How much does security camera installation cost?
How much does security camera installation cost?
The average cost of security cameras is $125 to $450 each, including setup and installation labor. IP or CCTV security camera systems cost $500 to $1,600 for 4-cameras and installation charges. Home surveillance camera prices are $50 to $250 each, and remote monitoring costs $20 to $80 per month.
$125 – $450 Cost per camera installed
$500 – $1,600 Cost to install a 4-camera CCTV / IP system
The average cost of security cameras is $125 to $450 each, including setup and installation labor. IP or CCTV security camera systems cost $500 to $1,600 for 4-cameras and installation charges. Home surveillance camera prices are $50 to $250 each, and remote monitoring costs $20 to $80 per month.
Security Camera Installation Cost
Security camera installation costs $125 to $450 per camera, including labor. A 4-camera CCTV installation for home costs $600 to $1,600 for a full system setup and labor. Surveillance camera prices are $50 to $250 each, and installation charges run $80 to $200 per camera.
| Type | Cost Per Camera | 4-Camera System |
|---|---|---|
| CCTV | $150 – $450 | $600 – $1,600 |
| IP | $125 – $400 | $500 – $1,500 |
Security cameras offer families peace of mind and reduce the chance of burglary by 300%.
Installing a home security system saves 5% to 20% on your insurance.
Average cost to install 4 security cameras
| National Average Cost | $830 |
| Minimum Cost | $100 |
| Maximum Cost | $4,000 |
| Average Range | $500 to $1,600 |
Cost To Install Home Security Camera System
The average cost to install a 4-camera home security system is $500 to $1,600, and an 8-camera video surveillance system runs $1,000 to $2,500, including setup and labor. When buying your own security cameras, professional labor rates are $80 to $200 per camera to setup and install.
| Type | Cost Per Camera | 4-Camera System* |
|---|---|---|
| Wired | $150 – $500 | $600 – $2,000 |
| Wireless | $130 – $400 | $500 – $1,500 |
| Wire-free | $70 – $350 | $250 – $1,200 |
*Includes complete setup with camera(s), materials, and labor charges.
Cost To Install Wired Security Cameras
The average cost to install wired security cameras is $150 to $500 per camera, depending on the type and labor rates. Installing a 4-camera wired security system costs $600 to $2,000. A hardwired system is more expensive to install and requires holes to be drilled for running cables.
| Item | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Camera | $50 – $350 |
| Labor | $100 – $200 |
| Total Cost Per Camera | $150 – $500 |
Cost To Install Wireless Security Cameras
The average cost to install wireless security cameras is $130 to $400 per camera, depending on the type, brand, and labor. Installing a 4-camera wireless security system costs between $500 and $1,500 for a full setup.
| Item | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Camera | $50 – $250 |
| Labor | $80 – $150 |
| Total Cost Per Camera | $130 – $400 |
Wireless systems offer remote access and are easy to install DIY or move. Security footage is transmitted wirelessly through Wi-Fi but still requires wired power. They are susceptible to signal interference, can be hacked, and may need an electrical outlet added.
Security Camera Installation Labor Cost
The average security camera installation labor cost is $80 to $200 per camera, depending on if the camera is wired or wireless and whether it's a CCTV or IP unit. Security camera setup costs for a 4-camera CCTV system are $400 to $800 for labor alone. Prices per camera decrease when installing more cameras at the same time.
| Type | Installation Cost |
|---|---|
| Wired | $100 – $200 |
| Wireless | $80 – $150 |
| Wire-free | $0 – $40 |
*Labor only. Prices do not include the cost of the cameras.
Security Camera Setup & Installation Process
With professional installation, your setup cost could be higher than the cost of the camera. When installing, the contractor considers the following in their labor rates:
Running cables through walls
Eliminating signal interference
Ensuring a clear view of the desired coverage area
Installing cameras in a visible location to help act as a deterrent, but out of reach and not pointing at lights.
Securing cameras and infrastructure
Configuration of motion and privacy zones, notifications, video quality
Cost of Security Cameras By Type
The average cost of security cameras is $50 to $200 each for the camera alone, plus labor rates of $100 to $200 per camera to install. Security camera prices depend on if the camera is wired or wireless, indoor or outdoor, the resolution, the type, and the features included.
Security Camera Prices By Type
Standalone Wi-Fi cameras cost less, while high-resolution 4K cameras or systems with a wide field of view cost more. The main types of security cameras are doorbell, hidden, bullet, box, dome, and PTZ.
| Type | Price | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Fake Camera | $10 – $20 | Looks like a real camera and acts as a deterrent |
| Bullet Camera | $50 – $250 | Traditional exterior camera |
| Smart Home Camera | $30 – $400 | Work with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit |
| Hidden / Mini Camera | $20 – $350 | Sometimes disguised as a clock, picture frame, peephole |
| Analog CCTV Camera | $25 – $300 | Connects to a DVR to record or view on TV or monitor |
| IP Camera | $35 – $350 | Connects to a Network Video Recorder (NVR) via a home network or Wi-Fi |
| Dome Camera | $80 – $350 | Ceiling mounted, wide field of view, movement control |
| Doorbell Camera | $100 – $250 | Lets you see and talk with visitors |
| Box / C-Mount Camera | $100 – $500 | Commercial camera with interchangeable lens |
| PTZ Camera | $100 – $300 | Remote-controlled Pan, tilt, and zoom cameras |
| License Plate Recognition (LPR) | $140 – $900 | Captures stationary or moving license plate details |
| Underwater Camera | $170 – $600 | Submersible cameras for use in swimming pools |
| Thermal (FLIR) Camera | $1,400 – $3,000 | Can see through smoke, fog, rain and in complete darkness |
CCTV Camera Installation Costs
The average cost of CCTV camera installation for a home is $150 to $450 per camera, including labor for full system setup. The cost of a 4-camera CCTV system with installation is $600 to $1,600. A CCTV system is easy to configure and can record 24/7.
| System | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Per Camera | $150 – $450 |
| 2-Camera System | $300 – $900 |
| 4-Camera System | $600 – $1,600 |
CCTV systems can work without the internet by connecting to a DVR to record or monitor. However, most analog CCTV cameras only record up to 1080p and may not be remotely accessible. Digital NVR CCTV records up to 4K, but wired systems cost more to install.
| CCTV | IP | |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | $25 – $300 per camera | $35 – $350 per camera |
| Install Labor | $100 – $200 per camera | $80 – $150 per camera |
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CCTV Fitting Cost
CCTV fitting costs $100 to $200 per camera for the labor alone. Plus, CCTV cameras using a PC or NAS unit for storing video require a one-time CCTV license at $30 and $60 per camera.
IP Camera Installation Charges
Internet Protocol or IP camera installation costs $125 to $400 per camera, including labor. Wireless IP cameras offer high-resolution 4K recording, can be controlled via an app, and can be installed DIY. However, they require the internet and are susceptible to hacking.
| System | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Per Camera | $125 – $400 |
| 2-Camera System | $250 – $800 |
| 4-Camera System | $500 – $1,500 |
PTZ Security Camera Cost
Pan tilt zoom or PTZ security cameras cost $100 to $400 and are suited for indoor or outdoor use. PTZ cameras are either analog or IP and can pan, tilt, and zoom in all directions. PTZ cameras can auto-track movement or monitor pre-set locations on a schedule.
Mini Home Security Camera Prices
Mini cameras for home security cost $20 to $350 and come ready to be installed or already disguised as USB chargers, DVD players, smoke detectors, clocks, or even picture frames. They either record 24/7 to cloud storage or motion-triggered events to a memory card.
Surveillance Camera Installation Cost Factors
The cost factors of surveillance cameras include indoor versus outdoor placement, resolution, field of view, motion detection, night vision, monitored services, remote viewing, connectivity, video storage, the number of cameras, and other features.
Home Size – Larger homes require more cameras with better resolution and field of view to cover each door and window.
Security Requirements – A doorbell camera works for front doors, but you'll need several indoor and outdoor cameras for complete coverage.
Wired or Wireless – Wired camera installation costs more than wireless because of running cables.
Internal or External – Exterior cameras need to be waterproof and weatherproof and typically cost more than interior cameras.
Monitored or Unmonitored – Security services an monitor your cameras 24/7 with other upgrades for a monthly fee.
Local or Remote Storage – Security cameras use either local storage or fee-based plans for remote cloud storage.
Indoor vs. Outdoor Security Cameras
Installing outdoor security cameras cost $20 to $55 more per camera than indoor systems. Exterior house cameras are waterproof, weatherproof, with features like zoom, night vision, sirens, or floodlights. Indoor cameras are smaller, can easily be set up and moved, and have similar characteristics.
Adding More Security Cameras To A House
Adding more security cameras to a house costs $100 to $200 each for installation labor, depending on if the cameras are wired or wireless. A new DVR/NVR costs $100 and $350 if your current unit cannot support more cameras. Adding a hard drive for storage costs $50 to $100 plus installation.
Camera Resolution
Security camera resolution refers to the size and quality of the video being produced. High-resolution cameras produce HD video with more detail. Typically, the higher the resolution, the higher the cost of each camera.
| Low Resolution | High Resolution | |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | $45 – $250 each | $60 – $350 each |
| Resolution | Below 1080p, HD, or 1920 x 1080 | At or above 1080p. From 2048 x 1536 and up, 4K |
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FPS or Frame Rate
The frame rate or FPS is the number of images the camera captures every second. A higher frame rate requires more video storage space and costs more. The best videos are produced with 4K cameras at 30 frames per second or higher, but many popular cameras only capture 22 to 25 FPS.
Some 4K cameras can capture 1080p (HD) video at 30 FPS but drop the frame rate to 22 to 25 FPS or lower when recording in 4K. Cheaper cameras are typically 2K & 3K with 15 to 22 frames per second, and some can reduce to 1 FPS to preserve memory.
Field of View
A camera's field of view is measured in degrees and details how wide the lens sees. Most security cameras capture between 87° and 130°, depending on if they're wide-angle or narrow. The most noticeable price difference is for 360° cameras, which capture everything in one shot. PTZ (pan, tilt, zoom) cameras can rotate to cover a similar area.
Traditional camera images are rectangular, while 360° cameras produce a circular video or fishbowl effect.
Interior bullet cameras only need a 90° field of view when mounted in the corner of a room.
The best location for a 360° camera is in a ceiling at the center of a room.
Motion Detection
Security cameras with integrated motion detection cost $40 to $150 each, while a basic motion detector is $20 to $50. Motion detectors look for changed pixels or use PIR sensors to detect heat. They can trigger lights, alarms, or start recording only when motion is detected to reduce power use and data storage.
Customizable regions of interest (ROI) let you specify areas to ignore, such as busy streets or your neighbor’s property, so you only get relevant alerts and recordings.
Night Vision & Infrared Illuminator
Exterior cameras that reach 30’ to 150’ with infrared (IR) night vision cost $20 to $200, while others that reach 300’ run $200 to $400. A separate IR illuminator or bulb to increase that reach costs $20 to $60. A camera's infrared night vision effectiveness depends on the camera sensor and the number of LEDs and their strength.
Color night vision cameras cost $80 to $380 each and require some light to work and show vehicle and clothing color. When there is no available light, the camera will use black and white IR night vision.
Remote Monitoring Service Prices
Remote monitoring services cost $20 to $80 per month with upfront fees of $100 to $250 for setup, wireless CCTV equipment, and activation. Monitored systems provide 24/7 protection and will alert you and law enforcement of intruders, disturbances, or fires.
Other security cameras are self-monitored through an app, which allows for live remote viewing or playing back recorded video caught from movements earlier.
Video Storage
Cameras either record short motion-triggered clips to a memory card, or the footage gets uploaded to cloud storage. When recording video 24/7, the files are typically stored locally inside an NVR or DVR.
Local Storage – Micro SD memory cards or NVR/DVR
Cloud Storage – Monthly subscription service
Local Storage
Security-rated SD memory cards cost $15 to $35 each and hold 2 to 6 days of 24/7 coverage or up to a year of triggered events. Hard drive storage using a DVR costs $100 to $300 on average, while an NVR runs $150 to $500 depending on the number of cameras it supports.
Here are the main differences between a Network Video Recorder (NVR) and a Digital Video Recorder (DVR).
| NVR | DVR | |
|---|---|---|
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Cloud Storage
Security camera cloud storage costs $3 to $30 per month, or between $30 and $300 per year, depending on the number of cameras, days of storage, and whether storing 24/7 video or triggered recordings.
| Brand | Monthly | Yearly | Days of Storage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Google Nest Aware | $5 – $30 | $50 – $300 | 5 – 30 |
| Amazon Cloud Cam | $7 – $20 | $70 – $200 | 7 – 30 |
| Arlo | $3 – $15 | $30 – $150 | 30 – 60 |
| Ring | $3 – $10 | $30 – $100 | 60 |
Security cameras with free cloud storage are available from Wyze, Arlo, Netgear, TP-Link, Canary, Ring, Amcrest, and Nest, and store between 2 hours to 14 days for triggered events.
Another option is using an online service like Dropbox, which costs $5 to $20 per month.
Facial Recognition
Security cameras with facial recognition cost $120 to $350. Brands include Nest, Tend, Amaryllo, Netatmo, and Simcam. Facial recognition software sends alerts when your kids get home or if someone you don’t know is at your house.
Power Source
For wired cameras that use an AC adapter, hiring an electrician costs $150 to $350 to install a new outlet. Other power sources include batteries, solar panels ($25 each), Power over Ethernet (PoE), or Siamese cables. Rechargeable batteries typically last between four to six months.
Wiring & Connectivity
Wired CCTV cameras use coax to connect to a DVR, and IP cameras use ethernet Cat 5 to connect to an NVR. Installing coax or cat 5/6 cables costs $200 to $500 for 100' running to four cameras, or about $50 to $120 per camera. Installing cables costs less in single-story homes with easy access to the attic or basement.
Additional Camera Features
Sunshades – Cameras with moveable sunshades cost $200 to $500. Sunshades are necessary to prevent image quality reduction if the camera catches the rising or setting sun.
Siren – Cameras with a security siren typically cost $90 to $250 and help to scare off unwanted guests.
Floodlight – Floodlight cameras cost $50 to $150 and help deter burglars. Floodlight cameras can record in-color for a more clear picture.
E911 – E911 connects you with the nearest law enforcement dispatchers when there is a triggered event. The E911 service comes with monthly plans costing $10 to $20.
Camera Microphone Wiring – Cameras with microphone wiring start at $20 and most only record sound, but some have speakers for 2-way audio.
Best Home Security Cameras
Based on top reviews, the best home security cameras are the Arlo Pro 3, Ring Spotlight Cam, Nest Cam IQ, and the Wyze Cam Pan. Here are the most popular camera brands and models featured on the top review sites:
| Camera | CNet | Tech Hive | PCMAG | Toms Guide | Safewise |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Arlo Pro 3 | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ||
| Arlo Ultra | ✓ | ✓ | |||
| Deep Sentinel | ✓ | ✓ | |||
| Reolink Argus 2 | ✓ | ✓ | |||
| Ring Spotlight Cam | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ||
| TP-Link Kasa KC200 | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ||
| Nest Cam IQ Indoor | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ||
| Nest Cam IQ Outdoor | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ||
| Wyze Cam Pan | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Security Cameras With Unique Features
Most cameras have features like 2-way audio, motion detection, and phone app alerts, but some cameras offer unique features such as:
| Brand | Unique Features |
|---|---|
| Ring | Security light option. Notifies you about triggered events shared from nearby Ring users. |
| Deep Sentinel | Only cameras with professional monitoring |
| Arlo Go | Uses LTE SIM instead of a Wi-Fi network, E911 to quickly contact the authorities |
| Google Nest | Facial recognition |
| Amaryllo Zeus | Uses heat maps. First fire recognition camera |
| Amaryllo Athena | First voice recognition to recognize homeowner |
| Canary Pro | Has sensors to detect carbon monoxide, hydrogen, ethanol, iso-butane, dust, cooking odors, and cigarette smoke. |
| Furbo Dog Camera | Dog bark alerts and remote treat dispenser |
Security Camera Installation FAQs
Who Installs Security Cameras In A Home?
An electrician, handyman, or home security company can install cameras in a home at varying prices depending on their expertise. Required skills include low voltage wire installation, camera placement, and resolving configuration issues.
How Much Does A Home Alarm System Cost?
A home alarm system costs $199 to $900 for upfront equipment and activation, plus $25 to $50 per month for monitoring. Some security systems notify you when door, window, water, gas, fire, or motion sensors trigger and will live-stream the video for an extra cost.
What Is The Difference Between Surveillance And Security Cameras?
Security cameras, or CCTV, transfer signals from one place to a monitored location elsewhere. Surveillance cameras work on IP networks and use software to generate activity heatmaps, recognize license plates, follow individuals or vehicles, and use AI to perform text-based searches.
How Much Does A Business or Commercial Security System Cost?
A business or commercial security system costs $1,000 to $2,500 for four cameras and hardware, plus $300 to $500 for installation and activation, with monthly alarm monitoring fees of $50 to $150. Commercial systems include 360° coverage, zoom, subject tracking, night vision, facial and license plate recognition, and video management.
How Much Does A Network Camera Cost?
Network cameras cost $45 to $300 each, depending on features, quality, and whether they connect to an NVR or are standalone cameras. Configuring additional cameras with your NVR costs $150 to $200 for four, with a lower per-camera cost for more cameras installed at the same time.
How Much Does A Doorbell Camera Cost?
Doorbell cameras like Ring cost $100 to $500 and work well to secure the most popular entry for burglars. They use the same wiring as the existing doorbell. A doorbell camera also allows you to answer the doorbell when you are away from home.
Which Security Cameras Work With A Smart Home?
Cameras from manufacturers such as Nest, Arlo, Ring, Wyze, Logitech, and Netamo work with smart home solutions, including Alexa, Google Home, Wink Hub 2, Samsung SmartThings, and Apple Home.
How Much Does Having A Security System Save on Insurance?
Most homeowners report a savings of 5% to 20% on insurance after installing a security system. This equates to a savings of $50 to $200 per year, depending on the size of your home and insurance coverage.
DIY Home Security Camera Systems
DIY-installed security cameras can be problematic and result in incomplete coverage, improper cabling, or reduced video quality. If you don’t have the right tools or want to avoid crawling around in the attic or climbing ladders, hire an installation service to get the job done right.
How To Install Security Cameras
Using the live feed, test the cameras where you want them installed to make sure that location provides the best coverage. You'll also discover if you need Wi-Fi extenders, longer cables, or to add switches.
For wired cameras, sketch a plan for which walls you need to drill through. Use attic space for fewer holes in your walls. Some cameras include a drilling template for cables and screws, and once drilled, use a fish tape to pass the wires through the walls.
| Outdoor | Indoor |
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After the cameras are installed, you'll need to configure your management software to setup recording schedules, motion zones, video settings, taking pictures for facial recognition, and recording voice for voiceprint.
For DVR/NVRs, place them within cable/Wi-Fi reach of cameras, and out of sight. If needed, plan for power outlets for cameras and consider surface cabling to save drilling through walls in places like the garage.
Where To Install Security Cameras?
The best place to install outdoor security cameras is covering downstairs windows and front, side, and back doors, which are used in 85% of burglaries. Indoor cameras in corners provide the broadest view, or they can be placed next to your TV or concealed on a bookshelf.
| Location | % of Burglaries |
|---|---|
| Front Door | 34% |
| First Floor Windows | 23% |
| Back Door | 22% |
| Garage | 9% |
| Others | 12% |
How Easy Is It To Install CCTV At Home?
Properly running cables through walls and installing CCTV cameras at home is not easy for everyone. Besides knowing where to place cameras, once installed, it could be more challenging configuring and setting up the system correctly.
Hiring A Security Camera Company
To select the right cameras and have them installed properly, hire a reputable and trusted home security company. Before hiring a pro:
Get at least three onsite estimates with a breakdown of materials and labor.
Check their reviews and reputation on HomeGuide and Google.
Make sure they are licensed, bonded, and insured.
Look for companies that have been in business for 5+ years.
Ensure they have experience with the cameras you want.
Ask for an installation and camera warranty.