The average cost to install a home security system falls between $55 and $2,500, with a national average of $747. You may also need to budget for monthly contract fees.
A home security system costs $300 to $1,238, with most homeowners paying $747 on average. Feeling safe at home should always be a priority, and installing a new security system can help you do just that—no matter where you live. You’ll need to consider additional costs like equipment, ongoing surveillance fees, and extra features. As it turns out, you can put a price on peace of mind. This guide will break it down.
The true cost of a home security system can get a little complicated. You can opt for a simple wireless system or budget to install an advanced system in a large house. However, keep in mind that you’ll also need to factor in monthly fees. Here’s what you can expect.
Not all home security devices are the same—and they all come with different costs. Here are some of the most popular types of home security systems and what you can expect to spend:
Wireless home security systems: Wireless systems cost $200 to $2,000, depending on the number of cameras. You can control these systems through your smart device. They may cost less upfront because they have a simple installation, but they often come with monthly fees.
Wired home security systems: Wired home security systems typically cost between $800 and $1,600 to install. These always require professional installation, which often involves cutting into walls to connect panels and sensors. The good news is that wired systems are harder to hack.
Monitored home security systems: If your home security system is monitored by a 24-hour professional security company, expect to spend $10 to $65 per month, depending on the type of monitoring.
Standalone cameras or sensors: You can buy standalone cameras or sensors for less than $100 to $200, but you’ll need to monitor them yourself unless they come with a monitoring service.
You’ll generally pay $200 to $400 on basic equipment, plus $20 to $300 for each additional sensor. Installation and activation may incur an additional fee, and monthly monitoring services can run anywhere from $10 to $65 per month.
Home security systems may have a base price as low as $200, but this is almost never the price homeowners actually pay. Basic systems generally include three main parts:
The base station (also known as a control panel)
Contact sensors (or window/door sensors)
Motion sensors
In a starter kit, you’ll get a couple of contact sensors and a couple of motion sensors—which isn’t typically enough for a whole house. Each additional feature costs $25 to $300 more, and the average homeowner ends up spending $700 on a basic, no-frills system.
Many national security companies don’t actually charge for installation because they make the bulk of their money through monthly monitoring costs. If there is an installation cost, expect to spend $120 to $600, though it could be higher depending on how much equipment your pro needs to wire together.
If your home security system is monitored, expect to pay a monthly fee. The fee depends on the type of monitoring, and there are two kinds:
Landline monitoring: Landline monitoring is the old industry standard and costs $20 to $30 per month. It’s what it sounds like—your system sends your security company information through your home’s landline.
Cellular/GSM monitoring: Cellular monitoring costs $10 to $65 per month, and it’s quickly becoming the most popular modern option. This type of security system has a GSM chip in the central control panel which sends signals to your security company through a cellular (or wireless) network.
Activation Fees: If you're using a monitored security system, you might have to pay an activation fee to start the service. Activation fees can cost anywhere from $0 to more than $230. It all depends on the contract. Some skip activation fees for monthly costs, so make sure you read your contract.
Oftentimes, you’ll see cellular/GSM monitoring used as a landline backup, since something as simple as cutting a home phone line is enough to compromise a landline system. That being said, cellular systems are more susceptible to hacking or signal interference.
In some places, you need an alarm permit to have a security system—particularly if you use a monitored security system. Permits can cost anywhere from $25 to $100 and may come with an annual fee. This registers your alarm system with local emergency services like the police and fire department.
If you are installing a hardwired system, you’ll also probably need an electrical permit. The cost of a permit varies based on location, but it’s anywhere from $10 to $500.
Many homeowners don’t stick with the base model. They add additional security features. We’re not just talking about an extra sensor—we’re talking about extra services. These all come with an additional cost.
Not all home security systems come with security cameras—but options have dramatically expanded in recent years to include everything from indoor cameras and outdoor cameras to all-weather video doorbell cameras.
Expect to spend anywhere from $40 to $400 on video surveillance equipment, with the average homeowner spending less than $200 per camera. If you’re installing a security camera, costs also typically include a video surveillance fee between $40 to $65 per month.
Some smart home automation features give you greater control over security, and many homeowners opt to make a range of smart home upgrades while installing their security system. You can control these features via your smartphone or smart hub. Here are some common upgrades and costs:
Smart locks: $150
Smart lighting: $15–$90
Smart smoke, fire, and CO alarms: $35–$100
Smart thermostats: $130–$500
Your security system may already include a duress signal. If not, expect to spend $20 to $150. This feature helps protect you if you’re at home during a break-in. It silently lets the monitoring company know that an intruder forced you to disarm your system.
Panic buttons typically cost an additional $30. Use this button to immediately alert police or security of a threat, even if you can’t make it to the control panel. People often put panic buttons in bedrooms or kitchens—wherever they spend a lot of time.
You may want to add extra security sensors, such as glass break sensors and motion detectors. Window and door sensors run between $25 and $300 each, while glass break sensors typically cost $100 to $200. You can get a garage motion detector for as little as $20, but the higher-end models run up to $200.
Both professional-monitored and self-monitored home security systems have advantages and drawbacks. Understanding what each entails can help you make the best decision for your needs and budget.
With a professional-monitored system, a security company oversees your home 24/7. If an alarm is triggered, the company can quickly alert emergency services, providing an added layer of security and peace of mind.
Pros: The key benefit of professional monitoring is continuous protection. No matter where you are or what you're doing, someone is always watching out for potential security threats on your behalf. This service also often comes with additional features like video surveillance and direct communication with emergency services, which can make the response time quicker in critical situations.
Cons: The main drawback is cost. These systems come with monthly fees that range from $10 to $65, and you'll typically sign a contract, which may include activation fees and permit requirements. There's also the potential for false alarms, which could lead to fines if emergency services are contacted unnecessarily.
Self-monitored systems put you in charge of overseeing your home's security. These systems usually connect to your smartphone, giving you the ability to check in, receive alerts, and take action if needed.
Pros: The biggest advantage of self-monitoring is cost—there are no recurring monthly fees. You'll only pay for the equipment, and you can decide what level of security you need without being tied to a contract. The ability to control the system through a smart device is also a plus.
Cons: While self-monitored systems might be cheaper, not having professionals oversee your home’s security is a big drawback for many homeowners. If you miss an alert or can't respond in time, there's no backup to protect your home.
You’ll need a professional to install a hardwired security system, but most homeowners can install wireless security systems on their own. In this case, you’ll just have to pay for the system (which costs as little as $200) and any activation or monthly monitoring fees. Doorbell video surveillance systems are among the most popular DIY options, but always read the reviews and your contract to avoid hidden fees.
A professional job doesn’t have to cost a lot of money. It’s less common among local home security companies, but many national security services actually offer free installation with your contract. If it’s not included, hiring a home security service near you will generally cost $120 to $600 more than a DIY job.
Home security systems have a huge range of prices. It all depends on the model and the contract you choose. Here are some ways you can save money—but remember, don’t compromise your personal safety. You may spend less on less sensors, but if it leaves an unmonitored entry point in your home, it may not be worth it.
Some insurance companies will give you a discount on your policy if you install a home security system. You could save up to 20%—which can help ease the strain of high installation costs and monthly monitoring fees. Speak to your insurance company before you buy. They may offer different savings for different types of systems.
Some DIY home security systems have no monthly or low monthly fees because they’re self-monitored. These systems use smart home technology that automatically sends an alert if someone trips a sensor.
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A home security system could save you up to 20% on your home insurance policy, so the initial expense may actually even out over time. Beyond that, it’s hard to put a price on peace of mind. If you live in a high-crime area, you may want to prioritize home safety. It depends on the value of your assets and your individual preference.
The amount of value that a security system adds to a home will depend on the future buyers, but it is certainly an investment in your property. Safety features like a hardwired alarm system, security doors, and motion-detector lighting are major considerations for many people looking for a new house.
It depends on the system. If your security camera is monitored by a security company, you will likely pay a monthly fee. If your security camera is self-monitored, you may pay no fee or a much lower fee. You’ll have to weigh the pros and cons of monitored vs. unmonitored security systems before making your big decision.
