Average Insurance Rates in South Carolina (2026)
A data-backed look at what drivers and homeowners pay in South Carolina, why costs differ from the national average, and how to save.
2026 auto insurance snapshot — South Carolina
2026- System: At-fault (tort) — the at-fault driver’s liability insurance pays.
- Motorcycle liability insurance: required.
- At-fault; mandatory UM 25/50.
Why South Carolina costs what it does
- Hurricane and coastal exposure
- Litigation environment
- Moderate density
How to save on insurance in South Carolina
- Compare at least three quotes from licensed insurers before purchasing.
- Ask about multi-policy (bundling), good-driver, and home-safety discounts.
- Raise deductibles only if you can afford the out-of-pocket risk.
- Improve your home's resilience (roof, storm shutters) and driving record over time.
Estimate your own rates
Use our free calculators for a personalized estimate based on your profile:
Frequently Asked Questions
What drives South Carolina insurance costs?
Hurricane and coastal wind exposure, plus a litigation environment, keep South Carolina above the national average.
What is the average auto insurance cost in South Carolina?
The 2024 full-coverage average auto premium in South Carolina is about $2,139 (NAIC/NerdWallet 2024 state table), which is 7% below the national average of $2,308.
How much is home insurance in South Carolina?
The Insurance Information Institute (Triple-I) 2021 average HO-3 premium for South Carolina is $1,432. InsurTool estimates the 2026 figure near $2,080 (III 2021 x 1.45 model, not a filed 2026 rate), about 1% above the estimated national average of $2,050.
How can I get a more accurate quote?
Use the free calculators linked below and compare at least three quotes from licensed insurers. Your actual premium depends on your specific home, vehicle, location, and history.
What are the minimum liability limits in South Carolina?
The legal minimum in South Carolina is 25/50/25 (bodily injury per person / per accident / property damage, in thousands of dollars). Most experts recommend carrying well above the minimum — a serious crash can exceed it quickly.
Is South Carolina a no-fault auto insurance state?
South Carolina is an at-fault (tort) state: the at-fault driver's liability insurance pays for injuries and damage.
Sources: Auto — NAIC Auto Insurance Database Report (2023),naic.org. Home — Insurance Information Institute (Triple-I), 2021,iii.org. 2026 home values are InsurTool estimates based on the 2021 figure. Last updated August 2026.
2026 auto snapshot: NerdWallet (2026 average car insurance cost); Compare.com (2026 minimum state requirements); Jerry / Insurance Information Institute (no-fault vs at-fault states); motoinsure.co (2026 motorcycle insurance by state).
Figures are averages for comparison only and do not constitute financial advice. Confirm current rates with a licensed insurer in South Carolina.