How Much will a Home Security System Really Cost Me?

2020 Update 

Although some of this information is nearly two years old, all of it is still relevant. Learning how much a home security system costs is very important; scroll down to find out more.  

So, you’ve decided that you are interested in having a home security system installed. Great choice! You can’t go wrong with this decision. Did you know that residences with home security systems are significantly less likely to be broken into? In fact, homes without security systems have a 300% higher chance of being broken into than those with them. Now that you have made the decision  to have a home security system installed, you’re probably asking yourself how much it is going to cost. To keep the answer to this question simple, you should know that the expense of having one installed will vary based on the system you choose. Let’s take a closer look at what it costs to have a home security system installed  and the expenses  you can expect. 

Types of Alarm Systems 

There are two basic types of alarm systems, monitored and unmonitored. As you would expect, a monitored home security system is going to cost you more money than an unmonitored system, but it can be a good place to start, depending on your budget. On average, a security system monitored via a home phone line will cost you anywhere from $15 to $30 a month. Systems that are monitored through a GSM chip will cost you more, with the average monthly cost being anywhere from $40 to $65 a month. If you prefer, you can have special features added to your  home security system, such as two-way voice intercom and remote monitoring, giving you direct access to the cameras set up inside and outside your house. 

There are pros and cons to both, however you should know the monitored systems allow the monitoring company to contact the police or fire department if there’s a disturbance at your home. Plus, some insurance companies may give you a discount on your homeowner’s insurance if you have a monitored home security system. 

How Much Does it Cost for Equipment and Installation? 

Some home security system service providers will provide the equipment for free, others will allow you to pay up front or finance the equipment. On average, the basic alarm installation will run you up to $300. A higher-quality alarm system will cost you anywhere from $800 to $1,600. You should keep in mind that the larger your home, the more equipment you need, which increases the overall equipment and installation cost. Also, some systems do not come with window monitoring. If you are  shopping for a home security system  that provides window monitoring, be sure to ask if there is an extra cost for that. Also, if you want  smart lighting installed, you may need an electrician, and hard-wired cameras may require professional installation instead of being DIY.  

What if I Want Smart Home Security? 

Smart home security is all the rage these days because it brings convenience to the homeowner. Most smart home security systems use Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, Z-Wave or Zigbee technology to efficiently arm or disarm your alarm panel for you. They can also use this technology to give you the power to lock or unlock your front door from anywhere. Many families are also drawn to smart home security because it provides them with real-time alerts on their mobile phones or smart devices. This keeps them up to date on activities happening in and around their home. 

Pricing for smart home security varies for each company. The level of smart home integration you want for your home also plays a big role in pricing. Ask questions of your desired smart home security provider so that you know what you can expect to pay.  

The Takeaway 

If you are looking for an exact price of how much it is going to cost you to have a home security system installed, you’ll need to speak with a qualified home security specialist. The size of your home, the type of system you want to be installed, and professional or DIY installation will all affect the your overall cost.  

Control the Cost of Your Home Security System with Brinks Home Security ™

Brinks Home Security’s packages are completely customizable, giving you the freedom to monitor your home with the equipment you want. We offer flexible, locked-in rates that stay consistent over time. From security cameras and smart thermostats to Google Nest, our packages have something for everyone.  

Lauren Slade is a Dallas-based writer and editor.