How much do home security systems cost?

We all want to feel safe in our homes and a home security system is one of the best ways to help accomplish this. A home security system is an electronic system that sets off an alarm when someone attempts to break into the home, and often notifies emergency services at the same time.

The cost of a home security system depends on a number of variables, such as the company you purchase it from, the type of system you choose and the accessory features you decide to add on. 

If you're in the market for a home security system, it's easy to get one installed. Start with a free price quote right now.

Let's take a more in-depth look at the factors to consider when estimating the price of a home security system.

How much does a home security system cost? 

The cost of a home security system mainly depends on the type and its functionality. There are two main kinds: permanent and portable.

As their name suggests, permanent systems cannot be moved to another location and are installed in your home by a professional. These systems require professional installation and often have a one-time set-up fee and a monthly fee for active monitoring. 

Portable systems can be moved from location to location. These may be a better fit if you're a renter or not settled in your forever home. They do not require professional installation. 

The initial cost of a home security system usually starts at around $150, but the final cost depends on the features you're looking for. You can purchase glass break sensors, for instance, which will detect if any glass is broken. There are also flood sensors, which can detect if your home is flooding. Many systems have video cameras that you can set up inside or outside the home.

They may also have smoke or carbon monoxide sensors. Many home security systems can connect to smart home devices like Amazon Alexa or Google Home.

Monthly monitoring can cost between $10 and $50 depending on the system. 

Some systems let you pay for monitoring on an as-needed basis, so you can pause at any time without paying a cancellation fee. For example, you can only pay for monitoring while you're away on vacation and cancel when you get back.

You can also choose from self or professional monitoring. Self-monitoring means that you will be responsible for contacting the police in case of a break-in, while professional monitoring means that the security company will notify emergency services if something goes wrong.  

Most security systems have an app, so you can monitor the home while you're away. If you have a video system, you can sign up to be notified if someone approaches the home. 

If this sounds like something you could benefit from, act now. It's easy to get started. 

How to find the best home security systems

Finding the best home security system depends on what you're looking for. Homeowners who are less tech-savvy may be better off with a traditional system that they don't have to install themselves. 

Renters who still want a sense of safety should purchase a portable system because they can easily take it with them when they move. 

Consumers on a budget can select a system without professional monitoring, which means that they won't have a monthly fee. An alarm will still go off if someone breaks in, but emergency services will not be called. Some homeowners like these systems because they believe a burglar is likely to run away when the alarm goes off, but they don't have to worry about the cost of monitoring. 

You can read reviews of home security systems online. Start by getting a free quote. Make sure to compare prices carefully and factor in all the extras you want to buy.