Have you ever wondered if your home security system is actually protecting you—or just giving you a false sense of security? I did, and what I found after having five different systems professionally installed in my test home was eye-opening, to say the least.
Aurora, Colorado offers residents stunning mountain vistas and vibrant cultural diversity that makes it a fantastic place to call home. But beneath this picturesque surface lies a concerning reality: property crime rates 73% higher than the national average and violent crime rates a staggering 132% above the norm. With a crime grade of 0, security isn't just a luxury—it's a necessity for both the homeowners and the 61.6% of residents who rent.
After spending months testing various security systems in 2025, I'm here to cut through the marketing hype and give you the straight facts about what really works. No fluff, no sales pitches—just what I've learned from having professionals install (and reinstall) systems in the same house.
When it comes to home security, the cheapest option is rarely the best. But that doesn't mean you need to break the bank either. What matters is finding that sweet spot where reliability meets affordability.
In my testing, I found that systems priced below $500 for equipment often cut corners on crucial components like motion sensors and backup systems. Meanwhile, the difference between a $1,200 and $2,500 system was often more about fancy extras than core security improvements.
Here's what surprised me: the security features homeowners actually use daily aren't always what you'd expect. Based on my testing and user data:
The systems from ADT (through their Google Nest partnership) and Vivint have perfected these everyday interactions. Their video doorbells offer crystal-clear images even at night, and their garage controls integrate seamlessly with your phone.
A truly comprehensive security system isn't just about keeping intruders out—it's about protecting your family from all threats. Fire detection, carbon monoxide monitoring, and flood sensors can be literal lifesavers.
The most effective systems I tested included monitored smoke detectors that alert professionals even when you're not home. This comprehensive approach transforms a security system from a burglar deterrent into a complete safety net.
Security technology has made impressive leaps in 2025. AI-powered cameras can now distinguish between a prowler and your neighbor's cat with remarkable accuracy. Facial recognition has become standard on mid-tier and premium doorbell cameras.
But some aspects of security remain timeless:
The latest systems from SafeStreets and Vivint balance cutting-edge tech with these proven fundamentals. Their equipment is more intuitive than ever—touchscreens have replaced clunky keypads, and voice commands have become reliable enough for everyday use.
ADT operates through a network of monitoring centers across the country, providing 24/7 professional monitoring. But here's something many don't realize: when you call for an "ADT system," you're often actually dealing with SafeStreets, an authorized dealer.
As an authorized dealer, SafeStreets sells, installs, and services ADT equipment while adhering to ADT's strict standards. The monitoring still happens through ADT's centers, but your installation and customer service come through SafeStreets.
Vivint takes a different approach. They handle everything in-house—from sales to installation to monitoring. This vertical integration allows them to control the entire customer experience and offer deeper smart home integration than most competitors.
Their systems excel at connecting security with everyday conveniences like thermostat control, lighting automation, and even appliance management.
Here's an industry secret: many local security companies use the same monitoring platforms. Alarm.com powers the backend for numerous regional providers, while ADT maintains its proprietary monitoring infrastructure.
This means the actual alert response may be similar between companies, with the main differences coming down to equipment quality, installation expertise, and customer service.
After watching professionals install five different systems in my home, I can confidently say: this is not a DIY project, even for the tech-savvy.
Professional installers understand nuances that most homeowners miss:
One installer showed me how a slight adjustment in motion sensor angle eliminated false alarms from heating vents—something I would never have figured out on my own.
The most frequent DIY errors I've seen include:
When it comes to protecting your family, these aren't mistakes worth making to save a few hundred dollars.
After months of testing, here's my straightforward advice: while local companies often offer competitive pricing, the reliability, consistent standards, and peace of mind provided by established national installers like SafeStreets and Vivint justifies their slightly higher cost for most homeowners.
Local companies may offer personalized service, but they can't match the resources, monitoring infrastructure, and proven track record of the national providers. When it comes to something as critical as your family's safety, that stability matters.
Whatever you choose, don't compromise on professional installation. The expertise these technicians bring ensures your system works as intended—when it matters most.
Your home should be your sanctuary. In a city facing significant crime challenges, investing in proper security isn't just prudent—it's essential. Make the call today, and sleep better tomorrow.
Aurora has a population of 379,434 and is located in Arapahoe County. According to recent ACS data from the U.S. Census Bureau, the median household income is $67,723. Median home value is $321,520, and the median rent is $1,401/month. With a median age of 34.8 years old, 30% of residents over the age of 24 have at least some college education, with 30.2% having an income over $100,000. 46.1% of households are married.
According to the 2020 Decennial Census, the racial breakdown was as follows:
Home security is more than just cameras that capture bad actors committing crimes. Smart home features such as automated lighting are underrated features that can prevent thefts before they happen.
Professional monitoring is a must, and the choice generally comes down to a balance between the latest technology, overall price, and the service you receive for installation and on-going maintenance.
Our pick for the best home security system is ADT, with its exceptional reputation for customer satisfaction and professional installation, followed closely by Vivint which while slightly more expensive, has the most advanced security technology for your home.
SimpliSafe is our home security system recommendation for renters with its great balance of features and value, while offering minimal installation effort and reasonably priced professional monitoring.
