Home Security & Safety
Checking crime in your area is a smart first step. This guide helps you go further — from simple no-cost safety upgrades to comparing popular home security systems that can add another layer of protection.
We built Crime Explorer to make crime data easier to understand. This page adds practical home security advice based on common patterns in property crime and burglary.
Some of the links below may eventually become affiliate links. For now, they go directly to the official sites so you can compare options yourself.
We only highlight widely used, reputable products or services that can realistically help people improve home security. You should still compare options and choose what fits your budget, home, and comfort level.
Rankings are based on overall value, flexibility, popularity, and how well they work for different types of homes. Use this as a starting point, then dig into each company’s site to see current plans and pricing.
Flexible, easy-to-install system with optional 24/7 monitoring and no long-term contracts.
Long-established brand with professionally installed systems and 24/7 monitoring.
Camera-first system with strong doorbell and outdoor camera options plus optional monitoring.
Affordable indoor and outdoor cameras that can cover key entry points without a full system.
Affordable indoor and outdoor cameras that cover key entry points without the cost of a full-blown system.
Strong outdoor camera and floodlight options for monitoring driveways, yards, and larger properties.
SimpliSafe — Strong balance of price, features, and flexibility for most homes.
ADT — Professionally installed and monitored if you want a more traditional system.
Ring / camera-first setups — Great for doors, porches, and packages.
Wyze — Start with a few key cameras and build up over time.
Even the best security system won't help much if simple, low-cost fixes are ignored. These are the things burglars often look for first.
There's no single "best" system. The right choice depends on where you live, your budget, and how hands-on you want to be.
Home security isn't just about gadgets. It's about understanding your actual risk and layering protection in a way that makes sense for your home and budget.
If burglary and property crime are higher where you live, it may make sense to invest more in alarms and monitoring. If rates are low, simple upgrades and a few cameras may be enough for peace of mind.
Not everyone needs a full system. If you live in a lower-crime area or an apartment building with good access control, simple things like better locks, lighting, and a doorbell camera may be enough. If burglary and property crimes are more common where you live, a monitored or well-built DIY system can be worth the cost.
Many modern DIY systems use the same types of sensors and communication methods as traditional systems. The main differences are installation, contracts, and support. If you're comfortable setting things up yourself, a DIY system can be just as effective when used correctly.
No system can guarantee that a crime will never happen, but visible security measures (cameras, signs, lighting, alarms) can deter opportunistic crime and help you respond faster if something does happen.
Some insurers offer discounts for monitored systems, certain types of alarms, or approved security upgrades. It's worth asking your insurance provider what qualifies before you buy.
