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Car insurance · rank #21 of 51 · July 2026

Average car insurance cost in South Carolina

South Carolina lands in the affordable middle of the pack at #21 of 51, with average premiums about 9% below the national average — around $216 a year cheaper than the typical American driver pays.

Full coverage, monthly$190 -9% vs US avg
Full coverage, annual$2,280
Minimum liability, monthly$78
Minimum liability, annual$936
U.S. average (full coverage)$208/mo
South Carolina vs U.S. average$216/yr
Fault systemAt-fault
Cost rank (1 = cheapest)#21 / 51
Paying more than the South Carolina average?

The single most reliable way to cut your premium is comparing quotes — the gap between the cheapest and priciest carrier for the same coverage regularly exceeds $1,000 a year.

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How South Carolina compares with its neighbors

Crossing a state line changes your premium more than almost any other single factor. Here's full coverage in South Carolina next to nearby states:

StateFull coverage /moDifference vs SC
South Carolina$190
North Carolina$147$43/mo
Georgia$184$6/mo

South Carolina car insurance FAQ

How much is car insurance in South Carolina?

Full-coverage car insurance in South Carolina averages $190 per month ($2,280 per year). A state-minimum liability policy averages $78 per month ($936 per year). Your own rate depends on your age, record, vehicle, credit and ZIP code.

Is car insurance in South Carolina more expensive than average?

No. South Carolina's full-coverage average of $190/month is about 9% below the U.S. average of $208/month, ranking #21 of 51 (1 = cheapest).

Is South Carolina a no-fault state?

No. South Carolina is an at-fault (tort) state — the driver who causes an accident is responsible for the other party's injuries and property damage through their liability coverage.

How much cheaper is minimum coverage in South Carolina?

Minimum liability in South Carolina averages $78/month versus $190/month for full coverage — a gap of $112/month, or $1,344/year. Minimum coverage only pays for damage you cause to others; it will not repair or replace your own car.

Paying more than the South Carolina average?

The single most reliable way to cut your premium is comparing quotes — the gap between the cheapest and priciest carrier for the same coverage regularly exceeds $1,000 a year.

Compare car insurance quotes

We may earn a commission if you request quotes through this link. It costs you nothing and never affects the data we publish.