Have you ever wondered if that security system you're considering is actually protecting what matters most, or just giving you a false sense of security? The answer might surprise you.
Nestled between the Salish Sea and the North Cascades, Bellingham offers residents that perfect blend of natural beauty and small-city charm that makes the Pacific Northwest special. But even in this picturesque corner of Washington, the reality of home security can't be ignored.
As someone who's literally had five different security systems professionally installed in the same house (yes, my neighbors think I'm paranoid), I've learned a thing or two about what actually works versus what's just marketing hype. It's 2025, and while security technology has never been more advanced, the gap between good and mediocre protection has never been wider.
Let me cut through the noise and share what I've discovered after years of testing these systems in our Bellingham test facility.
When it comes down to it, most homeowners aren't security experts—they just want three things:
It's 2025, and security technology has evolved dramatically. Today's systems feature:
But some aspects of security remain timeless:
This is where things get interesting—and where most homeowners are in the dark.
ADT operates their own UL-listed monitoring centers across the country, employing thousands of trained professionals who respond to alarms 24/7. They've been in business for over 145 years, which explains their sometimes old-school approach.
SafeStreets is an ADT authorized dealer. This means they sell and install ADT equipment and services, but they're actually a separate company. The monitoring still comes from ADT's centers, but installation and customer service come from SafeStreets. This can sometimes create confusion about who to contact for different issues.
Vivint takes a different approach with their direct sales model. They manufacture much of their own equipment and offer comprehensive smart home integration. Their sales representatives often go door-to-door, which can be off-putting to some, but their technology is legitimately cutting-edge.
Here's what most people don't realize: many local security companies in Bellingham are actually just ADT authorized dealers operating under different names. They're bound by the same ADT requirements and standards.
Another industry secret: many security companies use the same central monitoring services. Alarm.com powers the backend for countless local dealers nationwide, while ADT maintains their own proprietary monitoring infrastructure.
After watching professionals install five different systems in our test home, I'm convinced: professional installation is worth every penny, even if you're technically inclined.
The "tricks of the trade" professionals know make a substantial difference:
Common DIY mistakes I've seen include:
When it comes to protecting your family, this isn't the place to cut corners.
Based on our extensive testing and research, here are your best options in Bellingham:
Local options include:
Understanding local crime helps contextualize your security needs. Bellingham's property crime rate is 135% higher than the national average—a sobering statistic that underscores the importance of home security. On the positive side, violent crime is 34% lower than the national average.
With a crime grade of D, Bellingham isn't dangerous, but property protection should be a priority for both homeowners and the 46.4% of residents who rent.
After living with multiple security systems and watching professionals install them, my advice is straightforward: while local companies may offer competitive pricing, the stability, consistency, and peace of mind provided by established national installers like SafeStreets and Vivint is worth the slightly higher cost for most homeowners.
Think of it this way: you wouldn't hire an amateur to install your home's electrical system, so why trust your family's safety to anything less than professional security installation?
The technology available in 2025 is impressive, but it's only as good as the installation behind it. Make the call to a professional installer today—your family deserves nothing less.
Bellingham has a population of 129,653 and is located in Whatcom County. According to recent ACS data from the U.S. Census Bureau, the median household income is $56,198. Median home value is $404,687, and the median rent is $1,133/month. With a median age of 32.9 years old, 45.4% of residents over the age of 24 have at least some college education, with 24% having an income over $100,000. 36.4% 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.
