A smart home security system can put your mind at ease concerning the safety of your loved ones and your valuables. Due to this, the majority of individuals who have installed security systems in their homes affirm that they are worth investing in.
However, if you’re considering getting one, you may also be curious about how much, on average, a home security system costs.
It can be tricky to estimate the exact cost of a home security system. You can get a basic security system for as low as $280, but installing an elaborate system in a sizeable home may cost as much as $2,000. The most common home security systems are listed below, along with an estimate of their costs:
- Wireless Systems – You can shell out in the range of $200 to $2,000, depending on the number and quality of the cameras.
- Wireless Systems – The average cost of these systems is $800 to $1,600.
- Monitored Systems – A home security system managed by a dedicated security firm that operates around-the-clock, can incur a monthly cost of $10 to $65.
- Standalone Sensors or Cameras – You can get an independent camera for less than $200, but you will most likely need to keep an eye on it yourself.
Material Cost
Although the primary cost of a home security system may be as little as $200, this is usually never what homeowners end up paying. Basic systems typically consist of two components:
- Main console or the control panel
- Sensors – motion and contact sensors
The number of sensors included in a starting kit is often insufficient for an entire house. A simple, no-frills system costs $700 on average, with additional functions costing between $25 and $300.
Installation Cost
Because they generate a majority of their revenue from monitoring subscription fees, many security service providers don’t charge for setup. However, the installation cost can still range between $120 and $600, depending on the system and add-ons you get.
Activation Fees
You may be required to pay an access fee to start the monitoring service. Depending on your subscription, it can range from nothing to upward of $230. You should carefully read your subscription document, as some service providers waive the activation fees in favor of monthly charges.
Monthly Subscription Fees
Monitored security systems usually charge a monthly subscription fee. There are two types of surveillance, and the cost varies with each:
- Landline monitoring – Monthly fee can cost up to $30. It uses the telephone line in your house to communicate with your security service provider.
- Cellular Monitoring – Monthly fee can cost from $10 to $65. In this kind of system, the central command console comprises a GSM chip that uses a cellular network to communicate with your security service provider.
Additional Costs
Many consumers don’t select the base model of a home security system. They increase security by adding more features. Each of these has an increased expense.
- Video Monitoring – Although security cameras are not standard equipment for all home surveillance systems, the range of choices has drastically increased in recent years. You can expect to shell out from $40 to $400 on video equipment, with an additional monthly monitoring fee of $40 to $65.
- Smart Systems – While installing their safety system, many consumers select smart home add-ons for improved control over surveillance. Some smart home add-ons are: locks ($150), lighting ($15 to $90), and smoke and fire sensors ($35 to $100)
The cost of home security systems varies greatly. Everything is dependent on the model and surveillance subscription. Even if you spend less on the equipment, it might not be worthwhile to compromise the security of your loved ones.
