- South Carolina averages around $2,586/year — above average, driven by high uninsured motorist rates
- Rates fell −13% in 2025, providing relief from prior increases — though baseline costs remain elevated
- An uninsured driver rate approaching 12% makes UM/UIM coverage particularly important in this state
- State Farm and USAA rank best for value; SC is well-served by the major national carriers
- Coastal markets (Charleston, Myrtle Beach) run higher than inland areas due to storm and flood exposure
South Carolina averages $2,580 per year for full coverage — above the national benchmark. The state has one of the highest uninsured motorist rates in the Southeast, with estimates ranging from 10–14% of drivers uninsured. That risk is distributed across all insured drivers in the form of higher premiums. South Carolina law requires insurers to offer uninsured motorist coverage, and declining it outright isn't an option.
Coastal counties — Charleston, Myrtle Beach, Hilton Head — see additional risk from hurricane and flooding events that can total or severely damage vehicles. The state's growing population, particularly in the Columbia and Greenville-Spartanburg corridors, has added congestion and accident frequency that push metropolitan rates higher than the rural Lowcountry or Upstate.
Shopping strategies for South Carolina
South Carolina has active competition among major carriers. GEICO, State Farm, Progressive, and Nationwide all write significant business here, and the price spread between them for similar coverage can be $500+ per year. Safe driver discounts and telematics programs are worth exploring — carriers like Progressive and State Farm offer meaningful discounts for demonstrably safe driving behavior tracked via app or device.
South Carolina average: $2,580/year full coverage. Uninsured motorist coverage is especially valuable here given the state's high UM rate. Coastal drivers should confirm their comprehensive coverage handles flooding — standard auto comprehensive does cover storm damage.
Frequently asked questions
What is the cheapest car insurance in South Carolina?
State Farm and GEICO are typically the most competitive national carriers in South Carolina. SC Farm Bureau is a member-based option available to residents with competitive pricing for homeowners. USAA is best for military and veterans. South Carolina rates have risen sharply since 2022 — shopping at every renewal is important. Enter your ZIP to compare current rankings.
What are South Carolina's minimum auto insurance requirements?
South Carolina requires 25/50/25 liability coverage — $25,000 per person / $50,000 per accident bodily injury and $25,000 property damage. Uninsured motorist coverage at 25/50/25 is required unless waived. South Carolina is a tort state. The state has above-average uninsured motorist rates (~14%) — keeping uninsured motorist coverage is recommended.
Why are South Carolina rates above average for the Southeast?
South Carolina has seen significant rate increases since 2022 driven by rising claims costs, higher vehicle repair costs, and above-average accident frequency particularly in the Columbia and Charlotte suburbs. The uninsured motorist rate (~14%) also adds costs for insured drivers. Coastal markets (Myrtle Beach, Charleston) run higher than inland areas due to weather and tourism traffic.
Does South Carolina require uninsured motorist coverage?
South Carolina requires uninsured motorist coverage at the state minimum limits (25/50/25) unless the policyholder signs a written waiver to reject it. Given the state's elevated uninsured motorist rate (~14%), keeping this coverage is almost always recommended — the cost is modest and the protection is significant if you're hit by an uninsured driver.