Are you worried about the safety of your home or office? Don’t leave it to chance – get an alarm system installed today! But before you jump in, you might wonder how much it’ll cost.
In this blog post, I’ll break down the various expenses associated with alarm systems and give you a rough idea of how much you can expect to pay each month.
The monthly cost of an alarm system varies depending on the provider and package you choose. On average, you can expect to pay between $25 to $50 per month for monitoring services. Keep in mind that there will also be equipment costs, which can range from $200 to $400 upfront.
Average Monthly Cost of Home Security Alarm or Service
If you’re wondering how much you’ll have to shell out each month for home security service, the average cost might surprise you.
According to my research, most top-rated monitoring services’ plans for home security systems fall within the range of $25 to $50 per month.
Keep in mind that paying each month is not the only expense. Without activation or installation fees, you’ll also need to factor in equipment and installation cost.
The good news is that many companies offer various packages and options to fit your needs and budget, so you can find something that fits you.
Different Types of Monitoring Packages Offered by Home Security System Companies
When it comes to home security systems, there are different types of monitoring packages to choose from, each with its unique features and benefits.
Some offer basic monitoring services, while others include advanced features like video surveillance and remote access.
Your package type will depend on your specific needs and budget. ADT and Vivint, for instance, offer multiple monitoring packages with different coverage levels and pricing.
On the other hand, SimpliSafe and Wyze allow you to customize your monitoring package based on your needs.
Remember, you can consider the factors that affect the monthly cost of home security systems, such as coverage, equipment, and installation fees, to ensure you’re getting the best value for your money.
Below is the table comparing packages among different security services. So it’ll help you to choose one that best meets your needs and budget.
Comparing Monthly Fees for Professional Monitoring Security Systems
Some companies, like Ring Alarm, offer monitoring for as low as $10 a month, while others can cost up to $60 or more.
So you should compare packages and services to determine which suits you best. Keep in mind that a security system usually has two separate costs:
- Monitoring and
- Equipment.
While some systems may have low monitoring fees, their equipment costs may be higher. Additionally, be aware of installation and activation fees, which can add up.
| Service Provider | Monthly Cost | Install & Activation Fee | Equipment Cost | Contract Duration (Month) | Guarantee Period | Smart Home Compatible |
| ADT Home Security | $40 – $60 | $100 – $200 | N/A | 36 | 6 Months | Yes |
| Vivint Security | $40 – $50 | $50 – $250 | $600+ | 48 – 60 | 3 Days | Yes |
| Frontpoint Security | $45 – $50 | N/A | $70 – $500 | N/A | 30 Days | Yes |
| SimpliSafe Security | $15 – $25 | DIY Only $79 | $230+ | N/A | 60 Days | Yes |
| Ring | $10 – $20 | DIY | $200+ | N/A | 30 Days | Yes |
| Brink’s Home Security | $30 – $40 | N/A | $200+ | 36 | 30 Days | Yes |
| Nest | $0 – $30 | DIY | $400+ | Optional | 30 Days | Yes |
| Comcast / Xfinity | $40 – $50 | $100 | $360+ | 24 | 30 Days | No |
Factors that Affect the Monthly Cost
You can consider some factors that affect the monthly cost of home security system service/alarm. Below are some factors:
1. Monitoring Services
Monitoring services will likely be the most significant monthly expense. Depending on the type of coverage and level of protection you need, you may face higher or lower monthly fees.
Monitoring services ensure that the authorities will be notified immediately if there is an emergency. While monitoring fees can be costly, they invest in your safety and peace of mind.
With a wide range of monitoring packages offered by home security providers, you can choose the right option for your needs and budget.
2. Amount of Coverage
The amount of coverage you need can significantly affect the monthly cost. Living in a small apartment may only need a few basic sensors to cover the main entry points.
On the other hand, if you have a larger home with multiple floors and entry points, you may require more extensive coverage with additional sensors, cameras, and other devices.
Of course, the more coverage you need, the higher the overall cost.
However, investing in comprehensive coverage for your home can provide peace of mind and help protect your property and family from potential threats.
So, when deciding on the coverage you need, consider your home area and your personal security needs, and be sure to factor in the added cost to your monthly budget.
3. Equipment and Installation Costs
Equipment and installation costs are essential factors to consider. On average, you can expect these costs for equipment around $199-$399.
However, the upfront equipment costs can vary depending on the type of system you choose. It might range from as little as $10-$70 for a basic, even thousands of dollars for a more comprehensive system with multiple cameras and smart home features.
4. Additional Services and Features
Adding more features like smart home integration, mobile access and control, and automatic emergency response can increase costs. Also, they provide convenience and additional security for your home.
For instance, smart home integration allows you to control your security system through your voice or mobile device, while automatic emergency response can instantly notify the authorities during an emergency.
So you should decide what features you need and what you can afford before subscribing to a more comprehensive security package.
Remember to compare different pricing options from various providers to get the best deal within your budget.
Equipment Costs: What to Expect
You have a better idea of the average monthly cost of home security systems with some cost-related factors.
Now let’s talk about the equipment costs you can expect.
Generally, the equipment costs for a home security system can range from $199 to $399 for the alarm system equipment and $0 to $199 for video surveillance equipment.
Of course, this can vary depending on the type of equipment you choose and the level of security you’re looking for.
Remember that higher-priced equipment often has more advanced features and a longer lifespan.
So, when determining what to expect regarding equipment costs, think about what you truly need and what will give you the peace of mind you’re looking for.
Installation and Activation Fees: The Hidden Costs of Home Alarm/Security System
Installation and activation fees are essential to consider as they can significantly increase the upfront cost.
On average (In my experience), installation costs range from $0 to $199, and activation fees can be extra. Try to take a quote from the security company before making any commitments.
Keep in mind that some companies offer DIY installation kits, which can save you money on installation fees. However, it may be worth paying for professional installation if you need to be handier.
Some companies offer free installation and activation for signed contracts, so be sure to ask about any promotions or discounts.
In conclusion, how much an alarm system costs per month depends on the type of system you choose, the features you need, and the provider you select.
While some systems may have lower monthly costs, they may not provide the level of protection you desire.
So you should evaluate your needs and research various providers to determine the best fit for your home and budget.
Investing in an alarm system is worth the peace of mind it provides. Not only does it help protect your home and belongings from theft and vandalism, and it may also lower your home insurance premiums. Plus, with the availability of affordable packages, it doesn’t have to break the bank.
