | $298 | $3,578 |
| 45-54 | $274 | $3,292 |
Cheapest minimum coverage in South Carolina for a 35-year-old
A 35-year-old in South Carolina may choose liability-only coverage if their vehicle no longer justifies the cost of full protection. Experience behind the wheel can offer reassurance in going with a more modest policy. This option provides legal compliance and budget control at the same time.
These are the cheapest car insurance companies in South Carolina for 35-year-olds with minimum coverage, according to Jerry’s data.
|
Insurance Company
|
Avg Monthly Quote
|
Avg Annual Quote
|
|---|---|---|
| Safeco | $159 | $1,913 |
| Progressive | $196 | $2,350 |
| National General | $251 | $3,015 |
| Dairyland | $253 | $3,035 |
| First Acceptance | $271 | $3,257 |
Cheapest full coverage in South Carolina for a 35-year-old
A 35-year-old may prefer full coverage for its ability to handle the possibility of accidents as well as daily wear and tear. Drivers who travel often or own newer cars benefit from this wider safety net. Comprehensive protection makes recovery easier after sudden incidents and it can be a smart choice for anyone aiming to minimize finance-related issues.
These are the cheapest car insurance companies in South Carolina for 35-year-olds with full coverage, according to Jerry’s data.
|
Insurance Company
|
Avg Monthly Quote
|
Avg Annual Quote
|
|---|---|---|
| Safeco | $243 | $2,912 |
| Progressive | $290 | $3,484 |
| National General | $325 | $3,906 |
| Assurance America | $381 | $4,572 |
| Root | $468 | $5,618 |
Average car insurance costs for older drivers in South Carolina (55+)
In South Carolina, drivers over 55 may begin to notice insurance increases as insurers factor in age-related vulnerabilities. Even skilled drivers may see policy costs rise in anticipation of future risks and these adjustments aim to match coverage with a driver’s evolving profile. Car insurance typically reaches its most affordable for drivers around age 55, but tends to creep back up for senior drivers.
Below are the average costs of car insurance for drivers in South Carolina 55 and older.
|
Age Group
|
Avg Monthly Quote
|
Avg Annual Quote
|
|---|---|---|
| 55-64 | $263 | $3,153 |
| 65+ | $253 | $3,037 |
Cheapest minimum coverage in South Carolina for a 65-year-old
In South Carolina, older drivers may simplify their coverage by choosing liability-only insurance for their day-to-day needs. When a car is fully owned and used sparingly, extra protection may not justify the cost. This basic plan provides what’s necessary without overspending and it works well for a lifestyle centered on nearby destinations and routine travel.
These are the cheapest car insurance companies in South Carolina for 65-year-olds with minimum coverage, according to Jerry’s data.
|
Insurance Company
|
Avg Monthly Quote
|
Avg Annual Quote
|
|---|---|---|
| Progressive | $93 | $1,112 |
| Safeco | $139 | $1,664 |
| National General | $154 | $1,853 |
| The General | $198 | $2,374 |
| Bristol West | $209 | $2,508 |
Cheapest full coverage in South Carolina for a 65-year-old
For a 65-year-old in South Carolina, full coverage insurance offers protection against accidents, theft and weather damage. Protecting limited retirement funds from unexpected repair bills is a key reason seniors may consider full coverage insurance. Many seniors continue to drive regularly and appreciate the security comprehensive policies provide.
These are the cheapest car insurance companies in South Carolina for 65-year-olds with full coverage, according to Jerry’s data.
|
Insurance Company
|
Avg Monthly Quote
|
Avg Annual Quote
|
|---|---|---|
| Progressive | $156 | $1,877 |
| National General | $224 | $2,691 |
| Safeco | $250 | $3,002 |
| Dairyland | $262 | $3,146 |
| Assurance America | $337 | $4,045 |
Cheapest car insurance in South Carolina by driving history
Insurance companies in South Carolina rely heavily on your driving history to determine policy conditions. A pattern of poor driving may result in higher premiums or limited options. Providers view your record as a prediction of future behavior and it plays a key role in policy quotes.
Cheap car insurance for drivers with clean records in South Carolina
South Carolina drivers with a clean record are seen as safer and more dependable by insurers. This driver profile typically leads to more flexibility in pricing and coverage.
These are the cheapest car insurance companies in South Carolina for drivers with clean driving histories, according to Jerry’s data.
|
Insurance Company
|
Avg Monthly Quote
|
Avg Annual Quote
|
|---|---|---|
| Trexis | $205 | $2,459 |
| Progressive | $212 | $2,547 |
| Safeco | $221 | $2,653 |
| The General | $264 | $3,165 |
| National General | $291 | $3,488 |
Cheapest car insurance with a speeding ticket in South Carolina
Getting a speeding ticket in South Carolina can change how insurers evaluate your profile because it suggests a willingness to take risks while driving. This may lead to policy reviews or cost adjustments and even a small infraction can make a difference.
These are the cheapest car insurance companies in South Carolina for drivers with a speeding ticket, according to Jerry’s data.
|
Insurance Company
|
Avg Monthly Quote
|
Avg Annual Quote
|
|---|---|---|
| Progressive | $248 | $2,971 |
| Safeco | $283 | $3,401 |
| First Acceptance | $319 | $3,833 |
| The General | $329 | $3,949 |
| National General | $339 | $4,065 |
Cheapest car insurance after an at-fault accident with no injury in South Carolina
An at-fault accident with no injuries is still recorded and reviewed by insurers. These events show that mistakes were made, even if no one was harmed and insurers consider this when adjusting rates.
These are the cheapest car insurance companies in South Carolina for drivers with an at-fault accident with no injury, according to Jerry’s data.
|
Insurance Company
|
Avg Monthly Quote
|
Avg Annual Quote
|
|---|---|---|
| Trexis | $69 | $824 |
| Bluefire | $100 | $1,205 |
| Aspen | $121 | $1,453 |
| Progressive | $272 | $3,268 |
| Safeco | $282 | $3,383 |
Cheapest auto insurance after an at-fault accident with injury in South Carolina
Causing injury in an accident in South Carolina is considered a high-risk event by insurers. These incidents usually involve costly claims and as a result, your premiums and eligibility are likely to change. The impact of these types of accidents often lasts beyond a single policy cycle.
These are the cheapest car insurance companies in South Carolina for drivers with an at-fault accident with injury, according to Jerry’s data.
|
Insurance Company
|
Avg Monthly Quote
|
Avg Annual Quote
|
|---|---|---|
| Safeco | $245 | $2,946 |
| Progressive | $292 | $3,505 |
| The General | $301 | $3,608 |
| Dairyland | $412 | $4,939 |
| Root | $415 | $4,984 |
Cheapest car insurance with a DUI in South Carolina
A DUI conviction in South Carolina greatly reduces your insurance flexibility. It shows a disregard for legal and safety standards and insurers respond with increased premiums and fewer policy options.
These are the cheapest car insurance companies in South Carolina for drivers with a DUI, according to Jerry’s data.
|
Insurance Company
|
Avg Monthly Quote
|
Avg Annual Quote
|
|---|---|---|
| Safeco | $125 | $1,498 |
| First Acceptance | $269 | $3,230 |
| Progressive | $277 | $3,329 |
| National General | $417 | $5,006 |
| The General | $460 | $5,515 |
Average auto insurance costs for South Carolina drivers with other violations
Violations such as ignoring traffic signals or reckless driving contribute to your insurance risk as well. Providers track these behaviors closely and over time and even minor infractions can lead to stricter terms and higher pricing.
Below are average car insurance costs in South Carolina for other driving violations.
|
Violation Summary
|
Avg Monthly Quote
|
Avg Annual Quote
|
|---|---|---|
| Careless Driving | $408 | $4,896 |
| Defective Equipment | $280 | $3,361 |
| Driving on Sus. License | $321 | $3,855 |
| Eluding Police | $296 | $3,549 |
| Failure to Obey Traffic Sign | $385 | $4,620 |
Cheapest auto insurance for low credit scores in South Carolina
In South Carolina, your credit score may influence the types of car insurance policies available to you. A lower score might be associated with higher risk and insurers take that into account when setting premiums.
These are the cheapest car insurance companies in South Carolina for drivers with a credit score below 550.
|
Insurance Company
|
Avg Monthly Quote
|
Avg Annual Quote
|
|---|---|---|
| Trexis | $86 | $1,036 |
| Safeco | $240 | $2,882 |
| Progressive | $246 | $2,958 |
| The General | $297 | $3,569 |
| National General | $300 | $3,599 |
Learn more: How a credit-based insurance score works
How to find cheap car insurance in South Carolina
It’s wise to compare quotes from multiple insurers at least once a year to ensure you’re paying the best rate. Don’t assume your current insurer is the cheapest, even if it was when you first bought your policy.
You can also try these tips to lower your premium:
- Ask your current insurer or agent about discounts.
- Take a defensive driving course.
- Install a telematic device in your vehicle or on your phone.
- Practice safe driving habits.
- Bundle your home and auto insurance policies with the same insurer.
- Pay your policy in full.
Learn more: Best car insurance companies
Methodology
Data included in this analysis comes from policies that Jerry has quoted within the last 18 months. Jerry services 48 states and offers a range of insurance companies to choose from.
Ben Moore is a writer and editor at Jerry and an auto insurance expert. He previously worked as a writer, editor and content strategist on NerdWallet’s auto insurance team for five years. His work has been published in The Associated Press, Washington Post, Chicago Sun-Times, MarketWatch, Nasdaq and Yahoo News. He also served as a NerdWallet spokesperson, with appearances on local broadcast television and quotes in Martha Stewart and Real Simple magazine.
Ben has an extensive background in digital marketing, working on affiliate and programmatic advertising campaigns for brands like Cabela’s, H&R Block and Sears. He holds a bachelors degree in marketing from Olivet Nazarene University.
Annie is a writer and editor at Jerry with more than a decade of experience writing and editing digital content. Before joining Jerry, she was an assistant assigning editor at NerdWallet. Her past work has appeared in the Associated Press, USA Today and The Washington Post. Her work has been cited by NorthWestern University and Harvard Kennedy School. Annie served as a spokesperson for NerdWallet during her time at NerdWallet and has been featured in New York Magazine, MarketWatch and on local television and radio stations.
Previously, she worked at USAA and newspapers in Minnesota, North Dakota, California and Texas. She has a bachelor’s degree in journalism from the University of Minnesota.
