Cost of Home Security Systems: What You Need to Know

In regard to the safety of your home and the people living in it, a home security system can be a good investment. However, these home security system costs, depending on the features, equipment, and monitoring services incorporated, may be expensive. This article will explain the various factors that define the cost of home security systems so as to come up with the best package that meets the financial plan.

How Much Does a Home Security System Cost?

The cost of a basic home security system and equipment, together with self-monitoring service, ranges from $300 to $1,500. These systems, which encompass high-end cameras, home automation, and professional monitoring services, go for $1,500-$10,000+. The monthly charges for professional monitoring range from $30 to $100 if you don’t want to set up the monitoring yourself.

Here is an overview of the average cost of the most popular home security systems:

• DIY systems such as SimpliSafe and Ring Alarm cost between $200 – $500 for the equipment. These systems are auto systems and, therefore, do not require any monitoring costs every month.
• Pre-packaged wireless systems from companies like Frontpoint, Vivint, and ADT range from $300-$1,200 for equipment. Expect to pay $30-$60 per month for professional monitoring.
• Smart home systems with home automation and advanced cameras average around $1,500+ for equipment alone. Monthly monitoring fees span $60-$100 on average. Top providers include Vivint, ADT Pulse, and Alarm.com.

Cost of Home Security System

Here is a detailed breakdown of prices for home security systems and monitoring from leading brands:

Average Cost of Home Security System with Cameras

Adding surveillance cameras to your home security system does increase costs. Most providers offer camera packages or individual add-on cameras:

• Ring Alarm offers affordable indoor/outdoor cameras starting at around $99 each. Packages with 1-3 cameras average $300-$700.
• SimpliSafe sells standalone cameras for $99-$299 each. Bundles with 3-5 cameras range from $570-$1,200 to cover all entry points.
• Top providers like Vivint and ADT offer advanced 4K camera systems plus streaming to your smartphone for $60-$100 per month in monitoring fees.

For example, a robust Reolink 4K camera system with expandable up to 8 cameras, live streaming, person detection, and local storage retails for around $299.99 or above.

What Affects the Cost of a Home Security System?

Several key factors influence the overall average cost of a home security system:

Type of Equipment

The capabilities and tech features of security devices drastically impact costs. For example, cameras range from $50 for basic indoor Wi-Fi up to $600+ for outdoor 4K cameras. Systems with 10+ components and peripherals also cost more than entry-level kits.

Home Automation Integration

Smart home platforms that integrate lighting, locks, thermostats, and more are pricier. For example, Vivint Smart Home packages include automated door locks, garage door controls, and in-home video for $60-$100 monthly.

Professional Monitoring Services

24/7 professional monitoring with emergency dispatch services costs $30-$100 per month. This requires a long-term contract plus increased equipment prices.

Installation and Warranty

DIY systems have no installation costs, while pro installs range from $99-$250 on average. Multi-year equipment warranties are also preferred for larger upfront investments.

How to Cut the Cost of Security System for Home?

Here are 5 tips to get home security protection on a budget:

1. Opt for a DIY installation rather than a professional install to avoid labor charges. SimpliSafe, Ring, and Nest systems are designed for easy self-setup.
2. Compare monitoring plans and consider self-monitoring subscriptions. Apps like Alfred Camera and Alarm.com offer self-monitoring for $10-$30 per month.
3. Don’t overpay for equipment you don’t need. Purchase standalone cameras or sensors instead of pre-configured systems with devices you won’t use.
4. Negotiate contracts and seek bundled pricing. Multi-year contracts with enhanced equipment warranties can provide the best value.
5. Set activity zones and alerts judiciously. Only capture and notify for high-priority areas rather than recording everything.

Best Budget-Friendly Home Security Camera Systems

You don’t need to overspend to effectively monitor your property. Here are two top-rated DIY security camera options for under $500:

Reolink Home Hub with Argus PT Ultra

The Reolink Argus PT Ultra security camera offers premium 4K ultra HD video powered by an integrated rechargeable battery or solar panel for continuous operation. All footage is securely stored locally on the included Reolink Home Hub, with enough capacity to save an entire year's worth of recordings.

Best of all, this expandable wireless surveillance system doesn't require any monthly fees or hidden costs. Overall, the Argus PT Ultra bundle combines convenience and quality at an affordable price point for DIY home security.

Reolink Home Hub with Argus 4 Pro

For more advanced protection, the Reolink Argus 4 Pro features exclusive person and vehicle detection powered by deep learning AI. The advanced camera delivers sharp 4K resolution behind an extra-wide 180-degree lens to eliminate blind spots across your entire property. Color night vision and WiFi connectivity with local encrypted storage ensure anytime access to crystal clear footage.

And with seamless solar panel integration, continuous security monitoring doesn't drain electricity or your wallet. No professionals are required to install this wireless smart camera system either. The Reolink Home Hub starter kit provides two Argus 4 Pro cameras, solar charging panels, and a centralized management hub that won't lock you into any long-term contracts.

FAQs

How much does a home security system cost?

Home security systems range from $100-$500 for basic DIY equipment or $1,500+ for advanced systems with professional installation and monitoring. Monthly fees typically cost $30-$100.

What is the average cost of an ADT system?

An ADT home security system averages $325-$1,500 for equipment like control panels, keypads, motion sensors, cameras, smoke detectors, and door/window sensors. Professional installation averages $99. Ongoing monitoring ranges from $28-$60+ per month with a 1-3 year contract.

What does Vivint cost per month?

Vivint home security packages start at $599 for basic equipment but average $1,000-$3,000. Monthly monitoring fees range between $30-$60 on an initial 5-year contract. Additional costs apply for home automation add-ons like smart locks, lighting controls, and garage door openers.

Conclusion

Protecting your home with a security system does represent a significant investment, but new DIY options provide robust protection for $500 or less. Focus on your unique usage requirements and compare equipment bundles, installation offerings, and monitoring plans across providers. Seek contract flexibility and enhanced warranties to maximize the value derived from your system over time.

What factors most influence your home security decisions? Do you prefer pro-installed systems or a DIY setup? Please share your perspectives below.