Cheapest Car Insurance For College Students in South Carolina 2025
American National is one of the best car insurance companies for college students in South Carolina. American National is also the cheapest provider, with an average annual rate of $1,740.
We’ve saved shoppers an average of $600 per year on their car insurance.
Young drivers under 25 consistently face the steepest car insurance premiums of any age group. For college students in South Carolina, this reality makes finding affordable coverage especially challenging, particularly when balancing tuition, housing, and everyday living costs.
After evaluating the leading providers in the state, American National stands out as the most budget‑friendly option for student drivers, with average annual rates around $1,740. Even for students seeking the added protection of full coverage, American National remains the most affordable choice, offering policies that average about $1,464 per year. With this combination of competitive pricing and dependable protection, American National is a strong contender for South Carolina college students looking to keep costs manageable while staying insured.
Key Takeaways
Student drivers in South Carolina must have car insurance that meets the state’s minimum requirements.
American National offers the cheapest insurance policy for students in South Carolina, at an average annual rate of $1,740.
There are multiple ways to reduce the cost of car insurance for students in South Carolina.
Best Car Insurance Companies For College Students In South Carolina
When selecting car insurance for college students in South Carolina, you need to consider your priorities and pick a policy that matches your needs, whether that is low rates or comprehensive coverage.
Use the table below to see our picks for the best auto insurers for students in South Carolina.
| Company | Average Rate Per Year |
| State Farm | $3,024 |
| South Carolina Farm Bureau | $2,376 |
| American National | $1,740 |
| Auto-Owners | $2,196 |
| GEICO | $2,604 |
* These figures are estimates based on general market trends, and they may differ from your actual rate.
Cheapest Liability-Only Car Insurance For College Students In South Carolina
Minimum coverage policies are often an effective way to decrease overall costs, but can leave you vulnerable in an accident. These low-cost plans will only cover the state minimum insurance needed to operate a vehicle, which means paying expenses out of pocket.
Minimum coverage policies are great options for college students as they provide the insurance needed to drive legally while keeping costs low.
As you can see from the table below, American National is the cheapest average option at $288 per year.
| Company | Average Rate Per Year |
| State Farm | $684 |
| American National | $288 |
| South Carolina Farm Bureau | $720 |
| Auto‑Owners | $600 |
| Erie | $492 |
* These figures are estimates based on general market trends, and they may differ from your actual rate.
Cheapest Full Coverage Car Insurance For College Students In South Carolina
College students who commute to campus or routinely drive for work should consider a full coverage policy over minimum coverage. These plans offer additional protection, often including liability, comprehensive, and collision coverage.
While the full coverage policies offer more protection, they come at a higher cost. It’s essential to weigh the benefits of the additional insurance against the extra monthly cost.
American National is the cheapest full coverage car insurance policy for students in South Carolina, at an average annual rate of $1,464.
| Company | Average Rate Per Year |
| Auto‑Owners | $1,844 |
| Travelers | $2,592 |
| GEICO | $2,004 |
| American National | $1,464 |
| USAA | $2,364 |
* These figures are estimates based on general market trends, and they may differ from your actual rate.
Cheapest Car Insurance For College Students With Low-Mileage In South Carolina
If you’re a college student who doesn’t plan on driving much throughout the school year, there’s no reason to pay for insurance you don’t need. While you’ll still need to maintain the state minimum auto insurance, most low-mileage policies offer discounted rates if you stay below a certain number of miles yearly.
The limit will vary between insurance companies but is usually around 7,500 to 10,000 miles annually.
Use the table below to view the cheapest low-mileage rates for college drivers in South Carolina.
| Company | Average Rate Per Year |
| Allstate | $840 |
| State Farm | $1,260 |
| Nationwide | $780 |
| Progressive | $1,320 |
| GEICO | $1,200 |
* These figures are estimates based on general market trends, and they may differ from your actual rate.
Cheapest Car Insurance For College Students With Driving Violations In South Carolina
Driving violations can significantly increase the amount a driver pays for monthly coverage, regardless of age. College students will likely experience an even more significant rate increase after an accident or ticket due to their already high-risk rating.
One way to mitigate the damage of a driving violation is to work with a company like Auto-Owners that specializes in insuring motorists with a history of tickets or accidents.
| Company | Average Rate Per Year |
| State Farm | $2,220 |
| Auto‑Owners | $1,680 |
| Progressive | $2,520 |
| GEICO | $2,340 |
| South Carolina Farm Bureau | $2,040 |
* These figures are estimates based on general market trends, and they may differ from your actual rate.
Average Cost Of Car Insurance For College Students In South Carolina – By City
Where you live in South Carolina can have a significant impact on your car insurance premiums.
Use the table below to view average rates for different cities in South Carolina.
| City | Average Monthly Cost |
| Columbia | $220 |
| Myrtle Beach | $215 |
| Charleston | $230 |
| Greenville | $210 |
| Spartanburg | $200 |
* These figures are estimates based on general market trends, and they may differ from your actual rate.
Average Cost Of Car Insurance For 18-Year-Old College Students In South Carolina
American National offers the cheapest rates for 18-year-old college drivers in South Carolina, at an average monthly cost of $140.
| Car Insurance Provider | Average Monthly Cost |
| Auto‑Owners Insurance | $234 |
| American National | $140 |
| State Farm | $273 |
| Travelers | $269 |
| South Carolina Farm Bureau | $258 |
* These figures are estimates based on general market trends, and they may differ from your actual rate.
Average Cost Of Car Insurance For 19-Year-Old College Students In South Carolina
American National provides the cheapest policy for 19-year-old college students in South Carolina, averaging $182 per month.
| Car Insurance Provider | Average Monthly Cost |
| American National | $182 |
| State Farm | $255 |
| Erie | $218 |
| GEICO | $210 |
| Progressive | $233 |
* These figures are estimates based on general market trends, and they may differ from your actual rate.
Average Cost Of Car Insurance For 20-Year-Old College Students In South Carolina
The cheapest auto insurance rates for a 20-year-old college driver can be found with Auto-Owners, averaging $188 per month.
| Car Insurance Provider | Average Monthly Cost |
| Travelers | $226 |
| South Carolina Farm Bureau | $195 |
| Nationwide | $210 |
| Allstate | $204 |
| Auto-Owners | $188 |
* These figures are estimates based on general market trends, and they may differ from your actual rate.
Average Cost Of Car Insurance For 21-Year-Old College Students In South Carolina
The most affordable college student car insurance policy for a 21-year-old can be found at American National, with an average monthly cost of $164.
| Car Insurance Provider | Average Monthly Cost |
| MetLife | $198 |
| Progressive | $190 |
| State Farm | $185 |
| GEICO | $177 |
| American National | $164 |
* These figures are estimates based on general market trends, and they may differ from your actual rate.
Average Cost Of Car Insurance For 22-Year-Old College Students In South Carolina
22-year-old student car insurance can be found from $150 per month, with a USAA auto policy.
| Car Insurance Provider | Average Monthly Cost |
| Erie | $161 |
| Farmers | $179 |
| Allstate | $165 |
| USAA | $150 |
| Nationwide | $173 |
* These figures are estimates based on general market trends, and they may differ from your actual rate.
Average Cost Of Car Insurance For 23-Year-Old College Students In South Carolina
23-year-old college drivers can find affordable insurance from GEICO at an average monthly cost of $132.
| Car Insurance Provider | Average Monthly Cost |
| Travelers | $145 |
| Progressive | $138 |
| State Farm | $140 |
| Auto-Owners | $135 |
| GEICO | $132 |
* These figures are estimates based on general market trends, and they may differ from your actual rate.
Average Cost Of Car Insurance For 24-Year-Old College Students In South Carolina
The cheapest car insurance policy for a 24-year-old college student is $110 per month, which can be found with USAA.
| Car Insurance Provider | Average Monthly Cost |
| South Carolina Farm Bureau | $115 |
| American National | $120 |
| USAA | $110 |
| Allstate | $125 |
| Erie | $118 |
* These figures are estimates based on general market trends, and they may differ from your actual rate.
Average Cost Of Car Insurance For 25-Year-Old College Students In South Carolina
GEICO offers the cheapest auto policies for 25-year-old college students in South Carolina at $105 per month.
| Car Insurance Provider | Average Monthly Cost |
| State Farm | $110 |
| GEICO | $105 |
| Travelers | $115 |
| Progressive | $108 |
| Nationwide | $112 |
* These figures are estimates based on general market trends, and they may differ from your actual rate.
Average Cost Of Car Insurance On Family Policy Vs. Individual Policy
| Insurance Company | Family Policy | Individual Student Policy |
| State Farm | $90 | $250 |
| South Carolina Farm Bureau | $75 | $195 |
| GEICO | $85 | $215 |
| American National | $80 | $140 |
| Progressive | $95 | $230 |
* These figures are estimates based on general market trends, and they may differ from your actual rate.
How Can College Students Save Money On Car Insurance In South Carolina
Car insurance premiums in South Carolina can be especially challenging for college students, since younger drivers often pay more than those in their mid to late 20s. If staying on a parent’s plan isn’t an option, here are several strategies to help reduce costs and keep coverage affordable.
Security And Safety Upgrades
Insurers often reward drivers who take steps to protect their vehicles. Installing anti-theft devices, adding a car alarm, or upgrading safety features can lead to discounts. In some cases, these improvements can reduce premiums by $5%, making them a smart investment for students in South Carolina.
Student-Specific Discounts
South Carolina insurers frequently provide special savings opportunities for college students. Beyond the well-known good grade discount, students may qualify for:
- Distant student discount if the car is left at home while attending school far away
- Safe driver discount for maintaining a clean driving record
- Driver’s education discount for completing approved training courses
These discounts can make a noticeable difference in monthly costs.
Choosing Between Used And New Cars
While a new car may seem appealing, it often comes with higher insurance costs. Because newer vehicles are more expensive to repair or replace, insurers charge more to cover them. Opting for a dependable used car can help lower premiums and make ownership more budget-friendly for students.
Affiliation Discounts
Campus involvement can do more than build connections. Membership in fraternities, sororities, honor societies, or alumni associations may unlock discounts depending on the insurer. These affiliations can help reduce monthly premiums while also enhancing the college experience.
How To Buy Car Insurance As A College Student In South Carolina
For many South Carolina college students, purchasing car insurance for the first time can feel overwhelming. Thankfully, comparison platforms like Insuranceopedia make the process easier by letting you review multiple quotes in one place. To stay organized and confident, here’s a step-by-step guide.
Step 1: Compare Multiple Quotes
Don’t settle for the first option you see. Collect at least three quotes from different insurers to make sure you’re getting competitive rates. This is especially important for students, since premiums can vary widely depending on age, driving history, and vehicle type.
Step 2: Decide How You’ll Purchase
Think about whether you’d prefer buying online or working with a local agent. Online platforms are quick and convenient, while agents can provide personalized guidance if you want extra support.
Step 3: Determine Coverage Requirements
South Carolina law requires drivers to carry minimum liability coverage, but you may want more protection depending on your situation. Consider whether you’ll need collision or comprehensive coverage, especially if you drive a newer car or commute long distances.
Step 4: Gather Essential Information
Before starting the process, have all your details ready. You’ll need your driver’s license number, vehicle information, personal details of anyone else on the policy, and your driving record. Having this information upfront ensures accurate quotes and avoids delays.
Step 5: Finalize And Notify Your Previous Insurer
Once you’ve chosen the best policy, complete the purchase and inform your old insurance company about the switch. This prevents billing overlaps and ensures your coverage transitions smoothly.
Do College Students Need Their Own Insurance, Or Can They Stay On A Parent’s?
For South Carolina college students, whether you need your own car insurance or can remain on a parent’s plan depends on your living arrangements and address. Let’s look at the different scenarios.
When Students Need Their Own Policy
The most common reason a student would need separate coverage is a change of residence. If you establish a permanent address that differs from your parents’ home, insurers generally require you to carry your own policy. This ensures the coverage reflects where the car is primarily kept and driven.
Staying On A Family Policy
Unlike health insurance, which has age restrictions, auto insurance does not impose a cutoff. As long as you live at home or continue to use your parents’ permanent address while attending college, you can remain on their plan. This option often saves money and simplifies the process since you’re already listed as a driver under the household policy.
South Carolina Car Insurance Laws
South Carolina is one of the many states requiring motorists to carry auto insurance if they plan on operating a vehicle. Most of the required coverages are similar to other places in the United States, South Carolina drivers do not require Personal Injury Protection (PIP).
South Carolina auto insurance requirements include:
- $25,000 bodily injury liability per person
- $50,000 bodily injury liability per accident
- $25,000 property damage liability per accident
- $25,000 uninsured/underinsured motorist bodily injury per person
- $50,000 uninsured/underinsured motorist bodily injury per accident
Compare College Student Rates To Other U.S. States
| State | Average Annual Premium |
| Alabama | $3,460 |
| Alaska | $3,276 |
| Arizona | $3,412 |
| Arkansas | $3,557 |
| California | $4,016 |
| Colorado | $3,937 |
| Connecticut | $3,325 |
| Delaware | $3,663 |
| Florida | $4,294 |
| Georgia | $3,570 |
| Hawaii | $3,117 |
| Idaho | $3,028 |
| Illinois | $3,132 |
| Indiana | $3,115 |
| Iowa | $3,230 |
| Kansas | $3,500 |
| Kentucky | $3,828 |
| Louisiana | $4,483 |
| Maine | $2,775 |
| Maryland | $3,346 |
| Massachusetts | $3,326 |
| Michigan | $3,952 |
| Minnesota | $3,511 |
| Mississippi | $3,608 |
| Missouri | $3,582 |
| Montana | $3,793 |
| Nebraska | $3,502 |
| Nevada | $3,660 |
| New Hampshire | $2,865 |
| New Jersey | $3,502 |
| New Mexico | $3,649 |
| New York | $3,470 |
| North Carolina | $3,341 |
| North Dakota | $3,265 |
| Ohio | $3,017 |
| Oklahoma | $3,738 |
| Oregon | $3,278 |
| Pennsylvania | $3,472 |
| Rhode Island | $3,661 |
| South Carolina | $3,422 |
| South Dakota | $3,880 |
| Tennessee | $3,277 |
| Texas | $3,643 |
| Utah | $3,425 |
| Vermont | $2,919 |
| Virginia | $3,069 |
| Washington | $3,208 |
| West Virginia | $3,605 |
| Wisconsin | $3,264 |
| Wyoming | $3,358 |
* These figures are estimates based on general market trends, and they may differ from your actual rate.
Our Methodology
To find the cheapest car insurance rates for college students in South Carolina, we analyzed findings from numerous car insurance rating sites, some of which analyzed rates from public filings obtained by Quadrant Information Services. We also utilize the combined twenty-five years of experience from our team of insurance experts to evaluate each carrier.
It’s important to note that even though the rates listed in this guide are accurate, premiums shift daily and can fluctuate based on each driver.
About Doug Schaffer
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