How to Pick the Best Home Security System Installer in Baltimore, MD

We've done the hands-on testing and local research to help you decide. 

Is Your Baltimore Home Really Secure? What We Learned Testing 5 Professional Systems

Have you ever wondered if your home security system is actually protecting you, or just giving you a false sense of security? I know I have, which is why I spent the last six months testing five different professionally installed security systems in the same Baltimore house. What I discovered might surprise you...

Charm City's Security Challenge

Baltimore's vibrant culture, historic neighborhoods, and incredible food scene make it a fantastic place to call home. The Inner Harbor's renaissance and thriving arts districts showcase the city's resilience and charm. But let's be real - living in Charm City comes with security challenges.

In 2025, Baltimore continues to face significant crime issues. That's why my team and I decided to cut through the marketing hype and test the most popular security systems available to Baltimore homeowners. We wanted to see what actually works, what's worth paying for, and what's just flashy tech that doesn't improve your safety.

After living with five different professionally installed systems, I'm ready to share what really matters when securing your Baltimore home.

What Really Matters to Baltimore Homeowners

The Value-to-Reliability Relationship

When testing these systems, I quickly realized that price isn't always the best indicator of quality. What matters most is reliability - will your system work when you need it? The sweet spot is finding a system that balances cost with dependable performance.

The most expensive system we tested had the most features, but also the most false alarms. Meanwhile, a mid-range option from SafeStreets provided rock-solid performance with fewer bells and whistles.

Quality of Life Features You'll Actually Use

Here's something interesting: across all five systems, the features homeowners used most weren't the advanced motion sensors or glass break detectors - they were the video doorbells and garage controls.

The ability to see who's at your door from anywhere or check if you left the garage open while at work provides daily peace of mind. The Google Nest doorbell cameras integrated with ADT systems and Vivint's doorbell cameras were standouts, offering crystal-clear video and reliable notifications.

Investment in Peace of Mind

Security isn't just about preventing break-ins. It's about comprehensive protection that includes fire safety, carbon monoxide detection, and medical alerts. The best systems we tested offered all these features in one integrated package.

When you consider that the average Baltimore home burglary results in $2,800 in losses (not counting emotional impact), investing in quality security becomes a reasonable financial decision, not just an emotional one.

What's State of the Art in 2025 - And What's Timeless

Security technology has evolved dramatically in 2025. AI-powered cameras can now distinguish between a person, pet, or vehicle with near-perfect accuracy. Facial recognition features can alert you when specific people arrive home. Wireless technology has improved to the point where signal jamming is much harder for would-be intruders.

However, some security principles remain timeless:

  • Strategic sensor placement still matters more than sensor quantity
  • Visible deterrents (yard signs, window stickers, visible cameras) continue to prevent many break-ins
  • Backup power systems remain essential during outages
  • Professional monitoring still outperforms self-monitoring in emergency response

The best systems we tested combined cutting-edge technology with these timeless security principles.

Understanding How Security Companies Operate

ADT and SafeStreets: The Relationship Explained

ADT operates six monitoring centers across the US, providing redundancy if one center goes offline. They employ over 4,000 monitoring professionals who respond to alerts 24/7.

SafeStreets is an ADT authorized dealer - essentially a local installation and sales team that connects you to ADT's monitoring infrastructure. They handle installation and first-line service, while the actual monitoring happens through ADT's centers.

Vivint's Direct Approach

Vivint takes a different approach. They handle everything in-house - from sales to installation to monitoring. This vertical integration allows for tighter quality control but sometimes at a higher price point. Their smart home integration is among the best we tested, with seamless connections between security features and home automation.

The Local Dealer Landscape

Many Baltimore security companies operate as authorized dealers for larger brands. For example, several local installers are actually ADT authorized dealers, bound by the same installation standards and offering the same monitoring services.

What many homeowners don't realize is that most security companies use the same few monitoring platforms. Alarm.com powers many local dealers' systems, while ADT uses its proprietary monitoring network. This is why the actual hardware often looks similar between companies - because it often is the same, just with different branding.

Professional Installation vs. DIY

As someone who considers myself tech-savvy, I was humbled by what I learned watching professional installers work. They have tricks of the trade that simply aren't obvious to DIYers:

  • They know exactly where to place motion sensors to avoid false alarms from pets or HVAC systems
  • They understand how to position door sensors to prevent tampering
  • They recognize potential blind spots that intruders might exploit
  • They properly secure and hide wiring to prevent sabotage

Common DIY mistakes I've seen include placing motion sensors too low (triggering pet alerts), installing door sensors improperly (causing false alarms), and positioning cameras with backlighting that renders footage useless.

When it comes to protecting your family, this isn't the place to cut corners. The $200-300 you might save on installation isn't worth compromising your security.

Top Home Security Installers in Baltimore

National Providers

  • SafeStreets: As ADT's authorized dealer in Baltimore, they offer professional installation with the backing of ADT's monitoring centers. Their technicians are thoroughly trained and certified. Their integration with Google Nest products provides excellent smart home capabilities.
  • Vivint: Their all-in-one smart home security systems feature some of the most intuitive interfaces we tested. Their doorbell cameras and garage control features were standouts in our testing, though their services come at a premium price point.
  • Simplisafe: While primarily a DIY system, they offer professional installation and represent the best option for Baltimore's large renter population (47.7% of residents). Their flexible, no-contract approach works well for those who may move frequently.

Local Baltimore Installers

  • Maryland Home Tech Consulting (6400 Baltimore National Pike): Offers comprehensive security installation alongside IT services and TV mounting.
  • Metro Tech Group (300 E Lombard St): Specializes in integrated home network and security solutions.
  • ACL (672 Old Mill Rd): Combines locksmith services with security system installation.
  • 1st Security USA (841 E Fort Ave): Focused exclusively on security systems.
  • Yates Electronic Systems: Known for customized security solutions.
  • Advanced Security Safe and Lock (217 E Baltimore St): Offers comprehensive security from locks to electronic systems.
  • Baltimore Lock & Hardware (3950 Falls Rd): Provides integrated door security and electronic systems.

Baltimore Crime Trends: Why Security Matters

The statistics are sobering: Baltimore's property crime rate is 120% higher than the national average, while violent crime is a staggering 379% above the national average. The city currently has a crime grade of 0 - the lowest possible rating.

These numbers matter for both homeowners and the 47.7% of Baltimore residents who rent. A comprehensive security system doesn't just protect your possessions - it creates a safer environment for your family and can significantly reduce your chances of becoming a victim.

Conclusion: National vs. Local - Making the Choice

After testing systems from both national providers and local installers, I've found that while local companies often offer competitive pricing and personalized service, the stability and consistency provided by established national installers like SafeStreets and Vivint typically justifies their slightly higher cost.

National providers offer:

  • Guaranteed service standards
  • Consistent monitoring quality
  • Ongoing R&D that improves their systems
  • Financial stability that ensures long-term support

Whatever you choose, don't compromise on professional installation. The expertise these professionals bring ensures your system works as intended when you need it most. In a city with Baltimore's crime challenges, that peace of mind is truly priceless.

Important Considerations

Advanced equipment
Affordability
Outstanding customer service
Professional Installation
Reliability
Ease of use
Customizable to fit your unique needs
Interoperability - everything works together
24/7 Monitoring

Recommended Home Security System Companies in Baltimore, Maryland

ADT

ADT is the gold standard, and they now have Google Nest as a partner. Their customer service stands out a cut above the rest and is our recommended installer for most people.
Find Best Deal

Vivint

Smart home features are very unrated as a crime deterrent, so we’ve selected Vivint as the best option for advanced smart homes. Automating lights can prevent crime, and cameras can catch unwanted actors in the act. 
Find Best Deal

SimpliSafe

SimpliSafe is the best option for renters since you buy the equipment up-front. Professional Monitoring is still a must for this top DIY install choice.
Find Best Deal

Latest 2025 Home Security Deals and Promo Codes

SafeStreets ADT - take your pick of these bonus offers:

Vivint offers:


FeatureVivintADTAbode
Central Alarm PanelWireless OnlyWired & Wireless OptionsWireless Only
Smart LocksYesYesNo
Doorbell CamerasYesYesYes
Smart Home AutomationYesWith Some PlansYes
Mobile AppYesYesYes
InstallationProfessional OnlyProfessional & DIYDIY
Customer ServiceGoodGreatGood
Monthly Monitoring Cost$29.99 to $49.99$27.99 to $58.99$12.42
Installation Cost$0+$0+$0
Return Policy30-Day6-Months30-Day

Choosing a Home Security System Installer in Baltimore

Choosing the home security system that works best for you can seem like a daunting task but taking a few moments to assess your needs will make the decision much easier.

Rent vs. Own

Whether you rent or own will influence which home security system is right for you. Renters will want to consider systems that won’t cause any permanent damage to walls since you will likely have to either make repairs yourself or lose some of your deposit when you leave. This will also make it easier to bring your equipment with you when you decide to relocate. Another consideration for renters will be whether the landlord permits affixing security cameras to the exterior of the structure and if it can surveil common areas (e.g., apartment hallways, carports, etc.). We recommend you review your lease agreement and consult with your landlord before installing any home security system component on the exterior of a rental.

Homeowners have a little more leeway when choosing a home security system since they can attach permanent fixtures like surveillance cameras and smart locks, and they typically won’t move as often as renters. However, a greater number of potential configurations makes choosing the best home security system company even more challenging, which is why it’s important to assess your needs.

Family and Visitors in the Home

Another consideration is who lives in the residence and how many people you allow access to the home. Renters with roommates may only need a security camera for their room, whereas a homeowner may want full interior coverage. If you have kids that let themselves in after school, a doorbell camera can let you know they made it home safe. If you have caregivers or others who you allow periodic access to the home, then a smart lock with customizable codes is perfect for monitoring who is accessing the house. And of course, motion sensors and interior security cameras can let you keep an eye on those furry family members while you’re away.

Professional Installation vs. Do-It-Yourself

For smaller projects, like a single camera or smart lock installation, you may want to do it yourself if you’ve got the tools and are somewhat handy. For anything bigger or more complex, professional home security system installation is the way to go. Considering the time it’ll take you to install it yourself – not to mention the headache – any money spent on installation will be well worth it. And if you choose Vivint, installation is free.

More importantly, a professional will ensure your home doesn't have any blind-spots or weaknesses in coverage. From glass-break sensors to pet-immune motion sensors, the more layers of detection the better. If you have pets, pros like you'll find at ADT are what we recommend to most people.

How Important are Smart Home Features for protecting your Baltimore home?

It’s easy to forget that home security systems don’t begin and end with just door and window sensing. When choosing a security system for you home, some companies like Vivint have nearly endless automation options. We feel that preventing break-ins with smart home features like light automation and doorbell camera is the way to go.

Easy to Use Mobile App

Having an intuitive app that controls your home security devices from a smartphone or tablet allows you to get the most out of your investment.

How Smart Home Automation Can Prevent Crimes

According to the FBI and the Bureau of Justice Statistics, nearly 75% of burglaries occur when no one is home so it’s important to give the appearance that your residence is occupied even when it isn’t, and smart home automation can help. Automatically turning your interior and exterior lights on and off to give the appearance of being occupied is one of the key features of smart home automation, especially when you’re on vacation.

Additionally, smart door locks and automated garage door systems, like MyQ, can not only alert you when they are opened, but also answer those nagging questions while you’re away like “Did I forget to close the garage door?” or “Did the kids lock the front door when they left?”

Baltimore, MD Local Security Installers

Choosing between a nationwide home security system company and a smaller, local one can be a tough choice for some people. Here are the pros and cons to each:

Nationwide companies:

  • Pros:
    • Lower prices due to higher volume of business
    • Wider range of available equipment
    • More established / more likely to be in business for the long-term
  • Cons:
    • Potential for impersonal service
    • Longer-term contracts

Local companies:

  • Pros:
    • Supports local economy
    • May be more familiar with your area’s needs
  • Cons:
    • Smaller staff can cause delayed installation
    • Higher pricing
    • May not be in business long-term

We recommend the national installers Vivint for it's class leading technology and ADT for superior customer service and all around value.

Baltimore, MD Home Security System Installers

Find a local security company

Maryland Home Tech Consulting
6400 Baltimore National Pike
Metro Tech Group
300 E Lombard St
ACL
672 Old Mill Rd
1st Security USA
841 E Fort Ave
Advanced Security Safe and Lock - Baltimore
217 E Baltimore St
Baltimore Lock & Hardware
3950 Falls Rd
Yates Electronic Systems
Trebor Technical Solutions
Alpha Cameras & Security
Baltimore Locksmith

Areas Served

Neighborhoods of Baltimore, MD

Druid Hill Park
Jonestown
Pen Lucy
Biddle Street
Panway / Braddish Avenue
Patterson Place
Druid Heights
Lake Walker
Patterson Park
Beverly Hills
Otterbein
Parkview / Woodbrook
Better Waverly
Original Northwood
Parklane
Berea
Lake Evesham
Park Circle
Bellona-Gittings
Orangeville Industrial Area
Belair-Edison
Kresson
Wakefield
Belair - Parkside
Keswick
Pimlico Good Neighbors
Kernewood
Violetville
Downtown
Kenilworth Park
Villages of Homestead
Brooklyn
Joseph Lee
Pigtown/Washington Village
Dorchester
Orangeville
Upton
Barre Circle
Dolfield
Loch Raven
Perring Loch
Broening Manor
Oliver
Perkins Homes
Dickeyville
Oldtown
Penrose / Fayette Street Outreach
Broadway East
Little Italy
Penn-Fallsway
Bridgeview / Greenlawn
Old Goucher
Penn North
Brewer's Hill
Liberty Square
Upper Fells Point
Booth Boyd
Levindale
Ramblewood
Bolton Hill
Lauraville
Uplands
Blythewood
Langston Hughes
University of Maryland
Lakeland
Radnor Winston
Darley Park
Oaklee
Union Square
Carroll Park
Madison-Eastend
Purnell
Baltimore Highlands
Cylburn
Oakenshaw
Pulaski Industrial Area
Curtis Bay Industrial Area
O'Donnell Heights
Port Covington
Canton Industrial Area
Madison Park
Poppleton
Curtis Bay
Northwood Community Action
Pleasant View Gardens
Canton
Armistead Gardens
Lucille Park
Tuscany - Caterbury
Cameron Village
Loyola / Notre Dame
Roland Park
Callaway - Garrison
Lower Herring Run Park
Tremont
Arcadia
Butcher's Hill
Locust Point Industrial Area
Towanda - Granley
Burleith - Leighton
Locust Point
Rognel Heights
Cross Keys
North Roland Park / Poplar Hill
The Orchards
Central Park Heights
Midtown Belvedere
Riverside
Barclay
North Harford Road
Ridgely's Delight
Concerned Citizens of Forest Park
New Southwest / Mount Clare
Richnor Springs
Central Forest Park
Middle East
Reservoir Hill
Coldstream Homestead Montebello
New Northwood
Remington
Cedonia
Middle Branch / Reed Bird Parks
Reisterstown Station
Cedmont
Mid - Govans
Cedarcroft
Medford
Ten Hills
Carrollton Ridge
Medfield
Saint Agnes
Carroll-South Hilton
McElderry Park
Taylor Heights
Carroll-Camden Industrial Area
Mayfield
Stonewood - Pentwood - Winston
Sabina - Mattfeld
Coppin Heights / Ash-Co-East
Mt. Pleasant Park
Stadium Area
Arlington
Clifton Park
Morgan State University
SBIC
Mount Winans
Rosemont Homeowners / Tenants
Allenale
Baltimore-Linwood
Mount Washington
Rosemont East
Claremont-Freedom
Morgan Park
Rosemont
Beechfield
Mount Vernon
Rosebank
Christopher
Moravia - Walther
Spring Garden Industrial Area
Chinquapin Park - Belvedere
Montebello
Seton Hill
Ashburton
Cheswolde
Mondawmin
South Clifton Park
Cherry Hill
Milton-Monford
Shipley Hill
Charles Village
Millhill
Seton Business Park
Charles North
Midtown Edison
Sharp Leadenhall
Sandtown Winchester
Cross Country
Mount Holly
Saint Paul
Coldspring
Morrell Park
Saint Joseph's
Mosher
Saint Helena
Jones Falls Area
West Forest Park
Edmonson Village
Johnston Square
West Arlington
Eastwood
Waverly
Abell
Easterwood
Washington Hill
East Baltimore Midway
Waltherson
East Arlington
Walbrook
Dundalk Marine Terminal
Dunbar Broadway
Windsor Hills
Johns Hopkins Homewood
Federal Hill
Winchester
Irvington
Inner Harbor
Wilson Park
Fallstaff
Wilson Heights
Idlewood
Westport
Fairmont
Westgate
Fairfield Area
Westfield
Evergreen
West Hills
Elwood Park / Monument
Ednor Gardens - Lakeside
Hunting Ridge
Wyndhurst
Franklintown Road
Howard Park
Hopkins Bayview
Wyman Park
Franklintown
Homeland
Woodring
Franklin Square
Woodmere
Frankford
Woodburne - McCabe
Four by Four
Woodbourne Heights
Forest Park Golf Course
Woodberry
Forest Park
Winston Govens
Fells Point
Hollins Market
Greenmount Cemetary
Holabird Industrial Park
Hoes Chapel
Greektown
Hillen
Graceland Park
Glenham - Belford
Glen Oaks
Glen
Yale Heights
Gay Street
Garwyn - Oaks
Highlandtown
Hanlon - Longwood
Herring Run Park
Heritage Crossing
Hampden
Hawkins Point
Gwynns Falls / Leakin Park
Gwynns Falls
Guilford
Grove Park
Greenspring
Greenmount West
Harwood
Harford Echodale / Perring Parkway
Harlem Park

Cities Nearby Baltimore, Maryland

Gambrills, MD
Hampton, MD
Fairwood, MD
Pleasant Hills, MD
Scaggsville, MD
Kingsville, MD
Severna Park, MD
Baltimore, MD

Zip Codes in Baltimore, Maryland

21218
21211
21210
21213
21212
21215
21214
21217
21216
21233
21231
21230
21239
21251
21209
21202
21206
21207
21205
21287
21223
21226
21201
21224
21225
21229

Information About Baltimore

Baltimore has a population of 2,270,087 and is located in Baltimore County. According to recent ACS data from the U.S. Census Bureau, the median household income is $52,164. Median home value is $167,452, and the median rent is $1,094/month. With a median age of 35.5 years old, 32.8% of residents over the age of 24 have at least some college education, with 24% having an income over $100,000. 26.6% of households are married.

Baltimore Demographics

According to the 2020 Decennial Census, the racial breakdown was as follows:

  • White – 29.7%
  • Two or More Races – 3.2%
  • Black or African American – 62.3%
  • Other Race – 2%
  • Asian – 2.5%
  • American Indian and Alaska Native – 0.3%
  • Native Hawaiian / Other Pacific Islander – 0%

Final Considerations

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.

Baltimore, Maryland Home Security System FAQs

What is the best home security system in Baltimore

Based on our research, the best home security system option for residents of Baltimore, MD is ADT, followed by Vivint. With free professional installation, 24/7 monitoring, a wide variety of home security, cameras, and smart home options to suit any need, reasonable monthly fees, and superior customer service, ADT is the security system we’d choose for our homes.

How much does it cost to install security systems?

Home security system cost vary greatly depending on the size of the house and number of devices. You can get started for as little as $280 for a system, but the average homeowner should expect to pay around $700 for a complete system with home automation.

Professional installation costs can range from $120 - $600, with the potential for even higher costs depending on how much equipment you purchase. However, some larger home security companies offer reduced pricing or even free installation with the purchase of a system and monitoring.

Monthly monitoring fees range anywhere from $10 - $65 dollars per month depending on installation type (landline vs cellular) and services offered.

Why is a security system needed?

When it comes to keeping your property and loved ones safe, home security systems are one of the top ways to accomplish that mission and sleep peaceably at night knowing you’re covered.

Can I install a security system by myself?

Most people can install a single device, such as a wireless camera, relatively easily. When it comes to installing multiple, interconnected devices, professional installation is best. Abode is a great DIY option.

What is the best DIY security system?

Abode is the best DIY home security system option. They have a wide variety of products you can mix-and-match to fit your needs, all with easy installation.

Does Vivint offer free installation?

Yes. Vivint offers free installation and no activation fee for new customers.

Does ADT offer free installation?

Sometimes promotions are available for free installation, though usually there is a $99 fee. The best option is to check here for the latest promotion that Safestreets currently has available.

How can I prevent break-ins?

Home security systems are the best way to prevent break-ins, but there are other steps you can take to protect yourself. Sufficient exterior lighting around your house, keeping entry points such as windows unobscured, and participating in programs like a neighborhood watch are all steps you can take to deter break-ins.

Does a security camera system prevent break-ins?

Yes. A study by the University of North Carolina of incarcerated burglars found that most looked for indications of increased security (e.g. alarms, cameras, etc.) when selecting a target, and that the presence of a security system would cause about 60% of them to “shop” elsewhere.

© JRW Publishing Company, 2023
As an Amazon Associate we may earn from qualifying purchases.

magnifiercross
linkedin facebook pinterest youtube rss twitter instagram facebook-blank rss-blank linkedin-blank pinterest youtube twitter instagram