Really, it comes down to what you're comfortable with and what you're willing to spend on your security. It's true that professional monitoring costs can add up — $20 to $40 per month or more isn't cheap — but if you can afford it, the sense of security you'll feel might be worth it.
Professional monitoring for home security systems can have a hefty monthly cost but can be worth it if you have valuable assets, live in a high-risk area, travel or just want a hands-off experience. Professional monitoring often has added features such as medical alerts, home automation or insurance discounts.
Some systems can be self-monitored for free or may cost about $3-$15 per month for added features such as video recording and smart notifications. Professional monitoring usually costs about $20 to as high as $80 per month.
The addition of a security camera will make any suspicious characters think twice before entering your property. Security cameras will, firstly, help to deter criminal activity from happening in your home and, secondly, capture any criminal activities that do occur on your property.
Here are 4 reasons why. Professional Monitoring services offer numerous benefits that make them worth the investment. These include faster response times, continuous 24/7 monitoring, appropriate emergency protocols, and savings on home insurance. Let's explore why opting for Professional Monitoring is a wise choice.
ADT Monitoring Pricing
The monitoring fee covers the cost of 24/7 professional monitoring and could cost you from $24.99 to $49.99. The price depends on the features you want like cloud storage, the hardware in your home's system, and whether you're a Self Setup customer or not.
Pro Plan - $20 per month.
From a burglar's perspective, smart doorbells like Ring devices can be seen as an opportunity rather than a deterrent. Burglars are aware of the video surveillance capabilities and may take measures to avoid detection, such as wearing a disguise.
Many providers will offer insurance discounts for video surveillance cameras and home security systems equipped with an alarm, door and window sensors, and motion sensors. These devices are designed to deter potential criminals and alert you (and your neighbors) of an intrusion.
Our top pick is the Eufy Indoor Cam S350, a 4K dual cam that offers a local storage option and advanced features like pet detection and 32-foot night vision. You can get a lot of quality camera features with this model without worrying about them being locked behind a paywall.
ADT Home Security Cost. You can get a full ADT package for as low as $390, and monthly monitoring costs between $24.99 and $49.99. Rob Gabriele , Managing Editor & Home Security Expert Updated January 14, 2025.
If the alarm is verified, an ADT agent sends the alarm information to the 911 center for dispatch. If your session expires, we will only call your designated emergency contacts that have not been notified via Alarm Messenger. If we still do not get a response, we will dispatch first responders.
ADT is focused on professional monitoring and setup. It's also top-tier when it comes to equipment quality and home automation. No one offers a better full-service experience. Ring Alarm is far more focused on self-monitoring (though the company does offer professional monitoring plans).
We think that SimpliSafe is as good as, if not better than, ADT. Unlike ADT, SimpliSafe offers month-to-month professional monitoring starting at $21.99 whereas ADT's monitoring plans start at $29.99 per month.
Our take: Overall, ADT packages are on the expensive side for what you get compared to other providers, especially for self-setup packages and basic equipment, but the company's tried-and-true professional monitoring makes their pro-install system a good pick for homeowners.
Studies show that visible surveillance cameras reduce criminal activity significantly, as potential burglars often choose targets that seem less risky. By installing security cameras around your home or business, you're not just protecting your property; you're sending a strong message that safety is a priority.
Today, more than 50% of homes have at least one security camera. Most home alarm system users are motivated by factors other than crime risk. The most common reason people used alarm systems was because they had children in the home. Two brands dominate the home alarm system market: ADT and Ring.
Indoor cameras not only provide critical information after a break-in but also protect your family in other ways. Your indoor security cameras are a great way to keep track of children without having to be in the same room.
Can my neighbor record me on my property? Cameras are legally allowed in all places where there is no reasonable expectation of privacy.
In a study from the University of North Carolina, 25 percent of burglars said that security signs would deter them from choosing a house. However, signs are a less effective deterrent than security cameras and systems, which would deter 53 percent of burglars.
Are home security systems worth it? In short, yes, they are. They don't just ensure that you'll receive faster police response time and help increase the likelihood that a criminal will be caught and prosecuted. They also can help to deter a burglary from ever occurring in the first place.
Top System for Monitoring — Ring and SimpliSafe
But, SimpliSafe gave us stronger monitoring capabilities with its Core plan offering live guard protection. For the lowest cost option, we recommend Ring. If you want top-tier monitoring that still offers great value, go with SimpliSafe.
The total cost for the ADT Secure Home Package starts at:
$599 to $899 upfront + $45.99/month; or. $55.97 to $60.97/month.