Keeping your home safe from intruders is a top priority for many homeowners and renters alike. A burglar alarm system is one of the most effective tools to deter break-ins and alert you—or authorities—when unauthorized access is detected. But before installing one, you may be wondering: What’s the typical burglar alarm price? This article will walk you through the cost breakdown, key factors that influence pricing, and how to choose the right alarm system for your home and budget.
What Is a Burglar Alarm System?
A burglar alarm is a system designed to detect unauthorized entry into a home, apartment, or building. These systems typically include:
- Entry sensors (doors/windows)
- Motion detectors
- A control panel
- Audible sirens or alerts
- Optional monitoring service or smartphone notifications
Some modern burglar alarms also integrate with smart home platforms and offer remote access.
How Much Does a Burglar Alarm System Cost?
The burglar alarm price depends on whether you choose a basic DIY system or a professionally installed and monitored one.
| System Type | Typical Price Range |
|---|---|
| Basic DIY burglar alarm kit | $80 – $200 |
| Mid-range wireless alarm system | $200 – $500 |
| Professionally installed system | $500 – $1,200+ |
| Add-on sensors/devices | $15 – $60 each |
These prices are for the hardware alone. Monthly monitoring fees and installation costs (if any) are separate.
Monthly Monitoring Fees (Optional)
| Monitoring Type | Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Self-monitoring via app | Free – $5 |
| 24/7 professional monitoring | $10 – $40+ |
Some companies bundle the hardware at a discounted rate if you commit to a monitoring contract (e.g. 12 or 24 months).
Key Factors That Affect Burglar Alarm Price
1. Number of Zones and Entry Points
More doors and windows to protect? You’ll need more sensors.
- Door/window sensor: $15–$30 each
- Motion sensor: $25–$50 each
- Glass break sensor: $30–$60
- Siren or strobe light: $20–$100
2. Wired vs Wireless
- Wired systems tend to be cheaper in hardware but cost more to install.
- Wireless systems are easier to install and more flexible, but the initial burglar alarm price may be slightly higher.
3. Smart Features
Smart burglar alarms can send notifications to your phone, integrate with Alexa or Google Home, and allow remote arming/disarming.
Smart functionality can increase price by $50–$150, depending on brand and features.
4. Installation
- DIY systems (like Wyze, Ring, SimpliSafe): no install fees
- Professional installation (like ADT, Vivint): $100 – $500 depending on complexity
Popular Burglar Alarm Systems and Their Prices
🔹 Budget-Friendly Options ($80–$200)
- Kangaroo Complete Home Security Kit – ~$99
- Wyze Home Monitoring Kit – ~$89
- Great for small apartments or first-time buyers.
🔹 Mid-Range Systems ($200–$500)
- Ring Alarm 8-piece Kit – ~$249
- SimpliSafe Essentials Package – ~$279
- Suitable for average homes with smart app integration.
🔹 Premium/Professionally Installed Systems ($500+)
- ADT Security Package – From $599 (plus $28–$50/month for monitoring)
- Vivint Smart Security – $800+ (with advanced smart home automation)
- Includes professional installation, remote monitoring, and smart integrations.
Is a Higher Burglar Alarm Price Always Better?
Not necessarily. A small apartment with just one entry point may not need a high-end system. In contrast, larger homes or high-risk areas may benefit from premium systems with full coverage and 24/7 monitoring.
Choose based on your:
- Property size
- Local crime rate
- Personal lifestyle (frequent traveler vs always at home)
- Comfort with tech and installation
Tips for Choosing the Best Burglar Alarm for Your Budget
- Determine the number of zones to secure – Include all doors, ground-floor windows, and garages.
- Decide if you need smart features – Remote control, voice assistant compatibility, and alerts.
- Compare installation options – DIY is cheaper, professional is more thorough.
- Factor in monitoring costs – Not all systems require subscriptions, but some features may be locked behind them.
- Read real reviews – Look for feedback on false alarms, ease of use, and customer service.
Hidden Costs to Watch Out For
- Cloud storage or app features
- Replacement batteries for wireless devices
- Installation or cancellation fees (with contracts)
- Additional sensors as your needs grow
Final Thoughts
The burglar alarm price can range from under $100 for basic setups to over $1,000 for professional-grade systems. The best system isn’t always the most expensive—it’s the one that fits your home, lifestyle, and level of risk.
Whether you choose a simple DIY system or a fully integrated smart security setup, the right burglar alarm gives you peace of mind knowing your home is protected—day and night.