Best and Cheapest Homeowners Insurance in South Carolina for 2025 (10 Most Affordable Companies)
The best and cheapest homeowners insurance in South Carolina comes from Allstate, American Family, and Geico, with rates starting as low as $84 per month. Allstate is the top pick overall, offering low rates, great customer satisfaction, and discounts for bundling and staying claim-free.
American Family rewards loyal customers with discounts for longtime policyholders and those who keep their coverage with them. Geico helps homeowners save with discounts for home security systems, bundling with auto insurance, and having no recent claims (Read more: Homeowners Insurance Claim Check Questions).
| Company | Rank | Monthly Rates | A.M. Best | Best For | Jump to Pros/Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 |
#1 | $84 | A+ | Homeowner Savings | Allstate |
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#2 | $92 | A | Loyalty Rewards | American Family |
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#3 | $100 | A++ | Broad Discounts | Geico |
 |
#4 | $110 | A | Safety Incentives | Liberty Mutual |
 |
#5 | $124 | A+ | Telematics Options | Nationwide |
 |
#6 | $141 | A++ | Homeownership Benefits | Travelers |
 |
#7 | $149 | A++ | Military Focused | USAA |
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#8 | $151 | B | Reliable Coverage | State Farm |
 |
#9 | $169 | A+ | Innovative Programs | Progressive |
 |
#10 | $285 | A | Group Discounts | Farmers |
Comparing quotes from these top providers can help you get the best coverage at the lowest price. Get started today by entering your ZIP code into our free quote tool.
What You Should Know
- The best and cheapest homeowners insurance in South Carolina starts at $84/month
- Allstate is the top pick, offering low rates, strong coverage, and multiple discounts
- American Family rewards loyal customers with lower rates, while Geico offers broad discounts
#1 – Allstate: Top Overall Pick
Pros
- Affordable Rates: Allstate offers the best and cheapest homeowners insurance in South Carolina, with minimum coverage starting at just $84 per month, making it the most budget-friendly option.
- Claim-Free Discount: South Carolina homeowners who remain claim-free for at least five years can receive a 20% discount on their premiums. Explore more in our Allstate review.
- Bundling Savings: Homeowners in SC can save up to 25% by bundling home and auto insurance with Allstate, reducing overall insurance costs.
Cons
- Higher Deductibles for Low Rates: To get the lowest $84/month rate in South Carolina, homeowners may need to choose a higher deductible, increasing out-of-pocket costs when filing a claim.
- Limited Coverage for Older Homes: Homes over 40 years old in South Carolina may face stricter underwriting and may not qualify for certain Allstate discounts.
#2 – American Family: Best for Loyalty Rewards
Pros
- Loyalty Discount: Long-term policyholders in South Carolina who stay insured with American Family for five years or more receive a 10% loyalty discount on their home insurance premiums.
- Competitive Rates: Homeowners in SC can secure coverage starting at $92/month, making it an affordable option with additional savings for long-term customers.
- Generational Savings: Homeowners in South Carolina whose parents have an American Family policy can receive an extra discount on their premium, reducing long-term costs.
Cons
- Fewer Optional Coverages: Based on our American Family review, this company does not offer service line protection or green home coverage in South Carolina, limiting policy customization.
- Limited Availability in Some Areas: American Family’s network in South Carolina is smaller, which may result in fewer local agents and longer wait times for in-person support.
#3 – Geico: Best for Broad Discounts
Pros
- Multiple Discount Options: Geico offers discounts for home security systems (10%), smoke detectors (5%), and bundling with auto insurance (up to 25%) for South Carolina homeowners. Learn more: 32 Genius Ways to Save Money).
- Affordable Premiums: Minimum coverage in South Carolina starts at $100/month, with additional savings available for safe homeowners.
- Partnered Coverage Options: Geico works with third-party insurers to offer customized coverage, allowing South Carolina homeowners to choose the best policy for their needs.
Cons
- No Direct Home Insurance Policies: Geico does not underwrite its own homeowners insurance in SC, meaning policies are handled by partner companies, which can affect claims processing.
- Limited In-Person Support: Unlike other providers, Geico does not have dedicated home insurance agents in South Carolina, requiring homeowners to manage policies online or by phone.
#4 – Liberty Mutual: Best for Safety Incentives
Pros
- Home Safety Discounts: South Carolina homeowners with security systems, deadbolts, or fire sprinklers can qualify for up to 20% in safety discounts with Liberty Mutual.
- Affordable Minimum Coverage: Home insurance starts at $110/month, with additional savings for customers enrolled in the company’s safety programs.
- Flexible Deductibles: Homeowners in SC can choose from deductibles ranging from $500 to $5,000, allowing for more control over monthly premiums. Read our Liberty Mutual review to learn more.
Cons
- Potential Rate Increases After Claims: Liberty Mutual’s premiums in South Carolina tend to increase by an average of 12-20% after a homeowner files a claim.
- Flood Insurance Not Included: Homeowners in flood-prone areas of South Carolina need to purchase separate flood coverage, as it is not included in Liberty Mutual’s standard policies.
#5 – Nationwide: Best for Telematics Options
Pros
- Smart Home Discounts: Nationwide offers up to 20% off for South Carolina homeowners who install smart thermostats, water sensors, or security systems.
- Competitive Monthly Rates: Minimum coverage starts at $124/month, making it a mid-range option with strong policy features. For a comprehensive list, refer our Nationwide review.
- Strong Claims Support: Nationwide policyholders in South Carolina rate the company highly for 24/7 claims service and quick repair approvals.
Cons
- Fewer Customization Options: Unlike some competitors, Nationwide does not offer extended replacement cost coverage in SC, which can be a drawback for higher-value homes.
- Limited Local Agents: Some areas in South Carolina have fewer in-person Nationwide agents, requiring more homeowners to manage their policies online.
#6 – Travelers: Best for Homeownership Benefits
Pros
- New Homebuyer Savings: Travelers provides discounts for newly purchased homes, making it a good choice for first-time homeowners in South Carolina.
- Reliable Monthly Rates: With home insurance starting at $141/month, Travelers offers steady premiums and dependable coverage. Check out our Travelers review.
- Eco-Friendly Policy Options: Travelers is one of the few insurers in South Carolina offering green home coverage, which helps cover the cost of environmentally friendly repairs.
Cons
- Higher Rates for Some Homes: Older homes or those in storm-prone areas of South Carolina may face higher-than-average premiums.
- Strict Underwriting for High-Risk Homes: Homes with previous claims or outdated electrical systems may not qualify for standard Travelers policies in SC.
#7 – USAA: Best for Military Focused
Pros
- Military-Focused Coverage: USAA provides tailored home insurance options for active duty, retired, and veteran military families in SC.
- Affordable Rates: Homeowners insurance starts at $149/month, making it a strong choice for military families in South Carolina. Delve into our USAA review.
- Exceptional Customer Service: USAA is rated among the best in SC for claims satisfaction, ensuring fast processing and personalized support.
Cons
- Limited to Military Members: USAA home insurance in South Carolina is only available to military personnel and their families.
- Fewer Local Branches: USAA relies on online and phone-based customer service, which may not be ideal for homeowners who prefer in-person support.
#8 – State Farm: Best for Reliable Coverage
Pros
- Comprehensive Coverage Options: State Farm offers strong standard and optional coverages for South Carolina homeowners, including water backup and earthquake protection.
- Affordable Premiums: Minimum coverage starts at $151/month, providing solid coverage at competitive rates. Discover our State Farm review for a full list.
- Local Agents Available: State Farm has a strong network of local agents in South Carolina, offering in-person support for homeowners.
Cons
- Higher Rates for Some Homeowners: Homeowners with older properties or previous claims may pay higher-than-average premiums in South Carolina.
- Limited Discount Programs: State Farm offers fewer discounts compared to competitors like Geico and Allstate.
#9 – Progressive: Best for Innovative Programs
Pros
- Customizable Policies: Progressive allows South Carolina homeowners to adjust their coverage limits and deductibles for more personalized policies.
- Competitive Pricing: Minimum coverage starts at $169/month, with bundling discounts available for additional savings. Get more details in our Progressive review.
- Smart Home Discounts: Progressive offers discounts for homes with smart locks, security cameras, and water sensors in SC.
Cons
- Fewer In-Person Agents: Progressive primarily operates online in South Carolina, making it harder to get in-person service.
- Variable Rate Adjustments: Some homeowners in SC report unexpected rate increases after policy renewal.
#10 – Farmers: Best for Group Discounts
Pros
- Affinity Group Savings: Farmers offers special discounts for South Carolina homeowners who belong to professional or alumni organizations.
- Comprehensive Coverage: Minimum coverage starts at $285/month, providing high coverage limits for valuable homes, see our Farmers review.
- Multi-Policy Discounts: Farmers offers up to 20% off for bundling home and auto insurance in SC.
Cons
- Expensive Monthly Premiums: Farmers has some of the highest rates in South Carolina, making it less affordable for budget-conscious homeowners.
- Limited Online Features: The Farmers website lacks fully digital policy management, requiring more interaction with agents.
South Carolina Homeowners Insurance Rates and Savings
Finding cheap homeowners insurance in South Carolina depends on several factors, including your home's value, location, and coverage needs. The table below provides a comparison of average homeowners insurance rates in South Carolina for homes valued at $200,000, $300,000, and $500,000, helping you determine which provider offers the best homeowners insurance in South Carolina at the most affordable price.
| Insurance Company | $200k Policy | $300k Policy | $500k Policy |
|---|---|---|---|
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$84 | $106 | $139 |
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$92 | $98 | $138 |
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$185 | $285 | $316 |
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$100 | $120 | $160 |
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$110 | $130 | $170 |
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$124 | $224 | $234 |
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$169 | $269 | $289 |
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$151 | $168 | $226 |
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$141 | $241 | $296 |
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$149 | $159 | $189 |
Among the best-rated homeowners insurance companies in South Carolina, Allstate offers the cheapest home insurance in South Carolina for a $200,000 home, with rates starting at just $84 per month. American Family follows closely behind at $92 per month, providing competitive pricing along with loyalty discounts. Geico and Liberty Mutual also offer relatively cheap homeowners insurance in South Carolina, with minimum coverage starting at $100 and $110 per month, respectively.
However, some South Carolina home insurance providers, such as Farmers and Progressive, charge significantly higher rates, making it important to compare home insurance quotes in South Carolina to find the most affordable coverage.
Allstate provides the best and cheapest homeowners insurance in South Carolina, with a $200K home policy starting at just $84 per month, making it the best choice for budget-conscious homeowners. Homeowners can lower their South Carolina home insurance rates by bundling with auto insurance, installing security systems, and maintaining a claims-free record.
When shopping for homeowners insurance in SC, it’s essential to compare home insurance companies in South Carolina to find the best coverage at the lowest price.
Coverage Options in a South Carolina Home Insurance Policy
When choosing homeowners insurance in South Carolina, it's essential to understand what coverage options are available. While standard policies include protection for dwelling, personal property, and liability, some South Carolina homeowners insurance companies offer additional coverage options that can enhance your policy.
Green Home Coverage: Many South Carolina home insurance companies now offer green home coverage, which helps homeowners repair or rebuild using energy-efficient materials.
Equipment Breakdown Coverage: This coverage pays for repairs or replacement costs if a home’s essential systems or appliances unexpectedly stop working due to mechanical or electrical failure.
Service Line Protection: Service line coverage helps cover the cost of repairing underground utility lines that connect a home to public services, such as water, electricity, and internet.
Many South Carolina home insurance providers offer extra protections like green home coverage, equipment breakdown coverage, and service line protection. These optional coverages can help reduce repair costs, improve home efficiency, and protect against unexpected breakdowns. The table below highlights which South Carolina home insurance companies provide these benefits:
| Insurance Company | Green Home Coverage | Equipment Breakdown Coverage | Service Line Protection |
|---|---|---|---|
|
✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
|
✅ | ✅ | ❌ |
|
✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
|
❌ | ✅ | ❌ |
|
✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
|
✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
|
✅ | ✅ | ❌ |
|
✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
|
✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
|
✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
Understanding the top 3 ways customers say they’ve saved on homeowners insurance is key when selecting homeowners insurance in South Carolina. If you're looking for cheap home insurance in South Carolina while still securing important policy add-ons, it's worth comparing multiple insurers.
The best way to determine how much is homeowners insurance in SC and what coverages are included is by requesting quotes from South Carolina homeowners insurance companies that match your needs.
Read more: 5 Things to know about home insurance
Factors That Influence Home Insurance Costs in South Carolina
Home insurance rates in South Carolina are primarily shaped by weather risks, home characteristics, and location-specific factors. The state's exposure to hurricanes, flooding, and windstorms significantly increases the cost of coverage, as insurers account for higher claims related to storm damage. Homes in coastal areas, particularly near the Atlantic, often require additional wind and flood protection, raising premiums.
Beyond weather risks, the age and condition of a home impact insurance costs. Older homes with outdated plumbing, electrical systems, or roofing are more prone to damage, making them costlier to insure. Conversely, homes built to modern building codes with impact-resistant materials may qualify for discounts.
Location plays a crucial role, as crime rates and fire protection services influence pricing. Homes in high-crime neighborhoods or areas with limited access to fire stations may see increased premiums. Additionally, properties near busy roads or intersections could face higher liability risks, further affecting rates.
South Carolina homeowners should also consider optional coverages like flood insurance, water backup protection, and extended dwelling replacement to mitigate risks and ensure comprehensive protection. Comparing multiple providers is essential for finding the most affordable and suitable policy.
Ways to Lower Your Homeowners Insurance Premium in South Carolina
Homeowners in South Carolina can take advantage of several discounts to lower their home insurance costs, with savings available for bundling policies, staying claim-free, improving home security, and homeownership longevity. Explore our guide that tackle about smart home devices: save money on homeowners insurance & prevent claims.
| Insurance Company | Bundling | Claim-Free | Home Security | New Home | Loyalty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
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10% | 20% | 10% | 15% | 5% |
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12% | 22% | 12% | 18% | 7% |
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10% | 15% | 5% | 10% | 5% |
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5% | 15% | 10% | 12% | 3% |
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10% | 20% | 10% | 15% | 5% |
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15% | 25% | 10% | 10% | 8% |
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10% | 20% | 8% | 10% | 6% |
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12% | 20% | 10% | 12% | 6% |
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10% | 18% | 8% | 10% | 5% |
|
10% | 25% | 10% | 12% | 7% |
Nationwide and USAA offer the highest claim-free discounts, at 25%, making them strong options for homeowners with no recent claims. Bundling home and auto insurance is another effective way to save, with Nationwide (15%) and American Family (12%) providing the largest discounts in this category. Installing home security systems can also lead to savings, with American Family offering up to 12% off for security upgrades.
New home discounts, which reward homeowners with recently built properties, range from 10% to 18%, with American Family providing the highest savings. Additionally, loyalty discounts for staying with the same insurer for multiple years can reduce premiums by up to 8% (Nationwide).
By comparing home insurance quotes in South Carolina and applying for multiple discounts, homeowners can secure cheap home insurance in South Carolina while maintaining strong coverage. If you’re looking to protect your most valuable asset with home insurance, compare rates now with our free quote tool.
Frequently Asked Questions
What factors impact homeowners insurance rates in South Carolina the most?
Homeowners insurance in South Carolina starts at $84 per month, but rates vary based on weather risks, home age and condition, and location (flood zones or high-crime areas). Credit scores, claims history, and coverage limits also affect costs, while bundling and staying claim-free can help lower premiums.
Read more: Flood Insurance
How much is homeowners insurance in SC compared to neighboring states?
On average, homeowners insurance in South Carolina costs slightly less than the national average but is still higher than states with fewer weather risks. Compared to North Carolina and Georgia, South Carolina’s rates are similar or slightly lower due to lower average claim payouts and fewer severe storms.
What types of coverage should South Carolina homeowners consider beyond standard policies?
While a basic homeowners insurance policy in South Carolina includes dwelling, liability, personal property, and loss of use coverage, homeowners should consider flood insurance, as standard policies do not cover flood damage. Windstorm insurance, earthquake coverage, and water backup protection are also valuable add-ons, especially for homeowners in high-risk zones.
Finding affordable premiums for home insurance is easy with our free quote comparison tool. Just enter your ZIP code to find cheap coverage for your home.
Which homeowners insurance companies in South Carolina offer the best discounts?
Many South Carolina homeowners insurance companies provide discounts for bundling, claim-free history, home security systems, and newly built homes. Nationwide and USAA offer the highest claim-free discounts (25%), while American Family provides up to 18% off for new homes. Homeowners can reduce premiums further by bundling with auto insurance, with Nationwide offering up to 15% off for bundling policies.
Why do homeowners in South Carolina need separate flood insurance?
Most homeowners insurance policies in South Carolina do not include flood coverage, which is essential due to the state’s frequent hurricanes and coastal flooding. Browse our guide that talks about a practical guide for understanding homeowners insurance, to gather more insight.
How do home security systems lower homeowners insurance rates in South Carolina?
Home security systems reduce the risk of theft, vandalism, and property damage, making homes less risky to insure. Many South Carolina home insurance providers, such as Liberty Mutual, Allstate, and Geico, offer discounts of up to 10-12% for homeowners who install security cameras, burglar alarms, and fire detection systems.
What areas in South Carolina have the highest home insurance claims?
Cities with higher claim rates in South Carolina include Charleston, Columbia, and Greenville, where weather events like wind damage, flooding, and hail storms are common. Coastal cities like Myrtle Beach and Hilton Head also experience frequent hurricane-related claims, making insurance premiums higher in those areas.
What is service line protection, and do South Carolina home insurance providers offer it?
Service line protection covers the cost of repairing underground utility lines (water, sewer, and electrical) that connect a home to public services. In South Carolina, insurers like Allstate, Liberty Mutual, and Travelers offer this coverage as an optional add-on, which can help homeowners avoid unexpected repair costs ranging from $3,000 to $10,000.
Read more: Top 10 Homeowners Insurance Companies With the Best Buying Process, According to Customer Reviews
Does South Carolina homeowners insurance cover short-term rentals like Airbnb?
Standard homeowners insurance in SC typically does not cover short-term rentals, such as Airbnb or Vrbo, since renting out a home for profit is considered a business activity. Homeowners who rent their properties should consider landlord insurance or a short-term rental policy to ensure proper coverage for guest-related damages and liability.
What should homeowners do if they are struggling to find affordable home insurance in South Carolina?
Homeowners struggling to find cheap homeowners insurance in South Carolina can lower their costs by raising their deductible, improving their credit score, bundling policies, and shopping around for discounts. If traditional insurers decline coverage, homeowners in high-risk areas can apply for the South Carolina Wind and Hail Underwriting Association (SCWHUA), a state-backed insurance option for homes in hurricane-prone areas.