How Much Does Home Security System Installation Cost?

In 2026, the national average cost of home security system installation is $746, based on 1,667 verified projects from Angi Pros. Most homeowners pay between $300 and $1,236, with the spread driven by the type of system, the number of cameras, and whether you opt for professional monitoring. Budget for additional costs like activation fees, alarm permits, and equipment upgrades, which can push your total closer to $2,500.

Home Security System Installation Costs: What Determines the Price?

The true cost of a home security system depends on the type of system you choose, the size of your home, and whether you add professional monitoring. A basic wireless setup starts much lower than a fully wired installation, but monthly monitoring fees can significantly shift your long-term budget. Costs vary by system type, equipment, and contract terms, so the breakdown below covers what to expect across each category.

System Type

The type of home security system you choose is the single biggest driver of your overall cost, with options ranging from simple standalone cameras to fully monitored wired installations.

• Wireless home security systems: Wireless systems cost $200 to $2,000, depending on the number of cameras. You can control these systems through your smart device. They may cost less upfront because they have a simple installation, but they often come with monthly fees.

• Wired home security systems: Wired home security systems typically cost between $800 and $1,600 to install. These always require professional installation, which often involves cutting into walls to connect panels and sensors. The good news is that wired systems are harder to hack.

• Monitored home security systems: If your home security system is monitored by a 24-hour professional security company, expect to spend $10 to $65 per month , depending on the type of monitoring.

• Standalone cameras or sensors: You can buy standalone cameras or sensors for less than $100 to $200, but you'll need to monitor them yourself unless they come with a monitoring service.

How Much Does a Full Home Security System Cost?

A full home security system generally starts with $200 to $400 for basic equipment, plus $20 to $300 for each additional sensor you need to cover your home. Installation and activation may add to that upfront cost, and professional monitoring runs $10 to $65 per month on an ongoing basis.

Equipment

Home security systems may advertise a base price as low as $200, but that figure rarely reflects what homeowners actually pay once they account for their full coverage needs. A standard starter kit includes a base station, a couple of contact sensors, and a couple of motion sensors, which typically isn't enough to cover an entire home. Each additional feature adds $25 to $300 to your total, and the average homeowner ends up spending $700 on a basic, no-frills system.

• The base station (also known as a control panel)

• Contact sensors (or window/door sensors)

• Motion sensors

Labor

Many national security companies waive installation fees because they recoup costs through monthly monitoring contracts, so you may pay nothing upfront for labor. When installation is charged separately, expect to spend $120 to $600, with costs rising based on the volume of equipment your pro needs to wire together.

Contract Fees

If your home security system is monitored, expect to pay a recurring monthly fee that varies based on the type of monitoring your contract includes. Costs depend on whether you choose landline or cellular monitoring, so here is a breakdown of what each option typically costs.

• Landline monitoring: Landline monitoring is the old industry standard and costs $20 to $30 per month . It's what it sounds like, your system sends your security company information through your home's landline.

• Cellular/GSM monitoring: Cellular monitoring costs $10 to $65 per month , and it's quickly becoming the most popular modern option. This type of security system has a GSM chip in the central control panel which sends signals to your security company through a cellular (or wireless) network.

• Activation Fees: If you're using a monitored security system, you might have to pay an activation fee to start the service. Activation fees can cost anywhere from $0 to more than $230. It all depends on the contract. Some skip activation fees for monthly costs, so make sure you read your contract.

Oftentimes, you'll see cellular/GSM monitoring used as a landline backup, since something as simple as cutting a home phone line is enough to compromise a landline system. That being said, cellular systems are more susceptible to hacking or signal interference.

Permits

Depending on where you live, a monitored security system may require an alarm permit costing $25 to $100, which registers your system with local emergency services like the police and fire department and may carry an annual renewal fee. If you are installing a hardwired system, you will likely also need an electrical permit, and the cost of a permit varies by location from $10 to $500.

Additional Costs to Consider

Many homeowners don't stick with the base model. They add additional security features. We're not just talking about an extra sensor, we're talking about extra services. These all come with an additional cost.

Video Surveillance Monitoring

Not all home security systems include security cameras, but options have expanded significantly to cover indoor cameras, outdoor cameras, and all-weather video doorbell cameras. Video surveillance equipment typically runs $40 to $400, with most homeowners spending less than $200 per camera. Installing a camera also usually adds a video surveillance monitoring fee of $40 to $65 per month.

Smart Home Features

Some smart home automation features give you greater control over security, and many homeowners opt to make a range of smart home upgrades while installing their security system. You can control these features via your smartphone or smart hub. Here are some common upgrades and costs:

• Smart locks: $150

• Smart lighting: $15 to $90

• Smart smoke, fire, and CO alarms: $35 to $100

• Smart thermostats: $130 to $500

Duress Signals

A duress signal silently alerts your monitoring company when an intruder forces you to disarm your system, and some security packages include this feature at no extra charge. If yours does not, expect to spend $20 to $150 to add it.

Panic Button

A panic button typically costs an additional $30 and lets you immediately alert police or your security company to a threat without reaching the control panel. Most homeowners place them in high-traffic areas like bedrooms or kitchens for quick access.

Additional Sensors

Adding extra sensors is a common upgrade, with window and door sensors running $25 to $300 each and glass break sensors typically costing $100 to $200. Garage motion detectors start as low as $20, though higher-end models can reach $200.

Professional-Monitored vs. Self-Monitored Home Security Systems

Both professional-monitored and self-monitored home security systems have advantages and drawbacks. Understanding what each entails can help you make the best decision for your needs and budget.

Professional-Monitored System

With a professional-monitored system, a security company oversees your home 24/7. If an alarm is triggered, the company can quickly alert emergency services, providing an added layer of security and peace of mind.

Pros: The key benefit of professional monitoring is continuous protection. No matter where you are or what you're doing, someone is always watching out for potential security threats on your behalf. This service also often comes with additional features like video surveillance and direct communication with emergency services, which can make the response time quicker in critical situations.

Cons: The main drawback is cost. These systems come with monthly fees that range from $10 to $65, and you'll typically sign a contract, which may include activation fees and permit requirements. There's also the potential for false alarms, which could lead to fines if emergency services are contacted unnecessarily.

Self-Monitored System

Self-monitored systems put you in charge of overseeing your home's security. These systems usually connect to your smartphone, giving you the ability to check in, receive alerts, and take action if needed.

Pros: The biggest advantage of self-monitoring is cost, there are no recurring monthly fees. You'll only pay for the equipment, and you can decide what level of security you need without being tied to a contract. The ability to control the system through a smart device is also a plus.

Cons: While self-monitored systems might be cheaper, not having professionals oversee your home's security is a big drawback for many homeowners. If you miss an alert or can't respond in time, there's no backup to protect your home.

How Much Does It Cost to Install a Home Security System Yourself?

You'll need a professional to install a hardwired security system, but most homeowners can install wireless security systems on their own. In this case, you'll just have to pay for the system (which costs as little as $200) and any activation or monthly monitoring fees. Doorbell video surveillance systems are among the most popular DIY options, but always read the reviews and your contract to avoid hidden fees.

A professional job doesn't have to cost a lot of money. It's less common among local home security companies, but many national security services actually offer free installation with your contract. If it's not included, hiring a home security service near you will generally cost $120 to $600 more than a DIY job.

How to Save Money on Security System Installation

Home security systems have a huge range of prices. It all depends on the model and the contract you choose. Here are some ways you can save money—but remember, don't compromise your personal safety. You may spend less on less sensors, but if it leaves an unmonitored entry point in your home, it may not be worth it.

Get a Discount From Your Home Insurance

Some insurance companies will give you a discount on your policy if you install a home security system. You could save up to 20%—which can help ease the strain of high installation costs and monthly monitoring fees. Speak to your insurance company before you buy. They may offer different savings for different types of systems.

Avoid Monthly Fees With a Self-Monitored System

Some DIY home security systems have no monthly or low monthly fees because they're self-monitored. These systems use smart home technology that automatically sends an alert if someone trips a sensor.

How Angi Gets Its Cost Data

Home is the most important place on earth, which is why Angi has helped more than 150 million homeowners transform their houses into homes they adore. To help homeowners with their next project, Angi provides readers with the most accurate cost data and upholds strict editorial standards. We’ve surveyed thousands of real Angi 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. 

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