Best Home Security Systems in Pittsburgh, PA

Pittsburgh's crime rate is one of the highest in the country. Residents have a 1-in-25 chance of experiencing a property or violent crime, according to NeighborhoodScout. The city’s violent crime rate is almost double the national average, and murder rates are nearly four times higher than the rest of the country.

Crime is particularly high in Carrick and the South Side Flats areas. However, it can happen anywhere — even in safer neighborhoods like Regent Square. Because the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police only solves about 10% of the nearly 4,600 burglaries every year, it's essential to be proactive by installing a home security system with motion detectors and 24/7 video surveillance.

Pittsburgh vs. U.S. crime rates (per 1,000 residents)

When choosing a home security system, think about the features most important to you. Do you want total smart home integration? Medical alert functions for an elderly resident? Easy installation with minimal cost for a rental or apartment? While researching, also look into available technology, such as specific home automation products or HD cameras with full color.

The next step is deciding your desired level of protection. Standard features of home security systems include a control panel, alarms and sensors that protect doors and windows. For extended protection, you can add more sensors and video camera surveillance.

Next, go through the same steps as you would with any significant purchase:

• Read online reviews
• Get recommendations from friends and family
• Request multiple quotes

Once you have selected a few companies, compare their accreditation and certification. See if the companies employ staff who are Certified Alarm Security Technicians (CAST), Electronic Security Networking Technicians (ESNT) or have a Master Smart Technology Systems (STSma) certification from the Electronics Technicians Association International.

On average, the start-up price for home security systems ranges from $450 to $800. Monthly monitoring typically costs from $15 to $40. The cost of a home security system depends on:

• Renting or buying your equipment: Whether you rent or purchase your equipment upfront dramatically affects the price. Buying equipment costs anywhere from $100 to more than $500.
• Installation costs: Depending on whether you choose a wired or wireless security system, you may need it professionally installed. If it is wired into your electrical system, it requires a professional. You can install many wireless systems yourself, which saves money.
• Type of system: There are two types, monitored or unmonitored. Keep in mind that not all security systems include 24/7 monitoring from trained professionals. An unmonitored system only alerts the owner, and it's up to them to respond. If you want your alarm to be monitored, expect to pay about $25 a month.

Registering your Pittsburgh home alarm

Pittsburgh residents must register their home security system with the city and renew it every year. Registration costs $25, and residents can fill out an alarm permit application through the City of Pittsburgh website. Outside of Pittsburgh, Penn Hills ($25) and Monroeville ($250) residents also need to fill out device permits, but Bethel Park residents are not required to register.

False alarm fines for the Pittsburgh area per year

Pittsburgh residents looking for more information on how to keep their community and loved ones safe should check out the following:

• Crime Watch Pennsylvania empowers residents to keep their communities safe through neighborhood participation from law enforcement, concerned citizens, business owners and children’s advocacy groups.
• United Way Youth Crime Prevention Council has tips on how to initiate a community-mobilization strategy that addresses youth violence in high-risk neighborhoods, like Northside, Homewood, Wilkinsburg and Braddock.