Walking into your home after a long day should bring a sigh of relief. Kick your feet up! You’re home. But opening the door to find the aftermath of a break-in? There’s nothing more unsettling. Increasing your home security is a great way to keep intruders out. But how? There are a lot of choices out there.

“Before diving into home security considerations, it’s essential to identify your primary concern: safeguarding your property when you’re at home, or protecting it when you’re away,” says Kirk MacDowell, home security expert at Batten, a company that advises consumers on security needs. Do you have young children? Multiple access points? Valuable tools or art? And what about the cost of home security systems? Can that play a role?

Of course, it can — and it should. Ahead, we explore home security with MacDowell and ADT expert Andrea Barge to help you navigate your options.

How Much Does a Home Security System Cost?

It depends on several factors, including the size of your home, the number of windows and doors you need to protect, and whether you get cameras and specialized sensors. “I’d estimate the cost at roughly $1 per square foot,” MacDowell says, so for a 2,000 square foot house, plan to spend “around $2000 for a comprehensive system, although costs can vary.”

Barge agrees that costs are variable, and points to ADT’s starter kit, with a hub, two sensors, app access and a Google Nest doorbell for under $400. “The pricing of security system installations can vary significantly, largely depending on the type of installation and the specific features or packages you choose,” Barge says.

Home Security System Cost Breakdown

The devil’s in the details, and security systems are no different. Here’s a breakdown of average costs, according to our experts and SafeWise’s research of national companies (in parentheses, rounded to the nearest dollar).

  • Equipment: In addition to the hub, which is generally included, you can get contact sensors ($28), motion detectors ($40), glass-break sensors ($62), indoor/outdoor cameras ($164/$174) and video doorbells ($168). Packages may incorporate all or some of this equipment in a single fee.
  • Installation: “While many national security companies offer free installation, there are some that charge, with costs typically ranging from $100 to $400,” Barge says.
  • Monitoring: Self-monitoring ($24) costs less than live monitoring ($43), per month, according to Safewise.
  • Permits: Some cities, like Dallas, where I live, require you to get a permit if your alarm could trigger a police call or be heard by neighbors. This fee helps offset nuisance alarm calls.

If you have a smaller budget, it’s still possible to get a good security system. MacDowell says “the absolute must-haves would be safeguarding doors and windows against intrusion, along with potentially incorporating at least one camera for added surveillance.”

Types of Home Security Systems

Cost isn’t your only consideration when it comes to choosing a home security system. Another choice? Wired or wireless. “You can still get either a hard-wired or wireless system, depending on your preference — though both types have their advantages and disadvantages,” Barge says.

Wired Home Security Systems

Wired systems have fewer components, which reduces complexity, Barge says. Wired systems are also “less prone to power depletion, not as susceptible to electrical interference, and video recording persists even during internet disruptions,” Barge says. They’re reliable and permanent.

But, wired systems are harder to install, and they demand precise execution, MacDowell says: “This entails drilling holes, extensive wiring and meticulous installation procedures.” Unless you’re a dedicated DIYer, this may be a hurdle.

Wireless Home Security Systems

Barge points to many benefits of wireless security systems: portability, battery operation, firmware upgrades and seamless integration with other smart home devices.

Hybrid Home Security Systems

Then there’s a third option: a hybrid. “[H]omeowners may already have a pre-existing wired security system they wish to enhance with wireless elements, such as integrating interactive services,” Barge says. Hybrid feasibility is highly dependent on your current setup, and the components you want to add.

DIY Home Security Systems

So, is installing a home security system a job best left to the pros, or can you handle it? “Homeowners can certainly DIY a home security system,” Barge says. “This option is great for those who enjoy hands-on projects, and prefer to have immediate control over the placement and setup of their security devices.”

What about monitoring? If you DIY your security system, will someone be there to help you when you need it? Yes. “DIY systems can absolutely have live monitoring, which is highly recommended for comprehensive security coverage,” MacDowell says. Barge says professional (live) monitoring offers peace of mind, while self-monitoring gives you more control.

DIY vs. Traditional Home Security Systems: Which Is the Best?

So, which system feels right? It’s really a matter of personal preference.

“DIY security systems are generally the easiest to install for most homeowners,” Barge says. “They come with clear instructions, and can typically be set up without any specialized tools or technical expertise.” There’s no poking around in your attic, or cutting holes in your walls, or having an installer out to your house.

Both options offer monitoring by you or a live person. Self-monitoring is generally less expensive, but it puts the onus on you to call for help. With professional monitoring, someone is watching at all times. Barge says this is a good option for someone who is not always on their phone, or goes out of town frequently.

One note from Barge, if you do go the DIY route: “When selecting smart home devices to integrate into your household, ensure they are compatible with your existing smart home security system.” The last thing you want to do is spend a bunch of time installing things yourself, only to find the devices don’t communicate.

FAQ

What’s the best type of home security system?

It depends on your preferences, but as far as popularity goes, wireless gets the nod. User-friendly, portable and customizable, “wireless systems have become the norm in residential settings, reflecting their ease of installation and heightened security features,” MacDowell says.

And wireless is getting better every day, by enhancing sensor range and “incorporating encrypted sensor technology to thwart unauthorized access attempts,” MacDowell says.

Are home security systems worth it?

The experts say yes. Burglary is a crime of opportunity, and burglars are less likely to target a house with a security system. The average loss from a burglary in 2019 was $2,661, according to the FBI, so if your home security system costs less than that, it pays for itself every time a burglar decides your house isn’t worth the trouble.

Does having a home security system reduce home insurance rates?

Generally, yes. Check with your insurance company to see how much. Many large and small companies, including Progressive, State Farm and Hippo, offer discounts for installing smart devices, security cameras and monitors. Your savings (up to 20% according to Safewise) depends on your insurance company and the security components you choose.

About the Experts

  • Kirk MacDowell is home security expert at Batten, a group of security industry professionals helping consumers navigate the world of at-home, online and emergency security needs. MacDowell is a former law enforcement officer and the founder and CEO of MacGuard Security Advisors.
  • Andrea Barge is director of product management at ADT, a leader in home security for nearly 150 years.

Sources

Author
Ally Childress
Ally Childress writes practical, informed stories and how-to guides for Family Handyman and Reader’s Digest. An experienced electrician, Ally's beat naturally includes electrical and construction topics. She also tackles cleaning, gardening, technology, bugs and anything else you can throw at her. She has a knack for finding just the right subjec...
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