How much does it cost to build a security system?

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Key takeaways

• Home security systems come in two basic types: wired (which are professionally installed) or wireless (which can be DIY).
• Home security systems average $700, but can cost up to $2,000 if professionally installed.
• Initial expenses related to home security systems include installation, equipment and extra features, plus ongoing costs like monthly monitoring and maintenance.

Here’s an alarming thought: a burglary occurs every 25.7 seconds, equating to around 3,300 per day, per FBI Crime Data. Those kinds of numbers are enough to give anyone pause, whether you own your own home or rent. Fortunately, Americans can turn to home security systems for better peace of mind against break-ins – with more products and options available today than ever before.

That begs the question: How much does a home security system cost? “On average, home security systems cost $700, not including installation costs if needed. However, the price can range anywhere from $280 to $1,150, depending on the security system you choose,” Mallory Micetich, a home expert with Angi, says. With installation, the price can mount to $2,000, according to Angi. Highly elaborate systems, with full-time professional monitoring, can run as high as $4,500, Fixr.com figures show.

This level of protection won’t break your bank, but some options are more expensive than others. And then there may be ongoing monitoring and maintenance fees, as well.

What’s included in a home security system today

Home security systems have come a long way from bygone times, when you might primarily rely on a German Shepherd or a bell attached to the door.  Today, a variety of value-added features and components are included in a contemporary home security system.

Most systems typically include sensors for every door and window (at least on your main level) and an alarm siren that connects to a central hub or control panel. The bundle may also come with various motion detectors, surveillance cameras, security lighting, and possibly environmental sensors to detect smoke, carbon monoxide, glass breaks and/or water leaks – or these items can ideally be purchased separately as add-ons.

A simple and less expensive home security system you install yourself will at least include a local/self-monitoring feature wherein you (the homeowner) are alerted via a smartphone message or phone call that your alarm has been triggered. More dependable and expensive systems include 24/7 central monitoring managed by a professional home security company (for an extra fee). When your alarm is tripped, the company attempts to contact you to ensure your safety; if you don’t respond, police or fire services are automatically dispatched to your home.

Wired vs wireless alarm systems

Home security systems nowadays also come in two flavors: wired or wireless. In a fully wireless system, the sensors installed throughout your property communicate with the central control panel via radio frequency. Each of these wireless components is powered by batteries that need to be replaced over time. The central hub/control panel is usually powered by electricity and battery backup.

The main advantage of wireless systems is that they are quick and easy to install yourself, but they could lose connection in a moment of need. “One of the many benefits of a wireless system is that you can upgrade the components easily. New components or add-ons can simply be swapped in place of the system’s existing ones,” explains Charlotte Granville, a home remodeling specialist with Fixr.com. “But be aware that some wireless systems may be susceptible to interference from sources like microwaves, baby monitors or structural obstructions, which can result in disruptions or limitations in their performance.”

Wired systems, on the other hand, link components like the door and window sensors to the main control panel using wires or cables that can be concealed in walls and floors. A wired system that is centrally/professionally monitored transmits information, like a triggered alarm, through a landline, data network or fiber-optic cable connection. The advantage here is that the connection is extremely reliable, with no fear of signal interruption or battery failure because the system is usually electrically powered (often with a battery backup). The drawback is that it takes longer to install a wired system and more money too: Since it involves drilling into walls and electric wiring, this setup is best left to a professional home security company to do.

Wireless security systems typically connect to some type of phone, smart hub, tablet or digital keypad. However, many state-of-the-art wired systems can also connect to smart hubs and tablets or phones.

Factors to consider when calculating the cost of a home security system

Here’s a breakdown of what you may end up paying for a home security system.

Installation costs

If you choose a DIY system, the good news is you’ll pay nothing for installation. But hire a pro and they could end up charging anywhere between $60 and $150 per hour, depending on the system chosen and the extent of the installation process, per Granville.

“Fortunately, for many wired systems, many companies include complimentary installation when you purchase their systems,” Micetich says.

Equipment costs

The hardware components of your system – including sensors, control panel, siren(s) and other items – are often bundled in a kit and start at $200 and up. Expect to pay $700 on average for equipment costs alone, Micetich adds, noting that additional features like sensors and motion detectors can set you back between $25 and $300 per item/feature.

Monitoring/subscription costs

If your home security system is centrally/professionally monitored, you will likely fork over between $10 and $60 each month. Some brands, like Ring, offer a monthly or annual subscription fee option for monitoring services that also includes cloud storage of video footage captured by security cameras.

Maintenance costs

Thankfully, most home security systems don’t need regular upkeep or repairs. But you may need to replace the batteries from time to time and swap out a defective component for a new one, the cost for which may not be included in your monitoring plan or product warranty.

Additional fees

With a professionally installed system, you may have to pay an activation fee the first time you switch it on, which can cost between $25 and $100, per Granville. She cautions that you may also be charged if you want to discontinue central monitoring with some companies, so “be sure to check the small print in your contract for any hidden or cancellation fees for monitored systems.”

Also, you may have to pay an annual alarm permit fee to your local jurisdiction/municipality, which can range from $25 to $100.

The pros and cons of having a home security system

Purchasing, installing and using a home security system has its advantages and disadvantages. It’s smart to weigh these pluses and minuses before choosing a system, investing in its infrastructure and committing to a contract.

Pros

“Anyone concerned about trespassers or criminal activity in their area should invest in a home security system,” Granville says. “Particularly if you travel a lot for work and spend periods of time away from your home, a security system can help you keep tabs on your property.”

“A home security system offers peace of mind, a potential deterrent to burglars and possibly lower homeowner insurance rates, too,” agrees Brandon Yang, owner of North Shore Home Security in Evanston, Illinois,. Many insurers offer discounts on your  premiums if you have certain protective features installed.

Additionally, modern home security systems not only safeguard against burglars and trespassers, but some can also offer extra home automation features through their apps, according to Granville.

Cons

There’s a learning curve and commitment of time involved with home security systems, especially self-installed wireless systems that can take a while to set up, program and arm/disarm.

False alarms are a possibility, too. If you (or something else) accidentally triggers your system and doesn’t disarm it in time, for example, the police may race to your address, which can be embarrassing.

“There are also privacy concerns with security cameras,” adds Yang, who notes that some consumers can feel uncomfortable with footage saved to the cloud and potentially watched by employees of that monitoring company. Some also worry about the hacking of data recorded and stored by “smart” home security systems.

But the major drawback of investing in a home security system is the cost involved, which can add up quickly based on the products and monitoring features you select. Micetich’s $700 figure is for a basic, no-frills system that includes just four motion and contact sensors; additional sensors or features, like fire, smoke or carbon monoxide detectors, breaking-glass sensors and video cameras, can be $25 to $300 more apiece. Plus, you’ll have to budget for monthly monitoring fees, which can add up to nearly $800 annually, if you use a state-of-the-art cellular system.

How to choose the right home security system

To ensure that you select an appropriate home security system for your needs, think about the features that will make you feel safe as well as what you can afford.

“Some people like to keep it simple with a traditional security panel, while others like added features like outdoor cameras and security lights. Think about which features would be most beneficial to your household,” suggests Micetich.

In addition, ponder factors like cost, contract length, if the system is monitored or unmonitored, “and integration with other smart home devices,” Yang advises. “Always read reviews, and maybe even ask neighbors or friends for recommendations.”

Here are some of the most popular home security system companies/brands:

Ring

Price: $200 and up for hardware; $200 a year and up for professional monitoring subscription

Pros: They offer affordable monthly fees and don’t require a long-term contract.

Cons: They have limited compatibility with other smart home technology.

Abode

Price: $140 and up for hardware; $220 a year and up for professional monitoring subscription

Pros: They offer low-cost, on-demand professional monitoring without long-term contracts and integration with smart home technology.

Cons: Their starter kits come with limited devices, and 4G cellular backup is only available with the Pro Plan.

SimpliSafe

Price: $250 and up hardware; $30 a month and up for professional monitoring subscription

Pros: They have lower monthly fees for monitoring, and don’t require a contract.

Cons: They have a higher upfront cost for equipment, and the lack of facial recognition can trigger false alerts.

Cove Security

Price: $229 and up hardware; $18 a month and up for professional monitoring subscription

Pros: They offer flexible monthly costs and compatibility with Alexa and Google Assistant for smart home upgrades.

Cons: They don’t offer outdoor cameras and have limited self-monitoring options.

ADT

Price: Hardware is customizable so prices will vary; $46 a month and up for professional monitoring subscription

Pros: They have a long-standing reputation and offer comprehensive professionally installed central monitoring services.

Cons: They are more expensive than other companies/services.

Brinks

Price: $200 and up for hardware; $39 a month and up for professional monitoring subscription

Pros: They offer good customer service and reliable equipment.

Cons: Their contracts can be long and expensive.

Vivint

Price: Hardware is customizable so prices will vary; $20 a month and up for professional monitoring subscription

Pros: They offer advanced tech features and flexible pricing.

Cons: Some consumers have complained of aggressive sales tactics.

Can older homes support a home security system?

Got an older residence? So long as your home can support a strong Wi-Fi signal, you should be able to install and reliably use a wireless DIY security system. Even older residences can be equipped effectively with a modern home security system under most circumstances. “But the insulation could be harder if you opt for a wired system, due to thicker walls and outdated electrical setups,” cautions Yang.

How to save money on a home security system

Yang recommends these tips to possibly pay less for your home security system:

• Prioritize essentials over extras. “While many advanced features can be tempting, give priority to essential features that cater to your primary security needs.”
• Research promotions. Some brands offer promotional rates for new customers, which can include discounted equipment or free installation.
• Bundle services. “Some providers may offer bundles that include home security with other services, such as internet or TV – potentially saving you money.”
• Inquire about insurance breaks. Your homeowners insurance could offer a discount if you have a security system — provided it has certain features.

Also, avoid consumer remorse by doing your due diligence.

“Buying a home security system because someone knocks on your door is not the way to make such an important decision, no matter how good it may sound,” warns Claire Rosenzweig, president and CEO of the Better Business Bureau serving Metropolitan New York. “BBB advises consumers to choose a reputable business by asking their insurance company for recommendations and checking out companies at BBB.org. It’s also wise to get at least three quotes and make sure you understand what the monthly costs are for monitoring.”

The bottom line on home security system costs

Home security systems can involve a sizable upfront price, but the costs can be worth it if it helps you sleep better at night and better safeguard your family, home, and possessions. ”It can make you feel more comfortable inside,” as Micetich puts it.

Avoid committing to the first system or company you hear about. Take the necessary time to research different brands and products, and evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of each system carefully.

“And even if you opt for a DIY system, consider getting advice from experts or friends knowledgeable about home security,” says Yang. “Also, evaluate long-term costs – a cheaper system might actually have higher monthly fees while a more expensive system might have lower monitoring costs.”

If you’ve been thinking about installing a home security system but are wondering just how much the ADT monthly cost will shake out to and how it fits into your budget... then you’ve come to the right place. 

Cost is a concern with any purchase, and when it comes to your home’s security, you want to make sure it is not only affordable but also worth it. In this article, you will learn about the different package offerings available through ADT, as well as the approximate monthly costs of each.

ADT Prices: What You Pay For

Your first question on your home security journey is likely: What are you purchasing when buying a home security system? When you purchase a home security system through ADT, you are buying:

• Equipment

• Installation

• Monthly monitoring

Monitoring monthly is usually tied to a 36-month contract. With equipment and installation, however, you have the option of paying upfront or financing. This can be combined with your monthly monitoring for one easy payment.

The installation fee on most packages is around $150. Home security monitoring costs and monthly equipment payments will vary depending on which package you purchase. 

Types of ADT Prices and Packages: An Overview

ADT offers three primary packages, all of which can be customized with additional equipment to meet your needs. 

ADT Offers Three Home Security System Packages

• Secure Home

• Smart Home

• Video & Smart Home

All packages include the following basics:

• A digital control panel with touchscreen

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• Three door/window alarms

• A motion detector

• 24/7 alarm monitoring

• Professional installation

The most basic package, called the Secure Home Package, stops there, but with the option to add additional home security equipment or life safety sensors. The equipment and installation cost of the bare-bones version of this package starts at $599, or $9.98 monthly for 60 months, and the monitoring starts at $45.99 per month. 

The Smart Home Package includes everything in the Secure Package, plus a smart door lock, a smart plug, and the ability to arm and disarm your system remotely with the ADT Control App. In addition, customization options include other smart home devices. The equipment and installation cost of the bare-bones version of this package starts at $919, or $15.32 monthly for 60 months, and the monitoring starts at $49.99 per month. 

The Video & Smart Home Package includes everything in the Smart Package in addition to an HD indoor camera, a video doorbell camera, the ability to view live video streams remotely, and customizable alerts. Additional cameras and other devices can also be added to this package. The equipment and installation cost of the bare-bones version of this package starts at $1,049, or $17.48 monthly for 60 months, and the monitoring starts at $57.99 per month. 

A full breakdown of costs and options are included in the following sections.

ADT Prices and Features: Secure Home Package

The Secure Package is great if you’re just looking for home security and don’t want to add smart home devices or cameras to your system. 

This package is customizable in two ways: 

• You can select from a five, seven, or 10-piece package option.

• You also can add additional items. 

In addition to the items mentioned in the previous section, the seven-piece option includes two additional door/window sensors for total equipment and installation cost starting at $699 or $11.65 per month for 60 months. The 10-piece package includes four additional door/window sensors and an additional motion sensor for total equipment and installation cost starting at $899 or $14.98 per month for 60 months. 

The following items may be added to this package for an additional fee:

• Glass break sensor

• Emergency two-button panic

• Wireless key fob

• Indoor alarm siren

• Outdoor siren and strobe

• Combination smoke/carbon monoxide detector

• Carbon monoxide detector

• Smoke detector

• Flood detector

• Temperature sensor

The total cost for the ADT Secure Home Package starts at:

• $599 to $899 upfront + $45.99/month; or

• $55.97 to $60.97/month

ADT Prices and Features: Smart Home Package

The Smart Package is a great choice if you want to integrate smart home technology with your security system and have the ability to add smart devices all on the same system. The Smart Home Package includes everything in the Secure Package, including all possible Secure Package add-ons.

This package is also customizable in two ways, allowing the choice of a seven-, nine-, or 12-piece package with the ability to add additional items. 

In addition to the items mentioned, the nine-piece option includes two additional door/window sensors for total equipment and installation cost starting at $1,019 or $16.98 per month for 60 months. The 12-piece package includes four additional door/window sensors and an additional motion sensor for total equipment and installation cost starting at $1,219 or $20.32 per month for 60 months. 

In addition to all the same items that can be added to the Secure Package, the following items may be added to this package for an additional fee:

• Smart LED light bulbs

• Garage door controller

• Additional smart plugs

• Additional smart door locks in satin nickel, bronze, or brass

The total cost for the ADT Smart Home Package starts at:

• $919 to $1219 upfront + $49.99/month; or

• $65.31 to $70.31/month

ADT Prices and Features: Video & Smart Home Package

The Video & Smart Home Package is the best deal and includes everything in the Smart Package, along with cameras and giving you the ability to monitor live video feeds from anywhere. What makes this option the best deal is the fact that the doorbell camera ($200 value) is included as a freebie. 

This package is also customizable by starting with a nine, 11, or 15-piece version and the ability to add additional items. 

In addition to the items mentioned previously, the 11-piece option includes two additional door/window sensors for total equipment and installation cost starting at $1,149 or $19.15 per month for 60 months. The 15-piece package includes four additional door/window sensors and two additional motion sensors for total equipment and installation cost starting at $1,449 or $24.15 per month for 60 months. 

In addition to all the same items that can be added to the Smart Package, the following items may be added to this package for an additional fee:

• Additional HD indoor cameras

• Additional HD video doorbell cameras

• HD outdoor cameras

The total cost for the ADT Video & Smart Home Package starts at:

• $1,049 to $1,449 upfront + $57.99/month; or

• $75.47 to $82.14/month

Other ADT Pricing Options

Note that other package options may be possible, and you should consult with an ADT Solutions Advisor if you feel like none of the options above is right for you. For example, perhaps you want cameras but without the rest of the smart home setup. 

You may be able to gain access to other deals and discounts depending on the size of the system you want to buy and whether you opt to connect your system through a landline instead of through cellular technology. And if you already have an existing system installed, you can get 24/7 monitoring starting at just $19.99 per month.

ADT DIY Pricing, Packages and Monitoring

Going the DIY route is another possibility. Blue by ADT is a new DIY service that might be a good fit for you, especially if you rent your property. 

The equipment available through Blue by ADT is slightly different, but you can choose what you need to customize your home security setup. 

A basic system can be purchased starting at $109.19 that includes a base, entry keypad, and the mobile app. To this, you would add sensors and smart cameras. Blue doorbells, indoor, and outdoor cameras all start at around $200 each, although there are cheaper indoor and outdoor camera options available with fewer features. 

You can also opt to purchase an eight-piece doorbell camera system starting at around $350, a 15-piece camera system starting at just under $300, or an 11-piece basic system starting at around $200. 

Sensor options that can be added include door and window sensors, starting at $8.99 each, and motion, fire, glass break, and temperature/flood sensors starting in the $20 to $30 range. 

While a DIY package has a smaller variety of equipment to choose from and generally requires upfront payment for all equipment costs, it can be the way to go if you want to avoid long-term contracts.

With a DIY setup, you have the choice between self-monitoring and using ADT’s professional monitoring service for a low fee of around $20 per month. And if you’re not sure if professional monitoring is right for you, all Blue by ADT packages come with one month of no-obligation professional monitoring for free.

Don’t Forget to Consider Related Savings

Given all of the information above, you can see that keeping your home safe and secure can easily be done for well under $100 per month. When you consider potential savings associated with home security, it can practically pay for itself. 

If your home is broken into or property is stolen, not only is there a financial cost but also an emotional one. In addition, a break-in could cause your homeowner's insurance premiums to rise. 

Installing a home security system not only protects you against break-ins but also can lower the cost of your insurance and even increase the value of your home. 

What About Contracts?

When you purchase a security system through ADT, you sign a contract for 36 months of ADT monitoring service. If you opt to finance the cost of equipment and installation through the 60-month 0% interest offer, then the length of the contract is extended to 60 months.

Keep in mind, however, that ADT has been in the business for 145 years and is a trusted name. So, you’re signing a contract with a business known for its superior service with an A+ BBB rating. Not only that, but all packages come with a six-month money-back guarantee, which means you have an entire half year to change your mind if you decide ADT is not right for you.

The Benefits of Security With ADT

There are a multitude of benefits associated with security installation and professional monitoring. The safety of your family and property and your peace of mind are but two. When you purchase a home security package through ADT, you can count on:

• Theft protection guarantee: If a burglary occurs while your ADT security system is armed, weʼll pay up to $500 of your insurance deductible. 

• 24/7 monitoring by professionals with experience (the average tenure of monitoring center operators is five years).

• America’s most trusted security, with over 140 years in the business.

• Worry-free professional installation: We’ll even show you how the equipment works before we leave (the average tenure of installers is over nine years).

• A six-month money-back guarantee, so you have time to decide if ADT is right for you.

• Same-day or next-day service.

• Calls answered within a few rings.

ADT believes that everyone deserves to feel safe. Our team represents the industry’s largest sales, installation, and service field force. We help save lives for a living. That is just who we are, and our people are passionate about what they do. 

Billions of signals are being sent and managed within the ADT infrastructure to help keep customers safe while providing the greater convenience of a protected, connected home.

Contact ADT for a Personalized Quote

If you are considering an ADT home security system and want more details, you can contact an ADT Solutions Advisor today for a no-obligation free quote on a system customized to your needs. 

The options are vast, and it can be difficult to determine what you need. Not only that, but everyone has different preferences about what they want in their home security system – whether smart technology and cameras are important to them or a basic system is preferable. But ADT Solutions Advisors have been doing this for years and can guide you through the process and keep you within your budget. 

Call now to speak to an expert or chat with an online ADT Solutions Advisor and get a free quote.