Have you ever wondered if that security system you hastily installed is actually protecting your family, or just providing a comforting illusion of safety? After testing five different professionally installed systems in the same house, I discovered some shocking truths about home security that most installers won't tell you.
Los Angeles is a stunning mosaic of cultures, entertainment, and opportunity—a true paradise with its perfect weather and palm-lined streets. But beneath the glamour lies a sobering reality: property crime rates 10% above the national average and violent crime a staggering 86% higher than the national average. With a crime grade of 0, security isn't just a luxury—it's a necessity for both the homeowners and the 37% of residents who rent.
After spending months testing various security systems in our test facility (which is also my actual home—talk about bringing work home with you!), I'm ready to cut through the marketing hype and give you the unfiltered truth about what really matters when securing your Los Angeles home in 2025.
Here's what I've learned after countless installations and late-night false alarms: the most expensive system isn't necessarily the best. What matters is reliability. A $5,000 system that fails during a power outage or sends false alarms weekly is worse than a $1,000 system that works flawlessly.
In our testing, we found that systems with proper backup power, cellular connectivity (not just Wi-Fi), and professional monitoring hit the sweet spot of value and reliability. You don't need to break the bank, but skimping on these essentials is a recipe for regret.
After the initial excitement wears off, you know which security features homeowners actually use daily? Video doorbells and garage control—hands down.
My video doorbell has caught package thieves, allowed me to give delivery instructions while at work, and even helped me avoid awkward encounters with that neighbor who always wants to "just chat" for an hour. Meanwhile, the garage control has saved me countless trips back home when I've forgotten to close it (more often than I'd like to admit).
In 2025, ADT's integration with Google Nest and Vivint's proprietary smart home ecosystem offer the most polished implementations of these must-have features. The seamless app experiences make these tools part of your daily routine rather than tech you struggle with.
Let's be honest—no security system makes your home impenetrable. What you're really buying is reasonable protection and peace of mind. The best systems extend beyond intrusion detection to include fire safety, carbon monoxide monitoring, and flood detection.
During our testing, I slept better knowing professionals were monitoring not just for break-ins but for the smoke detector that might fail while my family sleeps. That comprehensive protection is the true value proposition.
Security technology has evolved dramatically, with 2025 bringing us AI-powered cameras that can distinguish between a prowler and a passing raccoon, sensors that detect unusual activity patterns, and integration with whole-home automation that's actually reliable.
However, some aspects remain timeless: strategically placed motion sensors, door/window contacts, glass break detectors, and 24/7 professional monitoring. These fundamentals haven't changed because they work.
The best systems now combine these proven basics with modern conveniences like facial recognition for trusted visitors, package detection alerts, and seamless integration with voice assistants that actually understand what you're saying (finally!).
ADT operates their own UL-listed monitoring centers across the country, with redundant locations ensuring your system is always being watched. Their infrastructure represents decades of refinement and billions in investment.
SafeStreets is an ADT authorized dealer, meaning they sell, install, and service ADT equipment while the monitoring is handled by ADT's professional centers. They must meet ADT's strict standards for installation quality and customer service, essentially functioning as ADT's local presence.
This arrangement gives you the stability of the ADT brand with more personalized service than you might get calling ADT directly.
Vivint takes a different approach, handling everything from sales to installation to monitoring in-house. This vertical integration allows them to control the entire customer experience and rapidly deploy new smart home innovations. Their approach emphasizes seamless smart home integration, with security as one component of a broader ecosystem.
What many homeowners don't realize is that numerous local security companies use the same central monitoring platforms. Alarm.com powers many local dealers' systems nationwide, while ADT maintains their proprietary monitoring network.
This means the actual alert handling when your alarm triggers may be identical between a national brand and a local installer—the difference often lies in installation quality, service response, and equipment options.
Even as a tech writer who's built computers from scratch, I strongly recommend professional installation for security systems. Here's why:
Professionals understand the "attack vectors" burglars use. They know to place motion sensors at choke points burglars must cross, not just in open rooms. They position cameras to avoid backlight that renders footage useless. They secure sensors against tampering.
During our testing, we intentionally made common DIY mistakes, then had professionals correct them. The results were eye-opening:
When it comes to your family's safety, this isn't the place to learn through trial and error.
After living with systems from both national and local installers, 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 becomes apparent not on day one, but at 2 AM six months later when you need immediate support for a system issue, or when new technology emerges that requires seamless integration with your existing equipment.
Don't compromise on the professional installation regardless of which provider you choose. The few hundred dollars saved by going DIY could cost you far more in both property and, heaven forbid, personal safety. Your home's security infrastructure is too important to leave to chance or weekend warrior projects.
Your family deserves professional protection in a city where, unfortunately, crime remains a persistent concern. Make the call today—future you will be thankful for your foresight.
Los Angeles has a population of 12,531,334 and is located in Los Angeles County. According to recent ACS data from the U.S. Census Bureau, the median household income is $65,290. Median home value is $670,478, and the median rent is $1,523/month. With a median age of 35.9 years old, 35.6% of residents over the age of 24 have at least some college education, with 33.2% having an income over $100,000. 39.1% 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.
