Cheap Car Insurance in South Carolina for 2024 (Earn Savings With These 10 Companies)
If you're looking for cheap car insurance in South Carolina, top providers like Geico, State Farm, and Progressive offer excellent options. Geico offers the most budget-friendly rate at $33 per month, while State Farm balances coverage and cost, and Progressive provides flexible plans with additional benefits.
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Jeffrey Manola
Licensed Insurance Agent
Jeffrey Manola is an experienced insurance agent who founded TopQuoteLifeInsurance.com and NoMedicalExamQuotes.com. His mission when creating these sites was to provide online consumers searching for insurance with the most affordable rates available. Not only does he strive to provide consumers with the best prices for insurance coverage, but he also wants those on the market for insurance to ...
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UPDATED: Oct 1, 2024
It’s all about you. We want to help you make the right legal decisions.
We strive to help you make confident insurance and legal decisions. Finding trusted and reliable insurance quotes and legal advice should be easy. This doesn’t influence our content. Our opinions are our own.
Editorial Guidelines: We are a free online resource for anyone interested in learning more about legal topics and insurance. Our goal is to be an objective, third-party resource for everything legal and insurance related. We update our site regularly, and all content is reviewed by experts.
UPDATED: Oct 1, 2024
It’s all about you. We want to help you make the right legal decisions.
We strive to help you make confident insurance and legal decisions. Finding trusted and reliable insurance quotes and legal advice should be easy. This doesn’t influence our content. Our opinions are our own.
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17,759 reviewsCompany Facts
Min Coverage in SC
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13,128 reviewsCompany Facts
Min Coverage in SC
A.M. Best Rating
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Pros & Cons
13,128 reviewsIf you are looking for cheap car insurance in South Carolina, Geico, State Farm, and Progressive offer great options, with $33/month by Geico.
With some understanding of the factors that influence car insurance rates and a little research into “What You Should Know About Car Insurance,” you can find affordable coverage that meets your needs.
Our Top 10 Company Picks: Cheap Car Insurance in South Carolina| Company | Rank | Monthly Rates | Bundling Discount | Best For | Jump to Pros/Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | #1 | $33 | 25% | Low Rates | Geico |
 | #2 | $36 | 17% | Customer Service | State Farm |
 | #3 | $43 | 20% | Online Tools | Progressive |
 | #4 | $44 | 15% | Flexible Policies | Travelers |
 | #5 | $49 | 14% | Low Mileage | Safeco |
 | #6 | $55 | 10% | Local Agents | Allstate |
 | #7 | $58 | 10% | AARP Members | The Hartford |
 | #8 | $64 | 7% | Basic Coverage | Direct Auto |
 | #9 | $69 | 15% | Custom Discounts | Farmers |
 | #10 | $76 | 12% | Custom Coverage | Liberty Mutual |
Knowing these essentials can help you navigate options and secure the best rates without compromising quality. Enter your ZIP code here and get the best prices suited for you.
- Geico offers rates starting at $33/month
- Geico, State Farm, and Progressive lead in affordability
- Affordable coverage options in South Carolina
#1 — Geico: Top Overall Pick
Pros
- Lowest Monthly Rates: Geico offers at just $33/month, making it the top option for drivers looking for affordable coverage. Read more at “Geico Insurance Reviews.”
- High Bundling Discount: Geico offers a 25% bundling discount, making car insurance even more affordable when combining auto and home insurance policies.
- Best for Low Rates: Geico is a reliable choice for drivers seeking car insurance without sacrificing coverage quality. It is known for consistently providing low rates.
Cons
- Limited Local Support: Lacks the extensive network of local agents compared to providers like State Farm, which may limit in-person customer service options.
- Minimal Discounts for High-Mileage Drivers: Geico’s car insurance in South Carolina may not offer as many savings to high-mileage drivers as Safeco’s.
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#2 — State Farm: Best for Customer Service
Pros
- Competitive Monthly Rates: At $36/month, State Farm provides car insurance while maintaining excellent customer service.
- Customer Service Excellence: State Farm is known for its superior customer service and ensures that drivers who want car insurance receive exceptional support from local agents.
- Bundling Discount: With a 17% bundling discount, State Farm helps you achieve car insurance by combining policies, such as auto and home insurance.
Cons
- Higher Premiums for Inexperienced Drivers: Rates for younger or less experienced drivers may be higher than Geico’s. Learn more at “State Farm Insurance Review.”
- Limited Online Tools: For drivers seeking advanced online features, State Farm falls short compared to Progressive, which offers more robust digital tools.
#3 — Progressive: Best for Online Tools
Pros
- Advanced Online Tools: Progressive provides a suite of digital tools, such as the Name Your Price tool, making it easy to find cheap car insurance tailored to your budget.
- Snapshot Program: Drivers can benefit from Progressive’s Snapshot program, which rewards safe driving with up to 20% discounts.
- Affordable Rates: Progressive offers user-friendly online tools, making it an excellent choice for tech-savvy drivers. Discover more affordable rates at “Progressive Insurance Review.”
Cons
- Higher Rates for High-Risk Drivers: Drivers with a poor driving record may face higher premiums than more affordable options like Geico.
- Lower Bundling Discount: While helpful, Progressive’s 20% bundling discount may not provide as much savings for drivers.
#4 — Travelers: Best for Flexible Policies
Pros
- Flexible Coverage Options: Travelers offer customizable policies that align with their individual needs. Discover flexible coverages at “Travelers Insurance Review.”
- Bundling Discounts: Travelers’ 15% bundling discount helps make cheap car insurance even more affordable for drivers who combine policies.
- Best for Flexible Policies: Known for its flexibility, Travelers can easily tailor policies to fit their budget and still find cheap car insurance in South Carolina.
Cons
- Slightly Higher Premiums: Travelers may not be the best option for drivers solely focused on cheap car insurance compared to Geico or State Farm.
- Limited Online Features: Travelers’ online platforms may lack some of the convenient tools found in Progressive, which might appeal to drivers seeking a fully digital experience.
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#5 — Safeco: Best for Low Mileage
Pros
- Ideal for Low-Mileage Drivers: Safeco is best for drivers who don’t log many miles. It offers specialized policies that provide cheap car insurance in South Carolina for those with lower mileage.
- Affordable Rates: Safeco’s $49/month rate makes it a competitive choice for drivers looking for cheap car insurance with quality coverage.
- Bundling Discounts: Safeco offers a 14% bundling discount to help reduce costs and offer cheap car insurance for drivers who combine their insurance products.
Cons
- Higher Premiums for High Mileage: Drivers with higher mileage may not benefit as much. Additionally, you might wonder, “How can I pay my Safeco insurance premium?.”
- Limited Local Support: Safeco’s lack of extensive local agents may be a drawback for those who prefer face-to-face service while also seeking cheap car insurance in South Carolina.
#6 — Allstate: Best for Local Agents
Pros
- Strong Local Agent Network: Allstate is perfect for those who value personalized, in-person service while still seeking cheap car insurance.
- Bundling Discounts: Allstate offers a 10% bundling discount to help drivers obtain cheap car insurance in South Carolina by combining multiple policies.
- Best for Local Agents: Allstate’s focus on local agents ensures that drivers can find cheap car insurance with the added benefit of personalized service.
Cons
- Higher Monthly Rates: Allstate’s rates may not qualify as the best option for drivers purely focused on cheap car insurance. Learn more at “Allstate Insurance Review.”
- Lower Bundling Discount: Allstate’s 10% bundling discount is smaller than competitors, making it less attractive for drivers.
#7 — The Hartford: Best for AARP Members
Pros
- Tailored for AARP Members: The Hartford provides exclusive policies for AARP members, making it an excellent choice for older drivers.
- Financial Strength: With an A+ A.M. Best rating, The Hartford ensures financial stability, which is critical for drivers wanting reliable and cheap car insurance.
- Bundling Discounts: The Hartford’s 10% bundling discount helps lower overall insurance costs. To learn more, read the article “How do I renew my car insurance policy with The Hartford?.”
Cons
- Higher Rates for Non-AARP Members: The Hartford’s rates, starting at $58/month, may not provide cheap car insurance in South Carolina for non-AARP members.
- Limited Appeal to Younger Drivers: Younger drivers may find better options for cheap car insurance with companies like Geico or Progressive.
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#8 — Direct: Best for Basic Coverage
Pros
- Best for Basic Coverage: Direct Auto specializes in simple, no-frills policies, offering cheap car insurance for drivers who only need basic coverage.
- Quick Online Quotes: Direct Auto makes it easy to get insured quickly, providing cheap car insurance through fast, hassle-free online quotes.
- Bundling Discounts: With a 7% bundling discount, Direct Auto offers some savings, making it accessible for drivers who need basic coverage.
Cons
- Fewer Customization Options: Direct Auto’s focus on basic coverage means fewer customization options for drivers seeking more complex policies.
- Higher Rates for Comprehensive Coverage: Direct Auto’s policies may not be the cheapest option for drivers who need more. Learn more at “Direct Auto Insurance.”
#9 — Farmers: Best for Custom Discounts
Pros
- Customizable Discounts: Farmers offers a variety of discounts, helping drivers find cheap car insurance through safe driver incentives and bundling discounts.
- Local Agent Support: Farmers’ strong network of agents ensures personalized service for drivers seeking cheap car insurance with local assistance.
- Bundling Discount: Farmers offers a 15% bundling discount, making it easier for policyholders to secure cheap car insurance by combining multiple policies.
Cons
- Higher Monthly Rates: Farmers’ rates are higher than those of competitors like Geico, making it less ideal. Read more about higher monthly rates at “Farmers Insurance Review.”
- Limited Online Tools: Drivers seeking a fully digital experience may prefer Progressive over Farmers, especially when looking for advanced online tools.
#10 — Liberty Mutual: Best for Custom Coverage
Pros
- Highly Customizable Policies: Liberty Mutual provides fully customizable coverage options, making it easier to find cheap car insurance that fits individual needs.
- Accident Forgiveness: Liberty Mutual offers accident forgiveness, helping drivers avoid rate hikes while maintaining cheap car insurance.
- Bundling Discounts: Liberty Mutual offers a 12% bundling discount to help drivers save by combining policies, ensuring cheap car insurance.
Cons
- Higher Monthly Rates: Liberty Mutual’s rates may not be the best for those looking for cheap car insurance. Discover more monthly rates at “Liberty Mutual Insurance Review.”
- Fewer Local Agents: Liberty Mutual’s limited local agent network may not be ideal for drivers seeking cheap car insurance in South Carolina alongside in-person service.
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Understanding Car Insurance in South Carolina
Before diving into the world of cheap car insurance, it’s essential to have a basic understanding of how car insurance works in South Carolina. Car insurance is designed to protect you financially in the event of an accident or other damage to your vehicle.
It provides coverage for property damage, bodily injury, and medical expenses. In South Carolina, all drivers are legally required to carry a minimum amount of car insurance.
South Carolina Car Insurance Monthly Rates by Provider & Coverage Level| Insurance Company | Minimum Coverage | Full Coverage |
|---|---|---|
| $55 | $133 |
| $64 | $152 |
| $69 | $166 |
| $33 | $79 |
| $76 | $185 |
| $43 | $105 |
 | $49 | $120 |
| $36 | $88 |
| $58 | $140 |
| $44 | $106 |
When it comes to car insurance, South Carolina follows a fault-based system. This means that the driver at fault in an accident is responsible for covering the damages. Car insurance helps ensure that you have the necessary financial resources to fulfill this responsibility.
South Carolina Car Insurance Discounts by Provider| Insurance Company | Available Discounts |
|---|---|
 | Multi-Policy, Safe Driver, Early Signing, New Car |
 | Multi-Car, Homeowner, Safe Driver, Pay-in-Full |
 | Multi-Policy, Homeowner, Safe Driver, Good Student |
 | Multi-Policy, Good Driver, Anti-Theft, Military |
 | Multi-Policy, Good Student, Anti-Theft, Paperless Billing |
 | Multi-Car, Homeowner, Continuous Coverage, Paperless Billing |
 | Multi-Policy, Anti-Theft, Good Student, Pay-in-Full |
 | Multi-Car, Safe Driver, Good Student, Anti-Theft |
 | Multi-Car, Safe Driver, Good Student, Anti-Theft |
 | Multi-Policy, Homeowner, Safe Driver, New Car |
In addition to liability and collision coverage, comprehensive coverage protects your vehicle against non-collision-related damage, such as theft or vandalism.
5 Most Common Auto Insurance Claims in South Carolina| Claim Type | Portion of Claims | Cost per Claim |
|---|---|---|
| Collision | 35% | $3,600 |
| Comprehensive | 22% | $2,400 |
| Property Damage | 18% | $4,200 |
| Bodily Injury Liability | 15% | $16,000 |
| Personal Injury Protection (PIP) | 10% | $9,000 |
If you have a leased or financed vehicle, understanding car insurance for leased or financed cars is crucial, as your lender or leasing company may require specific coverage levels. Comprehensive insurance ensures that you meet these requirements while protecting your investment.
Factors Influencing Car Insurance Rates in South Carolina
Several factors can influence your car insurance rates in South Carolina. Understanding these factors can help you find affordable coverage that suits your needs.
In addition to age and driving experience, several other factors can affect car insurance rates in South Carolina.
For instance, if you drive infrequently, you might benefit from “Pay-Per-Mile Auto Insurance,” which can offer significant savings by charging you based on the miles you drive.
South Carolina Report Card: Auto Insurance Premiums| Category | Grade | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| Average Premiums | B | Slightly above the national average moderate for most drivers |
| Premiums for High-Risk Drivers | C+ | Higher than average for drivers with accidents or DUIs |
| Discount Availability | A- | Strong options for safe drivers, multi-policy holders, and students |
| Regional Variation | B- | Significant variation between urban and rural areas more expensive in cities |
| Customer Satisfaction | B+ | Generally positive but room for improvement in claims handling |
Let’s explore some of these factors to help you find the best coverage for your needs. Our free online comparison tool below allows you to compare cheap car insurance quotes instantly — enter your ZIP code to get started.
Age and Driving Experience
As mentioned earlier, younger, inexperienced drivers generally face higher insurance rates than older, more experienced drivers. Younger drivers are statistically more likely to be involved in accidents. However, it’s not just age that matters.
Insurance companies also consider the years you’ve been licensed and your driving experience. So, even if you’re a bit older but just got your driver’s license, you may still be considered a higher risk and face higher premiums.
On the other hand, if you have several years of driving experience and a clean record, you may qualify for discounts or lower rates. Insurance providers often reward safe and experienced drivers with more affordable coverage options.
Driving Record and Claims History
Your driving record plays a significant role in determining your car insurance rates. Drivers with clean records and no recent claims are often rewarded with lower premiums. On the other hand, drivers with a history of accidents or moving violations may have higher rates.
South Carolina Accidents & Claims per Year by City| City | Accidents per Year | Claims per Year |
|---|---|---|
| Columbia | 5,500 | 3,800 |
| Charleston | 4,200 | 2,900 |
| North Charleston | 3,800 | 2,600 |
| Greenville | 3,400 | 2,300 |
| Rock Hill | 2,100 | 1,400 |
It’s important to note that insurance companies typically look at your driving record for the past three to five years. So, if you’ve had a few speeding tickets or minor accidents in the distant past, they may not have a significant impact on your current rates.
However, recent infractions or claims can lead to higher premiums.
It’s always a good idea to practice safe driving habits and avoid potential violations or accidents. This will help keep you and others safe on the road and can also help you maintain lower car insurance rates.
How to Find Cheap Car Insurance in South Carolina
Now that you understand the basics of car insurance in South Carolina and the factors that influence your rates, let’s examine some strategies for finding cheap car insurance.
South Carolina Report Card: Auto Insurance Discounts| Discount Name | Grade | Savings | Participating Providers |
|---|---|---|---|
| Good Driver | A | 25% | State Farm, Geico, Allstate, Progressive |
| Multi-Policy | A- | 20% | Liberty Mutual, Nationwide, USAA, Farmers |
| Defensive Driving | B+ | 15% | The Hartford, Geico, Travelers |
| Low Mileage | B | 10% | Nationwide, Progressive, Allstate |
| Good Student | A | 20% | State Farm, Allstate, Liberty Mutual |
One important consideration is the “Best Car Insurance for PIP,” which can be crucial for ensuring adequate protection for medical expenses in case of an accident.
By evaluating your options for personal injury protection and other coverage types, you can make informed decisions that help you secure affordable and comprehensive insurance.
When finding affordable car insurance in South Carolina, there are a few key steps you can take to ensure you get the best rates possible.
By shopping around, taking advantage of discounts, and maintaining a clean driving record, you can save money on your car insurance premiums and have peace of mind.
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Top Affordable Car Insurance Company in South Carolina
There are plenty of options for car insurance in South Carolina. However, if you’re looking for affordable coverage without compromising on quality, it’s helpful to understand how insurance companies calculate your car insurance rate.
Factors such as your driving history, vehicle type, and location play a significant role. With this knowledge, you can better evaluate which company offers the best value for your needs. Ready to find cheaper car insurance coverage? Enter your ZIP code below to begin.
Company A Review
Company A is a leading insurance provider in South Carolina, known for its competitive rates and excellent customer service. They understand drivers have different needs and budgets, so they offer various coverage options.
Tim Bain Licensed Insurance Agent
Whether you’re a new driver or have years of experience on the road, Company A has a policy that can meet your requirements.
One key advantage of choosing Company A is its user-friendly website. It lets you quickly get a quote, compare coverage options, and manage your policy online. This convenience saves you time and effort, making the insurance process hassle-free.
Frequently Asked Questions
What factors affect the cost of car insurance in South Carolina?
Several factors can affect the cost of car insurance in South Carolina, including your age, driving record, the type of car you drive, your location, and the coverage options you choose.
What should I do if I can’t afford car insurance in South Carolina?
If you cannot afford car insurance in South Carolina, consider exploring state assistance programs that may help low-income drivers obtain coverage.
Additionally, you can shop for the most competitive rates, look for discounts, and consider adjusting your coverage options to lower your premium.
Another option is to increase your deductible, which can reduce your monthly payments but ensure you can cover the higher out-of-pocket cost in case of an accident. Lastly, consider taking a defensive driving course, which might qualify you for discounts and improve your driving skills.
Finding cheap car insurance quotes is easy. Enter your ZIP code into our free comparison tool below to instantly compare quotes near you.
Can I find cheap car insurance in South Carolina without a poor driving record?
While having a poor driving record can make it more challenging to find cheap car insurance, there are still options available.
You may consider looking for insurance companies specializing in high-risk drivers, especially those offering auto insurance for sports cars, to ensure you get the best coverage for your vehicle.
Additionally, taking defensive driving courses can improve your record and potentially qualify you for discounts, making your insurance more affordable.
How can I lower my car insurance premiums in South Carolina?
There are several ways to lower your car insurance premiums in South Carolina.
You can consider increasing your deductible, maintaining a good driving record, bundling your car insurance with other policies, installing safety features, and shopping for the best rates.
What should I do if I’m involved in a car accident in South Carolina?
If you’re involved in a car accident in South Carolina, you must ensure everyone’s safety and call for medical assistance.
Then, exchange insurance information with the other party involved and report the accident to your insurance company immediately. Documenting the accident scene, taking photos, and gathering witness information is also advisable.
Shop for the best liability-only car insurance with our free quote comparison tool. Enter your ZIP code below to begin.
What factors should I consider when shopping for cheap car insurance in South Carolina?
When looking for cheap car insurance in South Carolina, consider your driving record, age, vehicle type, and the coverage you need.
Understanding the state’s auto insurance law is also essential, as it will affect your coverage requirements and options.
Additionally, check if the provider offers bundling discounts, safe driver discounts, and other cost-saving options to help lower your premiums.
How can I lower my car insurance premiums in South Carolina?
To reduce your car insurance premiums in South Carolina, you can maintain a clean driving record, take advantage of discounts such as bundling auto and home insurance, and consider increasing your deductible.
Additionally, choosing a provider with low base rates can help you find cheap car insurance in South Carolina.
Are there any specific discounts available for South Carolina drivers?
Yes, South Carolina drivers can often benefit from discounts such as bundling multiple policies (auto and home), safe driver discounts, low-mileage discounts, and discounts for good students.
Always ask insurance providers about any special discounts they offer for cheap car insurance in South Carolina.
See if you’re getting the best deal on car insurance by entering your ZIP code below.
How does my credit score affect my car insurance rates in South Carolina?
In South Carolina, your credit score can impact your car insurance rates.
A higher credit score often results in lower premiums, while a lower credit score might lead to higher rates. Insurers use credit scores as one factor in determining your risk level and, consequently, your rates for cheap car insurance in South Carolina.
To ensure you’re getting the best deal, you can save money by comparing online car insurance quotes from multiple providers, which allows you to find the most affordable coverage based on your credit score.
Can I get cheap car insurance in South Carolina with coverage for high-risk drivers?
Some insurers offer coverage for high-risk drivers, though it may come at a higher cost. To find cheap car insurance in South Carolina for high-risk drivers, you may need to compare quotes from various providers and look for those specializing in high-risk insurance.
Shopping around and comparing different options is crucial to find affordable rates.
Enter your ZIP code below to compare cheap insurance rates.
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Jeffrey Manola
Licensed Insurance Agent
Jeffrey Manola is an experienced insurance agent who founded TopQuoteLifeInsurance.com and NoMedicalExamQuotes.com. His mission when creating these sites was to provide online consumers searching for insurance with the most affordable rates available. Not only does he strive to provide consumers with the best prices for insurance coverage, but he also wants those on the market for insurance to ...
Licensed Insurance Agent
Editorial Guidelines: We are a free online resource for anyone interested in learning more about legal topics and insurance. Our goal is to be an objective, third-party resource for everything legal and insurance related. We update our site regularly, and all content is reviewed by experts.