By Project Genie Editorial Team ·
October 1, 2026
Security system pricing mixes together three separate costs: the equipment, the installation, and the monthly monitoring. Most cost guides blur them, which makes comparing bids harder than it should be.
Quick answer: Home security system installation typically runs $300-$1,250, with an average around $750. A professionally installed multi-camera system commonly runs $600-$2,000 depending on camera count and wiring. Professional monitoring is a separate ongoing cost, often $10-$65 per month.
These are general, typical ranges -- your actual bid depends on device count, wired or wireless, and your home layout, not a flat average.
Typical Cost by Job
| Job | Typical Cost |
|---|
| Security system installation (equipment and install) | $300-$1,250 |
| Professional installation fee only | $100-$200 (sometimes waived with a monitoring contract) |
| Camera system, professionally installed | $600-$2,000 |
| Wired system with in-wall runs | $800-$1,600 |
| Professional monitoring (monthly) | $10-$65 |
Wired vs. Wireless: What It Means for the Job
A wireless system relies on Wi-Fi or a cellular hub and mostly needs power and a good signal at each device, so installs are usually faster. A wired system runs cable through walls and attic or crawlspace, which takes more labor and often a look at the building in person. Wi-Fi coverage and electrical access drive install complexity more than the devices do, so mention weak-signal areas in your job post.
Monitoring Is a Separate Service
Installing equipment and monitoring it are different things. Monitoring is typically an ongoing subscription with its own terms, and it is not automatically part of what an installer quotes. Ask whether monitoring is included, optional, or tied to a contract before you compare bids.
Compatibility With Smart Home Devices
If you already have a smart lock, hub, or camera, a new device should work with it. Mention your existing ecosystem in your job post so a Service Professional can recommend compatible equipment instead of mixing systems that do not talk to each other.
What to Expect During Install
For a typical wireless setup, expect devices to be mounted, paired to the hub, and tested in a single visit. Wired installs take longer. Either way, you should be walked through how to arm, disarm, and review alerts before the pro leaves.
Getting an Accurate Bid
Project Genie does not sell security systems or set prices -- Service Professionals bid on the job you post. Describe:
- Device count and type -- cameras, door and window sensors, doorbell, locks
- New construction or retrofit, and any existing wiring or system
- Wired or wireless preference, or whether you want advice
- Whether you want monitoring, and any ecosystem you already use
Frequently Asked Questions
Is professional installation worth it?
For wired systems and larger camera setups, usually yes. For a small wireless kit, DIY is a real option -- the right choice depends on how many devices you need and how comfortable you are with wiring and Wi-Fi setup.
Does the installation price include monitoring?
Usually not. Monitoring is a separate ongoing service, so confirm what is included before comparing bids.
Are wireless systems cheaper than wired?
Generally yes upfront, since there is no wall wiring, though monitoring fees affect the long-term cost either way.
Will a new device work with my existing smart home setup?
Often, if it supports the same ecosystem. Mention what you already have so the pro can recommend compatible equipment.
Get a Fair Quote, Not a Guess
Security system cost comes down to device count, wiring, and monitoring choices. Once you have bids in hand, here is how to compare them fairly. Post your security or smart home job free and let Service Professionals bid for it.