Ever wonder if that security system you've been putting off installing could have prevented a break-in? Or if the DIY setup you installed last weekend has critical vulnerabilities you don't even know about? I've been there, and the answers might surprise you.
Champaign, with its vibrant university culture and thriving downtown, offers residents a fantastic quality of life. The community spirit here is palpable, from the farmer's markets to the local festivals that bring neighbors together.
But there's another side to our community that demands attention. With property crime rates 27% higher than the national average and violent crime a shocking 140% above the national average, security isn't just a luxury—it's a necessity. The city's crime grade of 0 (yikes!) speaks volumes about the challenges we face.
I've spent the last year doing something a bit unusual: having five different security systems professionally installed in the same house. Why? To cut through the marketing hype and give you the real scoop on what works, what doesn't, and what's worth your hard-earned money in 2025.
When I talk to local homeowners, the conversation inevitably turns to cost. But here's what I've learned: the cheapest system isn't always the most economical in the long run. The real value comes from reliability—a system that works flawlessly when you need it most.
Think of it like this: would you rather save $10 a month on monitoring but miss an actual break-in because of sensor failures? Or pay a bit more for a system that catches everything?
After testing multiple systems, I've found that certain features quickly become indispensable. Video doorbells and garage control top the list—they're the security features you'll actually use daily.
In 2025, these aren't just nice-to-haves; they're must-haves. Being able to see who's at your door from anywhere or checking if you left the garage open while you're at work provides practical peace of mind that goes beyond traditional security.
Security isn't just about deterring break-ins. It's about comprehensive protection, including fire safety. Modern systems integrate smoke and carbon monoxide detection with your security setup, providing alerts even when you're away from home.
The most reasonable approach isn't fortifying your home like Fort Knox—it's implementing smart, strategic security measures that address real risks without breaking the bank.
Security technology has made impressive leaps forward in 2025. AI-powered cameras can now distinguish between a prowler and your neighbor's cat with remarkable accuracy. Wireless technology has become more reliable than ever, and integration with other smart home systems is seamless.
The ADT and Google Nest partnership has produced some of the most intuitive interfaces I've tested, while Vivint's ecosystem offers impressive integration capabilities.
But some aspects of security remain timeless: proper sensor placement, redundant communication methods (cellular backup is non-negotiable), and professional monitoring still form the backbone of any effective system.
ADT is the 800-pound gorilla in home security, with monitoring centers across the country and over 140 years in business. But here's something many don't realize: when you call "ADT," you're often actually dealing with SafeStreets, an authorized dealer.
SafeStreets is essentially a franchise that sells, installs, and services ADT equipment under strict guidelines. They're bound by ADT's standards but operate as a separate business entity. This arrangement allows ADT to maintain consistent service quality while expanding their reach.
Vivint takes a different approach. They're vertically integrated, meaning they design their equipment, handle their own installations, and run their own monitoring centers. This gives them tight control over the customer experience from start to finish.
Their focus on smart home integration is evident in everything they do—their systems feel cohesive in a way that some competitors don't quite match.
Here's an industry secret: many local security companies use the same monitoring platforms. Alarm.com powers a huge percentage of local dealers nationwide, while ADT has their proprietary monitoring infrastructure.
This means the actual alert processing when your alarm goes off might be happening on the same systems regardless of whose name is on your bill.
I consider myself pretty tech-savvy, but watching professional installers work was humbling. They instinctively identified vulnerabilities in my home I would have missed entirely.
Professionals know exactly how high to mount motion sensors to avoid pets while catching intruders. They understand the subtle art of door sensor placement to prevent false alarms from normal settling. They know which windows are most vulnerable and how to secure them effectively.
I've seen DIY installations with motion sensors pointed at heating vents (hello, false alarms), door sensors with gaps wide enough to defeat them, and cameras positioned with major blind spots.
These aren't just inconveniences—they're vulnerabilities that could render your entire system ineffective when you need it most.
• SafeStreets (ADT Authorized Dealer): Their professional installation is meticulous, and ADT's monitoring capabilities remain the gold standard. Their equipment has improved dramatically with the Google Nest partnership, offering excellent video quality and intuitive interfaces.
• Vivint: If you want a truly integrated smart home experience, Vivint stands out. Their proprietary equipment works seamlessly together, and their mobile app is among the most responsive I've tested. Their installation techs are well-trained on the entire ecosystem.
• SimpliSafe: The best option for renters, offering decent protection without long-term contracts. While their professional installation option exists, their systems are designed for easy self-installation.
• FE Moran Security Solutions: A local provider offering both security and fire protection services, located at 201 W University Ave.
• Locksmith Services: Combines traditional locksmith services with modern security systems at 64 E Ford Harris Rd.
• George Burglar & Fire Alarm: Specializes in both security systems and fire protection services.
• Vid-Com Systems: Offers electronics, security systems, and home theater installation at 701 Devonshire Dr.
• Swinderman Engineering Services: Provides security systems, home theater, and network installation at 5414 Goldeneye Rd.
• Barlow Lock & Security: Offers a comprehensive package of security systems, fire protection, and locksmith services at 1107 S Willow St.
The statistics don't lie: property crime is 27% greater than the national average, and violent crime is a concerning 140% above the national average. With the city's crime grade at 0, security isn't optional—it's essential.
This affects everyone, not just homeowners. With 44% of Champaign residents renting, apartment dwellers need security solutions too (which is where options like SimpliSafe can be particularly valuable).
After a year of testing, here's my take: while local companies often offer competitive pricing and personalized service, the stability, consistency, and technological edge provided by established national installers like SafeStreets and Vivint is worth the slightly higher cost for most homeowners.
The peace of mind that comes from knowing your system is backed by companies with decades of experience and substantial resources is difficult to quantify but impossible to ignore.
Whatever you choose, please don't cut corners on professional installation. The expertise these technicians bring is worth every penny—because when it comes to your family's safety, "good enough" simply isn't.
Champaign has a population of 152,940 and is located in Champaign County. According to recent ACS data from the U.S. Census Bureau, the median household income is $49,467. Median home value is $166,768, and the median rent is $922/month. With a median age of 27.3 years old, 51.3% of residents over the age of 24 have at least some college education, with 23.1% having an income over $100,000. 33.5% 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.
