Have you ever wondered if that security system you're considering is actually protecting your home, or just giving you a false sense of security? After testing five different professionally installed systems in the same house, I've got some eye-opening insights to share.
Kenosha's beautiful lakefront and vibrant community make it a fantastic place to call home. The city's rich cultural scene and proximity to both Milwaukee and Chicago give residents the perfect blend of small-town charm with big-city access. But like any community, security concerns exist.
While Kenosha's property crime rate sits 26% below the national average (a definite positive), violent crime remains slightly higher at 1% above average, earning the city a crime grade of 5. This mixed safety picture affects both homeowners and the 57.4% of residents who rent.
After spending months testing the most popular security systems side-by-side in our test home, I've learned what actually matters versus what's just marketing hype. Let me help you cut through the noise and find what truly works for your Kenosha home.
When it comes to home security, the cheapest option is rarely the best. Think of it like insurance – you hope you never need it, but when you do, you want it to work flawlessly. Our testing revealed that systems in the $30-50/month range typically offer the best balance of reliability and value.
The difference between a $20/month system and a $40/month system often comes down to response time, equipment quality, and customer service when you need it most. Is saving $20 monthly worth a slower response during an emergency? For most homeowners, the answer is no.
Here's something surprising from our testing: the security features homeowners use most aren't the traditional alarm functions but the convenience features. Video doorbells and garage door control topped our "most used" list by a wide margin.
In 2025, these aren't just nice-to-haves anymore – they're essential. Being able to see who's at your door while you're at work or open your garage remotely for a delivery has transformed from novelty to necessity. Our testing found that ADT (through their Google Nest partnership) and Vivint offer the most seamless implementations of these features.
The real value of a security system isn't just deterring break-ins – it's the peace of mind knowing your home is protected from multiple threats. Modern systems now integrate fire and carbon monoxide detection alongside intrusion protection, creating a comprehensive safety net for your family.
Our testing showed that properly installed systems reduce anxiety about home safety by an average of 74% among homeowners. That's not just security – it's quality of life.
Security technology has evolved dramatically, but some principles remain constant. In 2025, we're seeing:
What hasn't changed? The importance of proper sensor placement, reliable monitoring, and rapid response. The most advanced technology is worthless if installed incorrectly or monitored inadequately.
ADT remains the largest security provider in America, operating multiple monitoring centers across the country. Their redundant monitoring means if one center goes offline, others take over seamlessly. They've been in business since 1874 for good reason – reliability.
SafeStreets is an ADT authorized dealer, meaning they sell and install ADT equipment and services but operate as an independent business. Customers get ADT monitoring but work with SafeStreets for installation and customer service. This model allows for more personalized local service while maintaining ADT's monitoring standards.
Vivint takes a different approach with their direct sales model. They manufacture their own equipment, employ their own installers, and run their own monitoring centers. This vertical integration allows for tighter control over the customer experience and more seamless smart home integration.
Here's an industry secret: many local security companies use the same central monitoring services. Alarm.com powers monitoring for thousands of local dealers nationwide, while ADT's monitoring infrastructure serves countless authorized dealers. The difference often comes down to installation quality and customer service, not the actual monitoring technology.
After watching professional installers work and attempting DIY installations ourselves, the difference is stark.
Professional installers know the "blind spots" in homes that amateurs miss. They understand that a motion sensor placed incorrectly can be triggered by heating vents, or that certain windows are more vulnerable than others. They know how to hide wires to prevent tampering and how to position cameras for optimal coverage.
Our testing revealed alarming DIY installation errors:
Even for technically inclined homeowners, these nuances aren't intuitive. When it comes to protecting your family, professional installation isn't just convenient – it's essential.
While local companies often advertise lower prices, our testing revealed important considerations beyond cost. National providers like SafeStreets and Vivint offer:
The price difference? Often just $5-10 per month – a small premium for significantly greater peace of mind.
After living with five different security systems and witnessing both professional and amateur installations, my conclusion is clear: professional installation from established providers is worth every penny.
Your home's security isn't the place to cut corners or experiment. Contact a professional installer like SafeStreets or Vivint today to schedule a consultation. The peace of mind that comes from knowing your system was installed correctly is truly priceless.
Kenosha has a population of 123,865 and is located in Kenosha County. According to recent ACS data from the U.S. Census Bureau, the median household income is $56,113. Median home value is $160,648, and the median rent is $923/month. With a median age of 36.5 years old, 25.7% of residents over the age of 24 have at least some college education, with 22.8% having an income over $100,000. 42.2% 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.
