How to find the cheapest car insurance quotes in Columbia
Car insurance in Columbia, South Carolina costs an average of $132 a month for state-minimum liability coverage and around $180 a month for full coverage. That breaks down to be about 11% more than the state average, but it’s about 30% less than the national average.
The best way to find cheap car insurance in Columbia, SC is to compare quotes from at least 3–5 insurance companies before you buy a policy. Jerry makes it faster and easier than ever to shop for car insurance—we compare rates from over 55 insurance companies to ensure you’re getting the best price for your coverage.
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Insurance Company
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Premium (monthly)
|
Age
|
Zip Code
|
Car
|
Liability Limits
|
Has Full Coverage
|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| The General | $165 | 39 | 29229 | Ford F-150 | State Minimum | No |
| National General | $330 | 25 | 29203 | Dodge Journey Se | State Minimum | Yes |
| National General | $326 | 28 | 29223 | Honda Accord Ex | State Minimum | No |
| Assurance America | $203 | 29 | 29203 | Nissan Altima S | State Minimum | Yes |
| Gainsco | $321 | 32 | 29210 | Kia Forte Gt | State Minimum | No |
Best car insurance companies in Columbia
All insurance companies use their own method of calculating prices, so the same insurance coverage could cost you a lot more from one provider than another. That’s why it’s so important to shop around before you buy South Carolina auto insurance.
But you’ll want to look at more than just the price when you’re insurance shopping—it’s important to also consider factors like claims handling and customer service.
Jerry wanted to understand what drivers do and don’t like about their insurance companies, so we conducted the nation’s largest insurance shopping survey to find out more. When we analyzed the results, we were surprised by some of the findings.
Some of the nation’s top insurance companies—including GEICO and State Farm—scored lower than expected. For instance, in South Carolina, State Farm only scored 3.2/5 for pricing satisfaction, with an overall score of 3.6/5. Smaller companies like State Auto, ROOT, Travelers, and Auto Owners fared better, scoring high ratings across the board in categories like claims processing, customer service, and pricing.
This table shows how real drivers scored some of the nation’s top insurance companies in Columbia, SC.
| Insurance company | Overall rating | Price | Claims experience | Customer service |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Progressive | 4.4 | 4 | 4.2 | 4.3 |
| Geico | 4 | 3 | 4 | 4.3 |
| State Farm | 3.9 | 3.4 | 3.2 | 3.9 |
| USAA | 3.8 | 3.5 | N/A | 4 |
| Liberty Mutual | 3.5 | 2.7 | N/A | 3.3 |
- How’d we get these scores?Jerry’s experts conducted one of the largest car insurance surveys in the United States. We surveyed 15,000 policyholders, in all 50 states, over the span of 18 months. These policyholders hold insurance policies with 87 different insurance companies. We surveyed policyholders to gauge their satisfaction with their insurance carriers in: policy cost, customer service, buying and renewal experience, as well as claim experience. These scores were all reported by real customers of the insurance companies.
Best cheap car insurance quotes in Columbia
South Carolina requires all drivers to carry car insurance that at least meets the state’s auto insurance coverage requirements. But it’s important to note that while state-minimum liability insurance is the cheapest coverage option that allows you to legally drive, it may not fully protect you if you get into an accident.
Cheap minimum liability insurance quotes in Columbia
Drivers in Columbia must have a policy that meets the state of South Carolina’s car insurance requirements:
- $25,000 of bodily injury liability per person
- $50,000 of bodily injury liability per accident
- $25,000 of property damage liability per accident
- Uninsured motorist coverage at equal rates
Need to know: If you cause an accident that causes serious injuries or totals someone’s new car, the damages could easily exceed the state’s minimum liability limits. In that case, the other party could sue you for anything your insurance doesn’t cover.
But if state minimum insurance is all that’s in your budget right now, Jerry can help you find an affordable policy.
Do you need more than minimum coverage in Columbia?
Because South Carolina is an at-fault state, if you’re found responsible for an accident, you’ll be financially responsible to the other party (or parties) for any accident-related costs that your liability insurance doesn’t cover.
Additionally, your liability coverage won’t pay for any of your own vehicle repairs or medical bills after an accident. For that, you’ll need to add physical protection to your policy—also known as full coverage.
Our best tip: Most insurance experts recommend adding full coverage and increasing your liability limits to 50/100/50 or 100/300/100.
Cheap full coverage car insurance quotes in Columbia
Adding full coverage to your auto insurance policy is the only way to ensure that your own vehicle repairs will be covered. Full coverage consists of:
- Collision coverage—pays to repair or replace your vehicle after an accident, regardless of who was at fault
- Comprehensive coverage—provides financial protection for your vehicle against theft, vandalism, fire, floods, hail, and more.
Need to know: Your lender will likely require you to carry full coverage if you lease or finance your car.
Columbia drivers are also required to carry uninsured motorist coverage (UM) as part of their South Carolina car insurance policy. The required UM limits are the same as the state liability limits (25/50/25).
Jerry has helped drivers find affordable full coverage auto insurance in Columbia, SC.
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Liability Limits
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Has Full Coverage
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Insurance Company
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Premium (monthly)
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Age
|
Zip Code
|
Car
|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| State Minimum | No | The General | $165 | 39 | 29229 | Ford F-150 |
| State Minimum | Yes | National General | $330 | 25 | 29203 | Dodge Journey Se |
| State Minimum | No | National General | $326 | 28 | 29223 | Honda Accord Ex |
| State Minimum | Yes | Assurance America | $203 | 29 | 29203 | Nissan Altima S |
| State Minimum | No | Gainsco | $321 | 32 | 29210 | Kia Forte Gt |
Average cost of car insurance in Columbia
Jerry has found that the average cost of minimum liability insurance in Columbia is around $132 a month or $1,580 a year, while the average cost of full coverage is around $180 a month or $2,158 a year.
Looking at average auto insurance rates where you live can give you a general idea of what you might pay, but there are a number of factors that can influence the cost of your car insurance policy—so the exact amount of your premium may be higher or lower than the average.
Average cost of car insurance in Columbia by zip code
Car insurance companies in Columbia, SC set rates for individual areas within the city based on the rate of vehicle thefts, car accidents, and other insurance claims. If you live in a neighborhood where these things happen more frequently, you may pay more for your car insurance.
| Zip Code | Average State Minimum Coverage Rate | Average Full Coverage Rate |
|---|---|---|
| 29201 | $168 | $206 |
| 29204 | $96 | $183 |
| 29205 | $161 | $166 |
| 29206 | $93 | $177 |
| 29209 | $133 | $182 |
| 29210 | $170 | $234 |
| 29212 | $103 | $159 |
| 29223 | $181 | $189 |
| 29229 | $106 | $234 |
Car insurance quotes in Columbia by rating factors
Your insurance rates will also be calculated based on many personal factors. Auto insurance companies in Columbia, SC may look at:
- Driving record: You’ll pay more for your Columbia car insurance if you have at-fault accidents, multiple violations, or recent insurance claims on your record.
- Personal data: Car insurance companies will consider things like your age, gender, credit score, and marital status when they’re setting your rates.
- How much you drive: If you have higher-than-average annual mileage, your car insurance rates will likely be higher as well.
- Your vehicle: You’ll pay more to insure more expensive vehicles, as well as cars with poor safety ratings or high theft rates.
Cheap car insurance quotes in Columbia after driving violations
Car insurance companies give a lot of weight to your driving history when they determine your premiums. They’ll check your South Carolina driving record for any violations or accidents.
If you have any of the following infractions on your record, you’ll likely pay higher-than-average insurance rates:
- Speeding
- DUIs
- At fault accident
- Reckless driving
- Driving on a suspended license
- Driving without insurance
Cheapest car insurance in Columbia after speeding ticket
Your rates may not always go up for a minor speeding ticket, but if you were going well above the speed limit or you receive multiple speeding tickets in a short time, you can expect to see a premium hike.
Fortunately, Jerry has helped drivers find cheap auto insurance in Columbia, SC even after they’ve gotten a speeding ticket.
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Speeding Type
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Insurance Company
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Premium (monthly)
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Age
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Zip Code
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Car
|
Liability Limits
|
Has Full Coverage
|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Speeding 11-15 | Gainsco | $321 | 32 | 29210 | Kia Forte Gt | State Minimum | No |
| Speeding Violation-Minor | National General | $325 | 48 | 29204 | Kia Forte Lx | State Minimum | Yes |
| Speeding 11-15 | National General | $356 | 33 | 29229 | Volkswagen Gti Autobahn | State Minimum | Yes |
| Speeding Violation-Minor | National General | $316 | 23 | 29206 | Dodge Challenger Se | State Minimum | No |
| Speeding Violation-Major | Assurance America | $518 | 32 | 29223 | Honda Pilot Exl | State Minimum | Yes |
Cheapest car insurance in Columbia after DUI
DUIs are a serious infraction—not only will you face steep legal penalties, but you’ll also see a significant increase in your car insurance premiums.
Fortunately, if you have received a DUI in South Carolina, you may still be able to find affordable car insurance by shopping for rates with companies that specialize in providing coverage to high-risk drivers.
Use Jerry to compare auto insurance quotes in Columbia, SC to find affordable coverage after a DUI.
Cheapest car insurance in Columbia after an at-fault accident
Your car insurance rates will go up if you cause a car accident and it may take years for them to go back to normal. Even a single at-fault accident will cause insurance companies to see you as a high-risk driver—and if you have more than one at-fault accident on your record, you’ll typically pay some of the highest car insurance rates, on average.
Shop smart: If you have accident forgiveness on your car insurance policy, you can avoid a surcharge on your premiums after your first at-fault accident.
Even after an accident, Jerry can help South Carolina drivers safe.
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Accident type
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Insurance Company
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Premium (monthly)
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Age
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Zip Code
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Car
|
Liability Limits
|
Has Full Coverage
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|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| At Fault With Injury | Gainsco | $321 | 32 | 29210 | Kia Forte Gt | State Minimum | No |
| At Fault With No Injury | National General | $325 | 48 | 29204 | Kia Forte Lx | State Minimum | Yes |
| Not At Fault | National General | $356 | 33 | 29229 | Volkswagen Gti Autobahn | State Minimum | Yes |
| Not At Fault | National General | $316 | 23 | 29206 | Dodge Challenger Se | State Minimum | No |
| Not At Fault | Progressive | $548 | 23 | 29206 | Hyundai Santa Fe Se | 50/100 | Yes |
Cheapest car insurance in Columbia after other driving violations
Almost any driving violation can cause an increase in your car insurance rates, although serious infractions like reckless driving, driving on a suspended license, or driving without insurance will cause a more significant spike than minor violations.
But even if your driving record is less-than-stellar, Jerry may still be able to help you save on your car insurance rates.
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Violation
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Insurance Company
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Premium (monthly)
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Age
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Zip Code
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Car
|
Liability Limits
|
Has Full Coverage
|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Failure to Yield | Assurance America | $424 | 37 | 29223 | Hyundai Elantra Gls | State Minimum | Yes |
| Reckless Driving | National General | $621 | 39 | 29203 | Jeep Patriot Limited | State Minimum | Yes |
| Other Minor | The General | $135 | 52 | 29210 | Buick Park Avenue Ultra | State Minimum | No |
| Suspension | Bristol West | $495 | 22 | 29205 | Toyota Camry | State Minimum | No |
| Suspension | National General | $262 | 33 | 29203 | Buick Lacrosse Cxl | State Minimum | Yes |
Cheap car insurance quotes in Columbia by age
Your driving experience impacts the level of risk you pose to your insurance provider. Young or new drivers with limited driving experience typically pay more for insurance until 25. Car insurance rates remain steady for experienced drivers over 25 with clean records, but premiums can begin to rise again for seniors in their mid-70s.
Cheapest car insurance in Columbia for young drivers
Young drivers between 16 and 19 pay the highest insurance rates out of all age groups in Columbia, but rates can still be high up until age 25. Teen drivers are considered especially risky and typically pay the highest for minimum liability coverage.
Since they are more likely to get into accidents, teen drivers should opt for full coverage insurance—especially if they drive a newer vehicle.
Cheapest car insurance in Columbia for senior drivers
Senior drivers are at a higher risk of accidents due to slower reflexes that increase the risk of a collision and a higher susceptibility to injury and mortality resulting from an accident. Due to the added risk of financial liability, senior drivers face higher rates into their 70s.
Fortunately, Jerry can still help you find affordable auto insurance well into your 70s and beyond.
Cheap car insurance quotes in Columbia based on insurance history
When calculating your rates, car insurance companies will look at how long you’ve been insured and whether you’ve had any coverage lapses.
Even a short lapse in coverage can cause your insurance rates to go up, but Jerry has helped drivers save on their car insurance even if they’ve had a lapse or are currently uninsured.
Cheap car insurance quotes for drivers with poor credit
Insurance companies have found that drivers with low credit scores are statistically more likely to file an insurance claim. As a result, insurance rates are typically higher for drivers with bad credit.
Drivers with a Poor credit score (below 550) typically pay about 20% more for car insurance than drivers with Excellent credit (over 750).
Cheap car insurance quotes in for drivers with poor credit
Drivers with poor credit scores often face higher insurance costs compared to those with healthier credit ratings. Even though credit scores don’t directly affect how well you drive, insurance companies have observed a relationship between low credit and an increased frequency to file claims.
Generally, drivers with great credit scores (over 750) will pay approximately 20% less on car insurance compared to individuals with poorer scores (below 550).
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Credit Range
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Insurance Company
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Premium (monthly)
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Age
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Zip Code
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Car
|
Liability Limits
|
Has Full Coverage
|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 550-659 | The General | $165 | 39 | 29229 | Ford F-150 | State Minimum | No |
| 550-659 | National General | $330 | 25 | 29203 | Dodge Journey Se | State Minimum | Yes |
| 550-659 | National General | $326 | 28 | 29223 | Honda Accord Ex | State Minimum | No |
| 550-659 | Assurance America | $203 | 29 | 29203 | Nissan Altima S | State Minimum | Yes |
| 550-659 | Gainsco | $321 | 32 | 29210 | Kia Forte Gt | State Minimum | No |
Cheap car insurance quotes in Columbia for popular cars
The make and model of your vehicle will also impact your car insurance premiums. This is largely based on how much it costs to repair or replace your vehicle if you file a claim, although other factors—like the vehicle’s safety ratings or how often it’s stolen—may also play a part.
Some of the most popular motor vehicles in Columbia, South Carolina include:
- Honda CR-V
- Toyota RAV4
- Ford F-Series
- Ram 15000
- Chevrolet Silverado
Learn more: How to get car insurance before buying a car
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Popular Car
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Insurance Company
|
Premium (monthly)
|
Age
|
Zip Code
|
Liability Limits
|
Has Full Coverage
|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chevrolet Silverado K1500 Trail Boss Custom | Bristol West | $629 | 28 | 29229 | State Minimum | Yes |
| Chevrolet Silverado C1500 Lt | Bristol West | $252 | 31 | 29229 | State Minimum | No |
| Chevrolet Silverado C1500 | Assurance America | $349 | 27 | 29203 | State Minimum | No |
| Chevrolet Silverado C1500 | Assurance America | $212 | 28 | 29223 | State Minimum | Yes |
| Chevrolet Silverado K1500 Lt | Assurance America | $333 | 35 | 29209 | State Minimum | Yes |
Cheapest car insurance in Columbia for new vs. old car
Your vehicle’s make and model aren’t the only things that matter—its age does, too. The cost of insuring a newer car in Columbia is generally more expensive than that of an older car.
Average insurance rates in Columbia for vehicles based on age are:
- Vehicles 10 years or older: $134
- Vehicles less than 4 years old: $173
How to lower car insurance costs in Columbia
1. Shop around and compare quotes
Because every insurance company has its own way of calculating rates based on the factors above, your rates could be very different from one insurer to the next.
The best way to find cheap auto insurance in Columbia, SC is to compare free quotes from at least 3–5 insurance companies before you buy a policy. You should also shop for rates each time your policy renews—typically every six months.
That might sound like a lot of work, but it’s easy when you shop for car insurance with Jerry. In just seconds, Jerry collects quotes from over 55 insurance companies. You’ll get the best rates sent straight to your phone, organized into tiers with different coverage levels. And if you want to learn more about a company, you can click on the logo to view real customer reviews and expert ratings.
2. Hunt for car insurance discounts
One of the easiest ways to save on your policy is with car insurance discounts. Many insurance companies offer some or all of the following discounts:
- Safe driving: In California, all insurers must offer a 20% discount to drivers who have zero or one point on their license, as long as they’ve 1) had a license continuously for at least three years and 2) have never been involved in an at-fault accident that led to injury or death
- Telematics: If you’re a safe driver, you may be able to earn a discount by using an app or plug-in device to track your driving habits.
- Good student: Many insurers offer discounts to full-time high school and college students who maintain a B average or better.
- Bundling: If you combine your car insurance with your homeowners insurance, renters insurance, or life insurance, you could save on each policy.
3. Increase your deductible for comprehensive and collision coverage
You can lower your car insurance premium by raising your full coverage deductible. Just be sure to choose a deductible that you can pay on short notice if you need to file a claim.
FAQ
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Expert insurance writer and editor Amy Bobinger specializes in car repair, car maintenance, and car insurance. Amy is passionate about creating content that helps consumers navigate challenges related to car ownership and achieve financial success in areas relating to cars. Amy has over 10 years of writing and editing experience. After several years as a freelance writer, Amy spent four years as an editing fellow at WikiHow, where she co-authored over 600 articles on topics including car maintenance and home ownership. Since joining Jerry’s editorial team in 2022, Amy has edited over 2,500 articles on car insurance, state driving laws, and car repair and maintenance.
Jessica Barrett is a senior insurance writer and editor with 10 years of experience in the automotive and travel industries. A specialist in car insurance, car loans, and car ownership, Jessica’s mission is to create comprehensive content that car owners can use to manage their costs and improve their lives. As a managing editor for a team of writers and insurance specialists, Jessica has edited over 2,000 articles for Jerry on topics ranging from local insurance shopping tips to refinancing car loans with bad credit. Before joining Jerry as a senior content editor in 2021, Jessica created visual content for clients such as Expedia, Vivid Seats, Budget Direct Car Insurance, Angie’s List, and HomeAdvisor. Her content was published in Business Insider, Forbes, Apartment Therapy, and the BBC.
As Vice President of Insurance Operations at Jerry, Josh Damico leads teams across product development, operations and carrier relations, integrating Jerry’s smart and fast car insurance customer experience with that of traditional carriers to help customers find savings and coverage. Josh’s nearly 20 years of insurance-industry experience and knowledge generate partnerships with more than 55 name-brand and specialty insurance partners that enable Jerry to serve customers with all types of vehicle and policy needs.
Previously, Josh held executive roles at Geico, where he had vast regional oversight and leadership opportunities. In his most recent role as director of sales, servicing, and underwriting, Josh developed and executed profit and growth strategy for the New England states and New Jersey.
Josh holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration and management from Medaille College.
