Have you ever wondered if your home security system would actually stop an intruder? Or are you just paying for a fancy doorbell and some stickers?
Nestled in the beautiful Ozarks, Fayetteville combines small-town charm with the vibrant energy of a college town. But behind the picturesque scenery and friendly community lies a concerning reality: property crime rates that demand attention.
As someone who's spent the last year testing security systems (yes, we had five different professional installations in the same house—my neighbors probably think I'm paranoid), I've learned that most homeowners are sold on marketing hype rather than what actually works.
In 2025, the security landscape has evolved dramatically, but the fundamentals remain unchanged. Let me cut through the noise and share what I've discovered after countless hours of testing, interviewing installers, and yes, even intentionally triggering alarms (sorry, monitoring centers!).
When it comes to home security, the cheapest option is rarely the best. However, the most expensive system isn't necessarily superior either. What matters is the relationship between cost and reliability.
In our testing, we found that mid-tier systems from established providers delivered the best value. These systems offer dependable protection without unnecessary bells and whistles that drive up costs without enhancing security.
Here's something the industry doesn't emphasize enough: the features you'll use daily matter more than those you hope never to need.
Video doorbells and garage control consistently rank as the most-used and appreciated features among homeowners. In 2025, these aren't luxury add-ons—they're essentials. Being able to see who's at your door from anywhere or checking whether you closed the garage after leaving provides daily peace of mind.
Both ADT (through their Google Nest partnership) and Vivint have perfected these interfaces, making them intuitive enough for family members of all ages to use.
A truly effective security system isn't just about deterring break-ins. Fire detection, carbon monoxide monitoring, and water leak sensors protect against dangers that are statistically more likely to affect your home than burglary.
The most reasonable approach is a layered security strategy that addresses multiple threats while fitting your lifestyle and budget.
Security technology has made impressive leaps forward in 2025. AI-powered cameras can now distinguish between a prowler and a passing deer with remarkable accuracy. Wireless sensors have extended battery life measured in years rather than months. Mobile apps have become more intuitive and responsive.
However, certain principles remain timeless:
The best systems combine cutting-edge technology with these proven fundamentals.
ADT operates through a network of six monitoring centers across the U.S., providing redundancy if one center experiences issues. Their service model combines corporate oversight with local installation and service through authorized dealers.
SafeStreets is an ADT authorized dealer, meaning they sell, install, and service ADT equipment under strict corporate guidelines. They handle the customer relationship, while ADT provides the monitoring infrastructure. This arrangement combines local service with national resources.
Vivint takes a different approach with their direct sales and installation model. They design, manufacture, and install their own equipment, and operate their own monitoring centers. This vertical integration allows for tighter smart home integration but sometimes at a premium price point.
Many local security companies in Fayetteville operate as authorized dealers for larger networks. They're bound by the same installation standards and often use the same monitoring centers as national brands.
Here's an industry secret: many security companies use the same central monitoring services. Alarm.com provides the platform for numerous local and regional companies, while ADT maintains its proprietary monitoring network.
As someone who considers themselves technically inclined, I was humbled by what I learned watching professional installers work.
Professional installers know things that aren't in any manual. They understand how to:
The most frequent DIY installation mistakes include:
When it comes to protecting your family, this isn't the place to cut corners.
The statistics paint a concerning picture: property crime in Fayetteville is 164% higher than the national average, while violent crime exceeds the national average by 49%. With a crime grade of 0, Fayetteville residents face significant security challenges.
These statistics matter not just for homeowners but also for the 37.9% of residents who rent. Renters often overlook security, assuming it's the landlord's responsibility, but personal protection measures remain essential regardless of ownership status.
After a year of testing and countless conversations with security professionals, my conclusion may surprise you. While local companies often offer competitive pricing and personalized service, the consistency, technology integration, and peace of mind provided by established national installers like SafeStreets and Vivint typically justify their slightly higher costs.
The difference becomes particularly apparent during emergencies, when robust monitoring networks and rapid response protocols prove their worth.
Don't leave your family's safety to chance. Invest in professional installation from a reputable provider, whether national or local, and ensure your system is properly designed for your specific home and needs. The peace of mind is worth every penny.
Fayetteville has a population of 350,995 and is located in Washington County. According to recent ACS data from the U.S. Census Bureau, the median household income is $47,350. Median home value is $230,754, and the median rent is $837/month. With a median age of 27.7 years old, 50.2% of residents over the age of 24 have at least some college education, with 23% having an income over $100,000. 35.7% 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.
