Written by

Kristen Cramer

April 17, 2024

Edited by

Tara Farmer

Fact-checked by

Tamatha Hazen

Average cost of a home security system

A home security system costs $199 to $900 for an equipment package with professional installation. Home security monthly monitoring fees range from $25 to $50 per month on average. The cost of a home security system depends on the equipment included and the alarm monitoring plan you select.

Home security system cost comparison

Home security system prices vary by brand, equipment package, and features and services included. In general, the more equipment included in the package and the more devices monitored each month, the higher the upfront and monthly costs.

The table below provides a comparison of the monthly monitoring costs, equipment prices, and installation fees for popular home security companies.

Home security system monthly cost

Home security monthly rates range from $25 to $50 per month on average, depending on the company, alarm monitoring package, and contract length. Monthly fees can be as low as $4 to $22 per month for DIY-installed security systems from Ring and Wyze.

Home security system monthly monitoring typically includes:

• 24/7 monitoring – Continuous monitoring of your home for any security breaches or alarms

• Emergency response – Immediate notification to authorities (police, fire department, or medical services) in case of an emergency or alarm trigger

• Remote access – Access via a smartphone app or online portal to monitor your home's security status, control settings, and receive notifications remotely

• Alarm notifications – Alerts for any suspicious activity, potential break-ins, or sensor triggers such as motion detectors, door/window sensors, or smoke detectors

• Smart home integration – Some systems integrate with smart home devices, allowing you to control your lights, locks, security cameras, and thermostats through a single interface.

• Battery & equipment replacement – Some monitoring plans cover the replacement of batteries or faulty equipment as part of the service.

Home security system installation cost

Some home security systems are designed for easy DIY installation, while others require professional installation with prices ranging from $0 to $299. Professional installation includes mounting and connecting security cameras, sensors, video doorbells, and other equipment, then testing the system to ensure each piece functions properly.

Many companies also charge a one-time activation fee of $79 to $99, though most companies waive this fee if you purchase a monthly monitoring plan.

Home security system equipment

Home security equipment prices range from $199 to $599 on average for a kit containing cameras, door and window sensors, and other popular items like a video doorbell, floodlights, or panic buttons. Equipment options vary by company, with most companies offering packages at various tiers to suit any budget.

Home security camera cost

Home security cameras cost $30 to $270 each, depending on the type, features, and whether designed for indoor or outdoor use. After connecting the cameras to your home's Wi-Fi network, you can access the live video feed via a smartphone app.

• Indoor security cameras cost $30 to $180 and typically plug into an electrical outlet. Some models include a pan-and-tilt feature, allowing you to move the camera remotely through the app.

• Outdoor security cameras cost $100 to $250. Some models are battery- or solar-powered. However, most models must be plugged into an outdoor electrical outlet or hardwired into your home's electrical system, which may require a professional installer or licensed electrician.

• Outdoor floodlight cameras cost $130 to $270 and feature motion-activated LED floodlights and a camera with a wide-angle lens to maximize your view of your yard.

Factors that affect the cost of a home security system

The following factors influence the cost of a home security system:

• Wired vs. wireless system:

  • Wired systems are better protected against hackers but require professional installation by a licensed electrician. This process often involves cutting into walls to run electrical and telephone wiring to the security equipment. Many hardwired systems now come with wireless backup.

  • Wireless systems are easier to install and allow for control via a smartphone app or smart home device. However, these systems are more vulnerable to hackers.

• Equipment – A basic equipment bundle with essential equipment costs less than a comprehensive package with advanced sensors, indoor and outdoor cameras, and home automation capabilities.

• Add-ons & upgrades:

  • Additional features like extra cameras, environmental sensors (smoke, carbon monoxide, or flood), or smart home integration can increase the overall cost.

  • Systems that allow remote access through mobile apps or web interfaces may have higher costs due to increased functionality.

  • Optional services like medical alert monitoring, duress signal capabilities, and long-term video storage typically increase the cost. The average cost of medical alert systems is $20 to $50 per month, including the equipment and the monitoring fee.

• Professional vs. DIY installation – DIY installation is free, while professional installation services often incur additional fees.

• Professional monitoring – Monthly fees cover 24/7 monitoring, emergency response, and access to customer support.

• Contract length – Long-term contracts may come with lower monthly fees but require a commitment, while month-to-month contracts tend to have higher monthly costs.

• Brand and quality – Well-known brands or systems with higher quality components often come with a higher price tag.

Best home security systems

The best home security system for you depends on your individual needs, the features and equipment you want, and whether you prefer professional or DIY installation and 24/7 monitoring. The table below lists top-rated companies for each type of home security system.

Home security company comparison

When choosing the best home security company, consider the contract length, money-back guarantee, and whether the company offers professional installation and 24/7 monitoring.

• Home security contract lengths vary, and some companies now waive the contract requirement or offer month-to-month plans. Many companies give discounts if you purchase a year of monitoring up front instead of paying by the month.

• Most companies offer at least a 30-day money-back guarantee, with ADT offering the longest with their 6-month service guarantee and refund policy.

Home security system FAQs

How do home security systems work?

Home security systems use a network of sensors and video cameras linked to a control panel. The sensors detect motion, entry, or other disturbances, triggering an alarm. The cameras record footage, while the control panel communicates with the security company's monitoring center or the homeowner, alerting them in case of an emergency.

Are home security systems worth it?

Home security systems can be worth it for many homeowners. They provide peace of mind, deter potential burglars, and may lower your homeowners' insurance premiums. Their ultimate value depends on your individual needs and the level of security desired.

Do home security systems deter crime?

Studies suggest that visible home security systems can deter potential intruders and prevent burglaries. The visible and obvious presence of security cameras often discourages burglars from attempting a break-in.

How much does a home security system save on insurance?

A home security system can save you 2% to 5% on average on homeowners' insurance, with some insurers offering discounts of up to 15%. Your total savings depends on the type of security system, location, insurance company, and policy.

What is the cheapest home security system?

Many companies offer affordable DIY home security systems with the option for self-monitoring or professional 24/7 monitoring. For the best price, look for a company that offers a low-cost starter kit with no long-term contract required.

Ring is the cheapest home security system, with equipment prices starting at $99 for a basic equipment package including one camera plus a video doorbell and professional monitoring starting at $4 per month.

Who invented the home security system?

The first home security system was invented by Marie Van Brittan Brown in 1966 and consisted of cameras, peepholes, TV monitors, and a two-way microphone. She and her husband, Albert, patented their system, later expanding it to include features to unlock doors remotely and alert police at the touch of a button.

Brown's home security system was adopted by many homeowners and businesses, paving the way for today's high-tech security systems.

Getting estimates from home security system installers

Before hiring a home security company, be sure to compare prices, read reviews, and review the contract in full. Follow these guidelines to ensure you find the best installers near you:

• Get quotes from 3 home security system companies featuring similar equipment and services.

• Look for home security companies with a long and established track record.

• Ask friends, family, and neighbors for recommendations.

• Read reviews for home security system installers on HomeGuide and Google.

• Choose an installer who is licensed, bonded, and insured.

• Carefully review the contract terms before signing.

Questions to ask home security companies

Ask these questions when evaluating home security companies and systems:

• Can you provide references from past customers?

• Does the system come with professional installation? If yes, how much does the service cost?

• Do you perform background checks on all your installers?

• What equipment is included in the package?

• What optional equipment and upgrades do you offer?

• What type of monitoring do you provide?

• How much is the monthly monitoring fee?

• What are the contract terms and length?

• Does the equipment come with a warranty or service agreement?

• Do you offer mobile access and remote control?

• What happens in case of a power outage or wi-fi failure?

• Can the system integrate with other smart home devices?

• Do you provide customer support and troubleshooting?