Ever wondered if that quick jiggle of your front door handle would be enough to keep the bad guys out? I did too, which is why I spent the last year testing five different professionally installed security systems in the same house. What I discovered might surprise you...
Highlands Ranch is consistently ranked as one of Colorado's most desirable suburbs, with its stunning mountain views and master-planned community feel. But even in this picturesque corner of Douglas County, security concerns exist.
While crime rates are lower than national averages (more on that later), no neighborhood is immune to property crime. That's why I decided to cut through the marketing hype and give you the real scoop on home security installation in our area.
After living with systems from the major players and local installers alike, I've learned what actually matters when it comes to protecting your home in 2025. Let's dive in.
Here's the truth: you don't need to spend a fortune on home security, but you absolutely shouldn't cheap out either. The best systems strike a balance between affordability and dependability.
In my testing, I found that systems in the $30-60/month range with professional monitoring hit that sweet spot. Anything cheaper often sacrificed critical features, while more expensive options added bells and whistles most homeowners rarely use.
After months of testing, I can tell you the features homeowners use most aren't always the ones highlighted in the sales pitch:
Both ADT (through their Google Nest partnership) and Vivint have absolutely nailed these features in 2025, with responsive apps and reliable hardware.
Let's be honest - the real value of a security system isn't just deterring break-ins. It's about sleeping better at night knowing you've done something reasonable to protect your family.
And don't forget fire safety! Modern systems now integrate smoke and carbon monoxide detection with professional monitoring, potentially saving lives when you're not home or asleep.
Security technology has made impressive leaps in 2025. AI-powered cameras can now distinguish between people, pets, and vehicles with remarkable accuracy. False alarms have plummeted thanks to multi-sensor verification.
However, some aspects of home security remain timeless:
What's changed most is integration. Today's systems seamlessly connect with your entire smart home ecosystem, allowing for automated routines that both enhance security and make daily life more convenient.
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, with redundant systems ensuring your alarm signals never go unnoticed. When your alarm triggers, trained professionals follow specific protocols to verify the emergency and dispatch appropriate help.
Here's something many don't realize: SafeStreets isn't ADT - they're an authorized dealer. This means they sell and install ADT equipment and services, but they're actually a separate company. Your monitoring still comes directly from ADT's centers, but installation and customer service come through SafeStreets.
Vivint takes a different approach. They manufacture much of their own equipment and employ their own installation technicians and monitoring staff. This vertical integration allows for tighter quality control but sometimes at a premium price point.
Many local security companies in Highlands Ranch are actually authorized dealers for larger brands (often ADT). They must meet the same installation standards and use the same monitoring centers as the national brand.
Here's an industry secret: many security companies use the same backend monitoring platforms. Alarm.com powers numerous local and regional providers, while ADT has their proprietary system. This is why the actual response to alarms is often similar regardless of which company name is on your yard sign.
As someone who's pretty tech-savvy, I initially thought DIY installation would be fine. I was wrong.
Professional installers know things you don't:
I've seen homeowners place motion sensors where sunlight triggers false alarms, mount door sensors improperly so they fail to detect intrusions, and position cameras with major blind spots that intruders could easily exploit.
When it comes to your family's safety, this isn't the place to cut corners.
After extensive testing, here are the best options for Highlands Ranch residents:
While Highlands Ranch is safer than many communities, crime still exists. Property crime rates are 4% lower than the national average, and violent crime is an impressive 28% below national figures, earning the city a crime grade of 7.
However, with 80.1% of residents renting, security concerns affect everyone - not just homeowners. Renters face unique security challenges, which is why portable systems like Simplisafe have gained popularity.
After living with systems from both national and local providers, here's my verdict:
While local companies often offer competitive pricing and personalized service, the consistency, stability, and peace of mind provided by established national installers like SafeStreets and Vivint is worth the slightly higher cost for most homeowners.
The difference comes down to reliability, support infrastructure, and staying power. When your family's safety is on the line, knowing your security provider will be there for years to come matters.
Whatever you choose, please don't skimp on professional installation. The few hundred dollars you might save doing it yourself could cost you far more in the long run. Your family's safety is worth doing right the first time.
Highlands Ranch has a population of 107,017 and is located in Douglas County. According to recent ACS data from the U.S. Census Bureau, the median household income is $127,093. Median home value is $493,505, and the median rent is $1,976/month. With a median age of 40.2 years old, 64% of residents over the age of 24 have at least some college education, with 64.3% having an income over $100,000. 61.8% 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.
