August 19, 2025

Cheapest Car Insurance Options in South Carolina

News Summary

A recent report by Way.com highlights how driving records significantly affect car insurance rates in South Carolina. Walhalla emerges as the cheapest city for liability coverage, with American National offering the lowest premium at $25 per month. The analysis also shows how traffic violations can increase insurance costs, emphasizing the importance of a clean driving record. With varying average premiums across cities, residents must navigate their options wisely to secure affordable automobile insurance.

South Carolina residents seeking cheaper car insurance options can find rates significantly affected by their driving records, with traffic violations leading to increased premiums, according to a new report by Way.com’s data team. The analysis reveals varying average monthly premiums across different cities in the state, highlighting Walhalla as the cheapest place for liability coverage.

American National offers the most affordable liability coverage in South Carolina, charging only $25 per month. For those purchasing full coverage insurance, American National also provides the lowest rates at $57 per month. These rates significantly undercut many competitors in the market.

Other affordable options for liability insurance include American National P&C at $31, USAA at $36, Encompass at $37, and South Carolina Farm Bureau at $40. For full coverage, after American National P&C, the other cheap alternatives are South Carolina Farm Bureau at $74, American National at $83, Auto-Owners Insurance Co at $85, and American Family at $129.

The average monthly premiums for car insurance differ significantly throughout South Carolina. The city with the lowest average premium is Walhalla, where drivers pay around $132 monthly. Other cities with low premiums include Salem at $133, Newry at $134, Seneca at $134, and West Union with an average of $134 as well. In contrast, cities with the highest premiums are Miley and Crocketville, where the average cost is $198 per month, followed closely by Canadys at $195, Estill at $190, and North Charleston at $189.

Impact of Traffic Violations on Premiums

Traffic violations have a pronounced effect on auto insurance rates in South Carolina. A clean driving record typically yields an average premium of $202. However, the presence of violations can raise premiums significantly. For example, a not-at-fault accident raises the average rate to $213. Other notable increases include:

Failure to wear a seat belt: $231
Speeding 6 – 10 MPH over the limit: $253
Speeding 21 – 25 MPH over the limit: $257
DUI: $319
Reckless driving: $327
Driving with a suspended license: $328
Leaving the scene of an accident or hit and run: $340

Background Context

The data revealing these insights was gathered from both public and internal sources, hinting at a comprehensive view of the auto insurance market in South Carolina. As consumers continue to navigate the insurance landscape, understanding these rates and factors affecting them, such as city location and driving history, is crucial for making informed decisions about coverage. With a combination of affordable options and the impact of driving records, South Carolina residents have various considerations to weigh when shopping for car insurance.

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Author: STAFF HERE CLINTON

The CLINTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREClinton.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Clinton, Laurens County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Festival of Discovery, Clinton Community Day, and performances at the Whitten Center Amphitheater. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Clinton Area Chamber of Commerce and the Laurens County Historical Society, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and education that power the local economy such as Milliken & Company and Presbyterian College. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.