If you are wondering how much car insurance costs in South Carolina per month, the average driver pays around $115 per month for full coverage and about $48 per month for minimum coverage. However, your exact rate depends on your age, driving record, credit score, vehicle type, and location. Cities like Charleston and Columbia usually have higher rates than smaller towns because of traffic and accident risk.
South Carolina ranks close to the national average in car insurance prices, but what makes it different is the way local laws, road conditions, and claim frequency affect premiums. For example, South Carolina is an at-fault insurance state, meaning the driver responsible for an accident pays for damages. This legal setup directly affects how insurers calculate risk.
In this detailed guide, we will explain how much car insurance costs in South Carolina by coverage type, city, and driver profile. We will also share what factors impact rates, how to lower your monthly payments, and which insurers offer the best value.
By the end, you will know exactly what to expect and how to compare quotes from top insurance providers in South Carolina through Alias Insurance, a trusted comparison platform helping drivers find the best deals nationwide.
Average Cost of Car Insurance in South Carolina
| Coverage Type | Average Monthly Cost | Average Annual Cost |
| Minimum Liability | $48 | $576 |
| Full Coverage | $115 | $1,380 |
| Liability + Collision | $82 | $984 |
| Liability + Comprehensive | $69 | $828 |
These are average statewide rates. Your own cost may be higher or lower depending on your location and personal details.
How South Carolina’s Car Insurance Rates Compare to Other States
| State | Average Monthly Premium | National Rank |
| South Carolina | $115 | 24th |
| North Carolina | $92 | 12th |
| Georgia | $137 | 35th |
| Florida | $165 | 44th |
| Tennessee | $103 | 20th |
South Carolina’s rates are moderate compared to neighboring states. While Florida and Georgia are more expensive due to higher claim frequencies, North Carolina drivers often pay less because of stricter rate regulations.
Minimum Car Insurance Requirements in South Carolina
The state requires all drivers to carry the following minimum liability coverage:
- $25,000 for bodily injury per person
- $50,000 for bodily injury per accident
- $25,000 for property damage per accident
- Uninsured motorist coverage equal to minimum liability
Drivers who fail to carry insurance face penalties, including fines and license suspension.
Average Car Insurance Rates by City in South Carolina
| City | Average Monthly Cost | Cost Difference vs State Average |
| Charleston | $126 | +10% |
| Columbia | $119 | +3% |
| Greenville | $104 | -9% |
| Myrtle Beach | $122 | +6% |
| Florence | $99 | -13% |
| Spartanburg | $102 | -11% |
Charleston and Myrtle Beach are higher due to dense traffic, coastal storms, and accident frequency, while inland cities like Florence and Greenville enjoy lower average rates.
Factors That Affect Car Insurance Costs in South Carolina
1. Driving Record
A clean record can save you hundreds of dollars yearly. One speeding ticket can raise your premium by 20 percent or more.
- Age and Experience
Young drivers under 25 pay the most because they are statistically more likely to get into accidents. Older, experienced drivers with long histories of safe driving enjoy lower premiums.
3. Credit Score
South Carolina insurers are allowed to use credit-based insurance scores when setting rates. Drivers with excellent credit often pay about 30 percent less than those with poor credit.
4. Vehicle Type
Luxury and performance cars like a Dodge Charger or Ford Mustang cost more to insure than compact sedans or family SUVs. See our guides on is a Dodge Charger considered a sports car for insurance and how does your car make and model impact your insurance rates.
5. Coverage Level
Choosing full coverage instead of minimum liability nearly doubles your premium but provides more financial protection in case of an accident or theft.
6. Location
Urban areas have higher rates due to dense traffic, theft risk, and storm-related claims. Rural areas see fewer claims and lower costs.
7. Annual Mileage
Drivers who commute long distances face higher premiums because more time on the road increases accident risk.
Average Cost by Driver Age
| Age Group | Minimum Coverage | Full Coverage |
| 16-19 | $230 | $450 |
| 20-24 | $130 | $250 |
| 25-34 | $85 | $160 |
| 35-44 | $72 | $140 |
| 45-54 | $68 | $125 |
| 55+ | $60 | $118 |
Younger drivers can lower costs by joining a parent’s policy or qualifying for student discounts.
Average Cost by Vehicle Type
| Vehicle | Average Monthly Premium |
| Compact Sedan | $95 |
| Mid-Size SUV | $105 |
| Pickup Truck | $110 |
| Sports Car | $165 |
| Electric Vehicle | $138 |
Electric and high-performance vehicles usually cost more to insure because repair parts and labor are expensive.
Cheapest Car Insurance Companies in South Carolina
| Insurance Company | Average Monthly Cost | Best For |
| State Farm | $92 | Safe drivers |
| GEICO | $97 | Tech-savvy users |
| Progressive | $108 | High-risk drivers |
| Nationwide | $104 | Discounts and bundling |
| Travelers | $113 | Customizable plans |
Compare quotes from these companies through Alias Insurance to find the best rate for your coverage needs.
How to Lower Car Insurance Costs in South Carolina
Here are simple ways to reduce your monthly premium:
- Bundle policies like home and auto for up to 20 percent savings.
- Increase your deductible if you can afford to pay more out of pocket.
- Maintain good credit by paying bills on time.
- Ask for discounts such as safe driver, low mileage, or multi-vehicle.
- Install anti-theft devices to protect your car.
- Compare multiple quotes every six months to find better deals.
Penalties for Driving Without Insurance in South Carolina
Driving uninsured is illegal in South Carolina. The penalties include:
- A $200 reinstatement fee
- $550 uninsured motorist fee
- License and registration suspension
- SR-22 filing requirement for three years
These penalties make it important to maintain at least the state minimum coverage.
Full Coverage vs Minimum Coverage: Which Is Better?
| Feature | Minimum Coverage | Full Coverage |
| Covers own car damage | No | Yes |
| Covers other drivers | Yes | Yes |
| Protects from theft, fire, weather | No | Yes |
| Required by lenders | No | Yes |
| Average monthly cost | $48 | $115 |
If your car is new or financed, full coverage is usually worth the extra cost because it protects against more risks.
Car Insurance Discounts in South Carolina
Most insurers in the state offer several discounts, including:
- Good student discount (10 to 15 percent)
- Multi-car discount (up to 20 percent)
- Safe driver discount (up to 25 percent)
- Low mileage discount (5 to 10 percent)
- Military discount (varies by insurer)
- Defensive driving course discount
Car Insurance Laws in South Carolina
South Carolina law requires continuous car insurance coverage. If your policy lapses, the Department of Motor Vehicles may suspend your registration and charge reinstatement fees.
The state also mandates uninsured motorist coverage, which pays for injuries or damages caused by an uninsured driver. This makes South Carolina safer for all drivers on the road.
Average Cost by Credit Score
| Credit Tier | Average Monthly Cost |
| Excellent (750+) | $84 |
| Good (700–749) | $97 |
| Fair (650–699) | $111 |
| Poor (600–649) | $134 |
| Very Poor (Below 600) | $158 |
Maintaining a healthy credit score can save you hundreds each year on premiums.
Cost Difference Between Rural and Urban Areas
| Location Type | Average Monthly Premium | Common Reasons |
| Urban (Charleston, Columbia) | $122 | Traffic, theft, weather risk |
| Suburban (Lexington, Mount Pleasant) | $110 | Moderate claims, safe roads |
| Rural (Pickens, Laurens) | $94 | Low population, fewer claims |
If you live in a city, parking in a garage or using anti-theft devices can reduce theft-related premium increases.
Does South Carolina Have No-Fault Insurance?
No. South Carolina follows an at-fault or tort system. This means the driver responsible for an accident pays for damages. You can sue the at-fault driver for losses that exceed insurance limits.
Average Monthly Cost by Insurance Type
| Insurance Type | Monthly Cost |
| Liability Only | $48 |
| Collision Only | $62 |
| Comprehensive Only | $57 |
| Full Coverage | $115 |
| Non-Owner | $40 |
| Temporary (30-Day) | $95 |
Short-term or temporary car insurance is popular for renters and visitors. You can learn about this flexible option in our article on month to month car insurance in the USA.
Best Car Insurance for Young Drivers in South Carolina
Young drivers can lower their costs by:
- Staying on a parent’s policy
- Completing driver education courses
- Keeping good grades
- Driving vehicles with strong safety ratings
How Weather Affects Car Insurance Rates
South Carolina’s coastal storms and occasional flooding contribute to higher comprehensive premiums. Drivers should consider adding comprehensive coverage to protect from natural damages like hurricanes or hail.
How to Get the Cheapest Car Insurance in South Carolina
- Compare quotes using platforms like Alias Insurance.
- Choose higher deductibles if you can afford them.
- Ask for loyalty or renewal discounts.
- Pay premiums annually to avoid installment fees.
- Avoid small claims that can raise your future premiums.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Yes. All drivers must carry minimum liability insurance and uninsured motorist coverage.
Because of higher traffic, expensive repairs, and storm-related claims, Charleston’s rates are about 10 percent above the state average.
Yes, but your rates may be higher. Learn how to find affordable options in car insurance for drivers with bad credit.
State Farm and GEICO are among the most affordable options for most drivers.
Only if you have comprehensive coverage. Check does car insurance cover hurricane damage for details.
Final Note
Car insurance in South Carolina costs about $115 per month on average, but your personal rate depends on your age, driving record, and city. Comparing quotes and maintaining a clean driving record are the best ways to save.
If you are ready to find the best deal, visit Alias Insurance, where you can compare free car insurance quotes from top providers and choose the coverage that fits your needs and budget.
