Home security statistics 2023

Home security systems market overview

The home security systems market was valued at nearly $61.2 billion in 2022 and is expected to reach more than $112.2 billion by 2030. The market has a projected annual compound annual growth rate of about 7.9% from 2024 to 2030.

Thirteen million more households may install an alarm system through 2024. The reasons behind the growth of the home security systems market may include a high level of new home sales and cultural changes influenced by COVID-19. Individuals are spending more time at their homes, which may increase the amount they invest in protecting those homes.

According to a recent market research study by SafeHome.org, the most popular home security companies (based on self-reported usage) are Ring (36%), ADT (20%) and Nest (12%).

Residential burglary statistics

Burglary is entry into a residential or commercial premise for the purpose of committing a crime.

Burglaries in the U.S. are trending downward; in 2022, there were half as many burglaries in the U.S. as there were ten years prior. Having a home security system can further reduce the risk of home burglary, especially during daytime hours when residents are less likely to be home and more likely to be victims of residential theft.

• According to FBI Uniform Crime Reporting statistics (which include data from 63% of participating law enforcement agencies), about 53% of burglaries in 2022 took place at a residence. Of these residential burglaries, about 53% took place during daytime hours, 41% occurred at night and 6% occurred at an undetermined time.
• According to ADT, most burglaries occur between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m., with most burglars breaking into homes via main entry points (34% via front door, 22% via back door) and accessible entry points (23% via first-floor windows).

How burglars target residences

• Visual cues: Burglars target homes by identifying evidence of an empty residence, such as unclaimed mail and packages, overgrown lawns and unretrieved trash cans.
• Easy entry points: Burglars may also use a residence’s weak points to aid in entry, including unlocked or poorly locked doors and windows, the lack of a security system and tools around the property that may aid in a break-in, like a ladder or crowbar.

Most commonly stolen items in residential burglaries

Burglars often commit residential theft due to a desire to steal goods in support of an addiction or to acquire money. The figures below represent the approximate values of the most commonly stolen types of property from residential burglaries in 2022.

Residential burglary victims

According to FBI data from 2022, the most likely victim of a residential burglary is a white man between the ages of 30 and 39.

Individuals between the ages of 30 and 39 were burglars’ most targeted age group, making up over 21% of victims.

Men make up about 54% of victims; women make up about 46%.

Over 68% of victims are white, while nearly 21% are Black.

Of that, 72% are not of Hispanic origin.

Are home security systems effective?

Research indicates that home security systems discourage burglaries.

• A study by a University of North Carolina, Charlotte researcher found that 83% of burglars try to determine if an alarm is present before attempting a burglary, and 60% seek an alternative target if a property has an on-site alarm.
• Among burglars who discover the presence of an alarm while attempting a burglary, 50% say they will discontinue the attempt, while 31% may or may not retreat and 13% will proceed with the burglary.

Burglars may be deterred by a home security system’s visible security features, such as outdoor system signage, cameras or motion sensor lights.

What do individuals look for in a home security system?

Self-install and wireless home security systems have become popular due to their ease of use and wide availability. However, 44% of consumers prefer professionally installed security systems, and 42% of consumers use hard-wired systems that connect to a central control panel.

A plurality of individuals with home security devices use video surveillance systems (42%).

Many home security systems come with features that add additional security options. The most popular home security system features for consumers include floodlights, motion sensor lights and motion sensors.

Home security vs. whole home automation

Home security is a system that works to protect the home and monitor activity. Home automation is the ability to control certain home features, appliances, and actitity via the internet. Both types of systems can alert you or the provider monitoring your system in case of an emergency.

Types of home security systems

There are two main types of home security systems: Self-install (also called “DIY”) and professionally installed systems.

Self-install systems: Some home security packages include the devices and instructions needed for a DIY installation, which may be suitable for smaller homes or apartments. Few, if any, additional tools are required to install DIY systems. While a homeowner who self-installs their security system generally doesn’t enter into a contract with the security system’s manufacturer, they may choose to pay for a subscription that allows for self-monitoring via a mobile app. Most home security companies also offer professional 24/7 monitoring, even for self-installed systems.

Professionally installed systems: These are home security packages that are installed by a professional and come with 24/7 professional monitoring. Long-term contracts may be required, which will likely include a monthly cost for monitoring. Professionally installed systems may be better suited for larger homes or residences. Some of these systems may connect multiple monitoring devices via the internet and/or offer monitoring with a mobile app.

Types of home automation systems

Home automation systems allow individuals to control home functions from within their residence or remotely, providing an easy, efficient option for home monitoring and management.

These systems allow individuals to automate many elements of their home in addition to its security, including aesthetic and sensory aspects like specialized lighting and audiovisual equipment, home appliance use and heating or cooling.

Many of these services can be provided through smart systems that integrate the use of mobile apps, through specialized remote controls installed and provided by the company or through manual systems that include a manual monitoring station.

By company

By feature

The total cost of a home security system will be influenced by any additional equipment added to its base package, like motion and glass break sensors, indoor and outdoor cameras, video doorbells, environmental sensors, smart lights, smart locks and other home automation features.

Professional installation vs. DIY installation

There are two types of home security systems, professional installation and DIY installation.

• Professional installation: The cost of professional installation may range from around $100 to $200, depending on the home security company and size of the system. This does not include costs for equipment or monitoring. Depending on the company, installation costs may be included with the price of a monthly contract or paid upfront.
• DIY installation: Self-install packages may require the consumer to purchase equipment and a subscription upfront. The full cost of a security system may range from less than $100 to more than $2,000, depending on the company and the number of devices selected. Financing options are also available, so you can break up the cost into affordable monthly payments.

Why do people get a home security system?

Homeowners may invest in home security systems for a number of reasons:

• A home security system can protect a home, its inhabitants and their personal property.
• Burglars or vandals may be deterred by visible security equipment or signage.
• Insurers may offer discounts on homeowners insurance premiums to those who have a home security system.
• Indoor and outdoor areas of a home can be monitored remotely with some home security systems.
• Home security systems may also include automation of home lighting, audio, temperatures and appliances.

Home security systems and insurance premiums

Homeowners insurance in the U.S. costs $146 per month on average. Home security systems can help reduce these costs by up to 15%, which works out to an average annual savings of about $263.