How Much Does Security System Installation Cost in 2024?
Highlights
The average cost of a home security system is $747, with prices ranging between $300 and $1,238.
The total cost depends on your chosen brand, the equipment included, add-ons, activation fees, and labor.
Most security companies offer free installation of security systems. Those without installation included may incur labor costs of up to $1,600.
You can monitor the system yourself or hire a professional monitoring service.
The average cost for a monitoring service ranges from $10 to $65 per month.
The cost to install a home security system ranges between $300 and $1,238, with most homeowners paying an average of $747. The total cost depends on the system brand, equipment, add-ons, and labor. Most security companies offer free installation, but some systems, such as hardwired, incur labor costs of up to $1,600.
Security System Cost Factors
Various factors influence the total cost of a security system, including the brand, equipment, activation fees, and add-ons.
Brand
There are many brands of security systems on the market, each with varying setup costs and monthly fees. The equipment, available add-ons, and type of system vary by brand. Many brands offer different levels of monthly plans depending on the features included.
| Brand | Setup Costs | Monthly Fees |
|---|---|---|
| Scout | $120 | $10–$20 |
| Cove | $175 | $15–$35 |
| SimpliSafe | $230–$490 | $15–$25 |
| Frontpoint | $320–$540 | $45–$50 |
| Abode | $330 | $6–$20 |
| Nest | $400 | $20–$30 |
| ADT | $475 | $30–$50 |
| Ring | $500 | $3–$15 |
| Vivint | $580 | $30–$50 |
Equipment
Basic security system equipment costs range from $200 to $400. Most brands offer a starter package that includes the base station, contact sensors, and motion sensors. However, you’ll often receive only a few contact and motion sensors and may require more to cover your home. Most homeowners pay an average of $700 to purchase a complete system.
Activation
Most home security systems require an activation fee to begin service. The average cost to activate a system is $200.
Add-On Features
Many add-ons are available for home security systems to enhance protection. The most common upgrades homeowners purchase include smart features, additional equipment, and professional monitoring services.
| Add-On Feature | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Smart Lock | $150–$500 |
| Smart Lighting | $15–$90 |
| Smart Smoke Alarm | $40–$110 |
| Smart Thermostat | $130–$500 |
| Panic Button | $30 |
| Glass Break Sensor | $5–$250 |
| Additional Motion Detector | $20–$$200 |
| Window and Door Sensor | $25–$300 |
| Key Fob | $25 |
| Video Doorbell | $170 |
Additional Home Security System Cost Factors
Along with the above factors, it’s important to consider the cost of ongoing fees, labor, and permits. Installing a system may also help you receive a discount from your home insurance provider.
Ongoing Fees
Most security systems require a monthly fee that includes self- or provider-monitoring, app usage, video storage, and advanced notifications. The average monthly cost ranges from $20 to $60, depending on the features you choose and the level of monitoring required. Bundling your security system with other home services often results in a discount on monthly fees from your provider.
Labor
Almost all national security companies offer free installation for home security systems. These companies won’t charge for installation because they profit from monthly monitoring services. However, if you purchase a system that doesn’t include installation, expect to pay between $100 and $400 to hire a local home security installer. The total cost of labor depends on the type of system and the amount of equipment requiring installation.
Insurance Discounts
A security system enhances home protection and deters crime, so many home insurance providers offer those who install one a discount of up to 20% on their home insurance policy. The discount you’re eligible for depends on your provider, the type of security system you install, and your location. Those with high-end, advanced systems often receive a higher discount than those with basic systems.
Permits
Depending on where you live, you may require a permit to install a home security system. The average cost of a permit ranges from $25 to $100.
Home Security System Cost by Type
Various types of security systems are available, including hardwired, wireless, monitored, unmonitored, landline, and GSM. These systems vary in how they connect to your security provider and how they’re monitored.
Hardwired vs. Wireless
If you purchase a hardwired home security system, expect to pay an installation fee of $800 to $1,600. These systems are hardwired to your home and require a contractor to cut into your walls and do electrical work.
On the other hand, a wireless system can be easily installed without the help of a contractor. However, they often have higher monthly fees for wireless connectivity.
Monitored vs. Unmonitored
You can choose to monitor your security system yourself or hire a professional monitoring service. Professional monitoring services cost between $10 and $65 per month and include 24/7 home surveillance. If there’s an emergency, they notify authorities and send them to your home.
Unmonitored systems don’t include third-party monitoring. Instead, they connect to an app where you can monitor the system. These systems often have low monthly fees of $5 to $10 for app usage.
Landline vs. GSM Monitoring
Landline monitoring is a traditional method that alerts your security system of information through your home landline, costing between $20 and $30 per month. Cellular/GSM monitoring, which uses a cellular network to send signals to your security company, ranges from $10 to $65 per month. GSM monitoring is becoming an increasingly popular option because it makes it more difficult to compromise the system and can be used when landlines are down.
Does a Security System Increase Home Value?
Houses with security systems sell for an average of 3.5% more than those without. Security systems enhance property protection, allow homeowners to remotely access smart devices, and lower insurance rates. These benefits attract buyers and increase the overall value of the home.
Budgeting for Installing a Security System
If you’re looking to keep the costs down for your home security system, consider the following budget-saving tips:
Purchase a system from a cost-effective brand, such as Scout or Cove.
Avoid add-ons and stick to the standard equipment package.
Find a security company that offers free installation to avoid labor costs.
Contact your home insurance provider to ask about discounts for installing a security system.
Monitor the system yourself rather than paying for a professional monitoring service.
How HomeAdvisor Gets Its Cost Data
No place is more important than your home, which is why HomeAdvisor connects homeowners with local pros to transform their houses into homes they love. To help homeowners prepare for their next project, HomeAdvisor provides readers with accurate cost data and follows strict editorial guidelines. We surveyed thousands of real customers about their project costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We pair this data with research from reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects.
Frequently Asked Questions
Most home security systems require you to pay a cancellation fee if you end your service before your contract is complete. The cost is typically 75% to 100% of the contract’s remaining balance. To avoid cancellation fees, purchase from a brand that offers contract-free plans, such as Simplisafe and Vivant.
The average cost to repair an alarm system ranges from $100 to $300, depending on the extent of damage. Most repairs involve replacing or upgrading parts, which can cost up to $500.
Is paying for a security system worth it?
Many homeowners find that it’s worth it to pay for a security system. With over 6.5 million property crimes reported in the USA in 2022, a security system is a worthwhile investment that offers the peace of mind of knowing your home is protected against theft and burglary.
The average cost to install a security camera ranges from $100 to $500 per camera. The total installation cost depends on the number, type, and location of cameras. Homeowners pay an average of $1,100 for labor and equipment to install four cameras.
