If you've spent any time wandering Cameron's antique shops along Carthage Street, you know this Moore County village has a character all its own. With a population of just 262 residents, Cameron punches above its weight as one of the East Coast's premier antique destinations, drawing thousands of visitors to its twice-yearly festivals. But whether you're a longtime resident, a business owner in one of those historic storefronts, or someone considering a move to this Sandhills gem, understanding your insurance needs is just as important as knowing where to find the best vintage finds.
Cameron's unique position as a historic village with Southern charm, located in the Sandhills region near Pinehurst, creates specific insurance considerations you won't find in your typical suburban neighborhood. Let's break down everything you need to know about protecting yourself, your property, and your business in this special corner of North Carolina.
Home Insurance in Cameron: What You Need to Know
Here's something that might catch you off guard: homeowners insurance rates in Moore County are climbing significantly. The county falls under Territory 290 in North Carolina's insurance rating system, and you're facing a 7.5% rate increase that took effect in June 2025, with another 7.5% bump coming in June 2026. That adds up to roughly $500 more per year for the average North Carolina homeowner.
The good news? Cameron's inland location in the Sandhills works in your favor. While coastal North Carolina communities deal with sky-high premiums due to hurricane risk, you're far enough inland to avoid those extreme rates. The statewide average for home insurance sits around $3,237 annually for $350,000 in dwelling coverage, but your actual costs will depend on your home's age, condition, and value.
If you're living in one of Cameron's historic homes—and many date back to the 1870s—pay special attention to your replacement cost coverage. Rising construction costs now average $180 to $250 per square foot, which means rebuilding that charming Victorian could cost significantly more than you think. Make sure your dwelling coverage keeps pace with these escalating costs, not just your home's market value.
Auto Insurance Requirements and Costs
North Carolina made a significant change in July 2025 that affects every driver in Cameron. The state raised minimum liability limits from 30/60/25 to 50/100/50. That means you now need at least $50,000 for bodily injury per person, $100,000 per accident, and $50,000 for property damage. If your policy is older, check it immediately—driving with outdated limits can land you in legal trouble.
The average North Carolina driver pays around $1,977 annually for auto insurance, or $165 per month. However, if you opt for full coverage rather than just the minimum, expect to pay closer to $2,587 per year. Given Cameron's location right on US-1, a major north-south corridor, and the influx of tourists heading to antique festivals and nearby Pinehurst golf courses, having more than minimum coverage makes sense. One accident with an out-of-state visitor could easily exceed those basic limits.
Your rates will vary based on your driving record, age, credit score, and the vehicle you drive. A 40-year-old driver with good credit and a clean record might pay as little as $604 per year for minimum coverage. But if you're younger, have tickets on your record, or drive a newer vehicle requiring comprehensive and collision coverage, your costs will be higher.
Insurance for Cameron's Antique Shops and Small Businesses
Cameron's identity as an antique hub means many of you reading this operate shops in those historic buildings lining Carthage Street. Your insurance needs are more complex than the average small business. You're not just protecting inventory—you're safeguarding valuable, often irreplaceable antiques and collectibles stored in structures built over a century ago.
A standard Business Owner's Policy (BOP) combines property and liability coverage, but you'll likely need specialized inland marine insurance for your high-value inventory. This covers items both in your shop and in transit—critical during those May and October antique festivals when over 100 vendors set up along downtown streets. General liability insurance is non-negotiable, too. When thousands of visitors pack Cameron's sidewalks browsing antiques, the risk of someone tripping, getting injured, or claiming a damaged item is very real.
If you're operating out of a historic building, talk to your insurer about the actual replacement cost. These structures often have unique architectural features, original materials, and building code requirements that make repairs expensive. Standard depreciated value coverage won't cut it if a fire or storm damages your 1920s brick building.
Practical Tips for Cameron Residents
Living in a small town with a median household income of $74,688 means you're probably cost-conscious about insurance. Here's how to get the most protection for your money. First, bundle your home and auto policies with the same insurer—most companies offer 15-25% discounts for bundling. Second, raise your deductibles if you have emergency savings to cover them. Jumping from a $500 to $1,000 deductible can save you 10-15% annually.
Review your policies annually, especially with those rate increases hitting Moore County. Shop around—loyalty doesn't always pay when it comes to insurance. Get quotes from at least three different companies, and don't just compare premiums. Look at coverage limits, deductibles, and exclusions. The cheapest policy isn't always the best value if it leaves you underinsured.
If you're new to Cameron or considering moving here from nearby Pinehurst or Southern Pines, ask about discounts for home security systems, smoke detectors, and claims-free histories. Many insurers also offer discounts for retirees or members of professional organizations. Every bit helps when you're facing those scheduled rate increases.
Getting Started with the Right Coverage
Insurance isn't exciting—until you need it. Cameron's blend of historic charm, small-town living, and bustling antique commerce creates a unique insurance landscape. Whether you're protecting a Victorian home, insuring your antique shop's inventory, or making sure your car meets North Carolina's new liability requirements, the key is getting coverage that matches your actual risks, not just the bare minimum.
Start by taking inventory of what you own and what you do. Document your home's features, photograph your belongings, and if you run a business, create detailed records of your inventory and operations. Then reach out to independent insurance agents who understand Moore County's specific risks and opportunities. They can compare multiple carriers and find coverage that protects your Cameron lifestyle without breaking the bank. Don't wait until the next rate increase hits—the best time to review your insurance is right now.
