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Best car insurance companies in South Carolina
To identify the best auto insurers in South Carolina, Insurify analyzed 120+ car insurance companies, considering average rates, coverage options, customer satisfaction, financial strength, discounts, and more.
The best insurer depends on your circumstances. Auto-Owners stands out for its combination of price and coverage, while State Farm and GEICO have high Insurify Quality (IQ) Scores. USAA offers strong value for eligible military families, and Nationwide provides numerous ways to customize a policy.
Below, you can learn more about five of the top car insurance companies in South Carolina.
Auto-Owners: Best overall
| User Reviews | 4.3 |
|---|---|
| IQ Score The Insurify Quality (IQ) Score uses more than 15 criteria to objectively rate insurance companies on a one-to-ten scale. The Insurify editorial team researches insurer data to determine the final scores. | 8.2 /10 |
| Liability Only Liability-only insurance, sometimes called minimum-coverage insurance, pays for bodily injury and property damage to others in an accident the policyholder causes. It does not pay for the insured’s own damages. | $78/mo |
| Full Coverage Full-coverage car insurance generally includes liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage, and may include other optional coverages such as uninsured motorist coverage. Collision covers a policyholder’s repair or replacement costs in case of an accident. Comprehensive covers damages caused by non-accident events. The average quote displayed here reflects policies with the following coverage limits: $50,000 bodily injury liability per person; $100,000 bodily injury liability per accident; $50,00 property damage liability per accident; $1,000 collision deductible; and a $1,000 comprehensive deductible. | $128/mo |
Auto-Owners's score | Industry average | |
|---|---|---|
| Coverage options | 4.0 | 3.2 |
| Customer service | 3.7 | 3.6 |
| Discounts | 3.5 | 2.9 |
| Policy transparency | 3.9 | 3.1 |
| Value | 3.5 | 2.9 |
Customers appreciate the friendly service and quick claims process but dislike the constant rate increases and perceived inflexibility in pricing.
Auto-Owners earns the best overall designation for South Carolina drivers because it combines relatively affordable rates with extensive coverage choices and strong financial stability. Its average rates in South Carolina are among the lowest available from major insurers.
Its agent-based model may also appeal to drivers who prefer personalized assistance rather than buying coverage entirely online.
Affordable rates in South Carolina
Wide range of coverage options
Strong AM Best financial strength rating
Doesn’t offer online quotes
Below-average J.D. Power customer satisfaction rating in the Southeast region
Mixed online customer reviews
State Farm: Best for teen drivers
| User Reviews | 4.1 |
|---|---|
| IQ Score The Insurify Quality (IQ) Score uses more than 15 criteria to objectively rate insurance companies on a one-to-ten scale. The Insurify editorial team researches insurer data to determine the final scores. | 9.3 /10 |
| Liability Only Liability-only insurance, sometimes called minimum-coverage insurance, pays for bodily injury and property damage to others in an accident the policyholder causes. It does not pay for the insured’s own damages. | $80/mo |
| Full Coverage Full-coverage car insurance generally includes liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage, and may include other optional coverages such as uninsured motorist coverage. Collision covers a policyholder’s repair or replacement costs in case of an accident. Comprehensive covers damages caused by non-accident events. The average quote displayed here reflects policies with the following coverage limits: $50,000 bodily injury liability per person; $100,000 bodily injury liability per accident; $50,00 property damage liability per accident; $1,000 collision deductible; and a $1,000 comprehensive deductible. | $133/mo |
State Farm's score | Industry average | |
|---|---|---|
| Coverage options | 4.1 | 3.2 |
| Customer service | 4.4 | 3.6 |
| Discounts | 3.9 | 2.9 |
| Policy transparency | 3.9 | 3.1 |
| Value | 3.7 | 2.9 |
Customers appreciate the insurer’s excellent customer service and personal attention but dislike the high prices and frequent rate increases. They also express frustration with the claims process.
State Farm can be a great choice for South Carolina families adding a young driver. The company offers several ways for South Carolina’s more than 200,000 teen drivers to save, including a good-student discount and its Steer Clear safe-driving program.
South Carolina drivers who prefer personal service can also get car insurance quotes from State Farm’s extensive network of local agents.
Multiple savings opportunities for young drivers
Extensive network of local agents
Above-average J.D. Power customer satisfaction rating in the Southeast region
May cost more after driving violations
Doesn’t offer accident forgiveness
Some online customer reviews cite rate increases
GEICO: Best for discounts
| User Reviews | 4.0 |
|---|---|
| IQ Score The Insurify Quality (IQ) Score uses more than 15 criteria to objectively rate insurance companies on a one-to-ten scale. The Insurify editorial team researches insurer data to determine the final scores. | 9.2 /10 |
| Liability Only Liability-only insurance, sometimes called minimum-coverage insurance, pays for bodily injury and property damage to others in an accident the policyholder causes. It does not pay for the insured’s own damages. | $108/mo |
| Full Coverage Full-coverage car insurance generally includes liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage, and may include other optional coverages such as uninsured motorist coverage. Collision covers a policyholder’s repair or replacement costs in case of an accident. Comprehensive covers damages caused by non-accident events. The average quote displayed here reflects policies with the following coverage limits: $50,000 bodily injury liability per person; $100,000 bodily injury liability per accident; $50,00 property damage liability per accident; $1,000 collision deductible; and a $1,000 comprehensive deductible. | $166/mo |
GEICO's score | Industry average | |
|---|---|---|
| Coverage options | 4.0 | 3.2 |
| Customer service | 4.1 | 3.6 |
| Discounts | 3.9 | 2.9 |
| Policy transparency | 4.0 | 3.1 |
| Value | 3.9 | 2.9 |
Customers appreciate the reliability and customer service but find the rates to be high and increase frequently, even without claims or accidents. The app has improved, but some find the claims process lacking.
GEICO offers more than a dozen car insurance discounts, making it worth considering for South Carolina drivers looking for ways to reduce their premiums. Policyholders can earn discounts related to vehicle safety equipment, bundling policies with home insurance, federal employment, and other qualifications. GEICO also provides online quotes and a robust mobile app for drivers who prefer managing their insurance digitally.
Numerous available discounts
Online quotes and policy management
Strong mobile app
Limited local agent network
Below-average J.D. Power satisfaction in the Southeast
Customer service experiences can vary
USAA: Best for military families
| User Reviews | 4.9 |
|---|---|
| IQ Score The Insurify Quality (IQ) Score uses more than 15 criteria to objectively rate insurance companies on a one-to-ten scale. The Insurify editorial team researches insurer data to determine the final scores. | 9.1 /10 |
| Liability Only Liability-only insurance, sometimes called minimum-coverage insurance, pays for bodily injury and property damage to others in an accident the policyholder causes. It does not pay for the insured’s own damages. | $73/mo |
| Full Coverage Full-coverage car insurance generally includes liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage, and may include other optional coverages such as uninsured motorist coverage. Collision covers a policyholder’s repair or replacement costs in case of an accident. Comprehensive covers damages caused by non-accident events. The average quote displayed here reflects policies with the following coverage limits: $50,000 bodily injury liability per person; $100,000 bodily injury liability per accident; $50,00 property damage liability per accident; $1,000 collision deductible; and a $1,000 comprehensive deductible. | $119/mo |
USAA's score | Industry average | |
|---|---|---|
| Coverage options | 4.9 | 3.2 |
| Customer service | 4.9 | 3.6 |
| Discounts | 4.9 | 2.9 |
| Policy transparency | 4.9 | 3.1 |
| Value | 4.9 | 2.9 |
Customers appreciate the insurer’s reliable customer service and claim handling but express concerns about high rates and frequent price increases. Some also find the insurer’s security protocols and communication methods frustrating.
USAA is an especially strong insurer in South Carolina, which has a large military presence, including Fort Jackson, Shaw Air Force Base, and Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island. Eligible military members, veterans, and their families can access competitive rates, military-specific benefits, and the SafePilot telematics program.
Competitive South Carolina rates
Military-specific discounts and benefits
Strong customer satisfaction
Limited eligibility
Doesn’t have local agencies
Some customers report increasing premiums
How we chose the best car insurance companies in South Carolina
Our editorial team analyzed regional and national auto insurance companies that sell policies in South Carolina to assess which offer the best rates, coverage options, customer service, and savings to drivers. We prioritized competitive rates, 24/7 customer service, low-mileage discounts or programs, safe driving discounts, homeownership discounts or bundling options, and specialty or supplemental coverages.
Average cost of car insurance in South Carolina
The average cost of car insurance in South Carolina is $207 per month. This is much higher than the national average of $143. South Carolina drivers pay an average of $160 per month for liability coverage and $255 for full-coverage insurance.
Several factors can contribute to South Carolina’s relatively high premiums, including severe-weather exposure from hurricanes, flooding, and thunderstorms.[1] South Carolina has the third-highest vehicle fatal crash rate in the U.S., which also affects average insurance costs.[2] Lastly, South Carolina ranks No. 19 for vehicle theft by state, according to National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB) data.
Insurify’s latest auto insurance report found that South Carolina’s average full-coverage premium declined slightly in 2025, and rates weren’t projected to increase in 2026 after steeper increases in previous years.
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How to get the best car insurance in South Carolina
If you’re looking for South Carolina car insurance, you can take the following steps to find the right policy for your situation.
Meet South Carolina’s minimum car insurance requirements
South Carolina requires at least $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident for bodily injury liability and $25,000 for property damage liability. Drivers must also carry uninsured motorist coverage with limits of 25/50/25.[3]
Consider protection from severe weather
Hurricanes, tropical storms, flooding, and other severe weather can damage vehicles, particularly in South Carolina’s coastal cities. Comprehensive coverage can help pay for covered weather-related damage that liability insurance won’t cover.
Think beyond the state minimum
South Carolina’s required uninsured motorist coverage provides important protection, but underinsured motorist coverage is optional. Consider whether higher liability limits, optional underinsured motorist bodily injury coverage, and other added coverages make sense based on your finances and driving habits.
Ask about every available discount
The South Carolina Department of Insurance encourages consumers to ask insurers about discounts.[4] Insurers may offer discounts for having multiple vehicles, completing driver education, earning good grades, installing safety equipment, logging low mileage, maintaining clean driving records, and bundling home and auto coverage.
Compare several South Carolina quotes
Insurers weigh rating factors differently, so two South Carolina drivers with similar profiles can receive different prices from the same company. Compare at least three quotes using the same coverage limits and deductibles for an apples-to-apples comparison.
Best car insurance in South Carolina FAQs
The right South Carolina insurer depends on your driver profile, budget, and coverage needs. These answers can help narrow your choices.
What is the most affordable car insurance in South Carolina?
USAA is the cheapest South Carolina car insurance company, with an average liability insurance rate of $73 per month. Auto-Owners and State Farm also offer competitive rates.
What is the best insurance company in South Carolina?
Auto-Owners is Insurify’s best overall choice for South Carolina because of its competitive rates, coverage choices, and financial strength. State Farm, GEICO, USAA, and Nationwide are also strong choices for many South Carolina drivers. You should always compare quotes and coverage selections from multiple companies to find the best coverage for your needs.
Does South Carolina have the highest car insurance rates?
No, but South Carolina is one of the most expensive states in the U.S. for car insurance. With average monthly rates of $160 for liability insurance and $255 for full coverage, South Carolina has higher premiums than the national average. Your individual rate depends on factors such as your location, driving history, vehicle type, and coverage.
What is the minimum auto insurance coverage in South Carolina?
South Carolina requires 25/50/25 liability coverage: $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident for bodily injury and $25,000 for property damage. Drivers also need $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident for uninsured motorist bodily injury and $25,000 per accident in uninsured motorist property damage coverage.
Sources
- South Carolina Emergency Management Division. "Hurricanes."
- National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. "Early Estimate of Motor Vehicle Traffic Fatalities and Fatality Rate in 2025."
- South Carolina Department of Insurance. "Frequently Asked Questions About Automobile Insurance."
- South Carolina Department of Insurance. "Tips on Saving Money."
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