Best homeowners insurance in South Carolina for 2025
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Reviewed by
Edited by
Reviewed by
Compare the best homeowners insurance companies in South Carolina
Based on our research, which included an analysis of average rates from Quadrant Information Services and other metrics like customer satisfaction scores from the J.D. Power 2024 U.S. Home Insurance Study, some of the best South Carolina homeowners insurance companies include Auto-Owners, Allstate, State Farm, Cincinnati Insurance and Travelers. These carriers offer a range of coverage options, digital tools and policy features that make them stand out.
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634
/1,000 |
$209
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$2,509
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631
/1,000 |
$205
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$2,455
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643
/1,000 |
$145
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$1,745
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Not rated |
N/A
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N/A
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609
/1,000 |
$203
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$2,431
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Coverage.com, LLC is a licensed insurance producer (NPN: 19966249). Coverage.com services are only available in states where it is licensed. Coverage.com may not offer insurance coverage in all states or scenarios. All insurance products are governed by the terms in the applicable insurance policy, and all related decisions (such as approval for coverage, premiums, commissions and fees) and policy obligations are the sole responsibility of the underwriting insurer. The information on this site does not modify any insurance policy terms in any way.
Bankrate's trusted insurance industry expertise
Read our full methodologyThe insurance market can be complicated, but Bankrate's insurance editorial team used our unique perspective to bring readers the information they need to make educated decisions when shopping for a policy.
78
years of industry experience
9
licensed staff
34.5K
ZIP codes examined
120
carriers reviewed
The top 5 home insurance companies in South Carolina
Best for discounts
4.3
Avg. premium for $300K dwelling
$209/mo
Avg. premium for $300K dwelling
$2,509/yr
Customer satisfaction
634/1,000
-
Why Auto-Owners made our list: Contrary to what the name might suggest, Auto-Owners does not only sell auto insurance policies. The super-regional company also offers robust homeowners insurance coverage, with add-ons like guaranteed replacement cost coverage, equipment breakdown insurance and its exclusive Homeowners Plus package, which includes unique coverage like food spoilage if your power goes out due to a covered peril. You may even be able to save further with unique discounts like the advanced quote discount, automatic backup generator discount, mortgage-free discount and water shut-off system discount. However, its mobile app on Android and Apple devices received fewer stars compared to its competitors, and it may not be a good option for homeowners who want to manage their policies online.
Who Auto-Owners may be good for: If you're looking for robust coverage on a budget, Auto-Owners low average rates and extensive potential discount list may appeal to you.
Best for digital tools
4.2
Avg. premium for $300K dwelling
$205/mo
Avg. premium for $300K dwelling
$2,455/yr
Customer satisfaction
631/1,000
-
Why Allstate made our list: Allstate, the second-largest U.S. home insurer based on market share according to the Insurance Information Institute, may be a company worth considering for South Carolina homeowners who want to manage their policies online and learn more about insurance. Allstate also offers a variety of unique endorsements, including yard and garden coverage, sports equipment coverage, musical instruments coverage, green improvement reimbursement and more. However, its customer satisfaction score, as reported in the J.D. Power 2024 U.S. Property Claims Satisfaction Study, is slightly below average.
Who Allstate may be good for: Allstate ranks above average for both shopping and service in J.D. Power’s 2024 U.S. Insurance Digital Experience Study. It may appeal to customers looking to take care of their insurance needs online or via a mobile app.
Best for customer service
4.1
Avg. premium for $300K dwelling
$145/mo
Avg. premium for $300K dwelling
$1,745/yr
Customer satisfaction
643/1,000
-
Why State Farm made our list: State Farm might be an ideal fit for homeowners who value customer service and want to work with an agent in person. State Farm has exclusive local agents throughout South Carolina who can assist with both homeowners coverage and other insurance products. While State Farm offers several ways to personalize your home insurance policy, its discount options are more limited.
Who State Farm may be good for: If having good interactions with your insurance company is important to you, State Farm may be a good fit. The company's high ranking with J.D. Power indicates it may place a high value on customer satisfaction, and it may be willing to go the extra mile to ensure that policyholders are happy with their insurance.
Best for high-value homes
4.0
Avg. premium for $300K dwelling
Not available
Avg. premium for $300K dwelling
Not available
Customer satisfaction
Not rated
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Why Cincinnati made our list: Cincinnati may be a good option for South Carolina homeowners who own a high-value home. This company sells three tiers of homeowners insurance — Executive Homeowner, Executive Capstone and Executive Classic. The Executive Homeowner policy is for any home value, while the Executive Classic policy covers homes with a replacement cost value of $500,000 and above and the Executive Capstone policy covers homes with a replacement cost value of $1 million or more. However, the company isn’t included in J.D. Power studies because of its small market share in the Southeast region.
Who Cincinnati may be good for: South Carolina homeowners with high-value homes worth $500K or more might want to consider getting a quote from Cincinnati. The company has extensive experience insuring high-value homes and knows what these properties need to be adequately protected.
Best for customizable coverage
4.0
Avg. premium for $300K dwelling
$203/mo
Avg. premium for $300K dwelling
$2,431/yr
Customer satisfaction
609/1,000
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Why Travelers made our list: If you are looking for a home insurance policy with extensive optional endorsements, Travelers may be worth checking out. Endorsements can provide benefits like higher limits for valuable items and financial assistance for rebuilding with green materials after a covered loss. However, Travelers’ J.D. Power customer satisfaction ranking is well below the industry average.
Who Travelers may be good for: If your circumstances require policy customization, Travelers offers a more extensive list of endorsements than many of its competitors.
Additional South Carolina home insurance companies to consider
Bankers Insurance Group
Homeowners who want a range of coverages
Founded in 1976, Bankers Insurance Group has a B+ rating from AM Best. It offers a range of coverage, including homeowners insurance, which could make it a compelling choice for South Carolina residents. Particularly noteworthy is its focus on catastrophe-related coverage like flood insurance, a significant consideration in areas prone to such events. Bankers Insurance Group's 24/7 claims reporting service is a notable convenience, facilitating timely support whenever required.
South Carolina Farm Bureau
Homeowners who want a community-focused approach and comprehensive insurance offerings
South Carolina Farm Bureau, a key player in the state's insurance market since 1955, stands out for its community-focused approach and comprehensive insurance offerings. As a mutual insurance company deeply rooted in South Carolina, it may be able to provide personalized services across a wide spectrum, including auto, property and agricultural insurance. The company emphasizes strong local ties and a commitment to supporting local farmers.
How Bankrate chose the best home insurance companies in South Carolina
Bankrate’s insurance experts chose the best homeowners insurance in South Carolina by using a series of key metrics. These included reviewing average home insurance premiums from Quadrant Information Services, as well as coverage options, discounts and mobile accessibility. We also considered third-party industry scores for customer service and financial strength ratings.
From there, the performance of home insurance companies in each of these categories was summed up in a Bankrate Score, which could help you get a fuller picture of a company and compare it with other carriers. The better a company did in each of these separate metrics, the higher its overall Bankrate Score for a maximum score of 5 out of 5.
Compare home insurance rates
Answer a few questions to see personalized rates from top carriers.
Powered by Coverage.com (NPN: 19966249)
Coverage.com, LLC is a licensed insurance producer (NPN: 19966249). Coverage.com services are only available in states where it is licensed. Coverage.com may not offer insurance coverage in all states or scenarios. All insurance products are governed by the terms in the applicable insurance policy, and all related decisions (such as approval for coverage, premiums, commissions and fees) and policy obligations are the sole responsibility of the underwriting insurer. The information on this site does not modify any insurance policy terms in any way.
Cheapest home insurance companies in South Carolina
Researching carriers and shopping around can help you find an affordable policy that meets your home insurance needs. Below is a table showcasing some of the most competitively priced home insurance companies in the state. This selection, made after examining various factors like coverage options and average homeowners insurance cost in South Carolina, aims to assist homeowners in finding a balance between cost efficiency and reliable coverage. While not necessarily the best homeowners insurance in South Carolina for every individual's unique needs, these companies represent a starting point for those prioritizing budget-friendly options in their insurance search.
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$140
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$1,683
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- $691 |
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$145
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$1,745
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- $629 |
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$203
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$2,431
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+ $57 |
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$205
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$2,455
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+ $81 |
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$209
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$2,509
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+ $135 |
How to get cheap South Carolina home insurance
Even if you don't have a mortgage, it may be a good idea to have a homeowners insurance policy in place to protect the financial investment you’ve made in your home. However, no homeowner wants to spend more than they have to for property insurance. Consider taking these steps to find the best South Carolina homeowners insurance:
- Assess your home. Consider how much dwelling coverage you will need to rebuild if necessary (keeping in mind that replacement costs can be very different from your home’s market value). A licensed insurance agent can guide you through this process and ensure your policy has adequate replacement cost coverage, factoring in inflationary impacts. Also, consider what you might need for liability coverage. To determine appropriate policy limits, your insurer will need to know the details of your home, such as how old the roof is and how close you are to a fire station.
- Review the websites of the companies that interest you. Are you able to find answers to your questions there? Are discounts and coverage options listed? Can you file or track a claim online?
- Learn more about how each company does business. If you prefer to do your business electronically, check and see if the company has digital options. Make sure you can make payments, file claims and handle other common tasks online or via your smartphone. Or, if you prefer to do business face to face, see if the companies you’re interested in have local agents. A few of the companies on our list have mobile apps that score poorly, so you may want to look into App Store and Google Play reviews, too.
- Gather quotes. Insurance rates are highly personalized, and coverage features and discounts can vary widely between companies. Because of this, experts recommend obtaining at least three quotes from various home insurance companies. For a fair comparison of rates, it helps to specify the same coverage types and policy limits for each quote. Before deciding on a company, it may also help to review each company's listed discounts to see if you might qualify for any.
Best home insurance discounts in South Carolina
When it comes to finding the cheapest policy for your needs, discounts are key. Almost all insurers offer at least a few potential discounts, and they can save you a significant amount of money, if you qualify. Many of them are easily earned, as well. Here are a few common discounts in South Carolina:
How to save on home insurance policy renewals in South Carolina
Navigating the home insurance market in South Carolina can be a challenge, but there are strategies that can help homeowners save on policy renewals. By understanding the factors that affect South Carolina home insurance costs, residents can make informed decisions and potentially reduce their premiums.
- Review your policy annually: Regularly evaluating your policy ensures it still meets your needs and may reveal opportunities for savings.
- Compare quotes: Exploring quotes from different South Carolina homeowners insurance companies could lead to finding more affordable options.
- Inquire about discounts: Many insurers offer discounts for things like security systems or bundling policies, which might lower the average home insurance cost in South Carolina.
- Improve home safety: Enhancements like storm shutters or reinforced roofing can reduce the risk profile of your home, potentially lowering insurance costs.
- Increase your deductible: Opting for a higher deductible can lead to lower premiums, but you may want to ensure it's an amount you can comfortably afford in the case of a claim.
How much is home insurance in South Carolina?
Homeowners in South Carolina pay an average of $2,374 annually for $300K of dwelling coverage. This is on par with the national average of $2,242. It differs from the averages paid by residents of neighboring states: Georgia homeowners, for example, pay an annual average of $1,994, while in North Carolina, coverage costs $2,055 on average.
South Carolina homeowners insurance rates by city
Home insurance rates in South Carolina can vary significantly based on the city in which a homeowner resides. Various factors, such as local weather patterns, crime rates and the general cost of living, can influence the cost of premiums. Below are some of the cheapest and most expensive cities in the state.
- York: $1,478 per year — 38 percent below state average
- Clover: $1,501 per year — 37 percent below state average
- Catawba: $1,509 per year — 36 percent below state average
- Mc Connells: $1,518 per year — 36 percent below state average
- Marietta: $1,521 per year — 36 percent below state average
- Murrells Inlet: $6,028 per year — 154 percent above state average
- North Myrtle Beach: $5,932 per year — 150 percent above state average
- Isle Of Palms: $5,798 per year — 144 percent above state average
- Sullivans Island: $5,776 per year — 143 percent above state average
- Folly Beach: $5,729 per year — 141 percent above state average
*Rates are for $300,000 in dwelling coverage.
What does home insurance cover in South Carolina?
A standard HO-3 home insurance policy in South Carolina offers comprehensive coverage to protect homeowners from various unexpected events. This type of policy generally covers the dwelling, other structures on the property, personal property, liability and additional living expenses. For dwelling and other structures, an HO-3 policy provides open perils coverage, meaning it covers all perils unless specifically excluded. However, personal property coverage under this policy operates on a named perils basis.
In South Carolina, certain covered perils are particularly relevant due to the state's geographic and climatic conditions:
- Hail or windstorms: These are significant concerns in South Carolina, especially in coastal areas. An HO-3 policy typically covers damage from windstorms and hail, which can be crucial for homeowners in regions prone to such weather events. Note that damage from named storms may be subject to a separate deductible in coastal counties.
- Wildfires: Damage from wildfires is typically covered by a standard home policy.
- Falling objects: This coverage is vital in areas with a lot of trees or where severe weather could cause debris to fall on homes. It includes protection from damage caused by objects falling onto the property, a common occurrence during storms.
- Accidental water overflow or discharge: Given the varied climate in South Carolina, homes can be susceptible to plumbing issues. Coverage for accidental overflow or discharge from plumbing, air conditioning or household appliances can be an important aspect of home insurance policies in the state.
While these are some of the most relevant perils for South Carolina homeowners, it's crucial to review all aspects of your policy to understand the full range of coverage. The average home insurance cost in South Carolina can vary based on factors like location and the specific perils covered. Exploring options from various South Carolina homeowners insurance companies can help in finding the best homeowners insurance in South Carolina that suits individual needs and budgets.
Additional home insurance coverage types in South Carolina
When you get homeowners insurance quotes in South Carolina, you will notice that some common coverage types — like dwelling, personal property, liability and additional living expenses coverage — are typically included. And while a basic homeowners insurance policy may be the right fit for some, there are some optional coverage choices that you may want to consider if you own a home in South Carolina. These include:
- Flood insurance: Flood damage is not covered by standard homeowners insurance policies, but it is an important coverage type to consider, since flooding can have devastating financial consequences. Usually, you will need to buy a separate flood insurance policy through FEMA’s National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) or private flood insurers, although a few companies offer flood coverage as an endorsement to your homeowners policy.
- Earthquake coverage: Although earthquakes that cause significant damage are not common in South Carolina, one could happen at any time. Earthquake damage isn’t covered by a standard home policy, but many companies offer earthquake coverage as an endorsement. You may need to purchase it as a separate policy, however, if you are in a particularly high-risk area.
- Identity theft coverage: Some home insurance companies include this coverage as part of the standard policy. Others offer an endorsement for identity theft, which can help you pay for costs associated with a stolen identity. This could include lawyer fees and credit monitoring expenses.
Discussing your unique situation with a licensed insurance agent might be a good idea. A local agent should be able to help guide you to choose appropriate coverage so that your homeowners policy fits both your budget and your insurance needs.
Related content:
Common South Carolina home insurance problems
In South Carolina, homeowners can often face unique challenges when securing home insurance. The state's diverse geography, ranging from coastal areas to inland regions, brings varied risks, impacting both the availability and cost of insurance. Also, the increasing frequency of severe weather events and the complexities of insurance regulations can pose problems for consumers seeking the right coverage.
Some common issues include:
- High risk of natural disasters: Coastal areas are particularly susceptible to hurricanes, while inland regions may experience severe storms and hail. This elevated risk could lead to higher insurance premiums and sometimes limited coverage options. The South Carolina Wind and Hail Underwriting Association provides coverage in coastal counties for homeowners who can't secure coverage through the private market.
- Availability of flood insurance: While standard home insurance policies in South Carolina cover a variety of perils, they do not include flood damage. Flood insurance is available through the NFIP and private flood insurers.
- Insurance market volatility: The state's exposure to natural disasters might lead to fluctuations in the home insurance market. Homeowners could find it challenging to secure affordable coverage, and some insurers might withdraw from high-risk regions as they adjust their risk exposure in the Palmetto State.
- Understanding coverage limits and exclusions: Homeowners often face difficulties understanding the intricacies of their insurance policies. This includes deciphering coverage limits, exclusions and the differences between replacement cost and actual cash value coverages. Speaking with a licensed insurance agent can help.
News
South Carolina homeowners, especially those along the coast, are facing challenges in finding affordable home insurance coverage. In August 2023, a South Carolina town hall highlighted the sharp increase in home insurance premiums that residents are experiencing. Elevated premiums are attributed in part to economic inflation, higher home repair costs and reinsurance trends.
In response, the state of South Carolina created a study committee to review insurance issues here. Lawmakers hope that some form of regulatory oversight can help homeowners find the coverage they need for affordable prices. The committee completed its fact-finding phase and presented its findings and recommendations to the full General Assembly and governor of South Carolina on Jan. 7, 2025. The study advised strengthening building codes, promoting roof improvement programs and providing funding for additional flood mapping. The full impact of the committee’s findings and the government’s go-forward plan remain to be seen.
Frequently asked questions
Methodology
Bankrate utilizes Quadrant Information Services to analyze March 2025 rates for all ZIP codes and carriers in all 50 states and Washington, D.C. Quoted rates for our base profile are based on the following characteristics and coverage limits:
Dwelling coverage
$300,000Other structures coverage
$30,000Personal property coverage
$150,000Loss of use coverage
$60,000Liability coverage
$500,000Medical payment coverage
$1,000The homeowners also have a $1,000 deductible, a $500 hail deductible and a 2 percent hurricane deductible (or the next closest deductible amounts that are available) where separate deductibles apply.
These are sample rates and should be used for comparative purposes only. Your quotes will differ.
Bankrate Scores
Our 2025 Bankrate Score considers variables our insurance editorial team determined impact policyholders’ experiences with an insurance company. These rating factors include a robust assessment of each company’s cost of coverage, product availability, financial strength ratings, online capabilities and customer and claims support accessibility. We grouped these factors into three essential categories — cost and ratings, coverage and savings, and support — which we then weighted in a tiered approach.
Each category was assigned a metric to determine performance, and the weighted sum adds up to a company’s total Bankrate Score — out of 5 points. Our scoring model provides a comprehensive view, indicating when companies excel across several key areas and highlighting where they fall short.
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Cost & ratings 50%
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Coverage & savings 30%
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Support 20%
- Tier 1 (Cost & ratings): To determine how well auto and home insurance companies satisfy these priorities, our team analyzed average quoted premiums from Quadrant Information Services (if available), as well as any of the latest third-party agency ratings from J.D. Power, AM Best, Demotech and the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC).
- Tier 2 (Coverage & savings): We assessed companies’ coverage options and availability to help policyholders find a provider that balances cost with coverage. Additionally, we evaluated each company’s discount options listed on its website.
- Tier 3 (Support): To encompass the many ways a home insurance company can support policyholders, we analyzed avenues of customer accessibility along with community support. This analysis incorporated additional financial strength ratings from S&P and Moody’s and factored in a company’s corporate sustainability efforts.
Tier scores are unweighted to show the company's true score in each category out of a possible five points.
