Insurance Costs in Charleston, SC
Auto insurance in Charleston averages $1,768 per year for full coverage, which is higher than the national average. Here is a detailed breakdown of what residents pay.
Updated July 2026Auto Insurance in Charleston, SC: What You Need to Know
Charleston residents pay an average of $1,768 per year for full coverage auto insurance, which is 8.0% above the South Carolina state average and 5.6% above the national average.
With a population of 150,227, Charleston is a mid-size city in South Carolina. Higher population density, more traffic congestion, and increased accident risk all contribute to above-average insurance rates.
Coverage Level Comparison
| Coverage Type | Annual Cost | Monthly Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Full Coverage (100/300/100) | $1,768 | $147 |
| Standard Coverage (50/100/50) | $1,450 | $121 |
| State Minimum (25/50/25) | $743 | $62 |
Homeowners Insurance in Charleston, SC
The average cost of homeowners insurance in Charleston is $2,352 per year ($196/month), which is 29.2% above the national average.
Home insurance costs are influenced by local factors including weather risks (hail, wind, flooding), property values, local building costs, and proximity to fire stations. Coastal or storm-prone areas may see even higher rates due to hurricane and flood risk.
Renters Insurance in Charleston, SC
Renters insurance in Charleston averages $204 per year ($17/month). Renters insurance is affordable and protects your personal belongings, provides liability coverage, and may cover temporary living expenses if your rental becomes uninhabitable.
Compare with Other South Carolina Cities
| City | Auto Insurance | Home Insurance |
|---|---|---|
| Columbia | $1,801/yr | $1,967/yr |
| North Charleston | $1,833/yr | $2,159/yr |
| Mount Pleasant | $1,506/yr | $2,468/yr |
| Rock Hill | $1,670/yr | $1,774/yr |
| Greenville | $1,719/yr | $1,832/yr |
| Summerville | $1,555/yr | $2,024/yr |
| Goose Creek | $1,604/yr | $1,967/yr |
| Hilton Head Island | $1,391/yr | $2,603/yr |
How to Save on Insurance in Charleston
- Shop around. Get quotes from at least 3-5 different insurers. Rates in Charleston can vary by $500 or more between companies for the same coverage.
- Bundle auto and home/renters. Many companies offer 10-25% off when you carry multiple policies.
- Increase your deductible. Raising your deductible from $500 to $1,000 can cut your premium by 15-30%.
- Ask about local discounts. Some insurers offer discounts for anti-theft devices, safe driving courses, or parking in a garage.
- Review coverage annually. Your needs change over time. Make sure you are not paying for coverage you do not need.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is car insurance in Charleston, SC?
The average cost of car insurance in Charleston, SC is $1,768 per year for full coverage, or about $147 per month. Minimum coverage costs around $743 per year.
Is car insurance expensive in Charleston?
Car insurance in Charleston is about average for the U.S.
How much is home insurance in Charleston?
Homeowners insurance in Charleston costs an average of $2,352 per year. Your actual cost depends on your home's value, age, construction type, and specific location.